NEST-Unit UMAR

The research platform NEST in the Swiss town of Dübendorf focusses on future ways of living and the responsible use of resources in the construction field. A modular building for research and innovation is the basis of this institution. It is operated by Empa (Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology) and Eawag (Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology) and holds several cooperations with partners from economy, architecture and the public sector. The individual modular units of the building are used for testing and improving room concepts, technologies for energy management and materials of the future under realistic living and working conditions.

In early 2018, a new unit by the name of UMAR (Urban Mining & Recycling) was readied for operation. This case study tests a construction that is built completely with reusable or compostable parts, respectively. After its usage, it can be deconstructed and fully used for other construction projects. The support structure and the facade consist of non-treated wood, insulation is provided by innovative insulation panels and other reusable materials. Being one of the pionieers for recyclable system products for interior fit-out, Lindner Group also took part in the UMAR unit. As a part of a cooperation with Werner Sobek, who created the concept for UMAR, Lindner developed Plafotherm® heated and chillled hook-on ceilings that are tailored to this project. These were mounted in the units, both in their prefab and built-in state. To ensure that all connections remain recyclable the complete cooling technology inclusive heat
conducting profile was screwed to the ceiling panels.

Moreover, the acoustic tissue on the reverse side was clamped – without any adhesive bonding. Thanks to a perforated metal ceiling panel made of anodised aluminium, even the commonly used powder coating could be omitted. Lindner Group has given the topics sustainability and green building much attention for the last decade. In recent history, this pursuit has led to several Cradle to Cradle® certifications for interior fit-out solutions. The company is already in a position to offer the interplay of floorings, partitions and ceilings with recyclable products from one source.