GPH Ispat and PWD share research on construction materials

A technical seminar was jointly organised by GPH Ispat Limited, the country's leading rebar manufacturer, and the Public Works Department (PWD) recently at the PWD Conference Hall in Dhaka, says a statement.

The seminar highlighted the results of collaborative research involving the application of high-strength rebar B600D-R and optimum concrete in RCC building design.

Chief Engineer of the Public Works Department Mohammad Shamim Akhtar attended the seminar as the chief guest. Also present were additional chief engineers, executive engineers, superintending engineers, and other senior officials from various departments.

Mohammed Almas Shimul, Additional Managing Director of GPH Ispat Limited, was present as a special guest.

Dr Raquib Ahsan, Professor at BUET, former Professor Dr Syed Fakhrul Ameen, former Additional Chief Engineer of PWD A.H. Mohammad Motiur Rahman, Engineer Abul Faraj Khan, former Chief Engineer of the Public Works Design Division Md. Ahsan Habib, and former Director General of the Housing and Building Research Institute (HBRI) Mohammad Abu Sadeque attended the seminar.

Two research papers were presented during the seminar. Sub-Divisional Engineer Md Kamruzzaman (P.Eng.) demonstrated how the use of high-strength rebar can be highly effective in RCC building design.

High-strength rebars reduce rebar congestion and significantly lowers construction costs. Furthermore, the use of such rebars contributes to reduced carbon emissions and greenhouse gases, supporting sustainable development.

The second paper presented by Md. Zahid Hasnain explained the strength compatibility of desired concrete with high-strength rebar and discussed various aspects of using these rebars in construction.

Md Saiful Islam, Technical Head of GPH Ispat, expressed the company's commitment to making high-strength rebars easily available across the country and focused on the importance of following advanced technologies in producing quality rebars.

Mohammed Almas Shimul, Additional Managing Director of GPH Ispat Limited, said, "We must advance through research. In developed countries, private sector organizations also take initiatives in research alongside the government. GPH Ispat is conducting joint research with institutions like BUET and MES, and we are planning to send our team of engineers to the University of Tokyo in Japan. They will undergo various training and research programs, which will help enhance our technological capacity. GPH Ispat is not only focused on business goals but also committed to contributing to national development, especially in the field of research."

Mohammad Shamim Akhtar, Chief Engineer of PWD, said, "GPH Ispat has demonstrated its sense of responsibility by investing in construction sector research. Their joint initiatives with universities have set an example. It is essential to continue such research activities. More companies like GPH should step forward to enhance efficiency in the use of construction materials in future building projects."