BASF, the world’s leading chemical company, has provided innovative construction solutions to the world’s first fully functional 3D-printed office building. The futuristic workspace serves as the temporary office for the Museum of the Future, currently under construction in Dubai’s Emirates Towers premises.BASF’s grouting and anchoring solutions, offered under the company’s Master Builders Solutions brand, were used to combine various components of the structure together – mainly used for bedding, grouting and void filling operations. BASF’s MasterFlow^® grouts offered structural stabilization, and were also used for anchoring and post-tensioning. Repair mortars were also applied to correct the surface imperfections and irregularities of the printed concrete sections.

MasterFlow^® grouts, MasterEmaco^® mortars, Exterior Insulation Finishing Systems (EIFS) and waterproofing solutions were key components in ensuring the structural integrity of the 250 square meter, arc-shaped engineering marvel, which required scientifically-strong innovations to remain durable and safe.

Visionary project with today’s solutions

An especially challenging dimension of the project was the inclusion of EIFS. BASF’s Technical Services Team assisted the project applicator expert Golden Elements in adapting this system for the distinctive arc-shaped structure.Julian Pritchard, Head of Market Management Middle East/General Manager of BASF Construction Chemicals UAE LLC said: “BASF is proud to be part of such a groundbreaking and visionary project. The one-of-a-kind structure will serve as a model for other 3D-printed buildings that are set to emerge in the region over the next two decades. Such structures ultimately help the community, the people and the environment as they are created more sustainably, cost-effectively and through a wiser use of resources.

“BASF is dedicated to ensuring a positive social impact through harnessing the best in chemistry and innovation. The company’s contribution to this project reflects the expertise in delivering sustainable construction solutions. This project also marks an important step in expanding our regional footprint”

The architects and designers along with the contractor agreed that for a project as ambitious as the world’s first 3D-printed office, they required technical advisors and experts right from the planning and design stage. It was during this period that they approached BASF for their advanced construction chemicals. Officials from the Ministry of Cabinet Affairs and the Office of the Future thanked BASF for their high-quality solutions which enabled the structural design to become a reality, and in the long run, will help it remain sustainable. BASF was recognized as a valuable partner through all phases of planning, designing and construction of the project.His Highness Sheikh Mohammad bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai inaugurated the first 3D-printed office in the world last month, applauding the positive steps the UAE has taken to become an incubator for innovation and a catalyst for future technology. The launch followed the unveiling of Dubai’s 3D-printing strategy, which states that 25 percent of the emirate’s buildings will be 3D-printed by 2030 in a move to enhance lives and help Dubai strengthen its role as a futuristic, global model for infrastructure development. The strategy will focus on three major sectors: construction, medical products and consumer products.

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About Master Builders Solutions from BASF
Master Builders Solutions is BASF’s brand of advanced chemical solutions for construction. The Master Builders Solutions brand is built on the experience gained from more than 100 years in the construction industry. The comprehensive portfolio under the Master Builders Solutions brand encompasses lasting solutions for new construction, maintenance, repair and renovation of structures: Concrete admixtures, cement additives, chemical solutions for underground construction, waterproofing solutions, sealants, repair & protection solutions, performance grouts, performance flooring solutions. The Master Builders Solutions brand is backed by a global community of BASF construction experts. To solve our customers’ specific construction challenges from conception through to completion a project, we combine our know-how across areas of expertise and regions and draw on the experience gained in countless construction projects worldwide. We leverage global BASF technologies, as well as our in-depth knowledge of local building needs, to develop innovations that help make our customers more successful and drive sustainable construction. Further information at www.master-builders-solutions.basf.com

About the Construction Chemicals division
BASF’s Construction Chemicals division offers advanced chemicals solutions for new construction, maintenance, repair and renovation of structures: Our comprehensive portfolio encompasses concrete admixtures, cement additives, chemical solutions for underground construction, waterproofing systems, sealants, concrete repair & protection systems, performance grouts, performance flooring systems, tile fixing systems, expansion control systems and wood protection solutions.

The Construction Chemicals division’s about 5,500 employees form a global community of construction experts. To solve our customers’ specific construction challenges from conception through to completion of a project, we combine our know-how across areas of expertise and regions and draw on the experience gained in countless construction projects worldwide. We leverage global BASF technologies, as well as our in-depth knowledge of local building needs, to develop innovations that help make our customers more successful and drive sustainable construction.

The division operates production sites and sales centers in more than 50 countries and achieved sales of about €2.3 billion in 2015.

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