#Composites

2025-02-20

Large composite project for the Mataf ceiling in Mecca

Sicomin, a global leader in the production of epoxy resins, proudly announces its role in a collaboration with Premier Composite Technologies (PCT) for the Mataf extension at the Holy Mosque of Mecca, KSA. The project incorporates extensive uses of composite materials in architecture, with the Mataf Ceiling - a structure spanning 216,800 square metres - at its core.

Project showcases the potential of composites to revolutionize architectural applications

Composite materials were the only viable solution capable of meeting the ambitious weight and performance demands of the ceiling installation, with Sicomin epoxy systems, quadraxial stitched glass fabric and carbon reinforcements being used to create lightweight and intricately decorated soffit panels that define the Mataf Ceiling.

Installed across four levels surrounding the Mataf walkway and the sacred Kaaba, the ceiling was designed, fabricated, and installed by PCT. Each individual panel, produced in Dubai and measuring up to 12 x 3 metres, showcases Arabic mashrabiya patterns crafted from ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) and engineered stone agglomerate inlays. These panels meet strict weight requirements of 67 kg/m² while incorporating critical functionalities such as acoustic insulation, fire protection, and integrated custom LED lighting.

To meet the project’s rigorous technical requirements and ambitious timeline, Sicomin supplied its SGi 128 Bio Gelcoat and SR 1122 Fire Retardant Epoxy. Working closely with PCT, Sicomin developed a custom lower-viscosity version of the SR1122 resin, enhancing fibre wet-out and optimizing production efficiency. This development enabled PCT to achieve its output levels during peak production. Sicomin also supported extensive third-party fire testing, ensuring that the SR 1122 panels with SGi 128 Bio Gelcoat complied with the ASTM E84 Class A standard.

To meet the tight production schedule, Sicomin established a dedicated warehouse in Dubai, ensuring a flexible and reliable supply chain. This logistical capability supported PCT’s average production rate of 6,000 square metres per month, while accommodating design approvals, installation constraints, and the complexities of mold fabrication.

The Shamia Expansion, initiated in 2014 and resumed in 2020 after a temporary pause, is set for completion in Q3 2025. This phase of the project represents a major milestone in the use of composites in architecture, with additional phases and further collaborations already in development.

“We are very proud to have expanded our UAE warehousing and production capacity in France to ensure a fast and secure supply chain for PCT,” comments Ken Marcovich, CEO, Sicomin. “Our goal is to enable our customers to achieve their ambitions. By delivering Fire Resistant, GreenPoxy and Architectural systems at an industrial scale, we ensure they never encounter supply limitations.”

Hannes Waimer, CEO, Premier Composite Technologies, added: “The Mataf Extension has been a landmark project for us. The complexity of the Mataf Ceiling required a unique combination of innovative materials, precise engineering, and flawless execution. Sicomin’s support, from custom resin development to reliable material supply, has been essential in helping us meet the project’s demanding specifications and timelines.”

A section of the Mataf Ceiling manufactured by PCT will be on display on the Sicomin stand at JEC World 2025, Paris.

Sicomin appoints CS Kompozyty as exclusive Distributor for Poland

Sicomin is pleased to announce the appointment of CS Kompozyty as its exclusive distributor for Poland. The partnership will provide Polish composite manufacturers with comprehensive access to Sicomin's broad range of performance epoxy resins, green epoxies, hardeners, and adhesive solutions, supported by local technical expertise and rapid delivery capabilities.

Sicomin announces Ken Marcovich as new CEO

After successfully leading the expansion of Map Yachting, Ken Marcovich, the elder son of the Marcovich family, is now stepping into the role of CEO at Sicomin. He succeeds his father, Philippe Marcovich, who has led Sicomin for 42 years, transforming the company into a global leader in epoxy resin systems and advanced composite materials.

JEC Composites Startup Booster: 2026 winners announced

The leading global startup competition for composites and advanced materials has crowned its 2026 champions, ahead of a landmark 10th anniversary edition next year. The winners of the JEC Composites Startup Booster 2026 were announced on Wednesday, 11 March, at JEC World, recognizing the most promising emerging companies reshaping the future of composites and advanced materials.

Teijin Carbon strengthens high‑end sports offering with advanced prepreg and resin technologies for next‑generation bicycle performance

High‑end bicycle manufacturers are entering a new era in which modern frames and components must be lighter, stiffer, tougher and more sustainable – all while enabling fast, repeatable and cost‑efficient production. To support this shift, Teijin Carbon is expanding its portfolio of advanced prepreg systems developed specifically for premium road, gravel and mountain bike applications.

JEC WORLD 2026 opens: Paris becomes the World Capital of composites

JEC World 2026 opens tomorrow, March 10, at Paris Nord Villepinte, bringing together the entire composites ecosystem for three days of exhibitions, conferences, technical sessions, strategic industry gatherings, and business meetings. As the “festival of composites”, JEC World is also a destination for a broad spectrum of other professional visitors, eager to discover how these advanced materials can offer sustainable solutions to their industries.

Smart sensors, smart savings - Reducing energy and cost in textile finishing

As energy prices, sustainability requirements and quality expectations continue to rise, manufacturers of technical textiles face increasing pressure to optimize efficiency while ensuring process reliability. At the same time, skilled labor shortages require production systems that are intuitive, automated and easy to manage. PLEVA addresses these challenges with robust, maintenance-friendly sensor technologies combined with intelligent process control.

From preparation to 3D weaving: Stäubli’s solutions at Techtextil 2026

Stäubli, a global leader in high performance weaving technologies, is pleased to announce its participation at Techtextil 2026 in Frankfurt, Germany, the leading international trade fair for technical textiles and nonwovens. As technical textiles continue their rapid expansion across demanding markets such as defense, mobility, aerospace, construction, energy… Stäubli will showcase innovative solutions designed to empower mills to produce the next generation of advanced fabrics. Stäubli will exhibit its trend-setting technologies at the Swiss Pavilion Booth B01.6 in Hall 12.0.

DIENES at Techtextil 2026: Flexible pilot lines for bio-based fiber development

The growing relevance of bio-based materials in technical textiles is accompanied by increasing demands for reproducibility, high-quality data, and scalable process routes. Especially when working with cellulose and its derivatives, chitosan, lignin-based approaches, or bio-based PAN as a carbon-fiber precursor, R&D teams face variable feedstock quality, tighter process windows, and the need for reliable comparability across trials. This calls for flexible, data-driven experimental setups that can be reconfigured efficiently when recipes, solvents, and raw-material batches change.

Gunold showcases embroidery product range and services at Texprocess

At Texprocess 2026, GUNOLD will present numerous hands-on examples related to embroidery in Hall 8, Booth E20. The focus is on creative embroidery designs as well as the extensive product range of threads, nonwovens, and accessories for embroidery and embellishment. “Trade visitors can once again look forward to many new and creative embroidery designs. Of course, we will also showcase the matching products required to bring these ideas to life,” announces Marketing Manager Stephan Gunold.