CONCRETE INTERNATIONAL

JUNE 2024 V. 46 No. 6

38 Wave-Inspired High-Rise
V. 46 NO. 6

Channels Coastal Spirit

FORMWORK
JUNE 2024
 Building the Future

We’re Building
the Future
OUR MISSION OUR FOCUS
We make strategic
Identifying technologies and innovations
investments in ideas,
research, and people to  which provide needed solutions for the
concrete industry
create the future of the
concrete industry.
Seeking concrete research projects that further
Through its councils and
programs, the ACI Foundation  the knowledge and sustainability of concrete
materials, construction, and structures
helps to keep the concrete
industry at the forefront
of advances in material
composition, design, and Supporting our future concrete innovators
construction.  and leaders by administering fellowships
and scholarships

Helping honorably discharged veterans with our

Veterans Rebate for ACI Certification program

www.acifoundation.org
 GET YOUR
TICKETS TODAY!
Join us at the 2024 ACI Excellence in Concrete Construction Awards
in Philladelphia, PA, USA • Monday, November 4, 2024
ACI EXC

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Includes full, digital interactive access to the ACI Detailing Manual and the
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Ci
JUNE 2024 V. 46 No. 6
Concrete
international
The Magazine of the Concrete Community

FORMWORK
38 Wave-Inspired High-Rise Channels Coastal Spirit
Doka formwork helps to create new addition to the Miami skyline

40 Visual Inspection of Architectural Concrete Surface

Appearance
Commentary on current concrete industry practice
by James E. Klinger, Ron L. Kozikowski, Tim I. Manherz, Anthony R.
DeCarlo Jr., and Bruce A. Suprenant

75 Concrete Q&A: Measuring Flatness of Elevated Floors

33 ALSO FEATURING
19 ACI Foundation Fellowships and Scholarships for
2024-2025
Twenty-nine fellowships and 15 scholarships were awarded to
students from 35 different institutions

32 NEU news
NEU state-of-the-art survey: Pioneering pathways to reduced-carbon
concrete

35 Building the Future: ACI Foundation

ACI Foundation funds eight new research projects

50 A Lower Bound to the Shear Strength of RC Beams and

One-Way Members without Shear Reinforcement
by Santiago Pujol, Carlos E. Ospina, and Charles Kerby

56 Fortera’s First Industrial Green Cement Plant

ReCarb technology is a cost-effective way to lower the carbon
footprint of cement and concrete

57

www.concreteinternational.com | Ci | JUNE 2024 3

 June
Ci
Concrete international
PUBLISHER
Rex C. Donahey, PE
[email protected]
16
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Keith A. Tosolt
[email protected] departments
CONCRETE INTERNATIONAL

JUNE 2024 V. 46 No. 6

ENGINEERING EDITOR 6 President’s Memo

W. Agata Pyc
10 News
38 Wave-Inspired High-Rise
V. 46 NO. 6

[email protected]
Channels Coastal Spirit

15 Chapter Reports
MANAGING EDITOR
Lacey J. Stachel 18 On the Move
FORMWORK

[email protected]
59 Products & Practice
EDITOR
Rachel T. Schick 62 Product Showcase
[email protected] 64 Industry Focus
JUNE 2024

ADVERTISING Una Residences rises along Biscayne 67 Calls for Papers

Dan Kaste
Bay in Miami, FL, USA. Each aspect
MCI USA
of the building’s design was crafted to
69 ACI Committee
[email protected] Document Abstracts
elevate the concept of urban living, but
engineering this impressive structure
PUBLISHING SERVICES 70 What’s New from ACI
was not without its challenges. To
MANAGER implement an effective forming 71 Meetings
Ryan M. Jay process, the concrete contractor
turned to engineering support from 73 Public Discussion
EDITORS Doka. Doka Frami formwork and D22
Erin N. Azzopardi, Lauren C. Brown, support brackets were selected for the 74 Advertiser Index
Kaitlyn J. Dobberteen, Tiesha Elam, foundation perimeter’s single-sided
Angela R. Noelker, Kelli R. Slayden walls. For more information, see p. 38
(photo courtesy of Doka USA).
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS
Susan K. Esper, Ryan M. Jay,
Gail L. Tatum

© 2024 American Concrete Institute. All rights reserved. This material may not be reproduced or copied, in whole or in part, in
any form or by any means, including making copies by any photo process, or by electronic or mechanical device, printed, written,
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the written consent of ACI. This material may not be used by data mining, robots, screen scraping, or similar data gathering
and extraction tools such as artificial intelligence (“AI”) for purposes of developing or training a machine learning or AI model,
conducting computer analysis or creating derivatives of this material, without the written consent of ACI. Concrete International
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4 JUNE 2024 | Ci | www.concreteinternational.com

 Ci
American Concrete Institute
IN Board of Direction
President Directors
Future Influence Michael J. Paul Corina-Maria Aldea Werner K. Hellmer
Oscar R. Antommattei Robert C. Lewis

T
Past President Peter Barlow Enrique Pasquel
he ever-advancing changes taking Board Members Arturo Gaytan Covarrubias Anton K. Schindler
place within the concrete industry Cary S. Kopczynski James H. Hanson Matthew R. Sherman
Charles K. Nmai Carol Hayek Lawrence L. Sutter
affect all facets of technology, Antonio Nanni
design, and construction—and the people
who practice these disciplines. A few
examples of impactful industry change Vice Presidents Executive Vice President
are featured in this issue of CI. Maria Juenger Scott M. Anderson Frederick H. Grubbe
It has become a global imperative that
the concrete industry strives for lower
carbon emissions for the long-term Technical Activities Educational Activities Certification Programs
Committee Committee Committee
protection of the environment. Fortera chair chair chair
Corporation recently opened the first Carl J. Larosche Kimberly Waggle Kramer Mark A. Cheek
industrial green cement and carbon secretary staff liaison staff liaison
mineralization facility in North America. Matthew R. Senecal Claire A. Hiltz John W. Nehasil
Through collaborative technology, the Theresa M. Ahlborn Lisa E. Burris Eric Bedard
plant will capture carbon dioxide (CO2) Corina-Maria Aldea Tara Cavalline Mark E. Dornak
emitted during cement production and Oscar R. Antommattei Marllon D. Cook Oscar Duckworth
permanently sequester it by mineralizing Lisa R. Feldman Norbert J. Delatte Steven A. Gray
Christopher C. Ferraro Michael Faubel J. Scott Keim
the CO2 into ready-to-use cement (p. 56). Robert J. Frosch Walter H. Flood IV Kimberly Waggle Kramer
NEU: An ACI Center of Excellence Wassim M. Ghannoum Lance Heiliger Rita A. Madison
for Carbon Neutral Concrete has Mary Beth D. Hueste Samhar S. Hoz Stephen E. Marchese
commissioned a two-part survey on the Keith E. Kesner Robert C. Lewis Eric Prieve
Anton K. Schindler Fariborz M. Tehrani Robert L. Varner
state of the art in low-carbon Thomas J. Van Dam
technologies. NEU asked both Jason Weiss
established and new industry entities to
participate and provide insight into the
technological aspects of carbon ACI Staff & Departments
neutrality. The second part of the survey Executive Vice President: Frederick H. Grubbe, [email protected]
is now underway. These findings can Senior Managing Director: John C. Glumb, [email protected]
provide a view of the future so that
ACI Foundation: Information Systems:
business models can be updated and [email protected] [email protected]
investments in research and development
Certification: International Activities:
can be allocated (p. 32). [email protected] [email protected]
One of the industry’s high-profile
Chapter Activities: Marketing:
influencers of change is the ACI [email protected] [email protected]
Foundation. To support technology
Engineering: Membership/Customer Service:
development through the work of ACI [email protected] [email protected]
committees, the Concrete Research Events and Publishing Services: Professional Development:
Council has funded eight research [email protected] [email protected]
projects this year (p. 35). Finance and Administration: Publishing Services:
The ACI Foundation’s support of the [email protected] [email protected]
activities of future young professionals in Human Resources:
ACI is continually increasing. Recipients [email protected]
of 2024-2025 ACI Foundation Fellowships
and Scholarships have great aspirations to
impact the concrete community. For the Sustaining Members
next awards cycle, the application deadline See pages 8-9 for a list of ACI’s Sustaining Members.
is July 1, 2024 (p. 19).
To learn more about our Sustaining Members, visit the ACI website at
Keith A. Tosolt
www.concrete.org/membership/sustainingmembers.aspx.

www.concreteinternational.com | Ci | JUNE 2024 5

President’s
Memo
Celebrating Concrete Excellence
through Craft Workers

A
s ACI says on our website, we are a technical company owners, managers, and supervisors. But the women
organization. So, unsurprisingly, we usually dwell— and men who prepare subgrade; build and treat forms; set
and, consequently, excel—on technical matters, both reinforcement; operate batch plants, trucks, pumps, and power
great and small. screeds; place, strike off, float, and trowel; and carry out
Right here, right now, though, through these great photos, I curing—not so much.
would like to acknowledge and celebrate the legions of craft This is not to say that ACI is not important to their
workers who make concrete excellence a manifest reality. handiwork day in and day out. ACI’s certifications address
Let’s tip our hats to all the carpenters, equipment operators, many important aspects of construction activities, benefiting
finishers, laborers, shotcreters, and rodbusters whose manual the worker, the company, the project, and our concrete
efforts make great concrete! industry overall. And ACI is in discussions with worker
Along with and largely because of our good friends at the organizations to incorporate certifications into their training
American Society of Concrete Contractors (ASCC), ACI is programs, once again to everyone’s benefit. Always advancing!
fortunate to include in our membership many construction Michael J. Paul

6 JUNE 2024 | Ci | www.concreteinternational.com

 President’s Memo

All photos were submissions to the ACI Excellence in Concrete Construction Awards

www.concreteinternational.com | Ci | JUNE 2024 7

ACI SUSTAINING
The Foundation
Sustaining Members show true dedication
to advancing concrete knowledge.
The continued support from these organizations has
enhanced the progress of the concrete industry.

www.am-concreteinc.com www.teamaet.com www.ascconline.org

+1.770.802.8125 +1.800.972.6364 +1.866.788.2722

AM Concrete is a turnkey concrete American Engineering Testing, Inc. (AET), The American Society of Concrete
contractor whose expertise serves many specializes in geotechnical, pavement, and Contractors is a nonprofit organization
of the construction sectors, including construction materials engineering and for cast-in-place concrete contractors,
industrial, commercial, healthcare, retail, testing; environmental consulting; forensic dedicated to enhancing the capabilities
and multi-family construction. engineering; building technology; and of those who build with concrete and
petrography/chemistry. providing them with a unified voice in the
industry.

www.lampasonaconcrete.com www.mapei.com/us www.spggogreen.com

+1.508.567.0204 +.954.246.8888 +1.877.957.4626

Lampasona Concrete is a Division 3 MAPEI is the world leader in the SPG, Specialty Products Group®, is an
Subcontractor providing services that manufacture of adhesives, sealants, organization formed specifically for
include concrete foundations, slab-on- concrete additives, admixtures and repair the purpose of supplying engineered
ground, slab-on-deck, tilt-up construction, products, as well as other chemical sustainable solutions to the construction
super-flat slabs, and concrete paving products, for the construction industry. environment and the world.
while maintaining a dedication and
commitment to excellence.

Abdullah Abdin Readymix and Cement Bauman Landscape & Construction, Inc. Concrete Sealants, Inc.
Products Bentley Systems, Inc. Concrete Strategies LLC
AM Concrete Inc. Cantera Concrete Company CTLGroup
American Engineering Testing, Inc. Capital Concrete, LLC Doka USA, Ltd.
American Society of Concrete Contractors Ceco Concrete Construction, LLC The Euclid Chemical Company
Ash Grove Cement Company CMC GCP Applied Technologies Inc.
B&B Concrete of Kansas, LLC CONCRESERV Concreto S/A GFT Ready Mix
Baker Concrete Construction, Inc. Concrete Reinforcing Steel Institute Hawkins Construction and Flat Work, LLC
MEMBERS
of Our Success
To learn more about Sustaining Members,
visit www.concrete.org/sustainingmembers.
Read more about this month’s featured
Sustaining Members in the profiles below!
NEW SUSTAINING MEMBER

www.bentley.com/structural www.cmc.com www.euclidchemical.com

+1.800.BENTLEY +1.214.689.4300 +1.800.321.7628

Model, analyze, and design any structure, CMC offers a diverse portfolio of concrete Euclid Chemical manufactures concrete
from a single foundation to an entire reinforcing products and solutions and masonry construction products,
stadium, with Bentley’s trusted structural supported by environmentally sustainable including chemical admixtures, fibers,
applications: Structural Enterprise | mills and rebar fabrication facilities around integral color, repair mortars, curing and
STAAD | RAM. the United States and Poland. sealing compounds, joint fillers, and
waterproofing products.

www.structural.net www.ssiteam.com www.teknachem.it

+1.410.850.7000 +1.877.774.2677 +39.0362.918311

With member companies dating back to For over 25 years, Structural Services, TEKNA CHEM S.p.A offers a highly
1902, Structural Group is committed to Inc., has pioneered the development of qualified engineering staff that operates
its ongoing mission of making new and new placing, finishing, and monitoring on site by offering their partners a wide
existing structures stronger and longer- procedures that make construction of range of products as well as technical
lasting. superior on-ground and suspended slabs assistance for their implementation.
both possible and practical.

Heidelberg Materials Municipal Testing Group Seretta Construction, Inc.

