In Uzbekistan, over the past ten years, eight enterprises specializing in the production of innovative basalt materials have been established by the Basalt Uzbekistan group of companies. Basalt Uzbekistan engineer-technologist Ahmadjon Yusupjanov spoke about the development of the industry, the implementation of standards, and the prospects for using basalt as the material of the future. Basalt is a natural stone of volcanic origin formed as a result of lava solidification. Its deposits are found throughout the country, including the Jizzakh region and Karakalpakstan, in areas where ancient volcanoes are located. This stone is used in the production of thermal and sound insulation, composite rebar and mesh, pipes, geogrids, technical fabrics, and fire-resistant coatings. Due to its strength, long-term durability, and environmental safety, basalt is becoming increasingly in demand in the construction sector. The development of modern basalt technologies in Uzbekistan began in 2015. The main focus of these technologies is the production of continuous basalt fiber. This product forms the basis of the entire range. Turning the stone into a fine and strong fiber in itself is considered a major technological breakthrough. On this basis, new directions opened up, including the production of basalt wool, composite pipes and rebar, and fabrics. In 2024, two large plants were launched: in February, a plant for the production of composite pipes, and at the end of the year, a plant for the production of technical fabrics from basalt began operations. Currently, the Basalt Uzbekistan group of companies produces basalt gravel and sand, fibers, continuous and twisted fibers, composite rebar, reinforcement meshes and pipes, as well as basalt insulation materials. Our eight factories operate in accordance with international, including European, standards. Since 2023, we have been producing basalt geogrids that fully meet European Union regulations, and in 2024, composite rebar completed certification processes in Europe. The quality of the manufactured products is regularly checked by laboratories included in the technological line, as well as confirmed by independent international audits. Basalt geogrids are widely used in road construction, strengthening road bases and preventing surface deformation. This extends the service life of roads and reduces maintenance costs. Our main priority is to ensure the high quality of the manufactured products and to create national standards. In developing the regulatory framework and creating new standards, we actively cooperate with the Ministry of Construction and Housing and Communal Services, the Ministry of Water Resources, SQB Testing and R&D Center, and other relevant research organizations. Technological guidelines have been developed today for the use of basalt geogrids and basalt composite pipes, and proposals have been prepared to amend the existing fifteen construction norms, taking into account the advantages and characteristics of basalt materials. Uzbekistan is the first country developing a national standard for basalt technical fabrics. Such regulations do not exist in other countries—production is regulated only by technical specifications. Our main goal is to supply the domestic market with high-quality construction and composite materials. These materials are import-substituting products that meet local and foreign standards. As for export geography, we supply our products to European countries, the Americas, and CIS countries.
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