Cemex recognises top innovations in concrete technology

Cemex has announced the winners of the 2024 Förderpreis Beton competition, an initiative that celebrates innovation and excellence in concrete technology. The awards ceremony took place in Berlin, with participants from Germany, Poland, and the Czech Republic presenting their cutting-edge research.

The first-place prize of €10,000 (£8,600)was awarded to Paulina Szołdra of AGH University of Science and Technology in Krakow, Poland. Her research, Functionalisation of Aluminosilicate Microspheres with TiO2 Thin Film, explores advanced material functionalisation techniques.

“I am deeply honoured to receive this year's award,” said Szołdra. “This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication that goes into advancing concrete technology. I hope this award inspires other young scientists to explore the potential of concrete.”

Second and third prizes were introduced this year following jury recommendations. Mari Kobayashi from Technical University Bergakademie Freiberg, Germany, won €3,000 (£2,600) for her study on Durability of Cementitious Materials under Deep-Sea Conditions, and Fabian Diwald from Technical University of Munich received €2,000 (£1,700) for his research into The Impact of Microstructural Changes in Concrete on Coda Waves.

Rüdiger Kuhn, Cemex’s vice president of materials for central Europe, emphasises the importance of fostering innovation: “It is a privilege to present this award to Paulina and the other finalists. Their work exemplifies the spirit of the Förderpreis Beton competition and highlights the importance of advancing our field through research.”

Since its establishment in Germany in 1984, the biennial Förderpreis Beton competition has been a prominent platform for recognising contributions to the concrete industry. Expanded in 2020 to include participants from Poland and the Czech Republic, it encourages innovations in material quality, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability.

Cemex’s commitment to advancing sustainable construction is also reflected in its broader goals, which include reducing carbon emissions across its product lines and operations by 2030.

The competition continues to support emerging talent in concrete technology, ensuring the development of innovative solutions for a more sustainable and efficient construction industry.