Husqvarna Construction North S.Tarr Concrete Consulting, P.C. Sika Corporation
Keystone Structural Concrete, LLC Oztec Industries, Inc. Specialty Products Group, Inc.
Lampasona Concrete LLC Penetron International Ltd. STRUCTURAL
Lithko Contracting, LLC Phoenix Industrial Structural Services, Inc.
MAPEI Corporation Prefabricados de Concreto Solana Tekna Chem S.p.A
Master Builders Solutions US, LLC The QUIKRETE Companies Vector Corrosion Technologies
Metromont Corporation R and S Cement W. R. MEADOWS, INC.
News
Seawater Concrete Committee engage students in courses that cover structural concrete
The ACI Technical Activities Committee approved a new design, construction, materials, and pavements. This year’s
technical committee, ACI Committee 243, Seawater Concrete. event will be held in three stages on July 15, 23, and 24, 2024.
The committee’s mission is to “Develop and report The first stage is composed of a series of asynchronous
information on concrete made with brackish, saline, and brine presentations that can be completed at the attendee’s
water and sea aggregates.” convenience through ACI University. The second part will be
The committee will meet at the ACI Concrete Convention – an online-only event on July 15, and the third part will be a
Fall 2024 in Philadelphia, PA, USA, and ACI Past President face-to-face event held at ACI World Headquarters in
Antonio Nanni, FACI, will serve as Chair. Those interested in Farmington Hills, MI, USA, on July 23 and 24. Prominent
the work of this committee are encouraged to attend. faculty and industry representatives will present information
For more information about joining ACI committees and to and resources to assist professors in preparing or fine-tuning
submit an application, visit www.concrete.org/committees/ their concrete-related courses. Those who register will have
joinacommittee.aspx. access to both online and in-person portions of the event.
The asynchronous online portion of the workshop will
ACI Sponsors 2024 ICC Building Safety focus on providing teaching resources that are suited for both
Month online and face-to-face formats. Although the online portion
ACI sponsored the International Code Council’s (ICC) will focus on providing resources, interactive online sessions
44th annual Building Safety Month. Building Safety Month is are also planned to facilitate discussion and exchange ideas.
an international campaign celebrated in May to raise Face-to-face sessions in Farmington Hills, MI, will be
awareness about building safety. This year, ACI sponsored the highly interactive. Attendees will participate in numerous
week of May 26-31, 2024, with a theme of “Celebrating breakout sessions to develop course goals, student learning
Success in Building Safety.” objectives in the context of topical modules, instructional
As a global society of 35,000 members dedicated to the materials, laboratory activities, and assessments. Breakout
development, dissemination, and adoption of consensus-based sessions will be guided by the Professors’ Workshop faculty
standards, technical resources, and educational programs, ACI with the opportunity to exchange teaching ideas with faculty
supports Building Safety Month to highlight the important and fellow attendees. Attendees will receive a certificate of
role of building codes in creating safe and sustainable participation for attending the workshop.
communities. For more information and to register, visit www.concrete.
“ACI is committed to ensuring that everyone has the org/events/professorsworkshop.
knowledge needed to use concrete safely and effectively. ACI
has been developing consensus standards for reference in ACI Releases 2024 ACI Collection of Concrete
building codes since 1941,” said Steve Szoke, ACI Code Codes, Specifications, and Practices
Advocacy Engineer. “Increased knowledge, understanding ACI released the 2024 ACI Collection of Concrete Codes,
in-situ performance during severe events, and advancing Specifications, and Practices. The ACI Collection is the most
technologies continue to demand the development and comprehensive and largest single source of information on
maintenance of reference standards intended for adoption and concrete design, construction, materials, and repair, with over
enforcement in current building codes to better safeguard the 50 codes and specifications and more than 200 practices,
public.” including all guides and reports.
ACI offers a variety of resources for building officials, The 2024 version includes dozens of newly published
including select free publications, a new personnel documents ranging from codes on fiber-reinforced polymer to
qualifications document, and access to the four-part Concrete guides for concrete rehabilitation, shotcrete, and much more.
International building safety article series. To access these Additional categories in the ACI Collection include concrete
free resources, visit www.concrete.org/tools/codeofficials.aspx. materials, properties, design, construction, reinforcement,
specialized application, repair, structural analysis, and
2024 ACI Professors’ Workshop innovation, as well as popular topics such as slabs, formwork,
Registration for ACI’s 2024 Professors’ Workshop is now and masonry.
open. The Professors’ Workshop is designed to provide Through an online digital subscription, users can access the
instructors in civil engineering, architecture, architectural most up-to-date version of all ACI documents and every new
engineering, materials science, and construction management document as soon as it is published. In addition, the ACI
programs the latest tools and teaching techniques to effectively Collection Online includes access to current and historical

10 JUNE 2024 | Ci | www.concreteinternational.com

 News

versions of ACI’s codes and specifications, along with qualified engineering professionals created RC3 in anticipation
versions in both inch-pound and SI units. The online of the LCTM program, with the purpose of helping disseminate
subscription is designed for individual users, with features information on reducing carbon in the construction process
such as single-word title and full text search capabilities, plus and assisting departments of transportation (DOTs) and other
access from any location with an internet connection. The qualifying entities with the LCTM application. RC3 is also
collection is also available as a USB drive or a nine-volume available to provide technical assistance to DOTs and
set of books. facilitate contractor preparedness with critical next steps, such
Special online access for multiple users, entire offices, and as environmental product declarations (EPDs).
large multi-national companies, is also available. The ACPA will develop and release various materials and
offer specifications consultation, materials selection
ACPA Announces Formation of Consortium to consultation, workshops, technical engineering support, and
Support FHWA Low Carbon Funding other program advisement. The recently released CP Tech
In recognition of the Federal Highway Administration’s Center publication “Guide for Reducing the Cradle-to-Gate
(FHWA’s) funding announcement—the Low-Carbon Embodied Carbon Emissions of Paving Concrete” is currently
Transportation Materials (LCTM) grant program—the available to help agencies reduce the environmental impacts
American Concrete Pavement Association (ACPA) announced incurred during the production of paving concrete before it
a supporting industry consortium, the Reduced Carbon leaves the concrete plant.
Concrete Consortium (RC3). The ACPA, National Concrete Leadership of RC3 includes Thomas J. Van Dam, FACI,
Pavement Technology Center (CP Tech Center), and other Principal at Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc.; Lawrence L.

Minnich Flex Shaft Vibrators

Built to exceed your expectations and outperform the competition. With results in mind,
our vibrators are engineered for control and durability, ensuring a smooth and flawless
pour every time. With more control over your results and a longer lifespan than other
options on the market, our flex shaft concrete vibrators are the perfect choice for the
professional looking to take their work to the next level.

www.concreteinternational.com | Ci | JUNE 2024 11

News

Sutter, FACI, Principal at Sutter Engineering LLC; ACPA; leaders in the masonry design and construction industry. The
and CP Tech Center. following criteria will be used to judge submissions:
For more details on the FHWA and U.S. DOT
announcement, visit www.fhwa.dot.gov/lowcarbon.
• Innovation (45%): The idea provides a groundbreaking
proposal for positioning masonry. The idea generates added
value or usefulness, improvement, or increases masonry’s
Sixteenth Annual International DCC Awards relevance;
The Decorative Concrete Council (DCC) of the American
Society of Concrete Contractors (ASCC), St. Louis, MO,
• Execution of idea (30%): The idea is clearly communicated
and understood; and
USA, launched its Sixteenth Annual International DCC
Awards program for 2024. This award program recognizes
• Creativity (25%): The solution shows original thinking.
The deadline for submissions is July 15, 2024. For more
and celebrates exceptional decorative concrete projects from information, visit https://imiweb.org/jbcaward/.
around the globe.
Entries for the 2024 awards will be reviewed and evaluated DFI Hosting Online Course on Working
by a panel of industry professionals. Winners will be chosen Platform Design and Verification
in each of the following 12 categories: Polished Concrete & The Deep Foundations Institute (DFI) is hosting a live,
Overlays, Architectural Concrete (cast-in-place structures), online instructional course “Working Platform Design &
Cast-in-Place Stamped Concrete, Cast-in-Place Special Verification.” The two-part course is being offered twice:
Finishes, Countertops/Furniture/Firepits, Multiple June 27 and July 11, 2024, or October 3 and 17, 2024, from
Applications (projects with installations spanning two or more 3 to 5 p.m. ET.
categories), Concrete Artistry, Stained & Dyes, Vertical/ The workshop is led by Martin Larisch, an industry expert
Façades, Project Video, Decorative Resinous Coatings, and on the design of temporary working platforms for piling rigs
Cementitious Overlays. In addition, one project will be and cranes. Workshop topics include:
selected to receive the WOW! Award, recognizing it as the
best in show.
• The Federation of Piling Specialists (FPS) method to
assess the critical track pressures applied by piling rigs;
The awards will be presented at the 2024 ASCC Annual
Conference scheduled for September 18-21, 2024, in Kansas
• Two common guidelines for the design of temporary
working platforms (BRE470 and TWF2019);
City, MO.
The deadline for submissions is June 17, 2024. For more
• Applicability of the different design methods for various
ground conditions;
information about the award categories, eligibility criteria,
and submission guidelines, visit https://ascc.secure-
• Underlying design assumptions about load transfer from
piling rigs and cranes;
platform.com/site. • Brief introduction of static/dynamic load factors in the
different design approaches;
IMI JBC Masonry Innovation Competition • Effects of groundwater on the different design methods; and
Registration is open for the International Masonry Institute
(IMI) JBC Masonry Innovation Competition. The aim is to
• Soil suitable site investigation techniques to assess the
subgrade conditions and their advantages and limitations.
challenge practicing and aspiring architects and engineers to The course will include real world examples to expose
advance the future of masonry design and construction. some of the limitations and related risks.
Designers have the power to help create resilient and equitable Attendees will receive 4 PDH credits at the completion of
communities, but solving global challenges to improve the both sessions. For more information and to register, visit
world demands innovation. IMI wants to see bold new concepts https://dfi-events.org/workingplatforms-course/.
that show how masonry can better the built environment.
Monetary awards will be provided to first-place winners in United Nations Secretary-General Appoints
each of the three entry categories: Students; Young Architects/ New Members to the High-Level Group to
Engineers; and A/E Firms, Individual Architects/Engineers, Champion Science, Technology, and Innovation
and Cross-Category. Winners will also receive special for Sustainable Development Goals
publicity and promotion, including being highlighted in IMI’s To bolster global efforts toward achieving the Sustainable
digital publications, presented on IMI’s webinar series, and Development Goals (SDGs), the United Nations Secretary-
honored during an awards ceremony with industry General announced the appointment of the United Nations
professionals. Group of 10 high-level representatives of civil society, the
Entries will be evaluated by a panel of architects and private sector, and the scientific community to promote

12 JUNE 2024 | Ci | www.concreteinternational.com

 News

science, technology, and innovation for the SDGs University, and Vice President, International Science Council;
(10-Member-Group) for 2024-2025. This group is a central Aree Moon (Republic of Korea), President, Korea Foundation
component of the UN Technology Facilitation Mechanism. for Women in Science, Engineering and Technology, and Vice
The new members of the Group are: Carlos Henrique President, Korean Academy of Science and Technology;
Brito Cruz (Brazil), Senior Vice President, Research Catherine Ngila (Kenya), Executive Director, African
Networks, Elsevier (Co-Chair); Joyeeta Gupta (Netherlands Foundation for Women & Youth in Education, Sciences,
and India), Professor of Environment and Development, Technology and Innovation, and former Executive Director,
Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences, University of African Academy of Sciences; Keywan Riahi (Austria),
Amsterdam, and Professor on Sustainability, IHE Delft Program Director, Energy, Climate, and Environment
Institute for Water Education (Co-Chair); Magnus Andersson Program, International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis;
(Sweden), Associate Professor of Economic Geography, and ACI member Karen Scrivener (UK), Professor,
Department for Urban Studies, Malmö University; Vladimir Laboratory of Construction Materials, Ecole Polytechnique
Crnojević (Serbia), Founder and Director of BioSense Fédérale de Lausanne, Switzerland, and Founder, Nanocem.
Institute, Professor in Computer Science, University of Novi The 10-Member-Group’s mandate is to work closely with
Sad; Xavier Estico (Seychelles), Founder of the Seychelles the UN Interagency Task Team on Science, Technology, and
Centre for Innovation, and Sustainable Development; Motoko Innovation for the Sustainable Development Goals (IATT),
Kotani (Japan), Executive Vice President for Research, providing guidance, ideas, and recommendations.
Professor and Principal Investigator, Advanced Institute for For more information, visit https://sdgs.un.org/tfm/
Materials Research & Mathematical Institute, Tohoku ten-member-group.

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www.concreteinternational.com | Ci | JUNE 2024 13

 Professors’
Workshop
Materials | Pavements | Structures
Sponsor:

July 15 (Virtual) and July 23 & 24 (In-Person)

Registration for the 2024 Professors’ Workshop is now open!
Prominent, nationally known faculty and industry representatives
will present information and resources to assist professors in
preparing or fine-tuning their concrete-related courses.
The workshop will be held in three parts; the first will be a self-
paced series of presentations through ACI University, followed
by an online one-day meeting on July 15, and will wrap up with a
face-to-face event held at ACI Headquarters on July 23 & 24.

For more information regarding registration, travel stipends, scheduling,

and more, scan or visit concrete.org/events/professorsworkshop.

“My materials course will

“ This workshop helped improve my

” ”
teaching methods of certain topics
benefit greatly by the
and the materials provided will be
information delivered in
used to improve demos,
this workshop.

“
assignments, etc.

This was remarkably helpful. I was curious

about how useful it would be. It was a
great blend of information and examples
of how to implement it. That coupled with
the resources will greatly change how
I teach concrete going forward.
Chapter
Reports
ACI Nebraska Chapter New Officers and The meet-and-greet presentations were followed by tours
Board Members of Western University’s renowned research facilities. This
The ACI Nebraska Chapter elected its 2024 Officers and event, along with those to follow, aims to foster collaboration
Board of Directors at the Chapter’s annual meeting on and provide students with exposure to professionals in the
February 4, 2024. The 2024 Officers and Board of Directors concrete industry.
include:
• Officers: Kelly Naslund, President, Ready Mixed
Concrete-Kearney; Shawn Wentworth, President Elect,
Enterprise Precast Concrete, Inc.; Keegan Nelson, Vice
President, Durex Products Inc.; Mark Flott, Secretary,
Omaha Public Power District; Michael Willman, Treasurer,
W.R. Grace; Tyler Jensen, Past President, Ash Grove
Cement Company; and Jereme Montgomery, Executive
Secretary, Stephens and Smith Construction.
• Board Members: Chris Corr, Olsson; Michael Gerdes,
Thiele Geotech Inc.; Matt Nelson, Lamp Rynearson; Marc
Maguire, University of Nebraska–Lincoln; Devon Barrett,
Lyman-Richey Corporation; and Tyler Fehringer, Hawkins
Construction Company.
For more information, visit www.acinebraska.org.

ACI Nebraska Chapter 2024 Officers and Board Members (from left):
Jereme Montgomery, Michael Gerdes, Devon Barrett, Tyler Jensen, ACI Western University Student Chapter meet-and-greet and
Kelly Naslund, Michael Willman, Shawn Wentworth, and Chris Corr research lab tour
(not pictured: Keegan Nelson, Mark Flott, Matt Nelson, Marc Maguire,
and Tyler Fehringer) ACI Texas State University Student Chapter’s
Concrete Repair Project
ACI Western University Student Chapter Submitted by Joseph Grout
Hosts ACI Ontario Chapter The ACI Texas State University Student Chapter celebrated
On February 28, 2024, the ACI Western University the success of its spring semester service project, where
Chapter, London, ON, Canada, hosted its first event with the students engaged in concrete repair work at Our Lady of
ACI Ontario Chapter to celebrate a shared passion for Wisdom, San Marcos, TX, USA. The project gave students
concrete and construction. the opportunity to participate in a concrete repair project,
Mike Martin and Maria Camila Castro Garrido, Executive starting with a safety meeting followed by demolition work.
Board Members from the ACI Ontario Chapter, attended, Old, damaged concrete was removed with jackhammers.
along with other esteemed guests: Ken Coley, Dean of the Rusted reinforcement was exposed, cleaned, and resealed.
Faculty of Engineering at Western University; Ashraf Students got to participate in hand-patching the wall, setting
El Damatty, Chair of the Civil and Environmental Engineering formwork, and placing concrete for large patches.
Department; and Maged A. Youssef, Student Chapter Faculty This project was made possible by collaboration with Dan
Advisor. Wicht and Aaron Williams from Western Specialty

www.concreteinternational.com | Ci | JUNE 2024 15

Chapter Reports

Contractors. The project was enriched by Jose Madrigal’s tool

demonstrations from Hilti. Allison Carrigan Lea from Master
Builders Solutions contributed materials, demonstrations, and
breakfast tacos. John Wedgworth II and the ACI San Antonio
Chapter facilitated essential personal protective equipment
(PPE) procurement. Tom Deming, the Development Director
for Our Lady of Wisdom, was thrilled to facilitate this project.
This collaborative effort exemplified the spirit of community
engagement and hands-on learning, leaving a lasting impact
on all involved parties.

