Lytag takes the load off new London skyscraper

Aggregate Industries supply lightweight concrete solution for London’s latest landmark high-rise development

AGGREGATE Industries’ Lytag lightweight concrete has proved essential during the landmark development of 70 St Mary Axe – the latest skyscraper set to transform London’s skyline. The building is being developed by TH Real Estate and constructed by Mace to a design by Foggo Architects.

Neighbouring the legendary Gherkin tower, the £135 million office development, known for its strikingly unique curved appearance, will offer 300,000 sq ft of prime office space at the heart of London’s business district. When completed later this year, the iconic 23-storey structure will stand 96m high, with its unique shape specifically designed to allow for breathtaking views over the city.

For concrete sub-contractors AJ Morrisroe, a key requirement of the project was to source a concrete solution that would allow larger floor spans to be cast without compromising the dead load of the overall structure. Also, to ensure that the building is constructed in an environmentally friendly manner, it was also important that all materials were as sustainable as possible.

The obvious solution proved to be Aggregate industries’ Lytag lightweight concrete, which is up to 40% lighter than conventional concrete. During the development Lytag was able to effectively reduce the composite deck concrete slab load by approximately 25% over normal weight concrete, while offering the same level of structural performance.

Furthermore, as a concrete made from secondary aggregate, Lytag has helped to significantly reduce the amount of natural quarried material required on a project – making it a more environmentally friendly option than standard concrete.

In total, Aggregate Industries have supplied 2,000 cubic metres of Lytag to the project, which was instrumental in helping the tower recently receive an Excellent rating in BREEAM by conforming to clause WST 02 in relation to recycled aggregate.

Steve Curley, general manager for Lytag at Aggregate Industries, said: ‘As a modern skyscraper pushing the boundaries of construction and design, the 70 St Mary Axe project required equally innovative construction materials to achieve the building’s iconic vision.

‘From the start it was clear there was no contender to Lytag and its unrivalled capabilities when it comes to building complex high-rise structures of this nature, especially for buildings looking to achieve a superior sustainable BREEAM rating.’

Anthony Blair, project manager at AJ Morrisroe, said: ‘We were delighted with the exceptional properties of Lytag, without which this project might not have been technically and architecturally possible.’