Construction Research Development and Innovation (CRDI)

Far reaching changes have occurred in the construction industry in the last few decades as new materials get introduced and methods for construction improve, large scale mechanization takes place and awareness towards social and environmental issues increases. With a foresight that a traditional approach to construction is not adequate to meet the growing demands, HCC has taken an innovative approach to adapt the best technology for its projects. HCC has created a focus group on Construction Research Development and Innovation (CRDI). It focuses on identifying and studying relevant issues to improve the company's performance in terms of economy, quality, productivity and safety of construction. It also creates an environment that encourages innovative thinking across the organization, ensuring that the intellectual property generated is appropriately protected.

Set up at Tara, near Mumbai, to develop and evaluate of new construction materials, and determine the suitability for their application at sites, the Centre has all activities and processes adhering to the relevant guidelines of ISO 17025. It is equipped with a state of the art laboratory and facilities for carrying out tests on materials such as cement, aggregates, concrete, bitumen, bricks, rock, etc. and is committed to professional testing with the highest quality. It is recognized by the Ministry of Science and Technology and the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration of Laboratories (NABL) of the Government of India.

The engineers at the centre are engaged in research projects such fly ash and geopolymer utilization, high performance concrete and value added bituminous mixes, besides their involvement in activities such as in-house training programs, technical audit and quality checks and carrying out tests for construction materials being used at sites. Some of the successfully completed projects include development of high strength concrete and pavement concrete incorporating Fly ash, development of new capping system for concrete cores and cylinders, and control of expansion on account of alkali aggregate reaction in concrete.

As far as the generation and protection of intellectual property is concerned, a drive has been launched to involve as many HCC members as possible in the effort. One final application for a patent for an innovative tester for hydro pressure testing of pipelines and four provisional applications for grant of patents were filed in the last one year. Over time it is expected that the CRDI initiative will lead to the development of a vibrant and proactive research centre serving a key function within the organization and the profession.