Presentations at the ACI Carolinas Chapter Seminar

Events of the ACI IUBAT Student Chapter

The ACI International University of Business Agriculture
and Technology (IUBAT) Student Chapter convened a webinar
on February 26, 2024, titled “Air Content in Concrete – Issues
and Challenges.” The webinar featured Zahid Hossain,
Professor of civil engineering at Arkansas State University,
Jonesboro, AR, USA, as the keynote speaker. He shared
updates on recent research endeavors at Arkansas State
ACI Texas State University Student Chapter’s concrete repair project University related to air content issues in concrete technology.
A diverse audience comprising students and faculty from the
ACI Carolinas Chapter Seminar IUBAT Department of Civil Engineering participated in the
The ACI Carolinas Chapter hosted a full-day educational webinar. Additionally, students from various other ACI student
seminar in Charlotte, NC, USA, on February 7, 2024, titled chapters joined, fostering cross-border learning and
“More to Concrete Than Compressive Strength.” Attendees collaboration. Md. Monirul Islam, Dean of the College of
gained perspective on the crucial roles that other mechanical Engineering and Technology, and Chair of the Department of
properties, durability, and in-place testing play in concrete Civil Engineering, IUBAT, chaired the session. Assistant
construction; and how slab construction and safety evaluation Professor Anisuzzaman Khan, ACI IUBAT Student Chapter
of existing structures are about more than just strength. It was Advisor, and Professor Suvash Chandra Paul, also provided
a great day of learning and conversation. guidance and support.

16 JUNE 2024 | Ci | www.concreteinternational.com

 Chapter Reports

On February 7, 2024, the ACI IUBAT Student Chapter MLQU Student Chapter is now diligently working on
organized a charity event to distribute winter clothing for compiling the necessary documentation for reaccreditation
underprivileged children near the Ahsania Mission Cancer and with ACI. This reinstatement signals its commitment to
General Hospital in Dhaka, Bangladesh. The event upholding and enhancing the standards of excellence within
exemplified the spirit of compassion and solidarity within the the university’s concrete community. With its dedicated student
ACI IUBAT Student Chapter, reaffirming its commitment to membership, the organization has successfully brought
serving the community and fostering positive change. together a vibrant community of 122 members, encompassing
not only passionate students but also chapter officers who play
pivotal roles in steering the group toward its goals.
Upcoming events will include a General Assembly and
Seminar to introduce ACI to student members, a 4-day ACI
Code seminar, a Concrete Quiz Bee, the Earth-Shaking and
Bridge-Making Competition, and professional and career
development.

Participants at the ACI IUBAT Student Chapter charity event

Reactivated ACI Manuel L. Quezon University

Student Chapter
Manuel L. Quezon University (MLQU), Manila,
Philippines, is returning to the global stage as it seeks
reaccreditation for another year of dedicated service to its
student chapter. After a pandemic-induced pause, the ACI Members of the ACI MLQU Student Chapter

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taken during your CCRL
owner, you know many codes require ACI-certified personnel
lab evaluation
on the jobsite. Visit concrete.org/certification.

www.concreteinternational.com | Ci | JUNE 2024 17

On the
Move
Brokk hired Dan Quam as Parts he has stepped forward as a leader, serving as the Founding
Manager for the company’s Monroe, WA, President of both the International Association for Bridge
USA, parts warehouse. His Maintenance and Safety (IABMAS) and the International
responsibilities include managing the Association for Life-Cycle Civil Engineering (IALCCE). His
parts department and overseeing, work includes four books, 64 book chapters, over 470 articles
receiving, and purchasing spare parts for in peer-reviewed journals, including 14 award-winning
Brokk products in North America. Before papers, and more than 700 papers in conference proceedings.
joining Brokk, Quam worked for Mi Fluid Further underscoring his distinguished career are four
Quam Power Solutions, a hydraulic/pneumatic honorary doctorates, 14 honorary professorships, and
parts distributor, for more than 32 years. membership in eight academies. He is Founder and Editor-in-
He worked his way up from the warehouse and learned all Chief of Structure and Infrastructure Engineering, an
aspects of the business from customer service and purchasing international peer-reviewed journal launched in 2005. In 2023,
to branch management. His most recent position was in the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) established
outside sales. In this role, he regularly worked with Brokk, the Dan M. Frangopol Medal for Life-Cycle Engineering of
developing a longstanding relationship with the team and a Civil Structures, honoring his legacy and contributions to
deep knowledge of the brand. Quam’s decades of experience the field.
will help him provide customers with specialized product
knowledge and industry expertise to get the parts they need on The National Academy of Engineering (NAE) elected
the job. 114 new members and 21 international members. Academy
membership honors those who have made outstanding
Coval Technologies announced the contributions to “engineering research, practice, or education,
appointment of Kip Tindell as Regional including, where appropriate, significant contributions to the
Sales Manager. Tindell will build new engineering literature” and to “the pioneering of new and
customer relationships and enhance developing fields of technology, making major advancements
existing client management in the in traditional fields of engineering, or developing/
South-Central region of the United States. implementing innovative approaches to engineering
Tindell’s experience in sales, flooring education.” Included in the newly elected class are four ACI
systems, and customer service covers a members. A list of these members follows, with their primary
Tindell broad range of responsibilities, from affiliations at the time of election and a brief statement of their
supervising 40 to 60 individuals to principal engineering accomplishments:
overseeing operations for 10 million USD annual revenue in • ACI member Seth L. Pearlman, Chief Executive Officer
his division. He worked for 6 years in several positions with (CEO), Menard USA, Carnegie, PA, USA. For ground
Cherry Coatings. Tindell’s most recent job with Cherry was improvement technologies, geostructural design, and
Direct-to-Owner Manager, where he initiated the new geotechnical construction techniques;
department to balance workload and increase revenue with • ACI member Ashraf Habibullah, Founder, President, and
over 90% of commercial businesses. Prior to that, Tindell was CEO, Computers and Structures, Inc., Walnut Creek, CA,
with The Concrete Colorist, where he became proficient in the USA. For structural engineering software for use by
management of epoxy and polished concrete projects. engineers globally and for advocacy of the engineering
profession;
Honors & Awards • ACI Honorary Member Catherine E. French, CSE
The Polytechnic University of Distinguished Professor, Civil, Environmental, and
Timișoara, Romania, awarded an Geo-Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis,
honorary doctorate to Dan M. MN, USA. For design, safety, and construction of
Frangopol, FACI. This is the fifth structural concrete buildings and bridges; and
honorary doctorate bestowed on • ACI member Glenn R. Bell, Research Civil Engineer,
Frangopol, who is a researcher, educator, Materials and Structural Systems Division, National
and leading authority in the fields of Institute of Standards and Technology, Acton, MA, USA.
life-cycle civil engineering and life-cycle For creativity in building design, advancing forensic
Frangopol cost optimization. Throughout his career, engineering, and innovation in engineering education.

18 JUNE 2024 | Ci | www.concreteinternational.com

 Fellowships
and Scholarships for
2024-2025
Twenty-nine fellowships and 15 scholarships were awarded to students from
35 different institutions

T
he ACI Foundation announced its 2024-2025 He has collaborated with colleagues
Fellowship and Scholarship recipients. The ACI and advisors to explore innovative
Foundation is a nonprofit subsidiary of the Institute solutions at the intersection of concrete
that promotes progress, innovation, and collaboration in the and AI. These collaborations have
concrete industry through strategic investments in research, resulted in research papers and projects
scholarship, and ideas. With the help of generous donors from that advance the field. His academic
the concrete community, the ACI Foundation strongly publications include more than 60
supports students joining the field of concrete and becoming research publications in journals and
the industry’s key designers, engineers, construction Khodadadi conferences. Khodadadi also serves as
managers, and contractors. Since the inception of the an executive committee member for a
Foundation’s Fellowship program in 2008, the ACI task group focused on AI integration within the concrete
Foundation has provided financial support, mentorship, and industry. This role allows him to contribute to the convergence
internship opportunities to over 330 students. of AI and concrete research and construction practices.
He is committed to fostering diversity and inclusion within
ACI Foundation Fellowships the concrete industry. Diverse perspectives are essential to
The ACI Foundation Fellowships are offered to high- AI-driven innovation and industry growth, and he aspires to
potential undergraduate and graduate students in engineering, contribute by sharing his experiences and insights while
construction management, and other appropriate curricula learning from his peers. Khodadadi’s goal is to serve as a
who are endorsed by an ACI member. The purpose of the faculty member in the future, furthering education and
Fellowship Program is to identify, attract, and develop research in this dynamic field.
outstanding professionals for productive careers in the
concrete field. During the academic year, each student will ACI Foundation Concrete Practitioner Fellowship
receive a 10,000 USD educational stipend, paid travel Grant Harrington is studying at
expenses and attendance fees to attend two ACI Concrete Oklahoma State University, Stillwater,
Conventions, and assistance in finding an industry mentor. OK, USA. Academically, he frequently
Recipients of the 2024-2025 ACI Foundation Fellowships are: incorporates concrete into his school
projects. Harrington enjoys studying
ACI Foundation Concrete Materials Fellowship concrete as both a structural and an
Nima Khodadadi is pursuing his second PhD at the aesthetic material. He is the Vice
University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA, focusing on the President of the Construction
integration of artificial intelligence (AI) with concrete Harrington Specifications Institute (CSI) Oklahoma
technology. His academic journey has been enriched by State University Student Chapter.
collaboration with ACI Past President Antonio Nanni as his Harrington started a business in 2017, designing houses,
advisor. Khodadadi looks forward to engaging in innovative additions, and remodels, providing him the opportunity to
research projects that address industry challenges, with AI learn about concrete and its application in residential
playing a central role. construction. He recently designed a house constructed

www.concreteinternational.com | Ci | JUNE 2024 19

of insulated concrete forms (ICF) and a post-tensioned slab. his research on creating a platform for explainable artificial
In the summer of 2022, Harrington started working for intelligence (AI) to explore concrete structural engineering
Diversified Construction of Oklahoma as a Draftsman and an phenomena under fire conditions. He has been a Research
Assistant Project Manager. In this position, he designed Assistant under the guidance of ACI member M.Z. Naser and
various industrial concrete forms and reinforcing bar has published several papers related to his research in journals
applications for projects on Tinker Air Force Base. He also and conferences. Albashiti received the best presentation
served as an Intern at Guernsey, an architecture and award for his work on fire-induced spalling at the Structures
engineering firm in Oklahoma City, OK. He worked with a in Fire Conference Series in Hong Kong (2022).
team of interns to design a fire station with concrete walls. His PhD research is focused on integrating novel
As an aspiring architect, Harrington is eager to continue explainable machine learning algorithms into the critical fire
learning and exploring how concrete can shape the future of protection engineering problem of fire-induced spalling of
architecture. concrete. His research aims to propose a theory to explain the
concrete spalling phenomenon, and he hopes to be able to
ACI Foundation Future Concrete Industry Leader propose a concrete mixture that does not spall under fire.
Fellowship
Artem Egorov is studying at the ACI Foundation Fellowship
University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, Monjee Almustafa is pursuing his
USA. In 2022, he joined a research PhD at McMaster University, Hamilton,
group under the advisement of Kyle ON, Canada. He is committed to
Riding, FACI, and was put on a project advancing the field of reinforced
to investigate the durability of concrete concrete (RC) analysis and design and
using low-slag cement instead of cement intends to continue making dedicated
with fly ash. Serving on the project contributions to this discipline.
Egorov allowed him to learn a variety of Almustafa completed an undergraduate
concrete tests, including fresh properties, Almustafa co-op on the Riyadh Metro megaproject,
compressive and tensile strength testing, measuring the sulfate where he gained exposure to precast
and chloride attack resistance of concrete, and the concrete construction and installations to bridges and tunnels,
characterization of cement using X-ray fluorescence and RC design and on-site construction of massive underground
electron microscopy. and elevated substations, and large-scale project management.
In 2023, Egorov was accepted into the University Scholars He further expanded his knowledge of RC through graduate
Program and chose a project in three-dimensional (3-D) coursework during his master’s program at Western
concrete printing. The first phase of his project involves the University, London, ON. He has served as a Teaching
creation of a 3-D-printing assembly, 3-D modeling, structural Assistant for RC design during his PhD at McMaster
optimization, trial mixture design, and printing. At the core of University.
his project, he will develop mixtures enhancing the sustainability During his master’s research, he investigated the interface
and structural performance of load bearing 3-D-printed of RC analysis and design, blast engineering, and machine
systems. Egorov also served at Atwell for a summer internship, learning (ML). Almustafa studied the feasibility and use of
designing and inspecting stormwater drainage systems. ML in obtaining quantitative and qualitative response
Egorov hopes to complete his PhD in concrete, specifically predictions of RC slabs, columns, and beams under blast
in 3-D concrete printing, and then move into the industry to loading. He expanded the study to include blast-loaded steel
promote this technology. He also wants to be involved in fiber-reinforced and fiber-reinforced polymer retrofitted
construction for humanitarian needs. concrete elements to further demonstrate its efficacy in
composite members.
ACI Foundation Fellowship
Mohammad Albashiti is pursuing ACI Foundation Fellowship
his PhD, emphasizing structural fire Will Pahl is pursuing his MSc in
engineering and machine learning, at civil engineering, focusing on
Clemson University, Clemson, SC, experimentation with reinforced
USA. He received his bachelor’s degree concrete, at the University of
in civil engineering from the American Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada.
University of Madaba, Amman, Jordan. He began working with concrete as an
In 2023, he received his MSc in Engineering Intern for a consulting firm
Albashiti structural fire engineering from after his first year of university. Pahl
Clemson University. Pahl spent that summer and the next
Since beginning his graduate studies, Albashiti has focused inspecting reinforcing bars and

20 JUNE 2024 | Ci | www.concreteinternational.com

supervising concrete placement operations for quality control. concrete deck of the under-construction U.S. 75 pedestrian
During the summer of 2023, he worked in the Structures underpass at Northaven Trail.
Lab at the University of Saskatchewan with Lisa Feldman, During his undergraduate studies, Luitel received funding
FACI, on a research project investigating masonry assemblage from UTA’s Research Experience for Undergraduates Program
strength and the difference in prism testing standards between to research the use of mine-tailings as a construction material.
Canada and the United States. He also worked as a Graduate Teaching Assistant in the
Pahl plans to go into consulting, designing bridges at a Reinforced Concrete Design Course.
structural engineering firm to obtain the perspective of a Luitel served as a Structural Engineer at Tower
designer. He hopes to eventually pursue his PhD and work as Engineering Solutions, analyzing telecommunication tower
a professor and conduct his own research. Pahl wants to be mounts, recommending modifications, and conducting
remembered as an innovator in his field who helped develop post-modification inspections. As a Field Tech Intern with
many of the tools used to build our world. ECS, he conducted concrete tests and inspections.
Luitel is eager to conduct more research and work on
ACI Foundation Fellowship initiatives promoting structural engineering and concrete
Sofiane Amroun is pursuing his PhD technology.
at the University of Miami, Coral
Gables, FL, USA, with ACI member ACI Foundation Fellowship
Prannoy Suraneni as his advisor. He is Jacob Yager is a PhD Candidate at
working on optimizing the energy Queen’s University, Kingston, ON,
consumption and carbon dioxide (CO2) Canada. Concrete is a central part of
emissions of the mechanochemical and Yager’s life, driving his passion for
thermal activation processes of low- exploring reinforced concrete
Amroun kaolinite clays and basaltic fines. A mechanisms and environmentally
poster of his research was awarded first friendly cementitious materials, which
place at the Cements 2023 conference at Columbia University, he intends to pursue in his future
New York, NY, USA, organized by the American Ceramic Yager academic/research career.
Society. During his undergraduate years, he
Amroun completed an internship at the Lafarge research served as a Research Assistant, where he conducted various
and development laboratory for his master’s degree project on reinforced concrete experiments, and interned at Lanier &
the use of glass powder as a supplementary cementitious Associates Consulting Engineers, Inc., in New Orleans, LA,
material (SCM). He is a member of various ACI and RILEM USA, where he designed concrete elements for marine
technical committees and the Scientific Section of the infrastructure.
Polytechnic Algiers Community. Yager completed an undergraduate thesis on functionally
After he completes his PhD, Amroun aims to apply for a graded concrete (FGC) beams. In graduate school, he
postdoctoral position to contribute to the development of completed projects on low-carbon concrete, including
sustainable, resistant, low-cost, and energy-efficient SCMs. large- scale FGC slender beams, deep beams, and one-way
His long-term goal is to advance concrete technology in his slabs. His ongoing and future projects include low-carbon and
homeland, Algeria, and around the world by working as a high-strength, steel-reinforced concrete continuous beams, the
professor and a consultant for concrete-related start-ups and influence of graphene nanoplatelets in concrete, and the
industries. design and monitoring of a full-scale, low-carbon reinforced
concrete building.
ACI Foundation Fellowship After completing his PhD, he wants to work and get more
Balaram Luitel is pursuing his PhD experience in the structural engineering and concrete industry,
in civil engineering at The University of and ultimately return to academia as a postdoc until he
Texas at Arlington (UTA), Arlington, becomes a professor and pursues his research goals.
TX, USA. His research is titled “Partial
Composite Action in Prestressed ACI Foundation Fellowship
Concrete Girder (PCG) Bridges.” Abdulrahman Salah is a PhD Student at the University of
Serving as a Research Assistant at UTA Houston, Houston, TX, USA, where he has embarked on a
has allowed him to contribute to research project involving large-scale shear testing of ultra-
real-world engineering. Luitel was the high-performance concrete (UHPC). The project intends to
Luitel
load testing task lead in the evaluation tackle a big unknown in the design of UHPC structures,
of the 73-year-old WB U.S. 175 bridge over Big Brushy namely its shear capacity and axial load effects on shear.
Creek. He was also involved in an investigation of settlement In addition to his primary academic and research
cracks and reinforcement shadowing that developed in the endeavors, Salah is actively engaged in exploring the potential

