Saudi energy giant Aramco and China Building Materials Academy (CBMA) have collaborated to launch a new nonmetallic excellence and innovation center, NEXCEL, to further advance the use of nonmetallic materials in the building and construction sector.
The center was launched at an event in Beijing, where the center will be located. NEXCEL will leverage CBMA’s expertise and resources to promote the development and application of non-metallic technologies that offer superior lifecycle cost, efficiency and environmental advantages over their metal alternatives.
NEXCEL will promote the development and application of nonmetallic technologies by exploring opportunities for joint projects in research and development, standards development and adoption, professional development and certifications, advocacy and international outreach.
Ahmad Al Sa’adi Senior Vice President Technical Services – Aramco
“We are excited to be part of this important initiative with CBMA, to jointly advance the use of non-metallics in building and construction in China. At Aramco, we have been developing and deploying non-metallic solutions within our own operations for more than 20 years as they offer superior lifecycle cost, efficiency and environmental advantages over their metal alternatives. Given the advantages of non-metallics, we believe that this new Center of Excellence for Non-metallic Building Materials will catalyze a wide range of exciting new opportunities.”
CBMA is China’s largest and strongest non-metallic research facility, serving as a key platform for CNBM’s technical innovation. CBMA will be a firm supporter of NEXCEL and will foster an open and creative environment for the company, allowing it to contribute more to global sustainable development.
Mr. Zhan Yanjing, vice president of China National Building Material Group (CNBM), said that “It is my honor to witness this historic strategic cooperation with Aramco. The partnership represents our long-term collaboration and mutual trust, and it is also an important measure to build green, low carbon solutions.”
The Center will also provide a global collaborative platform to increase and accelerate the use of non-metallic materials to improve sustainability, reduce carbon emissions, and improve structure durability and longevity.
