Aramco and ACI launch new centre focused on nonmetallics in building and construction
The centre aims to achieve more sustainable building solutions through advances in nonmetallic technologies
Aramco and the American Concrete Institute (ACI) have launched a new centre that will develop and promote the use of nonmetallic materials in the construction sector. NEx: A Centre of Excellence for Nonmetallic Building Materials will be based at the ACI World Headquarters in the United States.
According to a statement, NEx will focus on accelerating the use of nonmetallic materials and products in construction and will leverage ACI’s role as an authority and resource for the development, dissemination and adoption of consensus-based standards for concrete design, construction and materials.
“The centre’s mission will be to collaborate globally on using nonmetallic materials in the built environment by driving research, education, awareness and technology adoption. Expanding incorporation of nonmetallic materials and products in the built environment will improve sustainability, contribute to a lower carbon footprint, and enhance the durability and longevity of structures,” said Jeffrey W. Coleman, ACI president.
Aramco has been developing and deploying nonmetallic solutions within its operations for more than 20 years, as they offer superior lifecycle cost, efficiency and environmental advantages over their metal alternatives, explained Ahmad Al-Sa’adi, Aramco SVP of Technical Services.
The potential for using nonmetallic advanced polymeric materials goes way beyond the oil and gas sector, and includes the building and construction industries where there is significant potential. That is why this new centre offers enormous and exciting opportunities, he noted.
Aramco is a leader in the use of nonmetallic materials in oil and gas facilities to reduce corrosion, weight and the cost of construction and operation, the statement pointed out. The initiative with ACI is said to be part of the company’s broader strategy to enter new markets, leverage its hydrocarbon resources and technology to deliver advanced polymeric materials solutions across industries.
Nonmetallic materials are increasingly being deployed across multiple industries, including oil and gas, construction, automotive, packaging and renewables. They offer several advantages over metallic materials, such as corrosion-resistance, reduced weight, increased durability, lower cost, and improved environmental efficiency, the statement said.
“Our founding member, Aramco Americas, aligns with our vision to effectively meet the demands of a changing world by setting standards for the development and adoption of nonmetallic materials in building and construction. ACI is pleased to have Aramco’s support in leading this dialogue with industry stakeholders around the world,” Coleman stated.
The centre plans to expand its scope to include the use of nonmetallics in other construction materials, such as composite cladding, asphalt and soil. It looks to draw additional partners from leading academic institutions, industries, technical societies, standard bodies, manufacturers and professionals.