www.concreteinternational.com | Ci | JUNE 2024 21

 of fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) rate and intensity of the pozzolanic
reinforced concrete structures. This area reaction. She has also delved into
of study delves into the application of creating a kinetic model for the
noncorrosive materials to create a new pozzolanic reaction. Han’s final goal is
generation of nonmetallic structures. to use the pozzolanic reaction models
This dual focus on UHPC and FRP- for different types of pozzolans and
reinforced concrete structures aligns integrate them into current cement
with his passion for characterizing the hydration programs to enhance their
Salah use of advanced, sustainable materials to Han predictive capabilities for various
progress the concrete industry. pozzolans. Combining her knowledge in
Salah’s long-term aspirations are intertwined with both macro- and micro-scale materials, she wants to enhance
academia, the professional realm, and consultancy. the integrity and strength of three-dimensional (3-D) printable
Academically, his focus lies on continuing his PhD studies to ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) by incorporating the
unlock new frontiers in advanced technologies. Professionally, “hot mixing” method.
his goal is to become a licensed professional engineer, Han is eager to contribute to creating sustainable, resilient,
furthering his role as a practitioner engineer. He envisions a and environmentally friendly infrastructure.
successful career as an engineering consultant, bridging his
academic and professional pursuits. ACI Foundation Fellowship
Benjamin (Bo) Rider is pursuing his
ACI Foundation Fellowship MS in civil engineering at the Georgia
Brittany Multer is pursuing her PhD Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA,
at The Ohio State University, Columbus, USA. He has served as a Teaching
OH, USA. Her research focuses on Assistant of reinforced concrete design,
using concrete as an enhanced a researcher of using concrete to
weathering material in soil to capture sequester harmful organics, and a
atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2). She project team consultant for the Cornell
is researching the phenomena and its Rider Concrete Canoe team. He was most
potential as a carbon capture technology, inspired by a course in three-
Multer as well as any beneficial side effects dimensional (3-D) concrete printing taught by ACI member
concrete has as a soil amendment. Sriramya Nair.
Her relationship with concrete started in college when she During his graduate research so far, Rider has sought to use
decided to major in civil engineering. Multer took concrete 3-D concrete printing to create artistic structural forms and
materials and design courses and became ACI certified in has explored its scalability through the addition of reinforcing
basic concrete field testing. She participated on the concrete fibers. In addition, he became the founding Vice President of
canoe competition team all 4 years of her undergraduate the ACI Georgia Tech Student Chapter. The new Student
degree. Multer was the captain during her sophomore and Chapter has developed close relationships among students,
junior years and was the lead for mixture design her faculty, and local practitioners—especially within the ACI
sophomore year. After graduation, she moved to San Georgia Chapter. The Student Chapter has great ambitions,
Francisco, CA, USA, to work as a civil engineer at Arup on including sending more students to ACI Concrete Conventions
the site development team. and participating in ACI student competitions.
After 3 years at Arup, she decided to pursue a graduate Rider is inspired by his outstanding educators, especially
education because she wanted to help ameliorate climate ACI Past President Ken Hover; Karl “Fred” Meyer, FACI;
change. After receiving her MS in soil science, Multer’s Kimberly Kurtis, FACI; and Sriramya Nair.
passion for research led her to the present day where she is
continuing with her PhD. ACI Middle East & North Africa Fellowship
Mahmoud Higazey is pursuing his
ACI Foundation Fellowship PhD in structural engineering at King
Yoonjung Han is a PhD Candidate in the Zachry Saud University, Riyadh, Kingdom of
Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Texas Saudi Arabia. His research interests
A&M University, College Station, TX, USA. Her research include shape memory alloys, self-
interests primarily focus on the reaction kinetics and centering structures, fiber-reinforced
thermodynamics of cementitious materials, such as silica concrete, self-curing concrete, and
fume and calcium hydroxide. numerical modeling of concrete
During her PhD research, Han discovered that the different Higazey structures. Higazey is working on his
chemical and physical properties of silica fume impact the PhD project about cyclic behavior of

22 JUNE 2024 | Ci | www.concreteinternational.com

reinforced concrete beam-column subassemblages upgraded are different each day and for each job. He was able to
with smart memory alloys. experience this during a summer internship that had him in the
He received his BS in civil engineering and his MS in field every day with the superintendent. Pasemann acclimated
structural engineering both from King Saud University. quickly as he learned how fast paced and logically minded the
Higazey has also served as a Teaching and Research Assistant superintendent had to be every day on the jobsite. He has also
at the university. He has seven publications in ISI journals and participated in the ACI FRC Bowling Ball and FRP
conferences. Composites Competitions. These competitions allowed him to
His ultimate goal is to become a university professor, gain hands-on project management experience and delve into
where he can conduct research and instruct students in the science and techniques behind mixture design.
structural engineering, mechanics, and related subjects.
Higazey also would like to be a consultant specializing in Baker Student Fellowship
structural engineering. Austin Mizen is studying at Bowling
Green State University, Bowling Green,
ACI Presidents’ Fellowship OH, USA. His first job was building
Ann Albright is pursuing her PhD at houses in his community. Mizen enjoyed
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State building homes for families, but he
University (Virginia Tech), Blacksburg, wanted more for his career. He decided
VA, USA. She is researching nonductile to expand his construction knowledge
reinforced concrete (RC) shear walls, by working for a commercial
specifically retrofitting options to meet Mizen
construction company. He liked working
current seismic standards. with concrete, and he wanted to obtain a
Albright experienced her first construction management degree to propel his career.
Albright research project in RC on the concrete His internships with Baker Construction have taught him
canoe team. She learned how versatile about the concrete industry. His first internship with Baker
RC can be, and how the limits of RC can get pushed. Albright taught him the fundamentals for concrete construction and the
continued her RC journey during her master’s at the regular challenges faced on the jobsite. His second internship
University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA, where she taught him the behind-the-scenes side of construction. He
analyzed the experimental response of RC beam-column experienced the complexity of marketing, scheduling,
joints under earthquake loading, trying to understand the planning, and coordination within construction. Mizen looks
concrete’s behavior particularly the shear in the joint region. forward to using his experiences to become an exceptional
She followed this up with research at KTH Royal Institute of leader and aid his future career.
Technology, Stockholm, Sweden, considering the effect of Mizen continues to become more involved in clubs at his
hydraulic dampers on RC single-span bridges, which had been university. He coordinates with the Student Construction
modified for high-speed railway. Management Association to plan events around campus. He
She wants to teach reinforced concrete and structural also helps Habitat for Humanity to give back to the
engineering due to her enthusiasm for the topic. Albright community through local events.
intends to guide civil engineers because she believes the
solutions we endeavor to implement are nothing short of Baker Student Fellowship
miracles. Abigail Erich is studying at The
Pennsylvania State University, State
AOE Fellowship College, PA, USA. She participated in
Matthew Pasemann is pursuing his an internship at Baker Construction,
bachelor’s degree in concrete industry which helped her realize how impactful
management at Texas State University, concrete is in the construction industry
San Marcos, TX, USA. His long-term today. During this internship, Erich had
career goals are within the project the opportunity to work alongside a
management role of concrete Erich concrete crew that was tasked with
construction, as he enjoys the process constructing the outer shell of a data
and the critical thinking that center. She saw first-hand the kind of hard work, dedication,
Pasemann accompanies the role. Pasemann prefers discipline, and teamwork that it takes to succeed in the
this part of the industry because he will concrete industry. This internship allowed her to immerse
get to see the work and processes that go into designing herself in the concrete process, while also showing her the
complex projects and the fulfillment of a completed job. level of planning it takes to place concrete on a fully
His interest in the business side of the concrete industry is operational construction site.
because of the adaptability of each assignment, as conditions Erich’s desire to help people realize their potential led her

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to become a mentor to other aspiring female engineers in the distribution of carbon fibers in the mixture. These
Penn State Women Engineering Program. She aspires to advancements were published in the International Journal of
pursue a career in construction management where she can Pavement Engineering. At the American Society of Civil
make a direct impact on the lives of others. Engineers (ASCE) 2023 conference in Austin, TX, USA, he
presented his work on the impact of electrically conductive
Barbara S. and W. Calvin McCall Carolinas concrete layer thickness on concrete’s thermal performance.
Fellowship
Issac Oyawoye is pursuing his PhD Charles Pankow Foundation Student Fellowship
in civil engineering at the University of Camille Davis is studying at the
North Carolina at Charlotte (UNCC), University of Louisville, Louisville, KY,
Charlotte, NC, USA. The concept of USA. She has participated in an
global warming was first introduced to on-campus organization titled “clean-
him in secondary school. The lecture for-cards” for the past 2 years. After
both intrigued and unsettled him, as it joining, she became the head of the
delved into the various dangers of this cleaning committee and has actively
Oyawoye phenomenon. This exposure ignited his participated in trash pickups on campus.
curiosity, driving him to explore ways in Davis Davis pitched the idea of doing trash
which he could contribute to the ongoing battle against pickups outside of campus to help
climate change. cleanup neighborhoods around Louisville. As she works to
Oyawoye is dedicated to pursuing innovative methods for create a career focused on sustainability, she has realized that
manufacturing concrete with minimal or no reliance on it starts by taking care of what we already have. She aspires to
cement. At Covenant University, Ota, Nigeria, his final year create an economical, streamlined process of recycling
research project was titled “Sustainable Application of concrete materials.
Recycled Concrete Aggregate for Fresh Concrete Production She served her first engineering internship at ARCO
Incorporating Calcined Clay.” He was also part of a research Construction Mountain-West, where she worked as a Project
team that published two research papers on sustainable Manager for 5 months. Davis is grateful to have begun her
concrete in journals. professional work as a Project Manager and was able to get a
With the mentoring of ACI member Tara Cavalline at solid understanding of the construction process early on. This
UNCC, his research efforts have focused on developing helped her in courses as well as at her second internship as a
performance-engineered mixtures for the Federal Aviation Transportation Engineer at WSP.
Administration. This research will contribute to the
development of more sustainable construction practices and Don Marks Memorial Fellowship
improve concrete viability. Oyawoye is also the Vice Nicholas Barrio is pursuing his
President of the ACI UNCC Student Chapter. graduate studies at Texas A&M
University, College Station, TX, USA,
Burg-Coleman Iowa State ‘77 ACI Fellowship and researching the effects of concrete
Md. Lutfor Rahman is pursuing his curing on shrinkage, curling, warping,
PhD at Iowa State University, Ames, IA, joint activation, and overall pavement
USA. As part of his PhD studies, he durability.
conducted research on developing As an Intern, he played a role in a
electrically conductive carbon-fiber Barrio 290 million USD highway construction
reinforced concrete for a sidewalk project in Houston, TX, sparking his
concrete construction project in Iowa interest in heavy-civil construction. In the summer of 2019, he
City, IA. Because of the resistive heating served as an Intern with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on
Rahman property of materials, this concrete can a military runway project in his hometown of El Paso, TX.
produce heat when an electrical voltage Overseeing the placement of 60,000 yd3 (45,900 m3) of
is applied on it through electrodes. While developing the concrete in challenging conditions like hot, arid, and windy
mixture proportion for the concrete of that project, Rahman environments ignited his eagerness to learn more.
followed the performance-engineered mixture (PEM) Barrio was offered full-time employment with the U.S.
technique, which emphasizes the aggregate system and Army Corps of Engineers in Omaha, NE, USA. He joined the
optimizes the use of cement paste in concrete. Transportation Systems Mandatory Center of Expertise
Rahman also developed a novel mixture sequence (TSMCX), a group advising the Department of Defense
technique for carbon-fiber reinforced electrically conductive (DoD) on military airfield pavement design, construction, and
concrete suitable for ready mixed concrete plant production. management. From August 2021 to August 2023, he traveled
Additionally, he devised an innovative method to evaluate the to more than 30 unique project sites, educating contractors

24 JUNE 2024 | Ci | www.concreteinternational.com

and government personnel on proper concrete pavement Additionally, introducing concrete structures to children with
construction practices aligned with DoD specifications and challenges through a catalyst program has been one of her
ACI technical guidance. most rewarding volunteer contributions.

