TÜRKÇİMENTO, Celebrates the Two-Century Triumph of Portland Cement

On September 25th, 2024, the 200th anniversary of the patent for Portland cement, a foundational component of the construction industry, was commemorated with a wide audience. The event, sponsored by Cemtech Global and hosted by the Civil Engineering Department of the Middle East Technical University (METU), was organized by TÜRKÇİMENTO. This celebration, held in recognition of Prof. Dr. Mustafa Tokyay, a distinguished scientist who has overseen the R&D Institute of TÜRKÇİMENTO, convened numerous prominent figures within the industry. 

During his inauguration speech, Volkan Bozay, the CEO of TÜRKÇİMENTO, expressed his gratitude to Prof. Dr. Mustafa Tokyay for his valuable contributions to the industry and the Association. Bozay emphasized the industry’s transformations and innovations, alongside the enduring legacy of Portland cement spanning two centuries, and added: “Portland cement holds not only historical significance but also maintains its status as a pivotal material that will continue to shape the future. This substance has played a crucial role in the construction of modern urban landscapes and will persist in contributing to the development of durable and reliable structures in the years to come. We must uphold environmental responsibility as we carry forward the legacy of Portland cement. The key focus areas within our industry encompass the reduction of carbon emissions, enhancement of energy efficiency, and advancement of eco-friendly production methodologies. We are currently undertaking significant initiatives steps in areas such as green concrete, alternative raw materials, and energy-efficient products. The 200th anniversary of Portland cement signifies a pivotal moment for us to reaffirm our dedication to environmental sustainability while honoring the legacy of the past”. 

During the commemoration of the 200th anniversary of Portland cement, Prof. Dr. Erdem Canbay, the Head of the Civil Engineering Department at METU, stated: “Today, we have gathered to honor Prof. Dr. Mustafa Tokyay, our former department head and esteemed mentor, for his substantial contributions to both academia and the cement industry. His scholarly works have remained a source of inspiration until his retirement in 2019. Over the course of more than 50 years, he has made substantial contributions to the knowledge base of our university and our country through his research on cement, concrete, and mineral additives. His studies and life philosophy have been invaluable in shaping our learning experiences. Today, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to him for his ongoing contributions and wish him a healthy and fulfilling retirement”. 

Emotional remarks from Prof. Dr. Mustafa Tokyay: “I have gleaned valuable insights from my students as well.”

On this meaningful event, Tokyay mentioned: “Esteemed friends and colleagues. I hold the belief that all of my students became masters, and I, in turn, am a student. I take great pride in their achievements as they ascend to mastery. While the duration of our journey remains uncertain, it is clear to me that we will witness another 200 years. Therefore, I have embraced the notion of orchestrating this exceptional gathering. I express my gratitude to all of you for gracing us with your presence. However, I feel compelled to convey that I have gleaned valuable insights from my students as well.” 

Betonart Program and Support to Youth 

The Betonart program, executed by TÜRKÇİMENTO for aspiring young engineers and architects, garnered significant attention during the event. Launched in 2002 to integrate emerging talents into the industry, the program provides students with the opportunity to apply their theoretical knowledge and engage with industry leaders. This year, the program’s theme, “timeless,” brought together 18 students and academics to execute important projects during the summer school. The event commenced with a presentation by Architect Dr. Ferhan Yalçın, outlining the summer school project. 

The initial session of the event, which consisted of two panels, was moderated by Prof. Dr. Sinan Turhan Erdoğan from the Civil Engineering Department of METU, focusing on the topic “Yesterday and Today in Portland Cement,” delving into the evolution of today’s cement from the pre-patent period. The distinguished speakers included Prof. Dr. Mustafa Tokyay, a retired lecturer from the Civil Engineering Department of METU, Dr. Önder Kırca, CEO of Çimko Cement, Prof. Dr. Kambiz Ramyar, a retired lecturer from the Civil Engineering Department of Ege University. 

During the second panel moderated by Prof. Dr. İsmail Özgür Yaman, focusing on the “Tomorrow of Concrete,” various topics pertaining to the future concrete technology were explored, including 3D concrete printers, managing construction demolition waste and the potential for cement production in space. This panel featured esteemed experts, including Prof. Dr. Mustafa Şahmaran, Lecturer at the Civil Engineering Department of Hacettepe University, Dr. Korhan Erdoğdu, Founder and Deputy Chairman of Cemtech Global Engineering, and Tuğhan Delibaş, Foreign Trade Director at Oyak Cement.