BASF's Construction Chemicals Consolidate World's First 3D-Printed Office Structure

• Products customized to address structure's unique needs
• Closely aligned with UAE government's ambitions to create sustainable, innovative infrastructures 

BASF, the world's leading chemical company, has provided innovative construction solutions to the world's first fully functional 3D-printed office building. The futuristic workspace serves as the temporary office for the Museum of the Future, currently under construction in Dubai's Emirates Towers premises.

BASF's grouting and anchoring solutions, offered under the company's Master Builders Solutions brand, were used to combine various components of the structure together - mainly used for bedding, grouting and void filling operations. BASF's MasterFlow® grouts offered structural stabilization, and were also used for anchoring and post-tensioning. Repair mortars were also applied to correct the surface imperfections and irregularities of the printed concrete sections.

MasterFlow® grouts, MasterEmaco® mortars, Exterior Insulation Finishing Systems (EIFS) and waterproofing solutions were key components in ensuring the structural integrity of the 250 square meter, arc-shaped engineering marvel, which required scientifically-strong innovations to remain durable and safe.

Visionary project with today's solutions

An especially challenging dimension of the project was the inclusion of EIFS. BASF's Technical Services Team assisted the project applicator expert Golden Elements in adapting this system for the distinctive arc-shaped structure.

Julian Pritchard, Head of Market Management Middle East/General Manager of BASF Construction Chemicals UAE LLC said: "BASF is proud to be part of such a groundbreaking and visionary project. The one-of-a-kind structure will serve as a model for other 3D-printed buildings that are set to emerge in the region over the next two decades. Such structures ultimately help the community, the people and the environment as they are created more sustainably, cost-effectively and through a wiser use of resources.

"BASF is dedicated to ensuring a positive social impact through harnessing the best in chemistry and innovation. The company's contribution to this project reflects the expertise in delivering sustainable construction solutions. This project also marks an important step in expanding our regional footprint"

The architects and designers along with the contractor agreed that for a project as ambitious as the world's first 3D-printed office, they required technical advisors and experts right from the planning and design stage. It was during this period that they approached BASF for their advanced construction chemicals. Officials from the Ministry of Cabinet Affairs and the Office of the Future thanked BASF for their high-quality solutions which enabled the structural design to become a reality, and in the long run, will help it remain sustainable. BASF was recognized as a valuable partner through all phases of planning, designing and construction of the project.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammad bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai inaugurated the first 3D-printed office in the world last month, applauding the positive steps the UAE has taken to become an incubator for innovation and a catalyst for future technology. The launch followed the unveiling of Dubai's 3D-printing strategy, which states that 25 percent of the emirate's buildings will be 3D-printed by 2030 in a move to enhance lives and help Dubai strengthen its role as a futuristic, global model for infrastructure development. The strategy will focus on three major sectors: construction, medical products and consumer products.