Elmer Baker Student Fellowship Nicholas F. Maloof, Jr. GA Chapter ACI Fellowship
Merrill (Kaid) Nygren is studying Segun Osibodu is pursuing his PhD
concrete industry management at Texas focused on ultra-high-performance
State University, San Marcos, TX, USA. concrete (UHPC) at Auburn University,
He completed his first internship with Auburn, AL, USA. His experiences
Locke Solutions, a precast company in include projects spanning concept to
Houston, TX, working in sales, design and site supervision, overseeing
estimating, quality control, and the concrete operations of 11 contractors
production. He then started working part for a residential estate construction.
Nygren
time, during school, for Lone Star Osibodu He received his bachelor’s degree and
Precast, in Buda, TX. He currently worked in the structural engineering
serves as an Estimator but will get the chance to experience industry in Nigeria. While on a post-graduate internship with
other roles. Nygren plans on working for Lone Star Precast Ove Arup and Partners Nigeria Limited, a pipeline explosion
the rest of his time in school, while also partaking in occurred in Abule Ado, Lagos. Under the Nigerian Institute
internships in different areas of the concrete industry. for Structural Engineers, they assessed the structural integrity
At Texas State University, Nygren is a member of the ACI of buildings in the vicinity of the explosion. Osibodu was
student chapter. He also serves on the National Precast selected as one of the engineers tasked with the
Concrete Association (NPCA) student competition team. He reconnaissance survey. Later, they were deployed for the
recently traveled to the American Society of Concrete second phase: a detailed assessment of over 80 concrete
Contractors (ASCC) Conference in Grand Rapids, MI, USA, structures.
and presented for the NPCA student competition team in Under the supervision of Anton Schindler, FACI, he is
Denver, CO, USA. researching nonproprietary UHPC, aiming to develop
Nygren hopes to give back to the industry what it has sustainable, cost-effective, and durable concrete which has
provided for him and give future students the same adequate toughness and reduced autogenous shrinkage.
opportunities he has received. As the Secretary of the ACI Auburn University Student
Chapter, he aims to show undergraduates the excitement of a
JoAnne K. and Cecil L. Jones Carolinas Fellowship career focused on concrete. Osibodu is passionate about
Aakriti Khadka is pursuing her PhD passing on knowledge and answering their questions.
at North Carolina State University,
Raleigh, NC, USA, with a focus on the Robert F. Mast Memorial Fellowship
behavior of reinforced concrete Tyler Wood is pursuing his MS in
structures. Her goal is to determine the civil engineering with a structural
safety of reinforced concrete structures emphasis at South Dakota State
by developing new crack-based University (SDSU), Brookings, SD,
assessment methods and provide design USA. At the age of 5, Wood started
Khadka recommendations for strength and accompanying his father to early
service related to cracking that can occur morning concrete placements. By the
in structures. age of 10, he was well accustomed to
The first phase of her research involved designing the Wood the feeling of a float in his hand. His
experimental series using ACI 318-19 and constructing the juvenile understanding couldn’t
large-scale beams. The hands-on experience in building the comprehend how a material as malleable as Play-Doh could
members provided Khadka with tangible insight into the be formed into elaborate skyscrapers or bridges. This was the
behavior of concrete. Second, the test setup used advanced beginning of his desire to understand the intricacies of our
measurement technologies including infrared light-emitting complex world. This desire to understand guided him to
diodes and digital image correlation equipment to monitor SDSU. Wood wanted to learn how to design the skyscrapers
full-field-view displacement in the beams. With the in-depth and bridges that once astonished him.
analysis of the crack behavior of the 12 tests, the goal is to In addition to his coursework, he has acquired hands-on
devise real-time applicable models to evaluate the safety of experiences with concrete. After high school, he worked for a
cracked beams. heavy-highway contractor doing large-scale placements on
Khadka strives to share her experiences as an instructor interstates and airport landing strips. At SDSU, Wood has
and teaching assistant for concrete-related subjects. been a part of the American Society of Civil Engineers

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(ASCE) Chapter’s concrete canoe team. During his summer member. His professional aspiration is to resolve various
internships, he helped designed concrete structures and concrete durability challenges that persist in the industry,
performed on-site concrete testing. aiming to enhance concrete’s suitability as a material for
sustainable construction.
Ronald G. Burg Leadership Fellowship
Thomas Carnes is a PhD Candidate Tribute to the Founders Fellowship
at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and Catherine Lucero is pursuing her
State University (Virginia Tech), PhD in civil engineering at Oregon State
Blacksburg, VA, USA. He is conducting University, Corvallis, OR, USA,
research to develop improved beam-end focusing on durability of concrete made
reinforcement details that will reduce with natural pozzolans.
reinforcement congestion and minimize/ She received her BSCE from The
control cracking caused during prestress University of New Mexico,
Carnes transfer for prestressed bulb T-girders. Albuquerque, NM, USA, in 2013.
He has also conducted research on Lucero
Lucero then spent a summer working at
fracture properties of additively manufactured concrete. the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation (USBR)
As an undergraduate, Carnes became interested in concrete concrete lab in Denver, CO, USA. She received her MSCE
while he participated in the American Society of Civil from Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA, in 2015.
Engineers (ASCE) Concrete Canoe Competition. He was She has been at the USBR Concrete and Structural Laboratory
captain of the concrete canoe team that successfully used a for the past several years.
rapid-setting, self-consolidating concrete mixture that he Her role at USBR showed her opportunities to positively
designed, earning a fifth-place national finish and the national impact the concrete industry. One of the first projects she
innovation award for the use of this concrete mixture. Carnes worked on was testing a proposed natural pozzolan for use in
is still involved with the concrete canoe competition as an lieu of fly ash in a mass concrete placement for Stampede
advisor, hoping to pass on his passion for concrete to others. Dam in California. The results of the testing supported the
After his undergraduate studies, he became an Associate decision to use the natural pozzolan, which was placed
Engineer at the Mahoning County Engineer’s Office. He successfully without any thermal cracking. Since then, her
performed duties such as designing box culverts, creating research has focused on thermal properties and durability of
roadway reconstruction plans, designing retaining walls, and concrete made with natural pozzolans, and her project work
performing bridge inspections. While working there, Carnes has primarily focused on mass concrete mixture design,
pursued his master’s degree. minimizing cement content while meeting performance
requirements.
S.P. Shah Fellowship Lucero is a Past President of the ACI Rocky Mountain
Hossein Kabir is a PhD Student at Chapter and a member of ACI Committee 207, Mass and
the University of Illinois Urbana- Thermally Controlled Concrete.
Champaign (UIUC), IL, USA, and is
part of the construction materials group ACI Foundation Undergraduate and Graduate
under the guidance of ACI member Scholarships
Nishant Garg. His PhD research focuses Funded primarily through donations, the ACI Foundation
on evaluating the applicability of administers these scholarships, which are offered to high-
contact angle measurements, which potential undergraduate or graduate students. During the
Kabir represent the liquid-vapor interfacial academic year, each student will receive a 5000 USD
energy, for enhancing the prediction of educational stipend to their institution for tuition, residence,
construction materials’ durability. Moreover, his research books, and materials.
aims to make the ASTM C1585 test method more robust and Recipients of the 2024-2025 ACI Foundation Scholarships
less labor-intensive for adoption in academia and industry. are:
Before joining UIUC, Hossein worked as a full-time
Concrete Consulting Engineer at Braun Intertec Corporation. ACI Foundation Scholarship
In this role, he managed complex engineering projects, Amjad Diab is pursuing his PhD in structural engineering
providing consultation to clients on concrete durability at The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA,
concerns. Before that, Hossein received his MS in the mentored by ACI member Anca Ferche. He has examined the
construction materials group at the University of Toronto, influence of shape optimization on ultra-high-performance
Toronto, ON, Canada. His focus was on evaluating the concrete (UHPC) members’ shear behavior and developed an
soundness (volume stability) of various cements. artificial neural network (ANN) predicting UHPC mixture’s
Hossein intends to pursue a career in academia as a faculty tensile behavior. Merging this ANN with nonlinear finite

26 JUNE 2024 | Ci | www.concreteinternational.com

 element analysis (NLFEA) fostered the determine how the embodied carbon of
modeling of the shear behavior of concrete has changed from 1970 to the
various UHPC members. This facilitated present. The third objective is to study
ongoing research on the impact of the feasibility of replacing the existing
optimizing UHPC members’ cross- façade of the Lincoln Campus Center,
sectional shapes, aiming to provide a an architecturally significant brutalist
data-driven shear capacity estimation concrete building on the UMass Amherst
model suitable for U.S. design codes. campus, with an identical façade that
Diab His first exposure to concrete Freitas eliminates the thermal bridges that are
research was during his undergraduate present in the existing façade using
studies at the University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan. Tasked modern construction materials and techniques. He plans to
with constructing numerical models to analyze concrete present a case study of how significant brutalist structures may
columns’ behavior and comparing results with commercial be viably brought into current sustainability conversations.
structural modeling software, Diab grappled with the After graduation, Freitas is interested in pursuing a career
intricacies of concrete’s heterogeneous nature. This in both industry and academia.
experience motivated him to pursue his master’s degree in
structural engineering. Diab was introduced to NLFEA and ACI Foundation Scholarship
the intricate process behind the modeling process, specifically Bahareh Tayebani is pursuing her
in terms of its reliance on the model’s input parameters. PhD at The Pennsylvania State
University, State College, PA, USA, and
ACI Foundation Scholarship researching the design of sustainable
Bayezid Baten is a PhD Student in and economical concrete mixtures with
the Department of Civil Engineering at enhanced mechanical properties. To
University of Illinois at Urbana- address the two environmental issues of
Champaign (UIUC), Urbana, IL, USA. greenhouse gas emissions from cement
His research focuses on innovating Tayebani production and the accumulation of
cost-effective, eco-friendly ultra-high- plastic waste in landfills, Tayebani is
performance concrete (UHPC) using working on low-carbon and zero-cement concrete mixtures
innovative materials and advanced that incorporate recycled plastics. The use of plastic as a
Baten optimization techniques. An integral part binding agent has shown promising results compared to
of his research goal is to develop cementitious-based concrete. One of her career objectives is
sustainable UHPC solutions and promote their wide to determine how plastic concrete mixtures can be mass-
applicability, particularly in Illinois, through conducting produced and then deployed in the construction of structures
technology transfer and workshops for the local end users. His to build longer-lasting, more economical, and more
career path in the concrete industry dates back to his environmentally friendly houses.
undergraduate years, and his undergraduate thesis introduced After completing her graduate studies, Tayebani joined the
a cost-effective experimental setup to measure the corrosion Ministry of Roads and Urban Development in Iran as a
susceptibility of reinforced concrete. In addition to his licensed engineer and worked as a senior controller for the
research, Baten is actively involved in mentoring younger design and calculations of structures, applying the latest
researchers. His role as the graduate mentor of the ACI UIUC version of ACI codes and specs. Later, she led a technical
Student Chapter provides a platform to further influence subcommittee on concrete performance to edit the Iranian
budding engineers, orienting them toward concrete research concrete code according to ACI 318-14.
and ACI competitions. His participation in ACI committees,
particularly ACI Committee 239, Ultra-High-Performance ACI 201 Undergraduate Concrete Durability
Concrete, helps ensure that his research remains attuned to the Scholarship
evolving needs of the industry. Dennis Brickl is pursuing his
bachelor’s degree in construction
ACI Foundation Scholarship management at the University of
Joel Freitas attends the University of Massachusetts Wisconsin-Platteville, Platteville, WI,
Amherst (UMass Amherst), Amherst, MA, USA. His research USA. Concrete and construction in
involves three major objectives. The first objective is to use general have always been a part of his
quick and simple tools to create a template for building life because his father worked in the
owners and building conservation professionals to use early in industry. After his first year of college,
the decision-making process for making brutalist concrete Brickl Brickl took an internship with Parisi
buildings more sustainable. The second objective is to Construction in Verona, WI, working

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with both curb and flatwork crews. With the curb crew, he (UHPC) and glass fiber-reinforced polymers (GFRPs).
learned to set up a curb machine and how to use Topcon Galli has been an associate member of ACI Committees
Millimeter Point GPS software to place stringless curbs. With 239, Ultra-High-Performance Concrete, and 440, Fiber-
the flatwork crews, he learned how to do staking and set Reinforced Polymer Reinforcement, since August 2022, and
grades with Total Station, along with how to build in-field understands how a technical committee is structured and
three-dimensional (3-D) models using Pocket 3D to run a operates. He is a member of the ACI South Florida Chapter
laser screed using Total Station. At the end of the summer and involved in other technical committees in civil
internship, he was offered the opportunity to continue working engineering associations. He is also a student leader in the
for Parisi remotely creating 3-D stringless curb models while university community, serving as the Graduate Student
attending school. On the weekends, Brickl often places Representative on the Board of Trustees of the University of
concrete for small residential projects with friends and former Miami and as the Vice President of the Graduate Student
coworkers as an independent contractor. Government.

Bernard Erlin Memorial Scholarship Katharine & Bryant Mather Scholarship

Tu-Nam Nguyen is pursuing his James Stewart is pursuing his
doctoral studies at Georgia Institute of MSCE at the University of Arkansas,
Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA. He is Fayetteville, AR, USA. His interests
researching how commonly used include structural dynamics, finite
chemical additives in portland cement element modeling, programming, design
(methylcellulose-based additives, of experiments, and data analysis. His
hydrotropes, nanosilicone, and holistic goal for this program is to pair a
nanocellulose) affect low-embodied- depth of structural knowledge and data
Nguyen
carbon cements, namely calcium Stewart analysis to be able to accurately model
sulfoaluminosilicate belite and behavior in additive construction of
limestone calcinated clay cements. Characteristics such as concrete (ACC) structures and mixtures.
rheology, set time, early hydration, and changes in Stewart’s overall career goal in the concrete industry is to
microstructure are being studied. develop and leverage ACC as a technology to the extent that it
Nguyen’s master’s research at Virginia Polytechnic drastically improves the daily lives of end users and disrupts
Institute and State University (Virginia Tech), Blacksburg, the conventional construction industry. His research on ACC
VA, USA, involved characterizing quarry by-products to is driven by the fact that there are currently few structural
assess their feasibility of use as supplementary cementitious standards, and the interlayer bond phenomenon is not
materials. He has had past experiences with teaching through currently understood so many structural engineers are
leadership positions in the Boy Scouts of America and as a neglecting any structural gain from the material.
camp instructor in STEM-focused summer camps. He never After graduation, Stewart is considering continuing his
considered being a professor until speaking about his career education and pursuing a PhD, entering the workforce and
path with his master’s advisor, who helped him realize that he seeking employment with a company developing ACC
could fulfill both his passion for teaching and research in one technology, founding a startup company with his fellow
job. Nguyen is working to become a professor to inspire students, or a combination of these.
future generations the same way he was inspired.
Master Builders Solutions Concrete Materials
Bertold E. Weinberg Scholarship Scholarship
Luca Galli is a third-year PhD Jackson Kaszas is a PhD Student at
student in civil engineering at the Rutgers University, NJ, USA, studying
University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, the curing mechanism of CO2-absorbing
USA. He received his BS in civil and carbon-negative concrete materials. In
environmental engineering and his MS parallel, he is working on a group
in building engineering from the project to create a concrete mixture for
Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy. His use in growing artificial oyster reefs.
research activity focuses on developing This project entails the design of a
Galli sustainable structural materials to Kaszas concrete mixture that is cheap, strong,
enhance the resilience and durability of biodegradable, encourages oyster
transportation and coastal infrastructure. He is studying the growth, and has a low carbon footprint. To better study these
design and deployment of next-generation seawalls made of materials, Kaszas is helping construct a device capable of
sustainable, marine-life friendly, durable, and corrosion-free tracking the CO2 uptake and drying of concrete in real time.
materials, specifically ultra-high-performance concrete During his undergraduate studies of materials science and

