Global positioning

A high environmental performance was a priority for both Arup Brisbane and the HBO + EMTB design team. And one of the ways they were able to improve the environmental performance was through the use of USG Powerscape Health® wall linings rather than plasterboard.

USG Powerscape Health wall linings are made from two main waste streams: 85% synthetic gypsum, a by-product that comes from some coal-fired electricity generators, and 10% post-consumer paper. This means open-cast mining of raw gypsum is totally avoided and disposal in landfills is substantially reduced as the waste stream gypsum from the coal-fired power plant is recycled.

The use of environmentally friendly products has not compromised the building's aesthetics however. The Powerscape linings were finished flush, with the butt edges of the boards bevelled on site, giving a sleek white finish. Due to the density of Powerscape linings, the direct fixing of MDF panels was possible. These were finished with a black edge resulting in a Mondrian look, which echoes the design of the building's facade.

USG Australasia national sales manager Peter Wood says Powerscape linings have documented sound transmission reduction ratings compliant with the BCA (Building Code Australia). In most cases these are greater than the same thickness plasterboard due to the stiffness and mass of the Powerscape linings.

In addition, the linings have no VOC emissions. The products are pre-coated in the factory with an acrylic sealer that creates a surface suitable for use with most low- and non-VOC paints and adhesives.

"USG Powerscape Health products do not emit formaldehyde as they use an inorganic, rather than organic, binder, and normally use mechanical fixing rather than adhesives," Wood says.

For more information, contact USG Australasia, Suite 601, 370 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne, Vic 3004, phone 1800 226 215, fax 1800 786 946. Websites: www.greenusg.com.au or www.powerscape.com.au.

Story by: Trendsideas