Interview with Bart van der Woerd - Basilisk self healing concrete

10 December 2022


We interviewed Bart van der Woerd from The Netherlands. Bart is the managing director at Basilisk. Basilisk has a number of unique products that enable self-healing concrete. The technology is based on micro-organisms that produce limestone, as a result crack formation in concrete structures are autonomously repaired. This way the durability of the concrete structure is greatly improved. The autonomous repair system is implemented in several products that are applicable for both new constructions and existing structures. Currently cracks up to 1 mm can be repaired, but the development continues.

Basilisk was on of the selected companies to join the Demo Days in May 2022 in Dubai. And was one of the two winners in the category “Construction Innovations”. 

1) Your company was selected out of 210+ applications. What has the Emaar Innovation Challenge meant for you company?

Great public relation opportunity. Especially, for our exiting relations in the Middle East. Due to our selection, we proved the importance of our innovation.

2) How were the 5 demo days for you in Dubai?

A great experience. Very impressive and a privilege to attend this event. Great hospitality and a good cohesion in the group.

3) Can you tell about the work you are now doing with Emaar?

We are still working on the approval for our material in the UAR. After that, we are aiming for a first demo project in 2023

4) How is it to work together with one of the largest developers of the world?

During the Challenge: Impressive.  When we do the first project, this will be the biggest step developing the market in the Middle East.