Support for community access to sustainable research solutions - Annual Report 2025

14 June, 2026

Following an approach by Globex Engineering for a concrete replacement in a high specification engineered construction component, we were able to identify multiple research groups working on relevant potential solutions. Research from Te Wānanga Aronui o Tāmaki Makau Rau Auckland University of Technology (AUT), Earth Sciences New Zealand (formerly GNS Science), Te Herenga Waka Victoria University of Wellington (VUW) and Waipapa Taumata Rau University of Auckland (UoA) and a private specialised R&D company located in the UoA Newmarket Innovation Precinct were all presented to Globex for consideration and further confidential engagement.

The intellectual property under development in these research groups approached decarbonisation and durability of cement and concrete materials from different technical perspectives and Globex has since selected a shortlist of options to work with on the final solution for their commercial client. This product has the potential to replace up to 16,000 tonnes of traditional cement per year through Australasia with a global market size over 350,000 tonnes annually.

"Our engagement with the researchers at the MacDiarmid Institute has been a genuine catalyst for innovation at Globex. Having direct access to front-line materials science is a practical advantage that has benefited us and our clients on multiple projects. Our initial discussions on this decarbonisation project have resulted in two new products: one focused on low-carbon cement alternatives, and a second involving a completely novel design for structural components that eliminates cementitious materials entirely. At Globex we work across a large variety of markets and product types. Working with the Institute is a vital bridge to the deep, specialist expertise we need to solve complex design challenges for our clients."