‘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 interior and exterior 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.

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!”