The Construction Technology Institute (AIDICO) took part in the last edition of CEVISAMA 2010 – the Ceramic, Natural Stone and Bathroom Fair), held in Valencia on May 9 and 11, the aim being to present the main technological innovations from the Natural Stone sector.

In the fields of production and safety at work, AIDICO presented an innovative system in collaboration with the “maquinaria Bulma Tecnología” company, for processing marble whilst improving productivity and energy efficiency based on the use of water-based nanocomposites as a reinforcement, and cured with a system of microwaves. This innovation is the result of collaborating in a research consortium which is part of AN R&D programme co-funded by the Regional Department of Industry, Trade and Innovation.

New self-cleaning materials – Self Cleaning Stone – were among other innovations that were presented. These materials adhere strongly to the surface of stone and act as a proven self-cleaning system for long-lasting outdoor use.

In the area of energy efficiency and sustainability, AIDICO in collaboration with LEVANTINA Y ASOCIADOS DE MINERALES, S.A, disclosed information on the properties of a natural stone called “Conforstone”, highlighting its capacity for heat storage temperature control of buildings. This innovation was possible thanks to the international I-Stone project, carried out by a total of 42 partners from international research centres and companies, some of which were Valencian. The new stone is suitable for facades and indoors, and the forecast is that it is going to cause a revolution in the application of natural stone in architecture.

With regard to product diversification, such as new, higher added value, marble products, AIDICO has developed and patented translucent marbles – extremely thin marble laminates having light polarizing properties – which are ideal for covering facades. Depending on the optical properties of the natural stone and its thickness a wide range of effects can be achieved.

The marble sector is doing important work to aid innovation, in so far as it is one of the best contributions towards combating the credit crunch by offering new products that enable an increase in exports and in competitiveness.

AIDICO, which belongs to the Network of Technology Institutes from the Valencian Community (REDIT), is driven by the Regional Department of Industry, Trade and Innovation.