At Düsseldorf University of Applied Sciences, the N.Lab – Library for Sustainable Construction is taking shape as a place that combines many things: a learning and experimentation space for students and researchers, a material library for the construction of the future, and at the same time an architectural exhibition piece for sustainable design. A particular focus is placed on the deliberate choice of materials: steel components with the CO2, reduced, circular surface ecoZINQ are refined.

Sustainability made tangible

ecoZINQ permanently protects the structure against corrosion, is maintenance-free and has a high mechanical load-bearing capacity. In the event of a fire, the ecoZINQ surface also reduces emissivity and thus ensures greater safety. Thanks to its longevity and reusability, it supports the R strategies of sustainable construction.

The difference in CO2-footprint

ecoZINQ produces 43 % less CO2emissions than conventional hot-dip galvanising coatings according to DIN EN ISO 1461. This is made possible, amongst other things, by the use of CO2-reduced primary and secondary zinc within the Low-Carbon-ZINQ programme.

As a Cradle-to-Cradle-certified surface, ecoZINQ is also free from microplastics, PFAS and PFOS, and can be fully returned to the material cycle via the ReZINQ take-back programme for scrap galvanised steel.

With the circular business model Planet ZINQ and the Triple Zero Standard – zero carbon, zero waste, zero pollution – ZINQ has been driving the path towards climate-neutral surface technology for years. The fact that steel components are now protected with ecoZINQ in the N.Lab makes sustainability in construction literally tangible and underlines the importance of a wise choice of materials for the architecture of the future.

You can find out more about the N.Lab at https://pbsa.hs-duesseldorf.de/werkstaetten/NLAB.