GPH Ispat and PWD share research on sustainable construction materials

GPH Ispat Limited, one of the country's leading rebar manufacturers, in collaboration with the Public Works Department (PWD), recently organised a technical seminar at the PWD Conference Hall, focusing on the application of high-strength rebar B600D-R and optimum concrete in RCC building design.

The seminar brought together renowned engineers, university professors, and senior officials from public and private organisations. The discussions centred on how high-strength rebar B600D-R can enhance structural efficiency, reduce construction costs, and support environmentally sustainable development.

Chief Engineer of PWD Mohammad Shamim Akhtar attended the event as chief guest. Among others present were additional chief engineers, executive and superintending engineers from PWD, and representatives from academia and industry. Mohammed Almas Shimul, Additional Managing Director of GPH Ispat, attended as special guest.

Distinguished academics including Dr Raquib Ahsan, Professor at BUET, and former Professor Dr Syed Fakhrul Ameen, participated in the discussion alongside former Additional Chief Engineer of PWD A.H. Mohammad Motiur Rahman (PEng), Engineer Abul Faraj Khan (PEng), former Chief Engineer of the Public Works Design Division Md Ahsan Habib (PEng), and former HBRI Director General Mohammad Abu Sadeque (PEng).

Two research papers were presented at the seminar. Md Kamruzzaman (PEng), Sub-Divisional Engineer, highlighted how the use of high-strength rebar can reduce rebar congestion in RCC structures and significantly lower construction costs. He also underscored the environmental benefits of using such materials, including reduced carbon emissions.

The second paper, presented by Md Zahid Hasnain, explored the compatibility between high-strength rebar and concrete, and discussed practical applications in construction. The importance of adhering to Clause 2.1.1 of Part 5, Chapter 2 of BNBC 2020 for the use of high-strength rebar was emphasised by Professors Dr Raquib Ahsan and Dr Fakhrul Ameen.

Former engineer A.H. Md Motiur Rahman called for an update to BNBC 2020 to accommodate the usage of high-strength rebar, as well as its inclusion in the updated Schedule of Rates (SOR) for public projects.

Former HBRI Director General Mohammad Abu Sadeque praised GPH Ispat for leading sustainable construction initiatives and suggested further institutional capacity building for HBRI through potential collaborations with the company.

Md Saiful Islam, Technical Head of GPH Ispat, reiterated the company's commitment to expanding nationwide access to high-strength rebars and adopting advanced technologies in their production.

"Research must lead our advancement," said Mohammed Almas Shimul of GPH Ispat. "In developed countries, both government and private institutions invest in research. GPH is partnering with institutions like BUET and MES and planning to send engineers to the University of Tokyo for advanced training. Our goal extends beyond business—we are committed to national development through research."

Chief Engineer Mohammad Shamim Akhtar praised GPH Ispat's role in collaborative research, calling on other companies to follow suit in enhancing efficiency and innovation in construction materials.