The Dresden Bridge Construction Symposium 2025 not only offered a deep insight into current challenges in bridge construction, but also into innovative solutions and sustainable approaches. The focus was particularly on increasing the efficiency of projects and integrating new technologies and materials. CSZ draws valuable inspiration from the discussions and presentations to make future projects even more sustainable and resource-efficient.

4. What challenges in bridge construction were addressed at the symposium?
“The focus was on hydraulic engineering aspects, flow dynamics and flood protection, particularly with regard to more frequent flood events. The prioritization of renovation projects (paths, bridges, routes) was also discussed in depth. It is crucial to always keep an eye on the economic viability of both individual projects and the entire infrastructure.”

5. Were there any new ideas for increasing efficiency in bridge construction that are relevant for CSZ?
“The presentation of sample and type designs for several locations is particularly relevant for us. They enable a more efficient use of resources while maintaining high quality and adaptability to different conditions.”

6. How does CSZ deal with the issue of sustainability in bridge construction?
“Sustainability is central to our work. We focus on renovating existing bridges instead of building new ones whenever possible. Our bridge designs make it possible to separate building materials by type during demolition in order to promote their reuse and reduce CO2 emissions.”

7. Which projects at the Bridge Construction Prize 2025 inspired you in particular?
“The Chemnitz Viaduct, which was preserved as a landmark thanks to the involvement of the citizens, was particularly inspiring. We were also impressed by the Oder Bridge in Küstrin, which uses advanced technology to create a symbolic link between two countries. The New Rain Bridge in Roding impresses with its successful design and the optimization of material requirements – an example of modern, efficient bridge planning.”

Conclusion
The Dresden Bridge Construction Symposium 2025 provided CSZ with valuable impetus for future projects. The discussions about infrastructure, innovative materials and sustainable renovation approaches will continue to shape the company’s work. CSZ remains open to new developments and implements these findings to make bridges more efficient, sustainable and safe.

On March 19 and 20, 2025, the Dresden Bridge Construction Symposium took place under the direction of Prof. Dr.-Ing. Steffen Marx at TU Dresden. Experts from the bridge construction industry exchanged views on current developments and technologies. A team from CSZ was on site to gain valuable insights and new ideas. In seven short answers, the CSZ team reveals which impulses from the symposium will be decisive for future projects.

1. Which topics at the bridge construction symposium did you find particularly important for CSZ?
“The insight into the work of our colleagues from the industry was particularly interesting for us. The state of the infrastructure and the government’s announced investment package, which at 500 billion euros for infrastructure and climate protection comprises a considerable volume, were discussed intensively. The preservation of existing bridges is a top priority for all project participants.”

2. What does CSZ take away from the symposium to improve future bridge construction projects?
“The topic of structural diagnostics is still a decisive factor. Especially after the tragic collapse of the Carola Bridge, we have to continuously question and optimize our work processes and the care we take when inspecting and repairing bridges. We must be aware of this responsibility, but at the same time remain open to new building materials and innovative solutions that improve bridge construction in the long term.”

3. Were there any new technologies or materials that you found interesting for your work at CSZ?
“The exhibition of over 100 exhibitors provided an excellent opportunity to discuss the latest products and technologies. We found the dialog with the companies Huesker and Mageba particularly exciting. The increased use of carbon in bridge projects, for example in arch bridges with carbon cable hangers, is a technology that offers us a lot of potential for future projects.”

BAU, the world’s leading trade fair for architecture, materials and systems, takes place in Munich every two years. This is where experts from all over the world come together to discuss the latest developments in the planning, construction and design of buildings. Once again this year, the trade fair attracted over 180,000 visitors from 58 countries. Over 2,200 exhibitors presented their innovations. A CSZ team was on site, consisting of Daniel Pister (Head of Structural Engineering), Hannah Stahl (draftswoman), Lukas Kröcker and Dominik Treu (trainee draftsman), to gather ideas and trends for the future of construction.

BAU 2025 offered a variety of highlights that supported the intensive exchange and promotion of innovations within the construction industry:

• Forum “The Future of Building”: Renowned architects such as Carlo Ratti, Satoshi Ohashi, Verena von Beckerath and Elisabeth Endres presented visionary ideas and concepts.
• Founders Fight Night: start-ups presented their innovative products in a boxing ring – the audience decided the winner by applause.
• Competitions and awards: In competitions such as “Built on IT – construction professions with a future” and the Balthasar Neumann Prize, outstanding achievements in the industry were honored.

