The IAStructE – IIIT Hyderabad student chapter of the Earthquake Engineering Research Centre organized an online Guest Lecture on October 11, 2023. The lecture, titled “Futuristic Construction Chemicals for Rapidly Growing Construction Industry” was open to postgraduate students, structural engineers, faculty members, and members of the academic and research community.

Dr. Muralidhar Kamath, General Manager of Technical Services at Apple Chemie India Private Ltd, Nagpur, Maharashtra delivered the lecture. He provided a comprehensive overview of essential aspects related to admixtures, with a specific focus on crystalline admixtures like AC Crystacrete. He delved into the testing process and established a direct correlation between the durability and permeability of Crystacrete. Additionally, he offered a detailed explanation of the projected service life, along with an outline of the methods and stages involved in the application of Crystalline Solutions to concrete. During his presentation, he succinctly summarized the key advantages of Crystacrete and its practical applications, highlighting its use in significant construction projects, including the Delhi and Mumbai Metro systems and the construction of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai.

The presentation involved a thorough examination of polymer-based admixtures, with a specific emphasis on characterizing plasticizers and superplasticizers. The speaker also delved into the topic of curing compounds and protective coatings. He provided clear insights into sealants, including their applications and the advantages they offer. Additionally, the lecture included an introductory discussion on corrosion inhibitor solutions, addressing the characterization of both organic and inorganic corrosion inhibitors, their impact on corrosion, and the benefits of incorporating corrosion inhibitors

To conclude the presentation, Dr. Kamath discussed microsilica and highlighted recent product developments such as 3D printing concrete, graphene-based concrete, internal curing, and underwater curing. These emerging concrete technologies aim to support the rapidly growing construction industry. The webinar was completed with an engaging and insightful discussion, with active participation from the attendees. This discussion enriched the overall exploration of the topic and its significance in the rapidly growing construction industry in India.