Tucked away in Lithgow is a company which is solving a long-held environmental issue and revolutionising the building industry at the same time.

More than two decades ago Maroun Rahme founded Nu-Rock Technology using his background as a successful architect, builder and developer to address an industrial by-product dilemma and develop a unique building block. With world first technology, Nu-Rock turns ash waste from coal-fired power stations into environmentally friendly building blocks and bricks. 

“There is enough ash on the ground from coal-fired power plants in NSW to fill Sydney Harbour from the heads to Parramatta,” Mr Rahme said. “We are hoping to use this ash to reduce NSW’s carbon footprint while providing a major boost to manufacturing.

“Our goal has been to take environmental waste from power stations and make bricks and blocks for the building industry that are stronger than concrete but can sell for a lot less.”

Developed by Mr Rahme in the mid 1990s Nu-Rock technology is inspired by natural forces which occur to produce solid rock. Combining naturally occurring chemical binders with power station fly ash, as well as steel mill and non-ferrous metal smelter waste, creates superior Nu-Rock products for building, civil engineering and agricultural industries. 

This advertising feature is sponsored by the following business. Click the link to learn more:

With a pilot plant currently operating at the Mount Piper Power Plant, company director Mike Retter said Nu-Rock blocks and bricks are also a game-changer for those in the construction industry.

“These blocks are stronger than the equivalent concrete products,” he said. “And importantly, they are half the weight and cost less than cement blocks.”

These factors result in considerable time and cost benefits for builders.

“That means block layers can do more in a day because Nu-Rock products are easier to handle and lighter,” he said. “Transport costs are also reduced because loads are lighter. Essentially, builders can use Nu-Rock products and build with less costs all around. They can do more with their money or provide customers with a quality product at a reduced price.”