As the go-to concrete
solution for building high rise structures, Aggregate Industries’ revolutionary
Lytag product proved essential during the landmark development of 70 St Mary
Axe – the latest skyscraper set to transform London’s skyline.
The building is being
developed by TH Real Estate and constructed by Mace to a design by Foggo
Architects.
Neighbouring
the legendary Gherkin tower, the £135m office development, known for its
strikingly unique curved appearance, will offer 300,000 sq ft of prime office
space at the heart of London’s business district.
When
completed later this year, the iconic structure will stand at an impressive 96
metres tall and 23 storeys high, with its unique shape specifically designed to
allow for breathtaking views over the City.
For concrete
sub-contractors AJ Morrisroe, a key requirement of the project was to source a
concrete solution that would enable larger floor spans to be cast without
compromising the dead load of the overall structure. Key to ensuring that the
building is constructed in an environmentally-friendly manner, it was also
important that all materials were as sustainable as possible.
The natural choice
proved to be Lytag from Aggregate industries, a highly innovative lightweight
concrete solution with unrivalled credentials when it comes to the construction
of high rise structures.
Up to 40% lighter than
conventional concrete, during the development Lytag was able to effectively
reduce the composite deck concrete slab load by approximately 25% over normal
weight control, while offering the same level of structural performance.
Furthermore, as a
concrete made from secondary aggregate, Lytag has unique properties that can
help to significantly reduce the amount of natural quarried material required
on a project – making it a much more environmentally friendly option than
standard concrete.
In
total, Aggregate Industries has supplied 2000m3
of Lytag to the project, which was instrumental in helping the tower recently
receive an Excellent rating in BREEAM by
conforming to clause WST 02 in relation to recycled aggregate.
What’s
more, Aggregate Industries’ on-site inspector, who was present throughout the
project, was always on hand to make sure the concrete pour ran smoothly and was
successfully delivered on time.
Steve Curley, general
manager for Lytag at Aggregate Industries, said: “As a modern skyscraper
pushing the boundaries of construction and design, the 70 St Mary Axe project
required equally innovative construction materials to achieve the building’s
iconic vision.
"From the start
it was clear there was no contender to Lytag and its unrivalled capabilities
when it comes to building complex, high rise structures of this nature,
especially for buildings looking to achieve a superior sustainable BREEAM
rating.”
Anthony Blair, project
manager at AJ Morrisroe said: “As one of the most high-profile developments in
the Capital, it was important that the 70 St Mary Axe project used a
sustainable concrete solution that would not only reduce the dead load bearing
on the city’s foundation but also help the structure achieve its BREEAM
targets.
“We were delighted
with the exceptional properties of Lytag, without which this project might not
have been technically and architecturally possible.
"We were also
impressed with the solution’s sustainable credentials and would like to thank
Aggregate Industries for their excellent service, on-time deliveries and
support throughout this development.”
