With infrastructure project awards across the Gulf region forecast to exceed $86 billion in 2014, according to Ventures Onsite, demand for concrete is set to rise significantly in the GCC, which already accounts for over 40% of Middle East concrete consumption.
Several of the world’s largest construction and concrete companies will gather in Dubai at Middle East Concrete from November 17 to 20 to discuss solutions to ensure a consistent supply of concrete.
Previous construction booms have seen supply of concrete unable to meet demand, leading to spiralling prices and delayed projects. The availability and reliability of current concrete technologies are set for discussion at the International Concrete Technology Forum, at Middle East Concrete.
“Developers in the GCC have implemented the latest and most advanced ready-mixed concrete technologies for high-rise buildings and iconic structures,” said Ihab Bassiouni, UAE Country Manager for Grey Matters Consultancy.
“More attention must be paid to the impact of concrete on the environment and sustainable solutions adopted to cope with the rising trend for sustainable developments in the region,” he added.
Construction leaders are debating the capacity available for these methods, as technologies such as shotcrete super-high-strength concrete have not yet been introduced into the region.
Adel Taybah, Plants and Works Manager for Ready Mix Beton said: “Though cement markets faced tough times recently amid the slowdown, the demand has returned, along with demand for more advanced concrete technology to support the region’s megaprojects.”
One of the main panels will review the latest low carbon-emitting concrete innovations.
http://www.emirates247.com/business/concrete-may-not-be-able-to-rise-up-to-construction-boom-2014-11-07-1.569154
