Sabic (Riyadh / Saudi Arabia; www.sabic.com) has launched its "Stadeck" panels for the construction industry. The new panels are made from glass fibre-reinforced thermoplastic resin, and according to Sabic can be up to 60% lighter than standard wooden planks used in the building sector, making them "extremely lightweight." Stadeck panels are also weather- and chemical-resistant, and have anti-slip properties and "excellent fire behaviour."

As they are certified according to the European standard NEN-EN 12811-1, they are suitable for scaffolding applications. They are also suited for use in frame works decking, fencing, flood walls, sheathing and wheel chair ramps, and available in colours such as white, wood, stone and grass variations. The panel dimensions are a height of 55 mm, width of 230 mm and lengths of 3,000 mm or 6,000 mm, as well as customised lengths upon request.