28 JUNE 2024 | Ci | www.concreteinternational.com

engineering at the University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, spacings. This was done to illustrate the different responses
USA, he took what he learned about hydration curing, aging, produced when a concrete beam is either excessively,
and concrete characterization techniques and constructed a insufficiently, or accurately engineered, prior to being
propane-powered furnace lined with a self-designed refractory subjected to a load.
concrete mixture. In his civil engineering materials course, they explored the
To make a broader impact in the field of sustainable complexities of mixture design, altering variables to meet
concrete, he applied for the Research Experience for specific size and weight constraints while retaining a high
Undergraduates (REU) program, hosted by the Riman compressive strength. They also designed and tested trial
Research Group at Rutgers University. He studied the effect mixtures for the Fiber-Reinforced Concrete Bowling Ball
of varying water content on the ability of a carbon-negative Competition held each year on campus.
cement alternative to absorb CO2.
Roger S. Johnston Memorial Scholarship
Nick Bada – ACI Ontario Chapter Graduate Maxwell Edman is a civil
Scholarship engineering student at the University of
Mehran Aziminezhad is pursuing Illinois Chicago (UIC), Chicago, IL,
his PhD at Lakehead University, USA. He is committed to developing
Thunder Bay, ON, Canada. His research innovative techniques to use concrete to
focuses on mitigating the negative build a durable, sustainable, and
impact of concrete on the environment aesthetically pleasing world while
and reducing the waste sent to landfills. mitigating the environmental impacts.
Aziminezhad’s PhD thesis aims to Edman During his inaugural year at UIC, he
present a new mixture design of green joined the American Society of Civil
Aziminezhad
concrete. This concrete mixture includes Engineers (ASCE) Student Chapter and the concrete canoe
waste materials, such as shredded team. He acquired an understanding of concrete proportioning
rubber, biomass ash, and glass powder that will reduce the and iterative design. The team employed sustainable
environmental impact of conventional concrete along with lightweight aggregates and pozzolans, systematically refining
satisfying the durability and mechanical properties of their design by adjusting one variable at a time to meet
concrete. Although the use of waste materials in concrete stringent requirements. For the 2023-2024 competition,
mixtures is beneficial to the environment, the design of a Edman served as the Canoe Lead Mixture Designer, and the
mixture that meets the mechanical and durability standards team built upon the previous year’s data. He is also engaged
requires a thorough evaluation of the influence of the waste in mentoring new ASCE members. Together with the concrete
materials in the concrete as well as its life-cycle assessment. canoe captain, their collective efforts were directed toward
He is passionate about collaborating with concrete creating an exceptional canoe, with the goal of acknowledging
companies and optimizing their mixture designs, placing a the durability and sustainability that concrete can bring to the
special emphasis on minimizing cement consumption by modern world.
integrating waste pozzolanic materials. His objective is to Edman aspires to leave a lasting positive impact on the
provide optimal mixture designs that balance financial urban landscape.
considerations while prioritizing environmental sustainability,
mechanical strength, and the durability of concrete. Schwing America Scholarship
Rebecca Rasmussen is pursuing her
Richard D. Stehly Memorial Scholarship master’s degree in civil engineering with
After retiring from the U.S. Marine an emphasis in structural engineering at
Corps, Kenan Johnson is studying civil Brigham Young University, Provo, UT,
engineering at Saint Louis University, USA. Her experience as an Engineering
St. Louis, MO, USA. His first Design Intern allowed her to gain
experience with concrete was in 2022, in insights into how a structure is designed
his role as departmental Laboratory from beginning to end. Also, through
Technician. During his structural design Rasmussen taking and working as a Teaching
course, four reinforced concrete beams Assistant for various undergraduate
Johnson were tested, and he led the fabrication classes, she has a better understanding of the mechanics
process of the beams. Each beam was behind designing reinforced concrete members and structures.
12 in. (305 mm) wide and 14 in. (356 mm) tall, with two Rasmussen is interested in the use of computational
beams measuring 19 ft (6 m) long and two beams measuring analysis to accurately represent concrete and steel structures
10 ft (3 m) long. Each beam was uniquely configured with in the design-through-analysis process. She works as a
different amounts of reinforcement and/or different stirrup Research Assistant with the aim of using the finite element

www.concreteinternational.com | Ci | JUNE 2024 29

method to create computational representations of geometry W. Gene Corley Scholarship
useful in design, analysis, and manufacturing applications Sherryen Mutoka is pursuing her
through C# and computer-aided engineering applications. PhD at the University of Notre Dame
She wants to work for a structural engineering firm where (ND), Notre Dame, IN, USA, working
she can help design safe, efficient, economic, attractive, and in the Kinetic Structures Laboratory
sustainable infrastructure. Rasmussen looks forward to under the direction of ACI member
applying her structural design knowledge, as well as her Ashley Thrall, where her research
experience in concrete mixture design, to design quality looks at accelerated fabrication of civil
infrastructure. infrastructure in which steel and
Mutoka concrete are the primary materials.
Stewart C. Watson Memorial Scholarship She is investigating viable approaches
Md. Shahjalal is a PhD Student at to be used in reinforcing three-dimensional (3-D) printed
the University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, concrete walls. Her research goals include conducting
Canada. He is investigating the flexural full-scale experiments to investigate the in-plane behavior,
and shear behavior of concrete deck performing creep and shrinkage experiments to investigate
panels connected to precast girders the long-term behavior, and developing validated numerical
using double-headed steel and fiber- models.
reinforced polymer (FRP) studs. Mutoka attended the African Leadership Academy in South
Previously, he was a Lecturer at the Africa and later ND as an undergraduate student to pursue a
Shahjalal Military Institute of Science and civil engineering degree with a concentration in structures.
Technology (MIST), Dhaka, She also participated in a study abroad program at the
Bangladesh, and then promoted to Assistant Professor. He has University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia, where
taught several concrete-related courses, including Engineering she researched materials used in constructing the homes of
Materials, Structural Mechanics and Materials Lab, and Aboriginal Australians. After graduating from ND, she
Concrete Structures Design Lab. worked at MASS Design Group in Rwanda and was part of
His past research encompasses various aspects of concrete, the team that designed a university campus.
including recycled aggregates, waste plastic aggregate, waste Mutoka plans to join a design firm that provides resilient
tires, different types of fibers, and FRPs. Shahjalal has worked designs using innovative solutions and using her knowledge to
extensively on different mechanical properties of concrete as advance building codes.
well as compression, flexure, shear, bond, impact, and free
vibrational responses of different reinforced-concrete members Apply Online
with various sustainable materials. These studies have been ACI Foundation Graduate and Undergraduate Fellowships
published in journals of concrete materials and structural and Scholarships are available to applicants whose studies
engineering and presented at different international conferences. relate to concrete. The online application for the 2025-2026
He has also pursued his MSc focusing on concrete materials. academic year will open on July 1, 2024, and close on
Shahjalal is enthusiastic about making significant November 1, 2024. Visit www.acifoundation.org/
contributions to the field of concrete structures through impactful scholarships for eligibility rules and submission
research and educating future engineers as an academic. instructions.

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event, be sure to check out the ACI Events Calendar. With just a few clicks,
you can connect with an event near you or post your own event to share
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30 JUNE 2024 | Ci | www.concreteinternational.com

ACI Resource Centers – Southern California,
Chicago/Midwest, and Mid-Atlantic
Helping meet the increasing need for ACI knowledge through
hands-on training, educational offerings, and on-demand access to
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NEU State-of-the-Art Survey: Pioneering not currently producing a reduced-carbon material, companies
Pathways to Reduced-Carbon Concrete outside of the United States, and companies only in the
The global concrete and cement sector stands at the frontier research and development stage.
of a carbon upheaval as pledges for carbon neutrality echo
throughout the industry. Amidst this, an ongoing industry Information Gathering Phase
survey commissioned by NEU: An ACI Center of Excellence When gathering data for Survey A, NEU reached out
for Carbon Neutral Concrete, sheds light on the state of the art directly to qualified producers to ensure the companies
in reduced-carbon technologies. This comprehensive, data- currently had a reduced-carbon material or technology.
driven analysis is groundbreaking, encouraging innovation, The type of information requested included, but was not
and supporting the movement toward reduced carbon in the limited to, questions on:
built environment. • Level of business development;
• Technology Readiness Level (TRL);
The NEU Industry Survey • Market availability and supply chain information;
Surveying an industry that typically fosters private
innovation was, in itself, a breakthrough. This endeavor was
• Regions where the product is available now and regions
where it will be available in 5 years;
aimed at gathering insights across the vast spectrum of • Product brand name;
companies dedicated to reducing the carbon footprint of • Location of current production;
cement and concrete. NEU asked industry members, both • Annual amount being produced;
prominent and burgeoning, to participate in a defining • Raw materials or waste streams relied on;
moment for the industry. The goal was clear—to provide a • Variability issues based on raw materials;
compass for navigating the industry toward the uncharted • Current or possible future supply chain issues;
waters of reduced-carbon production. • Material category that best fits the product;
To do this, NEU produced two surveys, Survey A and
Survey B. The first of two surveys has been completed with
• Types of products produced or types of products the
material could be used in;
domestic material and technology providers. The second • Primary applications for the product;
survey (Survey B) is currently in progress, as it is a more • Types of environmental documentation completed;
thorough survey requiring detailed information. The results of • Global warming potential of the product;
both surveys will provide comprehensive insights into the • ASTM specifications or standards met; and
state of the industry concerning carbon neutrality. • Cost compared to a typical portland cement concrete.

Survey Design and Methodology Key Survey Findings

The methodology employed a mix of quantitative and The majority of respondents affirmed an industry-wide
qualitative approaches, as the survey deployed both commitment to reduced carbon, with innovation centers and
questionnaires and personal interviews, ensuring a holistic nonprofits emerging as the knowledge centers for change.
evaluation. This approach resulted in a robust data set, capturing Companies showed a commitment to increasing the awareness
the nuances of technological advancements. By the numbers, of reduced-carbon options, however, challenges loomed tall.
the sample drew from over 100 stakeholders, representing Issues such as cost-competitiveness, availability, scalability,
diverse company sizes and products within the industry. and the convoluted landscape of regulatory standards emerged
The goal of the project was to determine the types of as significant barriers, underscoring the fact that the transition
reduced-carbon materials available now, the types that might to reduced carbon can be as much a strategic change as a
be available soon, and the current challenges that companies technological one.
are facing. To do this, it was necessary to exclude companies
Industry Implications
NEU Resources In response to the findings, NEU has looked ahead to the
To keep up with NEU, contact [email protected] or future. The implications signal a clear call for a reimagining
+1.248.848.3780. Learn more about NEU and reducing of business models and an acceleration of investments in
carbon emissions at www.neuconcrete.org, through the research and development. The shift to reduced carbon
NEU SmartBrief, and by following NEU on LinkedIn, necessitates a concerted, collaborative approach, one that not
Facebook, and YouTube. only addresses technological advancements but also brings a
new age of regulatory coherence and market innovation.

32 JUNE 2024 | Ci | www.concreteinternational.com

 So far, these
companies have
participated in NEU’s
Survey A, providing
valuable information

Best Practices and Inspirations

In the heart of the survey lie success stories—companies
and organizations who have championed the reduced-carbon
cause. They are frequently featured through social media and
news outlets. These leaders in reduced-carbon concrete have
reshaped their operating models, fortified their bottom lines,
and created a ripple effect within the industry. NEU members
are examples of those who jumped in early on the NEU Executive Director
commitment to reducing carbon emissions. This report Dean Frank spoke
inspires others to walk the path of reduced carbon. Through about NEU’s surveys
innovation, companies are guiding the wave of invention that and the initial results
is slated to overhaul traditional concrete practices. at the ACI Concrete
Convention – Spring
Join the Conversation 2024
The search for reduced-carbon emissions in the concrete
and cement industry is one of perpetual motion, and NEU is
helping by facilitating the exchange of knowledge and participate in the surveys or go directly to the survey site.
fostering collaboration. This first survey is not an endpoint but The questionnaire for the first survey can be accessed at
rather a significant marker in a continuing narrative of change. https://forms.gle/uhsYeV51fHLbs3yi7. The second, more
The results from Survey A will be released in the fall of 2024, detailed survey can be found at https://forms.
and Survey B is now in progress. gle/5fymG3viEGFqdGA87. NEU encourages participation to
This report underscores that the future of the concrete and facilitate a more complete overview of the industry.
cement industry is one of shared responsibility and bold Participation in industry-wide surveys is more than a
innovation. With this in mind, all stakeholders are invited to contribution; it is a gesture of commitment and an invaluable
join the discourse, to contribute their voices, and to investment in the industry’s future. It is time to act, to
collectively render the vision of a reduced-carbon concrete as collaborate, and to lay the foundation for a future where
a tangible reality. NEU urges all involved in the production of concrete and cement, once emblematic of industry and
reduced-carbon materials or technologies to contact NEU to innovation, become models of sustainable stewardship.

www.concreteinternational.com | Ci | JUNE 2024 33

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Building the Future:

ACI Foundation Funds Eight New Research and Safety; and 380, Structural Plain Concrete.
Projects The ACI Foundation is committed to industry progress by
The ACI Foundation’s Concrete Research Council (CRC) contributing financially to necessary and worthy research. For
selected eight research projects to receive grants this year. additional information about each of this year’s awarded
The CRC seeks concrete research projects that further the projects, including additional funding partners, research
knowledge and sustainability of concrete materials, teams, ACI committee involvement, and project details, visit
construction, and structures in coordination with ACI www.acifoundation.org/research.
technical committees.
The following research projects will receive funding from Donor Spotlight: Michelle Wilson
the ACI Foundation and were awarded based on relevancy Michelle Wilson, FACI, is the Senior
and potential impact of the research; supplemental support for Director of Concrete Technology and
the project, such as collaboration with other funders and Industry Outreach for the Portland
organizations; overall proposal quality; researcher capability; Cement Association (PCA) and the
and ACI technical committee engagement: primary author of PCA’s Design and
• A Planning Study to Speed Up Broad Implementation of Control of Concrete Mixtures. Serving on
More Sustainable and Resilient Concrete Materials by the multiple ACI committees, including as
Pavement Sector, PI: Somayeh Nassiri, University of past Chair of ACI Committee 301,
California, Davis, endorsed by ACI Committee 240, Wilson Specifications of Concrete Construction
Pozzolans; (2016-2020), Wilson has been highly
• Examining the Abrasion and Carbonation Resistance of involved with ACI and the ACI Foundation throughout her
Portland Limestone Cement Systems for Industrial Floors, successful career. She received the 2008 ACI Young Member
PI: Mehdi Khanzadeh Moradllo, Temple University, Award for Professional Achievement, was honored as a
endorsed by ACI Committee 225, Hydraulic Cements; Fellow of ACI in 2010, received the 2022 ACI Arthur R.
• Three- versus Four-Point Bending Test for the Anderson Medal, and was a member of the ACI Board of
Identification of UHPFRC/FRC Tensile Constitutive Direction from 2018 to 2021.
Behavior, PI: Francesco Lo Monte, Politecnico di Milano, Prior to joining PCA in 1999, she worked for Construction
endorsed by ACI Committee 544, Fiber Reinforced Technology Laboratories (CTLGroup), in Skokie, IL, USA.
Concrete; Prior to CTLGroup, she worked as a Field Inspector
• Leveraging Transfer Learning to Predict the Performance performing quality control for STS Consultants, Ltd., in
of Novel Concrete Mix Designs in an Expeditious Manner, Milwaukee, WI, USA, after receiving her degree in
PI: Stephanie Paal, Texas A&M University; endorsed by architectural engineering from the Milwaukee School of
ACI Committee 135, Machine Learning-Informed Engineering, Milwaukee, WI.
Construction and Design; In the spring of 1999, she attended her first ACI Concrete
• Ultra-High Performance Concrete Compressive Model in Convention in Chicago, IL. That fall, she joined PCA and, on
Flexural Compression Zone, PI: Yi Shao, McGill her first day, attended the ACI Concrete Convention in
University, endorsed by ACI Committee 239, Ultra-High- Baltimore, MD, USA.
Performance Concrete; “I was very intimidated at ACI at first, and at the time, I
• Analysis and Design of Concrete Bridge Deck Overhang wasn’t sure where to get involved. Because my background
Using GFRP Bars, PI: Khaled Sennah, Toronto was in inspection, I attended the ACI Committee 311,
Metropolitan University, endorsed by ACI Committee 440, Inspection of Concrete, as my very first committee meeting.
Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Reinforcement, and Joint Mike Russell (former Senior Vice President of STS
ACI-ASCE Committee 343, Concrete Bridge Design; Consultants, Ltd.) was the Chair. It was helpful to have
• Experimental Investigation of Use of UHPC to Simplify someone greet me right away and make me feel welcomed
Structural Detailing of Precast Shear Walls in Seismic onto the committee.”
Regions, PI: Sriram Aaleti, The University of Alabama, Wilson took advantage of her connections within PCA to
endorsed by Joint ACI-ASCE Committee 550, Precast make other important industry connections, which helped
Concrete Structures; and further her career as a young professional.
• Strength Reduction Factor for Plain Concrete, PI: Andrzej “At the time, Anne Ellis (CEO of Ellis Global) also worked
Nowak, Auburn University, endorsed by ACI Committees for PCA and helped me make many connections during my
332, Residential Concrete Work; 348, Structural Reliability first conventions. Anne introduced me to Calvin McCall, who

www.concreteinternational.com | Ci | JUNE 2024 35

Building the Future:

