Precast experts from around the world will gather in Dubai, UAE, for the first Innovation in Precast Summit later this year, organisers of The Big 5 have announced.

The Middle East’s largest construction industry exhibition will host the two-day event that will unveil the latest precast techniques and technology for the regional market, alongside a dedicated trade fair for suppliers of concrete products on November 26 and 27 at the Dubai World Trade Centre. 

Dr Ulrich Lotz, CEO of BetonTage, conference partner of the Innovation in Precast Summit, said: “Precast concrete is superior not only in terms of controllability and quality consistency compared to in-situ construction, it also perfectly responds to BIM (building information modelling) demands.”

Precast is providing a growing number of innovative solutions that enhance both the strength and smartness of concrete. “Some of today’s major precast trends include the integration of features that respond to heating, cooling and acoustic demands,” Dr Lotz added.

Precast concrete successfully meets the growing need for environmentally sustainable solutions within the construction industry too. “The integration of ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) in the building process, for example, can improve resource efficiency by 50 per cent, while drastically reducing carbon dioxide emissions. Also, titanium dioxide in the coverage cuts down nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions,” said Dr Lotz.

Other innovative solutions look at the integration of recycling materials within precast, thus creating a closed loop in the life-cycle of concrete. 

Exploring the latest technologies, innovations, standards and regulations in precast, the summit is expected to be a turning point in the development of the regional building sector.

“The hot Middle Eastern weather definitely requires innovative solutions like the integration of cooling facilities within precast concrete in order to reduce electrical power consumption for air-conditioning,” Dr Lotz explained.

“The summit will provide a unique opportunity for delegates to network at the region’s largest construction event and do business with carefully selected international concrete suppliers,” Josine Heijmans, The Big 5 event portfolio director, stated.

The summit is free to attend for all delegates.