Robot technology for concrete structures without formwork
PERI SE and Sika AG are taking a stake in the Swiss startup Mesh AG that has developed the world’s first robot-assisted technology for the efficient and cost-effective production of complex reinforced concrete structures without formwork.
MESH Technology developed by Mesh AG makes it possible to produce complex or curved reinforcement cages, previously manufactured by laborious manual work, through an automated prefabrication process. The 3D steel-mesh structure created this way serves as both formwork and reinforcement and is filled by a specific concrete mix without using conventional formwork. On the one hand, the MESH Technology can be used for customized concrete structures, for the production of complex forms for the building industry, and on the other hand, conventional concrete structures can also be structurally optimized and realized in a material-efficient manner.
The new construction technology was developed through 10 years of intensive research at ETH Zurich. In 2018, the technological breakthrough came with the robot-assisted production of a curved concrete wall at Zurich’s DFAB HOUSE. The technology has been transferred to an industrial construction process in partnership with PERI and Sika since 2019. This was followed by the founding of MESH AG, an ETH spin-off based in Zurich.
Thomas Imbacher, Managing Director of PERI SE, responsible for Innovation & Marketing said, “Mesh technology is still a young technology that we have been driving forward together in recent years. We believe in the potential in various fields of concrete construction and are looking forward to developing this construction method together in the long term.”
Philippe Jost, Head Construction at Sika said, “Increasing digitalization and automation is getting more important in the construction industry. Innovative technologies enable productivity increases in construction and open up new, individual design possibilities for architects.”
He adds, “Through our collaboration with Mesh AG and PERI, a new type of construction process is being established on the market that enables the production of complex geometries and is more cost-effective than conventional methods. This will benefit our customers and the entire construction industry.”
Ammar Mirjan, CEO, Mesh AG said, “We are pleased and proud to be able to jointly establish MESH construction technology in the construction industry with the companies PERI and Sika. The commitment and investment show the great potential of our technology for more freedom of form, sustainability and efficiency in construction.”
