Building the Future: Engineered UHPC for NEOM Mega Projects

Affiliated Research Group:

IRC for Construction and Building Materials.

Key Researcher

Dr. Mohammed A. Al-Osta

College of Design and Built Environment

Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering

KFUPM researchers, in partnership with NEOM, are revolutionizing sustainable construction with an innovative solution: Ultra-High-Performance Concrete (UHPC) designed for extreme durability. Spearheaded by Dr. Mohammed A. Al-Osta and the dedicated team at the Interdisciplinary Research Center for Construction and Building Materials (IRC-CBM), this project is setting new standards in construction technology.

Using local resources like cement, dune sand, basaltic aggregates, and industrial by-products, the team has created a UHPC engineered to endure for 120 years, even in challenging environments. This durable, sustainable concrete cuts carbon emissions and reduces costs, supporting Saudi Arabia’s mission for sustainable urban development.

But the benefits of this UHPC innovation reach far beyond its strength. Globally, it reduces carbon emissions by 50% per unit of strength, boasts a lifespan of over 150 years, and can lower costs by up to ten times compared to standard commercial options. This groundbreaking advancement not only fosters sustainable growth but also aids in climate resilience, helping build a future-ready concrete infrastructure that aligns with international Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

 

United Nations SDGs

Through our commitment to sustainable development, this project aligns with the following United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):