Hong Kong Turns to Advanced Materials to Speed Up Construction Works

Facing a chronic labour shortage and soaring construction costs, Hong Kong's infrastructure sector is adopting advanced materials and technical innovation to speed up construction works. The Building Technology Research Institute (BTRi) has led this effort, advancing over 45 innovative initiatives to modernise local practices. One such initiative is the use of Low Density Engineered Cementitious Composites (LD-ECC) in the Shap Pat Heung Interchange project. This locally developed material boasts higher compressive strength, self-healing micro-cracks properties, and enhanced fatigue resistance. The use of LD-ECC precast panels has transformed Hong Kong's traditional retaining wall design, reducing the risk of injury and minimising heavy machinery. The project construction time was cut by 50% and direct building costs dropped by 20%. The CEDD has commissioned the BTRi to draft technical guidelines for LD-ECC, slated for release in 2027. These guidelines will serve as a key reference standard for future civil engineering projects.