Brain Imaging Centre (BIC)
Client: Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital
Project description
The Montreal Neurological Institute, with the support of the McGill University Health Centre (MUHC) and the Canadian Innovation Fund, completed a major project on Mount Royal: the creation of the Brain Imaging Centre (BIC). The six-level 6,960 m² complex, including four underground tunnels dug through rock, houses 3,530 m² of laboratories and animal facilities, a 195 m² 7 Tesla MRI and offices, training rooms and consultation clinics.
The centre is now a hub for advancing neurological studies in Montreal.
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Characteristics and Impacts
In addition to specialized systems and equipment, the project includes innovative infrastructures such as the recovery of fume hood exhaust to preheat outside air, a laboratory effluent treatment system, distilled purified water and osmosis water networks, “clean” steam production, and efficient lighting throughout the building.
Specialized gas networks were also created specifically for this project, along with specialized facilities such as radioisotope hoods and a PET Scan.
The project’s greatest challenge was undoubtedly the MRI installation in the second basement while maintaining the facilities already in place. As the 7 Tesla MRI was an innovation and a first, there were no precedents or comparable projects to draw on. In addition to the MRI installation, a chiller specifically for the MRI was installed on the roof.
Expertise
Location
Montreal, QC