BAU Munich 2025 provided important impetus for the construction industry. The focus was on five key topics that will shape the future of construction:

• Resilient, climate-friendly construction: In the face of climate change, it is crucial to make buildings and cities resilient to extreme weather events.
• Transformation of city, countryside and neighborhoods: Urban and rural spaces must be designed in such a way that they meet the needs of a modern society.
• Resource efficiency: The increased use of recycled materials and digital planning processes makes the construction process more sustainable and resource-efficient.
• Modular, serial, productive: The construction process can be made more efficient and faster thanks to prefabricated components and digital production.
• Economical construction: In a difficult economic environment, it is crucial to build cost-effectively without compromising quality and sustainability.

BAU Munich 2025 was an important event that presented the latest trends and innovations while also highlighting the challenges facing the construction industry. For the CSZ team, the visit was a valuable opportunity to gather new ideas and integrate them into their own work. CSZ thus supports young talents and actively contributes to the future of construction with its values of innovation and sustainability.

 📸 Photo: Munich Trade Fair

On February 18, 2025, the official go-ahead was given for the construction of Campus Chiemgau in Traunstein. Lord Mayor Dr. Christian Hümmer, District Administrator Siegfried Walch, Science Minister Markus Blume and other high-ranking representatives from business, politics and administration celebrated the laying of the foundation stone on the former railroad station site. CSZ, responsible for the structural design and planning of the excavation pit shoring, was also on site.

• Future-oriented university location.
  The Chiemgau campus will house modern learning and central buildings on a total area of 5,450 square meters by 2028/2029. A three-storey student residence for 40 residents is already planned for fall 2025. The aim of the project is to promote young talent in the region and retain it in the long term in order to strengthen innovation.
• Economic stimulus for the region.
  In addition to creating new jobs, the Campus Chiemgau will promote the networking of business and science. By focusing on key technologies such as digitalization, automation and robotics, the campus will contribute to the further development of regional industry as a driver of innovation.
• Innovations and strong partnerships.
  The project is being realized in close cooperation with the Rosenheim University of Applied Sciences, the Traunstein Chamber of Industry and Commerce, the Chamber of Crafts and the district of Traunstein. These partnerships promote the integration of research and business. The partners sealed their joint path with the symbolic insertion of wooden blocks into the foundation stone. CSZ is delighted to be part of this forward-looking project and will report on progress.

📸  Photo: (from right) District Administrator Siegfried Walch, Minister of Science Markus Blume, Mayor of Traunstein Dr. Christian Hümmer, Rosenheim University of Applied Sciences President Prof. Heinrich Köster and Chamber of Crafts President Franz Xaver Peteranderl

CSZ-Darmstadt congratulates Dr.-Ing. Saied Kashkash on the successful defense of his dissertation. As a project engineer in bridge construction at CSZ, he completed his doctorate at the University of Pécs in Hungary under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Orban Zoltan. His research deals with sustainable recycled concrete, which uses recycled coarse aggregate, and provides valuable insights for concrete structures. In a short interview, he gives an insight into his work and shows the close link between science and practice.

Innovations in sustainable bridge construction
Dr. Kashkash’s dissertation is dedicated to the development of concrete made with recycled coarse aggregate. The central question is: How can recycled concrete be optimized to achieve the same performance as conventional concrete while providing environmental benefits?
One of the most important findings of his research is that high-strength concrete can be produced from recycled aggregate, which leads to a significant reduction in CO₂ emissions. Particularly exciting: by storing the recycled material for longer periods, CO₂ is naturally bound through natural carbonation. This opens up great potential for more sustainable construction.

Connection between science and practice
As a project engineer in bridge construction, Dr. Kashkash deals with the durability and resistance of concrete on a daily basis. His research makes an important contribution to the selective deconstruction planning of structures at the end of their service life. The aim is not only to recycle concrete demolition materials, but also to use them specifically for structural applications. This not only conserves resources, but also reduces the environmental impact of the construction industry.

Challenges and thanks
The biggest challenge on the way to his doctorate was balancing research, family and career. CSZ supported him by allowing him to reduce his weekly working hours in order to devote more time to his research.
We congratulate Dr. Kashkash on this great success and look forward to pursuing his innovative approaches to sustainable construction in practice. His work impressively demonstrates how scientific progress and practical engineering can go hand in hand.

Title of the dissertation:
“Sustainable Recycled Structural Concrete Design Incorporating Recycled Coarse Aggregate”

For several years now, CSZ has deliberately refrained from giving Christmas presents and instead focuses on social engagement. In December 2024, employees at all locations were able to vote on three charitable organizations to receive a donation. In addition to ‘Du musst kämpfen’ and ‘Café mit Herz: Der Kältebus Hamburg,’ Wildwasser Darmstadt e.V. was also considered.

