Government News Feature: How BTRi-Supported Innovative Materials Deliver Proven Results

A new feature on the Government's news website, news.gov.hk, highlights how the Building Technology Research Institute (BTRi) is helping Hong Kong's construction industry tackle labour shortages and rising construction costs through advanced materials, innovation and robust standards.

The story follows the journey of Low Density Engineered Cementitious Composites (LD-ECC), a locally developed material with higher compressive strength at roughly a quarter of traditional concrete's weight and density. At Shap Pat Heung Interchange in Yuen Long — Hong Kong's first roadwork application — it delivered a 50% reduction in construction time and a 20% reduction in direct construction costs, alongside improved site safety by minimising the need for heavy lifting. Throughout the project, technical document reviews by the BTRi supported the project team in transitioning this innovative material to real-world application.

Now, commissioned by the Civil Engineering and Development Department, BTRi is developing technical guidelines for LD-ECC, with a release target for Q2 2027, to serve as a key reference standard for future construction projects.

Since its establishment in August 2024, BTRi has advanced 45+ innovation initiatives, projected to save the industry up to $3.1 billion a year. With $100 million earmarked in the 2026-27 Budget, BTRi will continue to advance construction standards and integrate artificial intelligence applications into construction projects.

Read the full story: news.gov.hk - Building smarter, faster in Hong Kong