Aramco and China Building Materials Academy (CBMA) announced the launch of NEXCEL, a new Non-metallic Excellence and Innovation Center to further advance the use of non-metallic materials in the building and construction sector. The center was launched Tuesday at an event in Beijing, where the center will be located. NEXCEL will leverage CBMA’s expertise and resources to promote the development and application of non-metallic technologies that offer superior lifecycle cost, efficiency and environmental advantages over their metal alternatives. Ahmad A. Al-Sa’adi, senior vice president of technical services at Aramco, said: “We are excited to be part of this important initiative with China Building Materials Academy, to jointly advance the use of non-metallics in building and construction in China. “At Aramco, we have been developing and deploying non-metallic solutions within our own operations for more than 20 years as they offer superior lifecycle cost, efficiency and environmental advantages over their metal alternatives. Given the advantages of non-metallics, we believe that this new Center of Excellence for Non-metallic Building Materials will catalyze a wide range of exciting new opportunities.” Zhan Yanjing, vice president of China National Building Material Group (CNBM), said: “It is my honor to witness this historic strategic cooperation with Aramco. The partnership represents our long-term collaboration and mutual trust, and it is also an important measure to build green, low carbon solutions. “As an important platform for CNBM’s technological innovation, CBMA is the largest and strongest research center in the field of non-metallic in China. CBMA will provide great support to NEXCEL, and create an open and innovative environment, helping NEXCEL make greater contributions to global sustainable development.” NEXCEL will promote the development and application of nonmetallic technologies by exploring opportunities for joint projects in research and development, standards development and adoption, professional development and certifications, advocacy and international outreach. The Center will also create a global collaboration platform to expand and accelerate the use of non-metallic materials to improve sustainability, contribute to a lower carbon footprint, and enhance the durability and longevity of structures. — SPA