CINTEC Worldwide, a leader in the field of structural masonry retrofit strengthening, repair, and preservation, has been featured in a documentary created by National Geographic for the company’s restoration of the Pyramid of Djoser.
CINTEC was called in by the High Council of Egyptian Antiquities to prevent the collapse of the 4,600-year-old Pyramid of Djoser. The 200-foot structure, commonly known today as the Step Pyramid, was built in the 27th century BC for the burial of Pharaoh Djoser. A major earthquake in 1992 caused significant damage, resulting in the partial collapse of the burial chamber and leaving the pyramid’s central chamber in danger of collapse.
CINTEC was selected to stabilize the pyramid because of its extensive experience in preserving historical landmarks. The company has cemented its reputation worldwide with projects which included Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle and the White House complex, as well as countless castles and churches. In Egypt alone, CINTEC has worked on 13 historic buildings in Cairo and the Red Pyramid near Giza.
“Though each project presents a different set of challenges, CINTEC uses solid engineering principles and creative thinking to develop effective restoration solutions,” said Peter James, managing director of CINTEC Worldwide. “We are very excited to apply our expertise to the Step Pyramid project.”
CINTEC will use its Waterwall technology (pictured), which consists of self-inflating water-filled bags, to prevent the collapse of the damaged ceiling. To strengthen the building’s central chamber, the company will use its patented anchoring and reinforcement system, designed to internally stabilize structures while at the same time preserving their historical value and appearance.
About CINTEC:
The principal activity of the company is the design and manufacture of the CINTEC Reinforcing Anchor System, a micro cement anchoring and reinforcing technique. CINTEC offers complete structural analysis and design services, turn-key solutions, as well as masonry repair and reinforcement anchors used for blast protection, seismic reinforcement, historic preservation and overall building strengthening. CINTEC has been the recipient of several awards, including the 2002 Queen’s Award for Enterprise in Innovation and received two U.K. Historic Bridge Awards and an Engineering Excellence Award from The Institution of Engineers, Australia in 2001.
