LafargeHolcim Bangladesh launches ‘Holcim Coastal Guard’ in Khulna

LafargeHolcim Bangladesh PLC (LHB) has launched Holcim Coastal Guard, a salinity- and sulphate-resistant cement designed for structures exposed to coastal soil and groundwater conditions, according to the company.

The company stated that the product was developed through its in-house innovation and manufacturing capabilities in collaboration with the Holcim Group Innovation Center in Lyon, France, using Holcim's Smart Blend Technology. The cement is engineered to reduce rapid deterioration caused by sulphate- and chloride-rich soils and groundwater in coastal environments, and to provide protection against chemical attack in water and effluent treatment plants.

Mohammad Mahfuzul Hoque, Commercial and Logistics Director of LHB, unveiled the product at a city hotel in Khulna recently. Dr Raquib Ahsan, Professor in the Department of Civil Engineering at BUET, attended as a special guest.

Hoque stated, "We are delighted to introduce one of our most innovative products, Holcim Coastal Guard, for customers in Bangladesh's coastal areas. The product has been developed through continuous consumer engagement, research, and a thorough understanding of the impact of salinity and sulphate on structures. We believe Holcim Coastal Guard will help customers build homes that remain resilient against harsh environmental challenges."

Biplob Shadhu, owner of Babul Enterprise, stated that he expects the product to address long-standing customer concerns about salinity-related damage to structures.

A technical seminar was also held during the unveiling, where Dr Ahsan presented a keynote on the need for specialised cement solutions for sustainable construction in coastal areas. Fakhruddin Md Khan, Head of Innovation and Technical Services at LHB, shared the product's technical advantages in sulphate- and saline-prone conditions. Dr Md Habibur Rahman Sabuz, Head of Department, BECM, KUET, and Ar SM Nazimuddin Payel, Associate Professor at Khulna University, also joined a panel discussion.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Mohammad Kali, Regional Sales Manager of LHB. The company stated that more than 160 engineers, architects, academics, and industry professionals attended the programme.