AI and sensor technology are transforming concrete production
Sika AG, a company operating in the specialty chemicals sector, has entered into a commercial partnership with Canadian company Giatec Scientific Inc. Giatec's digital technologies are to become part of Sika's global product range. The aim is to strengthen its digital market position in the construction industry.
Sika AG has entered into a distribution partnership with Canadian company Giatec Scientific Inc. Giatec’s range of digital technologies for the construction sector is to be integrated into Sika’s global product portfolio, according to a statement issued by the Zug-based specialty chemicals company. The aim of the business agreement is to drive forward digitalisation in the concrete industry worldwide.
Giatec Scientific Inc., headquartered in Ottawa, Ontario, is a global provider of sensors, software solutions and artificial intelligence (AI)-powered data analysis systems. The use of digital technologies in construction is on the rise. According to the press release, this is demonstrated by figures from the global market research and consulting firm Fortune Business Insights. According to these figures, the global market for AI in the construction industry is expected to grow from CHF 4.7 billion in 2026 to CHF 27.5 billion by 2034. This corresponds to an average growth rate of 24.8 per cent per year.
Sika and Giatec want to combine their strengths to provide customers with high-quality concrete data in real time, according to the announcement. “By combining the most advanced technologies, we are opening up new opportunities for our customers worldwide in terms of efficiency, quality and sustainability. At the same time, we are strengthening our ability to create additional value through digital innovation,” said Ivo Schädler, Head of Construction and member of the Group Executive Committee.
AI-supported quality control and optimisation of concrete mix designs would offer the construction industry the opportunity to precisely optimise the amount of cement and aggregates used. This would enable efficiency gains, cost savings and CO2 reductions while simultaneously increasing performance on the construction site.