​A revolutionary home decorating material which uses 350-year-old volcanic ash from Mount Etna received its world premiere at this month’s UK Construction Week (UKCW) London.

​Etna® is the brainchild of Sicily-based manufacturer Nikkolor Italia and is composed of volcanic ash from the Etna eruption of 1669, pure natural hydraulic lime, natural active ingredients and mineral aggregates.

​It is supplied as a dry powder, which, when mixed with water, can be applied like plaster to create a range of incredible finishes and effects. A sustainable and breathable product, Etna reinforces, protects and restores exterior and interior walls.

​Etna® was the result of the REUCET 2018/2020 project (recovery and use of Etna volcanic ash) conducted by a group of researchers from the University of Catania and financed by the Ministry of the Environment.

​Nikkolor Italia was one of 16 companies that exhibited at a special Sicilian Pavilion at UKCW London (May 7-9), the UK’s biggest show for the built environment.

​The founders of Nikkolor Italia, Salvo Caniglia and Ierna Tiziana, said: “Visitors could not believe that we use volcanic ash that is older than any living creature on the planet. It was fantastic to use UK Construction Week London to launch our unique product to the world, and we hope this is the start of a promising relationship between UKCW and Sicily.”

​Vito Ruscigno, Foreign Technical Sales Manager, Nikkolor Italia, added: “The reaction and feedback to the launch of Etna at our stand within the Sicilian Pavilion was brilliant – at some stages we had people queuing up to speak to us!”

​Sam Patel, divisional director – construction, commented: “The launch of products like Etna at UKCW London helps to further strengthen the show’s international status and reputation, and it’s exactly what our event is all about – innovation, international collaboration and bringing the very latest products and learnings directly to those at the heart of the construction industry, from architects to contractors, surveyors to engineers.”

​More exclusive launches and live demonstrations will take place at UKCW Birmingham, which runs from October 1-3 2024; UKCW London will return next year, from May 6-8 2025.

Registration for the Birmingham event is now live. click here to register.