urged me to attend ACI Committee 301, Specifications for concrete community. They mentored me during my early
Concrete Construction. I thought he was going to say, ‘We career, enhancing my opportunities. Over 25 years, I’ve
need more women,’” she laughed. “But he said, ‘We need made some of my best friends through my industry work.
more young blood.’ I joined 301 that Sunday, and I still These are the people that I text on a Sunday about an article
haven’t left 20+ years later.” in CI while we’re supposed to be watching the Super Bowl.
Wilson actively participates in ACI Foundation pursuits in I get to work on standards with designers, materials
new technology/innovation and research. She serves on the producers, contractors, and the people leading our next
ACI Foundation’s Concrete Research Council where generation as professors.”
volunteers seek concrete research projects that advance the
knowledge of concrete materials, construction, and structures.
She attends and has presented at the annual Technology “ACI helped me build my career
Forum, hosted by the ACI Foundation’s Concrete Innovation
Council, where like-minded individuals gather to hear about to what it is now. I grew through
new technologies, discuss industry needs and challenges, and
understand where innovation can bridge gaps. Besides lending the service I gave to the
her technological expertise and industry insight to ACI
Foundation initiatives, the activities also keep her tuned in to committees as well as learning
industry developments, research needs, and emerging
technologies. from the people around me.”
“My entire career is based on what’s going on in
technology, and I must be at the pulse of the industry. When Wilson is also a mentor at ACI. Of the many students, she
serving on ACI committees, we are constantly discussing is proud to have mentored 2002-2003 ACI Foundation Student
current technology, keeping things up to date, and making Fellowship Awardee Raissa Ferron (The University of Texas
sure our processes are relevant,” she said. “It’s not just best at Austin, Austin, TX, USA), who is a Fellow of both PCA
practice guides. It’s the contract documents of our future, and and ACI, and currently serves on the ACI Foundation’s
that’s especially important to me.” Scholarship Council.
For Wilson, it’s not just the subject matter that she loves— “I think very highly of the Foundation’s student program
it’s the people in the room, too. and ACI’s young professional program,” said Wilson. “These
“I’ve gotten to work with some of my idols. I’ve had the are some of the best programs of any association. There are
honor of meeting Bryant Mather, and I’ve had the pleasure of many opportunities for young members and students to attend
collaborating with ‘the Ward Malischs and the Ken Hovers,’ and participate in ACI Concrete Conventions. The student
all prominent and influential technical members of the competitions draw large crowds, but students are also
attending sessions and presenting their research. My advice to
students and young professionals is to be confident and go to
The ACI Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit the appropriate committees. It’s the committee work that’s
organization that supports a wide range of research and really the heart of ACI.”
educational initiatives that contribute to keeping the Wilson believes that donating and mobilizing others to
concrete industry at the forefront of technological donate to the ACI Foundation lays the groundwork for a
advances in material composition, design, and bright future while honoring the past.
construction. We engage with industry partners, invest in “It’s important to give back. When I donate to the ACI
students and research, share knowledge, and provide Foundation, the money is going to the students and industry
programs to encourage innovation and new technology. research. I believe in that. It’s also important to honor the
ACI established the ACI Foundation in 1989 to promote legacy of those who came before me. The Michael Thomas
progress, innovation, and collaboration in the industry. Concrete Durability Award was important for me to
To contribute to the Foundation’s mission and for champion,” she said.
more information, contact Kari Martin, ACI Foundation The Michael Thomas Concrete Durability Award was
Fundraising Manager, at [email protected] established in 2023 and championed by Wilson and Doug
or +1.248.848.3757, or visit www.acifoundation.org/ Hooton (Professor Emeritus of civil and mineral engineering
giving. at the University of Toronto and Natural Sciences and
Engineering Research Council of Canada/Cement Association

36 JUNE 2024 | Ci | www.concreteinternational.com

 Building the Future:

Plan Your Legacy

Have you thought about the advancement of the concrete industry in the years to come? The ACI Foundation
programs focus on building the future of the concrete industry and rely on organizations and individuals like you who
want to pay it forward and give back to the industry that you helped advance and for which you have a passion.
• A gift to the ACI Foundation is an opportunity to invest in the next generation of leaders, new technical knowledge,
and innovation.
• A gift to the ACI Foundation as part of your financial plan, whether through your estate, will, donor-advised fund,
cash, stocks, bonds, insurance, or other retirement assets, will carry your technical legacy into the future of the
concrete industry.
It’s never too early to plan your legacy. Contact Kari Martin, ACI Foundation Fundraising Manager, at
+1.248.848.3757 or [email protected] to start the conversation.

of Canada [NSERC/CAC] Industrial Research Chair in amongst other topics over the past 25 years. Both PCA and the
Concrete Durability and Sustainability). This award honors National Ready Mixed Concrete Association pledged. Once
outstanding contributions to the advancement of knowledge in they did, it was easy to galvanize the others by asking, ‘We’re
concrete durability. doing this! Don’t you want to be part of it?’ It means a lot
“Michael was a close colleague and mentor of mine. He when individuals donate to awards like the Michael Thomas
made significant contributions to PCA and CAC research and Concrete Durability Award and fellowships and scholarships
supported our causes on portland-limestone cement (PLC), through the ACI Foundation. These awards are what keeps our
blended cement, and alkali-silica reaction (ASR) mitigation industry going,” Wilson concluded.

Valuable. Easy.
The value of ACI membership has never been greater. Our top three benefits are worth
thousands of dollars.
• New—FREE access to all ACI University webinars and on-demand courses.
• Unlimited access to ACI practices (including all ACI guides and reports).
• Connect with over 30,000 global concrete industry professionals.
ACI membership is your most valuable resource in the concrete industry.
Join the premier world community dedicated to the best use
of concrete.

“ACI is the premier organization for the concrete industry. Becoming an active
member will enhance anyone’s professional career.” —John F.

ACI Membership means high value. ACI members know it.

Join now at concrete.org.

www.concreteinternational.com | Ci | JUNE 2024 37
Tech
Spotlight
Wave-Inspired High-Rise
Channels Coastal Spirit
Doka formwork helps to create new addition to the Miami skyline

A
midst the dynamic landscape of the South Brickell
neighborhood in Miami, FL, USA, Una Residences
rises from the shore of Biscayne Bay. Each aspect of
the building’s design has been meticulously crafted to elevate
the concept of urban living. From expansive floor-to-ceiling
windows that flood each residence with natural light to
spacious balconies that offer panoramic views of the city and
bay, every detail serves to enhance the living experience for
residents.
From a distance, the iconic tower is recognizable by its
smooth, light-metallic surface and striking silhouette that
recalls the natural shape of a wave. Drawing inspiration from
the fluidity of the nearby bay and ocean, the building’s
graceful curves and sleek lines create a visually striking
silhouette that commands attention against the Miami skyline.
With 135 waterfront residences spanning 47 floors, Una is
just as dramatic up close as it is from a distance. A driveway
leads to a grand canopy, introducing the sleek porte cochère
whose graceful lines seamlessly transition into a double-
height, open lobby. The building’s modern curves are
complemented by the expertly landscaped gardens designed
by Enea Landscape Architecture.
Inside the tower, occupants are met with striking views of
the water at every turn. Bedrooms and living areas are set
along the waterfront, allowing residents to enjoy sweeping,
unobstructed vistas from their condominiums. Daylight floods
into each open-plan space, while extra-wide terraces are
carefully integrated into the great rooms and bedrooms.
Sliding doors create an open connection to the main living
spaces and a sense of flow that leads residents to the
remarkable views. Floor-to-ceiling windows are set against
the warmth of natural materials. Each of the building’s
finishes are inspired by the interior of a yacht, bringing a
sense of elegance and comfort to the rooms while celebrating
the pleasures of life on the bay.

38 JUNE 2024 | Ci | www.concreteinternational.com

 Tech Spotlight

The luxury residential tower was developed by Cain

International and the OKO Group and designed by Adrian
Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture (AS+GG), a team known
for a holistic, integrated design approach that explores
symbiotic relationships with the natural environment.

Engineering for the Foundational Challenges

of a Coastal Site
Behind the awe-inspiring façade of Una Residences lies a
testament to precision engineering and meticulous
construction. The building’s structural integrity was ensured
through the use of state-of-the-art materials and cutting-edge
construction techniques, allowing it to withstand the rigors of
both time and its coastal location.
Engineering this impressive structure was not without its
challenges. For example, the building features a three-level,
below-grade reinforced concrete parking garage, which
necessitated one of the deepest foundations in South Florida.
The high water table on the building site added to the
complexity of constructing the foundation.
New York-based Moore Group was responsible for the
concrete work on the project. To support an efficient and Una Residences has
effective forming process, the team turned to engineering topped out at 47 stories,
support from Doka, a global leader in formwork and with a completion date
scaffolding. Doka Frami formwork and D22 support of 2025 (photo credit:
brackets were selected for the foundation perimeter’s Golden Dusk Photography)
single-sided walls.
“The Frami system was the right choice for the Una which we were able to overcome together with the contractor
foundation because these forms needed to be hand-set and and the reshoring engineer. The cantilever design is visually
stripped under poured slabs,” said Daniel Maderthaner, striking, and the result is quite impressive.”
Engineering Manager for the Northern Region of Doka USA. By collaborating to engineer viable solutions to the
“Since the location had limited access, it’s also helpful that structural complexities of this project, the team delivered on
the Frami system is designed to be placed with or without the visionary concept from the design and development
crane support.” groups. From its striking architectural form to its lifestyle-
enhancing amenities, every aspect of the building reflects a
Forming the Wave-Inspired Tower passion for pushing the boundaries of what is possible in
As the structure climbs to its 579 ft (176 m) height, the urban living.
Una tower gradually cantilevers out from the base on the west
side to allow for larger residences. Doka’s engineering team Selected for reader interest by the editors.
also provided detailed installation drawings and engineering
services to support the complex formwork installation for the Project Credits
cantilevered section. The Doka Framax framed formwork Developer: Cain International and the OKO Group
system was used for the core walls. The system’s universal Architect: Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture
panels made the columns tie-less, so they were quick to setup Structural Engineer: DeSimone Consulting Engineers
and strip. Effective partnering throughout the planning and Civil Engineer: VSN Engineering Inc.
implementation phases made it possible to form the General Contractor: Civic Construction & Ant Yapi
foundation walls, main pile cap, and shear walls quickly Joint Ventures
and easily. Concrete Contractor: Moore Group
“Una Residences was a really interesting project to work Landscape Architecture: Enea Landscape Architecture
on,” Maderthaner said. “There were some unique challenges

www.concreteinternational.com | Ci | JUNE 2024 39

Visual Inspection of
Architectural Concrete
Surface Appearance
Commentary on current concrete industry practice

by James E. Klinger, Ron L. Kozikowski, Tim I. Manherz, Anthony R. DeCarlo Jr., and Bruce A. Suprenant

I
t’s 5 p.m. on a workday. Quitting time. Construction acute or glancing angle (Fig. 1) and cast shadows that
workers are packing their gear and heading to their trucks highlight surface imperfections. This critical lighting
for the drive home—except for the concrete crew. This condition accentuates joints and variations in sheen, texture,
crew is positioned around the site, observing the surfaces of surface uniformity, or other surface irregularities.
recently erected tilt-up panels. Some panels have features— Light reflected from a surface is diffuse—it’s scattered in
lines correlating with the saw cuts in the slab that served as many different directions—so a viewer may not perceive
the casting surface for the panels—that are visible for only small imperfections when the angle of viewing to the surface
1 hour a day, from 4 to 5 p.m. Although the crew patched the is acute or obtuse relative. As the angle of viewing becomes
panel surfaces and found gaps beneath a straightedge of less more acute or critical, however, the amount of nonscattered
than 1/32 in. (0.8 mm) across the saw-cut lines, these features light reflected to the eye is increased, and surface
are still visible. imperfections become more visible.1 Surfaces that are very
From a construction contract administration perspective, smooth (nontextured) or glossy will reflect more light rather
are the lines imperfections? Concrete industry criteria for this than scatter it. The more the light is reflected, the more visible
situation aren’t clear. If these features are considered the surface imperfections.
imperfections, are they due to poor workmanship? Even if
each line was repatched with a zero gap beneath a straightedge, Critical versus Noncritical Lighting
would it still be visible? And why are these lines visible for It’s important to recognize what the terms “critical” and
only 1 hour in the afternoon? “noncritical” lighting mean. Critical lighting occurs when
sunlight or another light source strikes a wall surface at or less
Glancing Light than 15 degrees—the critical angle.1,2 Visual inspection of
Glancing light is commonly used to describe a critical wall or ceiling surfaces during critical lighting (Fig. 2) will
lighting condition that exists when light hits a surface at an cast a shadow for any irregularity that is 1/32 in. or greater.2
Noncritical lighting occurs when the
light strikes the surface at an angle
greater than 15 degrees. If the
specifications refer to viewing the
surface when it is not critical lighting,
or noncritical lighting, it indicates that
this light condition should not be used
to accentuate surface irregularities.
Critical lighting exists for only a
Fig. 1: Examples of acute, glancing, and obtuse angles. A glancing light angle is typically noticeably brief time, sometimes just a
considered less than 15 degrees and can highlight surface irregularities of 1/32 in. (0.8 mm) few minutes a day.
or greater1,2 Although there are many sun angle

40 JUNE 2024 | Ci | www.concreteinternational.com

calculators (SunCalc®,3 Omni Calculator,4 and NOAA Solar A review of the criteria for visual inspection of these
Calculator5), there are more practical methods to determine surfaces illustrates the same confusion that exists in the
when to visually inspect the surface. One recommendation is concrete industry.
to visually inspect concrete surfaces between 10 a.m. and
2 p.m. when the daylight (sunlight) angle is greater than 15 Basics of Visual Inspection
degrees.1 It should be noted, however, that critical lighting can Visual inspection is the oldest form of quality control.
also be an interior condition when windows or openings extend While we are interested in visual inspection for surface
to walls or ceilings (Fig. 3).6 In these cases, critical lighting
may arise near dawn or dusk.

Artificial Lighting
Artificial lighting, which is any light that is not naturally
occurring, such as construction or final project lighting, can
also create glancing light. We can’t find any recommendations
for artificial lighting conditions to be used for visual
inspection of interior surfaces during construction. However,
placing inspection lighting at the same location as the final
project lighting may highlight surface imperfections that could
precipitate rejection when the final project lighting is in place.

Not Just an Exterior, Vertical Issue

Figure 4 illustrates the effect of glancing light on the
interior slab of a parking garage. At 5:30 p.m., the glancing
light through a wall opening highlights a washboard surface
that is not as noticeable at 6 p.m. The visual washboard
surface appearance diminishes with time when the glancing
light ends.

