Penetron Crystalline Technology Helps Moves Turkey into the Space Age

The December 2019 inauguration of the Gökmen Space and Aviation Center in Bursa, Turkey, marks an aerospace milestone for Turkey and the Eastern Mediterranean region. This state-of-the-art educational center relied on Penetron waterproofing technology for a durable concrete foundation.

Located in northwestern Turkey, about 150 km south of Istanbul, Bursa is the country’s largest manufacturing center and fourth largest city, with a population of just under two million inhabitants.

“Bursa is already the industrial capital of the country, thanks to its automotive, machinery and textile sectors,” says Jozef Van Beeck, International Sales & Marketing Director of The Penetron Group. “Beginning now, with the opening of the new Gökmen Space and Aviation Center, the region is set to also become the leader in the aerospace and defense industries in Turkey.”

The Gökmen Space and Aviation Center (GUHEM), part of the Bursa Technology Organized Industrial Zone (TEKNOSAB), was developed by the Bursa Metropolitan Municipality and Turkey’s Ministry of Science, Industry and Technology (TUBITAK).
 

Raising Interest in Aerospace

GUHEM is aimed primarily at raising public awareness of space exploration and the possibility of careers in aerospace. The Center features 154 interactive installations, aerospace learning centers, space innovation centers and vertical wind tunnels. Lectures on atmospheric events, the planets of the solar system and galaxies, and even a gravity-free zone are all specifically designed to attract a young audience and motivate them to consider a future in the aerospace industry.

The US $40 million GUHEM project is the largest space and aviation center in Europe and one of the five largest such facilities in the world, with a total area of approximately 13,000 m². During the planning phase, the local Penetron experts were asked to advise on the construction of the concrete foundation planned for GUHEM.
 

Question of Experience

“The area’s high-water table demanded a waterproofing solution that would provide a durable below-grade structure for the new education center,” adds Haluk Taylan, Managing Partner of PENEKIM Turkey. “With many successfully completed projects in the Bursa area, Penetron crystalline technology enjoys a solid reputation with the design and construction community. This caught the attention of the project contractor.”

The PENETRON System was specified to treat GUHEM’s foundation slab. Bursa Beton, the ready-mix supplier, provided the 3,000 m³ of concrete needed for the pour. PENEBAR SW waterstops were installed to seal all non-moving construction joints.