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NEWS12 CPI %u2013 Concrete Plant International %u2013 3 | 2025 www.cpi-worldwide.comThe International Union of Laboratories and Experts in Construction Materials, Systems and Structures, better known by its acronym RILEM, is a renowned international organization focused on advancing the knowledge and technology related to construction materials, systems, and structures. Founded in 1947, RILEM has played a crucial role in shaping research, development, and innovation in the fields of construction and civil engineering, particularly in the areas of concrete, cementitious materials, and sustainable construction practices. This article summarizes aims and objectives of the organization and introduces the work of several current Technical Committees that are concerned with topics relevant to the concrete producing industry. RILEM was established in the aftermath of World War II, a period when the construction industry was striving to rebuild much of Europe and the world. The idea behind RILEM emerged from a desire to foster international collaboration in the field of construction materials and techniques. In particular, the founders wanted to create a platform for the exchange of scientific research and technical knowledge among professionals from various countries, to enhance the quality, durability, and safety of construction materials and systems.RILEM began its journey with a primary focus on cement and concrete, as these materials were crucial to the reconstruction efforts across Europe in the late 1940s and early 1950s. Over the decades, RILEM's scope of work expanded, encompassing a broader range of construction materials, including those used in pavements, buildings, and infrastructure. The organization quickly gained recognition for its ability to bridge the gap between academia, industry, and laboratories, facilitating the collaboration necessary to drive advancements in materials science and engineering.RILEM: From R&D to practical applications in the concrete industryInternational Union of Laboratories and Experts in Construction Materials, Systems and Structures Delegates at the Annual RILEM Week 2024 in Toulouse, France (credits: @anaisbertrand.photographe).