Aluminum giant Hydro plans research unit in Qatar

Hydro, a global supplier of aluminium and aluminium products with activities in hydropower and solar power is expanding its research and development presence in Qatar with a view to help push aluminium in the Middle East. The third largest integrated aluminium supplier in the world with a presence on every continent, Hydro, which forayed into Qatar Science & Technology Park with 45 square meters novice office, recently signed a new contract for expanding the space to 500 square meters. This is described as a huge step for Hydro’s research and development presence in Qatar, alongside the company’s strong engagement in the large Qatalum aluminium plant now being built in Mesaieed, close to Doha. Mr Tormod Bjork a senior vice president in the technology organisation of the primary metal business area said that the building industry in Qatar can benefit from the competence Hydro building system possesses. He said that the heat, humidity and the sun are intense in Qatar, which give opportunities for aluminium as a metal and for Hydro as producer and inventor of building systems solutions. He pointing out that the ‘Tornado Tower’ is a recent project where Hydro supplied its unique fa?ade systems. Mr Bjork said that “Many of the great buildings being built in Doha have yet not seen the light in the form of using modern aluminium.” The Hydro official asserted that the market situation for aluminium has changed his company’s ramp-up profile at its research and development facility at QSTP. Mr Bjork said that “However, we are preparing for the next steps and we are now looking into establishing lab facilities and increasing our presence here. Hydro’s focus on the research and development front includes studying specific issues as heat stress or expertise in handling carbon dioxide related issues, integrated operations and outdoor coating.” He said that outdoor coating is a project of interest to Hydro building systems. When we get our laboratories up and running we will focus and work further on these defined topics. (Sourced from Gulf News)