Israel Launches First Construction R&D Consortium with $16 Million Budget
The Israel Innovation Authority has launched the country's first research and development consortium focused on the construction sector, named RSTPCS. Initiated by Shapir Engineering, this consortium aims to develop foundational technologies for international breakthroughs and foster new product development. The initiative is comparable to existing consortia in fields like cybersecurity, fintech, and medical technologies.
The RSTPCS consortium's work plan targets two main areas: design and optimization tools to enhance construction efficiency, reduce environmental impact, waste, and unnecessary safety margins, and the development of new building materials, including cement and steel alternatives, designed for higher quality and reduced usage in large structures like high-rises, bridges, and metro tunnels.
Over the initial 36 months, the consortium has an approved budget of approximately 60 million shekels (about $16 million), with the Innovation Authority funding about 60%. Following the R&D phase, an estimated two additional years will be needed for industrial production and regulatory approvals, aiming to leverage international standards and prevent failures like the Versailles disaster.
Key participants include Shapir Engineering, Ashtrom, Elbit Systems, ICL, G.A.S. planning, and academic institutions such as the Technion, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Tel Aviv University, and Shenkar College. Professor Emeritus Arnon Bentur from the Technion serves as the consortium's chief scientist. The consortium's engineering and economic goals include a 20% reduction in raw materials for structural frameworks, a 33% decrease in building weight, a 20% cut in infrastructure maintenance costs, and a smaller environmental footprint. Demonstrations will include a multi-story residential building, a bridge, an underground system, and a protected structure.
Ronit Eshel, Deputy Director of Technological Infrastructure at the Innovation Authority, emphasized that the true revolution in construction lies in materials, and the RSTPCS consortium unites experts to develop next-generation materials and advanced concrete for stronger, more durable, and efficient structures. Professor Bentur added that the consortium aims to transform the local market into a significant application field that will drive future Israeli technology exports.
