Partnerships between industry and universities are having a positive impact in the development of new materials to suit the modern construction environment.
In an era where sustainability is not just an option, but a necessity, InfraBuild has teamed up with the University of New South Wales (UNSW) and Monash University to develop new, sustainable solutions for the construction sector.
The result is SENSE Solutions®, a new product range that provides industry with lower embodied carbon construction solutions.
These alliances are not only advancing industry innovation but are also fostering an environment where academia and industry converge to create ground-breaking solutions.
Their lead innovation, SENSE 600 reinforcement bar, is made from 100 per cent scrap steel, using up to 16.7 per cent less raw material to deliver up to 39 per cent lower embodied carbon compared to their standard 500N reinforcing steel. In addition, SENSE Solutions also offers SENSE 600 TrenchMesh™, which delivers a lower embodied carbon construction solution for the residential construction market.
The role of academia
The partnership between InfraBuild, UNSW and Monash has been instrumental in delivering SENSE 600. Through rigorous research and development, the teams have focused on a construction solution that optimises high strength steel and a new innovative bar design. This partnership exemplifies what can be achieved through the power of collaboration, delivering a solution to the construction industry that helps reduce resistance to change.
“By integrating academic research with industry practices, we’ve been able to push the boundaries of material innovation. This collaboration is a testament to what can be achieved when we combine our expertise and resources,” said Professor Stephen Foster, Emeritus Professor and Former Dean of Engineering at UNSW.
The involvement of UNSW and Monash University in the development of SENSE Solutions goes beyond research and development. InfraBuild’s investment in local talent through these partnerships is a strategic move that aligns with its sustainability goals. By fostering a culture of continuous improvement, InfraBuild helps ensure that innovations such as SENSE Solutions remain at the forefront of the industry.
The ease of adoption is a critical factor in the success of these new materials, with a strong focus on SENSE 600 products being seamlessly integrated into existing construction workflows. Engineers and builders can use the same design software and equipment, with no additional training or changes to their processes, minimising disruption and encouraging widespread adoption of these sustainable steel alternatives.
Compliance and quality assurance
Another benefit of the SENSE Solutions range is its compliance with Australian standards. Both SENSE 600 and SENSE 600 TrenchMesh™ are CodeMark-certified and can conform to AS/NZS 4671 and AS 2870 respectively. This pre-certification reduces the complexities and uncertainties associated with using imported steel, helping construction projects meet safety and quality requirements without unnecessary additional costs or delays.
This collaboration with UNSW and Monash University highlights the power of local innovation to help drive industry-wide change. By leveraging the expertise of leading academic institutions, these partnerships support the construction industry through product and process innovation.
“This collaboration is a beacon of what we can achieve when we unite for a common goal – a sustainable and innovative future for the construction industry,” Prof Foster said.
For more information, visit www.infrabuild.com/sense-solutions
Image: InfraBuild
