The Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) announced on August 13, 2026, that its innovative research achievements have received recognition at the "R&D 100 Awards," one of the most influential global technology R&D awards. The HKPC's development of the permanent carbon-sequestering concrete brick technology, "CarbonLock Blocks," not only won the R&D 100 Awards but also received the Special Recognition: Green Tech, Silver Award. Additionally, the water tank cleaning robot "Water Tank Robot" and the intelligent multi-modal robot for high-risk pipeline inspection "PipeX" were also finalists, demonstrating HKPC's leading capabilities in research innovation and green development.
HKPC's Innovative Achievements
Mr. Poon Kin-man, President of HKPC, stated that the awarded and shortlisted projects focus on addressing real industry pain points, providing innovative solutions for enterprise intelligence and sustainable development. He emphasized that these achievements not only showcase the exceptional capabilities of Hong Kong's innovation and technology talent but also contribute to the country's high-quality development.
Introduction to CarbonLock Blocks Technology
CarbonLock Blocks is Hong Kong's first permanent carbon-sequestering concrete brick technology, which captures industrial carbon dioxide emissions and mineralizes them within calcium-rich materials. This technology can achieve a carbon dioxide absorption rate of approximately 1% of the material's weight and utilizes biochar and reusable materials to promote resource recycling and high-value applications, embodying the principles of a circular economy.
The technology also incorporates artificial intelligence for optimized design, reducing carbon emissions by adding biochar and further lowering cement usage, enhancing material quality, and providing the construction industry with innovative solutions that offer high performance and low carbon benefits, propelling Hong Kong's construction sector towards a net-zero emissions transformation.
Innovative Features of Water Tank Robot and PipeX
The water tank cleaning robot "Water Tank Robot" is specifically designed for the building environment in Hong Kong, effectively avoiding the need for personnel to enter narrow water tanks, thereby reducing occupational safety risks. This robot combines high-pressure water cleaning with immediate sewage extraction, improving cleaning quality and efficiency.
On the other hand, "PipeX" is a metal pipeline inspection robot designed for high, narrow, and complex environments, capable of conducting in-depth inspections in areas that are difficult for personnel to access, enhancing inspection efficiency and operational safety. Its innovative deformable body design allows it to flexibly navigate various pipe obstacles while providing high-precision inspection data.
Conclusion
The "R&D 100 Awards," organized by the internationally recognized magazine "R&D World," is one of the most influential technology R&D awards globally. HKPC's R&D projects have once again achieved remarkable results, fully demonstrating Hong Kong's international competitiveness in the field of research and innovation.
TechRitual 企業科技編輯部（香港）。biz.techritual.com 的外語版本由繁體中文原文翻譯。