In mid-February, Managing Partner Christoph Cornelius ceremoniously handed over the donation cheque to Ms. Kathrin Bähr and Ms. Waltraud Heims from Wildwasser Darmstadt e.V.. In a personal conversation, they discussed the valuable work of the specialist advice center and emphasized the importance of such donations for its continued existence.

Support for victims of sexualized violence
Wildwasser Darmstadt e.V. offers girls and women affected by sexualized violence professional advice and support. Girls from the age of twelve and women who have experienced sexualized violence in their childhood or adolescence can find competent support here. Confidants who accompany affected children also receive valuable assistance. In addition, the organization advises professionals on how to deal with sexualized violence and supports institutions in developing protection concepts.

A dedicated team with professional expertise
The Wildwasser Darmstadt e.V. team consists exclusively of women with sound training in the socio-educational and psychotherapeutic fields. Continuous further training and supervision ensure the high quality of the counseling work. With a great deal of commitment and specialist knowledge, the staff create a protected space in which those affected can find support and guidance.

Urgent need for new premises
Wildwasser Darmstadt e.V. is dependent on donations in order to be able to maintain its valuable services. The organization is also urgently looking for new premises for its advice centre in Darmstadt. Any suggestions or offers in this regard are very welcome and can be forwarded directly to the organization.

CSZ is pleased to support the valuable work of the association and to make a contribution to helping those affected with this donation.

Image: (from left to right) Christoph Cornelius, Kathrin Bähr, Waltraud Heims.

Contact: [email protected]
www.wildwasser-darmstadt.de

In just six months, we have doubled our LinkedIn community – a great milestone that we have only achieved thanks to your support. We would like to thank you from the bottom of our hearts!

Every comment, every share and every interaction enriches our exchange and drives us forward. We will continue to be committed to transparent communication and are happy to share exciting behind-the-scenes insights, industry trends and updates on our projects.

Which topics are of particular interest to you? Let us know – we will be happy to prepare trend reports or other insights on relevant topics. Write us a message or contact us directly!

Here’s to the next joint success – we look forward to exchanging ideas!  🚀

The bridge inspection and survey at the Merck Group’s T15 structure was successfully completed on January 19, 2025. Thanks to the good coordination of all partners involved, the work was carried out safely and efficiently and was completed well before the end of the planned closure period. Special thanks go to Projekt Real for the comprehensive organization from the railroad side, Wemo-tec for the reliable provision of the necessary test equipment and Merck for the excellent cooperation and organization. CSZ-Bauwerksprüfung is proud to be part of this project, which is characterized by the highest precision and excellent teamwork.

Technical details – precision and challenges
The bridge inspection was carried out in accordance with the relevant standard DIN 1076 for the inspection of bridges and engineering structures. The location of the bridge, which was only accessible via the Deutsche Bahn tracks, presented a particular challenge. In this context, both Merck’s safety regulations and Deutsche Bahn’s specifications were strictly adhered to in order to ensure safe execution. One highlight was the use of the MBL 1750T under-bridge inspection device, which enabled a precise inspection of the difficult-to-access bridge – crucial for identifying potential weak points at an early stage.

Time frame – planning and efficiency
The bridge inspection (total inspection time of the structure) took a total of 8 hours. However, planning had to be carried out 6 months in advance in order to take into account the Deutsche Bahn closure periods. Despite the complex requirements, the project was completed safely and without delays.

Results and benefits – a contribution to safety
Although the full evaluation is still pending, the project is already providing valuable insights. Once the analysis is complete, recommended remedial measures will be proposed to keep the bridge in optimum condition and ensure long-term safety. This project is of great importance to Merck, as the safety of the infrastructure is crucial for smooth operations. Regular inspections are essential to ensure the longevity of the bridge.

Partner:

The fondue evening at CSZ Darmstadt has long since become a firm tradition and a highlight for all employees. 23 colleagues from the CSZ Darmstadt team came together for an enjoyable evening that not only pampered the palate but also strengthened team spirit.

The focus was on a cheese fondue with four hand-picked Swiss cheeses, some imported directly from Switzerland and prepared according to an old secret recipe. A big thank you goes to Mr. Pister, who introduces us to the art of perfect fondue every year and inspires everyone present with his enthusiasm for this tradition.

For around six years now, the fondue evening has offered the perfect mix of winter enjoyment and personal exchange – an ideal opportunity to get to know each other better away from everyday working life and to strengthen team spirit. This year, there was also homemade mulled wine from Manuela Eckelt and homemade Feuerzangenbowle from Klaus Schwinn, which made the evening even more festive. There was also a Secret Santa, which provided lots of fun and surprises!