At the World Expo in Osaka, which runs until mid-October, a Belgian innovation adorns a remarkable part of the infrastructure. In Rest Area No. 4 – a 900 m² public space where visitors seeking tranquility can catch their breath in a gently shaded, hilly landscape – BEAL International’s mineral brand MORTEX® subtly makes its mark.
The use of the MORTEX® coating in this project was no coincidence. Japanese construction company Kadowaki Construction was searching for a material that was both functional and aesthetic: crack-resistant, color-stable, and capable of blending seamlessly into a natural environment. Among the options considered, only the MORTEX® mineral coating met all the criteria. Its warm, earthy tone allows the surface to merge with the surrounding ground – an aesthetic perfectly aligned with the Japanese sensitivity for simplicity and harmony with nature.
"Originally, we hadn’t considered the MORTEX® brand. We were thinking about traditional colored mortar, gravel paving, or even resin-based treatments. But we kept encountering technical limitations such as cracking, slip hazards, or color variations due to moisture. Preserving colors was a real challenge given Japan's changing climate. Thanks to its pigmentable neutral base, MORTEX® offers great creative freedom. By carefully dosing pigments, we managed to maintain a stable, earthy hue, perfectly suited to the environment. The idea to use MORTEX® came from what was initially an informal conversation with an acquaintance. He explained how the coating works, and as we discussed its technical properties, I realized it was exactly what we needed. And it turned out to be a masterstroke," explains Shinichi Kadowaki, project manager.
Yosuke Ohtake©
The collaboration went smoothly, thanks to a team of experienced Japanese craftsmen familiar with the application of MORTEX®, including Ishihara Plastering and Ribre, both of whom are MORTEX® trainers in Japan. Three to four samples were developed before the final design was approved, with special attention given to slip resistance in rainy conditions.
For BEAL International, this project is an exceptional showcase. Japan is a strategic export market for the Walloon company, and implementing its solutions at the World Expo opens doors to new growth opportunities in Asia.
"The fact that our product was chosen for such a visible and intensively used part of the World Expo is truly special. I see it as the culmination of years of work by our R&D team to create the best possible product, and the result of increasingly strong collaboration with our international partners," says Barbara Thiry, CEO of BEAL International. "It once again proves that sustainability, aesthetics, and innovation can beautifully go hand in hand."
No fewer than 3,570 people collaborated to create this rest area, a construction project that took 299 days to complete. Even the sinks in the sanitary facilities received a MORTEX® finish. Those wishing to experience the rest area in person can visit the World Expo in Osaka until October 13, 2025.
AWEX
