HeidelbergCement invests in maturity sensor technology developer

Sources: HeidelbergCement AG, Germany; CP staff

Lehigh Hanson Inc. parent HeidelbergCement has taken a strategic minority stake in Ottawa-based Giatec, whose proprietary sensors equip producers and their customers to monitor concrete maturity in real time. Combined with artificial intelligence algorithms, configured to integrate with a wide range of concrete industry software solutions, the sensor data informs cement optimization, quality control, and formwork operations.

**Affixed to rebar and embedded in the slab or structure, Giatec’s flagship SmartRock sensor wirelessly transmits maturity data.**

“Our investment is inspired by the shared vision of moving the concrete industry forward by using cutting-edge sensing technologies, expanding digitalization, and reducing the concrete carbon footprint,” says HeidelbergCement Chief Digital Officer Dennis Lentz. “Giatec’s combination of proprietary sensor technology and AI-based software enables significant efficiency and sustainability improvements from the plant to the job site.”

“This partnership will propel our expansion to international markets with the HeidelbergCement global reach and on-the-ground operations in over 50 countries,” adds Giatec CEO Pouria Ghods, who is confident that his company and its newest investor can “develop best-in-class software solutions for concrete producers worldwide.”