Holcim opens concrete innovation lab

Holcim Bangladesh yesterday opened a concrete innovation and application centre, an aggregate testing laboratory, at its corporate office in the city to reach more customers and ensure quality of construction.
Prof Jamilur Reza Choudhury, former vice chancellor of BRAC University, inaugurated the lab. Aidan Lynam, head of Holcim for Southeast Asia, and Rajnish Kapur, Holcim Bangladesh managing director, were also present.
Officials said the material testing laboratory will set quality trends in product, materials, workmanship, and verify compliance with project specification. All materials testing service will be performed in accordance with national and international standard, they added.
Kapur said there is a gap in providing services regarding mix and applications in the industry in Bangladesh. “This centre will help the company bridge the gap and get closer to customers.”
Choudhury said this type of lab is very important for Bangladesh, as the country moves to build major infrastructures such as bridges, elevated expressways and flyovers.
Lynam said the Switzerland-based company does not want to remain a cement supplier in Bangladesh alone. “So, we set up the centre for excellence, which will help us move beyond cement. It will also help us become a solution provider. It will be a point between customers and the company. We will also be able to give what our customers demand."