Gloucestershire engineering firm Versarien has signed an agreement with infrastructure group Balfour Beatty to develop a range of low-carbon, graphene‐infused, 3D‐printable mortars for civil construction.
The deal will see the Longhope-based manufacturer formulating three types of mortar – one based on local materials and two enhanced with its graphene admixture called Cementene.
The agreement will also see the development of a UK‐based supply chain, Versarien said.
The project will involve demonstrating the application of the mortars in real‐world scenarios within Balfour Beatty’s highways business, and assessing the performance, durability, and cost‐effectiveness compared to traditional construction materials. It will also evaluate the viability of 3D-printed construction methods, considering cost, time efficiency and sustainability.
Dr Stephen Hodge, chief executive of Versarien, said: “We are delighted to be working with Balfour Beatty and their highways business on this project to further develop 3D printable construction materials enabling low‐carbon, efficient construction solutions.
“Versarien already has experience of working with Balfour Beatty through both being members of the National Highways Roads Research Alliance and the Digital Roads of the Future project. We look forward to deepening our relationship.”
In June, Versarien said it was “optimistic” about the future after reporting a narrowing of losses. In a set of unaudited interim results, the listed firm reported pre-tax losses of £1.77m – down from £3.4m the year previously – for the six months ended March 31, 2024.
The company, which agreed a licensing deal with a Brazilian paint maker in March, uses graphene to make products for industries including retail, biomedical and aerospace. It raised £400,000 at the start of the year with a share placing.