SENZOMATIC sensors help extend the lifespan of the Czech National Pavilion by monitoring moisture levels

In the long term, moisture has a significant impact on the quality of timber buildings. The system was developed by scientists from the Czech Technical University in Prague (CTU) to protect investments and extend the lifespan of wooden structures. The company currently operates in six countries and protects over 1,000 buildings, including family homes, commercial and residential buildings, hotels, schools, and industrial sites. The Czech Pavilion at EXPO 2025 is now among them.

“Our moisture monitoring and prevention system is the only one in the world capable of combining wired and wireless sensor connections. This maximises the placement possibilities of measuring devices and their efficiency,” says Jan Včelák, co-founder and head of research and development. He adds, “Our advanced sensors and subsequent data processing allow continuous monitoring of moisture parameters in sustainable building materials, helping to detect potential problems early and ensuring optimal conditions for the long-term quality of wood.”

The integration of monitoring and data analysis will improve the management and protection of the National Pavilion. The building was designed to meet the specific climate conditions in Osaka, Japan. Prolonged moisture exposure can damage the timber structure and is also the primary cause of mold and wood-decaying fungi. This issue is usually invisible to building owners until it leads to costly repairs.

“Sensors are an integral part of the pavilion’s equipment, and moisture measurement is one of our priorities. Having sufficient data will help us maintain the CLT-built structure in good condition and prevent complications during the world exhibition. Thorough monitoring will also allow for further use of the structure once the event concludes in mid-October,” comments Ondřej Soška, Commissioner General of Czech participation at EXPO 2025.

At the world exhibition, the company aims to showcase modern approaches to the sustainability of timber buildings. Key priorities include exchanging global experiences and opening a dialogue on modern construction. Events like EXPO 2025, through collaboration between companies across countries, contribute to the development of technologies and the improvement of timber building quality. They also help expand Czech innovations and know-how to other parts of the world. The exchange of information on a global scale supports the sustainable development of the construction sector and the use of eco-friendly and efficient solutions.

About the Czech Pavilion at EXPO 2025 In December 2022, after more than twenty years, the Office of the Commissioner General announced an open, anonymous architectural competition to design the National Pavilion for EXPO 2025. Thirty-eight studios have participated, and in March 2023 a jury of experts led by the world-renowned architect Eva Jiřičná selected the winning design: a glass spiral by Apropos Architects. The main structure of the building will be made of modern wood panels, while the façade will feature art glass, which has a centuries-old tradition in Czechia. The National Pavilion, which will be located on the artificial island of Yumeshima in Osaka Bay from April to October 2025, will provide a prestigious setting for Czech participation at EXPO 2025. The pavilion will house a permanent exhibition, a multifunctional auditorium, facilities for business meetings, restaurants, a CTP lounge, and a relaxation area overlooking the sea.

About the Czech participation at EXPO 2025 This will be the sixth time that Czechia has taken part in a world exhibition as an independent state. Ondřej Soška, who won the Ministry of Foreign Affairs selection process with his concept and theme "Talent and Creativity for Life", has been serving as Commissioner General since September 2022. Czechia aims to showcase not only what the Japanese already know and admire, such as Czech glass and classical music, but above all Czech innovations, nanotechnologies, promising start-ups and talent from the regions.