Not Just a Concrete Issue

The effect of critical lighting on appearance based on
visual inspection is an issue with other industries, including:
• Painted surfaces1,8,9; Fig. 3: Critical lighting can occur indoors when windows or openings
• Drywall10; extend to intersecting ceilings or walls (from Reference 6)
• Exterior insulation and finish system (EIFS)2;
• Stucco/plaster2,11;
• Metal panels12;
• Masonry13; and
• Cast stone.14,15

Fig. 2: During times of

critical lighting,
shadows cast by
irregularities of 1/32 in.
or greater can be seen.
It is recommended that
visual inspection be
performed during Fig. 4: Effect of exterior glancing light through wall openings in a
noncritical lighting1,2 parking garage. At 5:30 p.m., there is a washboard surface
(from Reference 2) appearance that diminishes with time

www.concreteinternational.com | Ci | JUNE 2024 41

appearance, it has also been used as a nondestructive testing visual inspection for construction, it creates great challenges
(NDT) method to observe physical defects. While visual for the contractor who bid on the project and provided a
inspection is a method that offers numerous benefits, it’s not mockup based on project specifications.
without its limitations. One of the primary constraints is its See16 provides a review of the literature on visual
dependence on the subjective judgment of inspectors, leading inspection, including the results of numerous inspection
to potential inconsistencies in results. studies conducted over 6 decades on the factors that impact
Generally, the concrete industry uses comparative visual inspection performance as shown in Table 1. The Federal
inspection: comparing an item against a reference or standard, Highway Administration (FHWA) studied the reliability of
often side-by-side, to spot any deviations or defects. visual inspection on highway bridges providing insight into
However, when persons performing visual inspection are the physical, environmental, and management factors
unable to remain objective and begin to introduce subjectivity affecting visual inspection.17,18 The following summaries of
(opinions and biases), the process is flawed.16 It may become the number of defects, standards for comparison, and factors
an issue when the appearance expectations are not clearly for perfect inspection are edited versions from See.16
expressed in the specifications. When the inspector visually
inspects a mockup or finished product, it’s important to Number of defects
consider whether the evaluation is based on the workmanship Megaw19 observed that, regardless of the total number of
according to the project specifications or the inspector’s potential defects, inspectors appear to search for a subset of
expectations of the mockup or completed project. about five. He points out that, without feedback, inspectors
The “I know it when I see it” visual inspection approach will not necessarily choose the most appropriate subset of
creates difficulties. This colloquial expression is typically defects. Along these lines, Rao et al.20 concluded that six
remembered as used by Arthur Conan Doyle and Supreme defects may represent the practical maximum for an inspector.
Court Justice Potter Stewart. In Doyle’s The Hound of the In accordance with research findings regarding defect type,
Baskervilles, Sherlock Holmes comments on the quality of a Gallwey21 recommended searching for one type of defect
portrait by saying: “I know what is good when I see it.” everywhere on the product, then moving to the second defect
Justice Stewart famously used the quote to describe his type, rather than trying to search for all defect types
threshold test for obscenity. When this approach is used in concurrently in all areas of the product.

Standards for comparison

Table 1: The way defects are defined can impact inspection
Factors that impact inspection performance (from performance. Defect definition includes both the literal
Reference 16) definition of the defect (for example, a 2 in. [50 mm] long
Task Individual scratch) and any standards that may be used to define it in
• Defect rate • Gender relation to good products.
• Defect type • Age First, with respect to literal defect definition, Jamieson22
• Defect salience • Visual acuity indicated that the absence of a clear specification of what
• Defect location • Intelligence
constitutes a defect contributes to poor inspection
• Complexity • Aptitude
• Standards • Personality performance. Specifically, the lack of clear definitions of
• Pacing • Time in job defects prompted inspectors to form personal criteria, which
• Multiple inspections • Experience led to variability in work quality during inspection. Such
• Overlays • Visual lobe subjective criteria appear to drift over time as well, resulting
• Automation • Scanning strategy
in products that would have been rejected at one time but are
• Biases
accepted at another.23 This phenomenon can be observed both
Environmental Organizational between and within inspectors. Barring clear definitions,
• Lighting • Management support individual inspectors may revise their own work if, unknown
• Noise • Training to them, it is returned.
• Temperature • Retraining
• Shift duration • Instructions
Second, the use of standards against which to compare a
• Time of day • Feedforward information given item is generally beneficial. Using standards changes an
• Vigilance • Feedback absolute judgment task into a comparative judgment task,
• Workplace design • Incentives eliminating the need to rely on long-term memory of the
• Job rotation standard. Therefore, inspection tasks that make use of
Social standards for comparison tend to be associated with better
• Pressure defect detection.22 However, the standards themselves must be
• Consultation simple and easy to interpret. Gallwey and Drury24 showed that
• Isolation inspection performance was worse when different standards
• Communication
had to be used for different areas of the product as opposed to

42 JUNE 2024 | Ci | www.concreteinternational.com

the condition in which the same standards for acceptance/ all experimenters designing or using visual test methods to
rejection could be applied to any defect. provide direct results in terms of the observation of
appearance properties. The concrete industry is silent on the
Perfect inspection selection, evaluation, and training of observers or observer
Individual factors refer to physical, mental, and personality qualifications necessary to perform adequate visual inspection.
characteristics of the inspector such as age, intelligence, and
extraversion. Individual factors have been extensively Concrete Industry Recommendations for
investigated to identify the traits of the “perfect” inspector and Visual Inspection of Appearance
to develop personnel selection techniques for inspection. In ACI 311.4R-05, “Guide for Concrete Inspection,”29
fact, perhaps the most consistent finding in inspection is the provides “inspection for damage and visual appearance” for
existence of large differences both between and within precast erection. Although the document provides no further
inspectors, in the way they perform the task and the overall specific advice on this task, it does comment on inspector
level of accuracy they achieve.25 training and the role of the architect/engineer (A/E) to provide
additional requirements for speciality work such as
ASTM standards architectural concrete:
ASTM International has standards for visual inspection of “All personnel performing concrete inspection and
asbestos abatement projects, integrity of seals for flexible testing work should be certified and demonstrate a
packaging, membrane switches, fabrics for inflatable knowledge and ability to perform the necessary
restraints, clear transparent liquids, pharmaceutical inspection and testing procedures equivalent to the
equipment, steel castings, and diffusely illuminated opaque minimum guidelines set forth for certification by ACI for
materials. These standards for visual inspection typically the appropriate category listed.” (Section 3.6)
include requirements for: “Specialty work—Some construction projects may
• Inspector training; require items of inspection not listed in Table 3.1 or
• Lighting conditions; Appendix I. Such items can be added by the A/E to
• Viewing angle; and ensure adequate conformance to quality requirements.
• Viewing distance. For this reason, the inspection items listed are intended to
Three ASTM standards of interest include: cover only those construction activities and materials
• ASTM E284-22, “Standard Terminology of Appearance”26; most commonly encountered in concrete construction.
• ASTM E1808-96(2021), “Standard Guide for Designing Inspection items for specialty work, such as pressure
and Conducting Visual Experiments”27; and grouting, shotcrete, high-performance concrete, self-
• ASTM E1499-16(2023), “Standard Guide for Selection, consolidating concrete, two-course floors, super-flat
Evaluation, and Training of Observers.”28 floors, terrazzo, stucco, masonry, cast stone, tile,
ASTM E284 defines terms used in the description of architectural concrete, painting, preplaced-aggregate
appearance, including but not limited to color, gloss, opacity, concrete, tilt-up construction, underwater construction,
scattering, texture, and visibility of both materials (ordinary, vacuum concrete, and slipform construction are
fluorescent, and retroreflective) and light sources (including intentionally omitted from Table 3.1 and Appendix I. It is
visual display units). The definition of terms has been made to intended that the A/E will develop inspection criteria for
achieve greater accuracy, brevity, clarity, precision, and specialty work that is appropriate to the specific needs of
internal consistency and to draw distinctions that are useful in these activities.” (Section 3.7.4.1)
the practical measurement and specification of appearance. ACI documents that include recommendations or
In addition, ASTM E284 defines the viewing conditions requirements for visual inspection of cast-in-place, precast,
under which a visual observation is made, including: a) the and tilt-up concrete are:
angular subtense of the specimen at the eye; b) geometric • ACI 303.1-97, “Standard Specification for Cast-in-Place
relationship of source, specimen, and eye; c) photometric and Architectural Concrete” (Withdrawn)30;
spectral character of the source; d) photometric and spectral • ACI 303R-12, “Guide to Cast-in-Place Architectural
character of the field of view surrounding the specimen; and Concrete Practice”31;
e) state of adaptation of the eye. • ACI 301-20, “Specifications for Concrete Construction”32;
ASTM E1808, Section 5, provides recommendations for and
establishing viewing conditions, which include: a) light source; • ACI 347.3R-13(21), “Guide to Formed Concrete
b) viewing geometry; c) surround and ambient field; and Surfaces.”33
d) observers. Concrete industry recommendations for visual ACI 303.1-97, Section 5.3.9.1, provides final acceptance
inspection would benefit greatly by using ASTM E1808 to requirements for architectural concrete:
establish viewing conditions. “Upon completion of architectural concrete, final
ASTM E1499 provides guidance on the selection, acceptance is based upon the matching of the
evaluation, and training of observers that should be useful to architectural cast-in-place concrete with the accepted

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 Field Mockups when viewed at the distance of 20 ft (6 m) • Smooth Panel Finish-3 Architectural (SPF-3)—“Upon
in daylight.” completion of surface repairs and patching, for final
ACI 303R-12 provides visual inspection recommendations acceptance, panels shall match the appearance of the
for general and final acceptance and viewing the accepted mockup panel when viewed from a distance of
preconstruction mockup: 10 ft in daylight.” (Section 12.3.9(a)(d))
• “General acceptance criteria—Architecturally acceptable • Repairs—“Mix patching materials and repair members so
concrete surfaces should be aesthetically compatible with cured patches blend with color, texture, and uniformity of
minimal color and texture variations and surface defects adjacent exposed surfaces and show no apparent line of
when viewed at a distance of approximately 20 ft (6 m) or demarcation between original and repaired work when
more, as agreed upon by the architect, owner, and viewed in daylight from 20 ft.” (Section 13.3.5(c))
contractor, or as otherwise specified.” (Section 3.1.1) • “Surface coloring—Brick specified with surface coloring,
• “Preconstruction mockup—The preconstruction mockup other than flashed or sand-finished brick, shall withstand
50 cycles of freezing and thawing in accordance with
(Fig. 3.5.4) is a full-scale sample of architectural concrete
constructed on-site by the contractor with proposed ASTM C67 with no observable difference in applied finish
equipment, materials, and construction procedures. The if viewed in daylight from 20 ft.” (Section 14.2.6.2(j))
contractor should obtain written approval of the finished ACI 347.3R-13(21), Section 7.2, provides the following
product from the specifying agency and the owner after recommendation for visually evaluating the overall
viewing at the agreed-upon distance before constructing impression:
the main structure.” (Section 3.5.4) “Make the evaluation under normal lighting conditions
• “Final acceptance—If the procedures determined by the from a minimum distance of 20 ft (6 m) or greater, that is
perpendicular to the concrete surface to be viewed. This
approved on-site mockup are continued throughout the
project, final acceptance at the agreed-upon distance viewing distance allows one to evaluate that the overall
should not be a problem. Due to the inevitable appearance of the structure has been achieved.
nonuniformity of construction practices, some repairs will Sunlight striking a concrete surface at an acute angle
be required. Their final acceptability will depend on the will amplify the appearance of irregularities, so
contractor’s blending technique and skill. Periodic review evaluations under these conditions should be avoided.
by the inspector and the architect/engineer to allow partial The appropriate viewing distance is equal to the distance
acceptance creates goodwill and confidence with all that allows the entire building, the building’s essential
concerned. After final acceptance, the inspector’s records parts, or both, to be viewed in their entirety. The
should be completed and filed. If later additions are made individual design features should be recognizable. For
or adjoining buildings constructed, these records will be architectural concrete, refer to ACI 303R-12.”
helpful for construction.” (Section 3.5.6.4) The Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute (PCI) and the
ACI 301-20 provides visual requirements for acceptance of Tilt-Up Concrete Association (TCA) recommendations or
architectural concrete and architectural tilt-up panels, repairs requirements for visual inspection of precast and tilt-up
on precast structural concrete, and surface color of thin bricks concrete are included in:
used for architectural precast concrete: • PCI MNL-117-13, “Manual for Quality Control for Plants
• Periodic acceptance—“Architect/Engineer will and Production of Architectural Precast Concrete
Products”34;
periodically observe completed portions of architectural
concrete for conformance with accepted field mockup. The • PCI DN-22-11, “Designer’s Notebook: Acceptability of
frequency of periodic acceptance and acceptance criteria Appearance”35; and
will be established at preconstruction conference.” • TCA Guide Specification for Site-Cast Tilt-Up
(Section 6.1.4.5(a)) Construction.36
• “Architectural concrete declared unacceptable during PCI MNL-117-13 provides the following recommendations
on acceptance:
periodic observation shall be repaired or replaced. Submit
a revised method of producing acceptable concrete before • Curing and Finishing Areas—“Lighting is extremely
proceeding with additional architectural concrete important in the finishing area and at the point where final
construction.” (Section 6.1.4.5(b)) inspection is made before transport to the storage area. This
• “Final acceptance of architectural concrete—Upon is where comparison to the approved samples is made for
color and texture. Where possible, indoor lighting should
completion of architectural concrete, including surface
repairs and patching of tie holes, final acceptance is based compare to daylight as closely as possible.” (Commentary
on matching the architectural cast-in place concrete with Section 2.2.6)
accepted field mockup when viewed at 20 ft in daylight. • Acceptability of Appearance—“The finished face surface
Defective Work not conforming to Contract Documents, shall have no obvious imperfections other than minimal
including repair areas not accepted, shall be removed and color and texture variations from the approved samples or
replaced.” (Section 6.3.1.2) evidence of repairs when viewed in good typical daylight

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 illumination with the unaided naked eye consistent with the document the pattern, particularly when several units
viewing distance on the structure, but not less than 20 ft display similar cracking. Such cracking is often the result
(6 m). Appearance of the surface shall not be evaluated of a single design, manufacturing, or handling problem,
when light is illuminating the surface from an extreme which can then be rectified to prevent any recurrence. If
angle, as this tends to accentuate minor surface crack repair is required for the restoration of structural
irregularities.” (Section 2.10) integrity, cracks may be filled, or pressure injected with a
PCI DN-22-11 recommends that one person have final low-viscosity epoxy. The acceptability of the crack repairs
authority for the acceptability of color, finish, and texture, and should be governed by the importance and function of the
that the contract documents clearly identify the accepting panel. The decision regarding acceptability must be made
authority. The document also provides recommendations on on an engineering basis as well as on visual appearance.”
acceptability of appearance and repairs and cracks viewed at a (Section 13)
distance of 20 ft or greater: TCA Guide Specification, Section 034700, Site-Cast
• Acceptability of appearance—“Determining acceptable Tilt-Up Concrete states:
uniformity of color, finish, and texture is by visual “3.7 PANEL FINISH
examination, and is generally a matter of subjective, A. Finish exposed surfaces of panels as indicated on the
individual judgment and interpretation. Acceptable color Drawings including both the front and back of the panels as
and texture variations, surface blemishes, and uniformity well as any exposed edges as defined below. Visible surfaces
should be determined at the time the sample, mockup, or of the panels, when in place shall be free from surface defects
initial production units are approved. Accordingly, it is as defined below.
beyond the scope of this publication to establish precise or B. Grade A - Architectural: Projects designed for the
definitive rules for product acceptability on the basis of circulation of people within a distance of 10 feet to 25 feet.
appearance. However, a suitable criteria for acceptability 1. Panel surfaces shall be free of voids, holes, pockets,
requires that the finished concrete surface should have a and other surface deformations greater than 1/8 inch.
pleasing appearance with minimal color and texture 2. Surfaces of panels shall not project reinforcing
variations from the approved samples. The finished surface patterns, floor joints or other projections or voids
on the face should show no readily visible imperfections from the casting surface.
other than minimal color and texture variations from the 3. Cracks are not permissible in excess of 1/32 inch.
approved samples or evidence of repairs when viewed in 4. Surface repairs shall be performed in such a way as to
typical daylight illumination with the unaided eye prevent the projection of repair strokes through the
consistent with the viewing distance of the structure but not intended finish.
less than a 20 ft (6 m) or greater viewing distance. 5. Holes shall be filled with patching material to present
Appearance of the surface also should not be evaluated a smooth surface ready for painting unless the
when light is illuminating the surface from an angle, as this designed finish is to result in exposed aggregates
tends to accentuate minor surface irregularities due to whereby the patching material shall match the
shadowing.” intended color and texture.”
• Repairs visible at 20 ft (6 m) or greater viewing distance—
“A certain amount of product repair is to be expected as a

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Ci
routine procedure. Repair methods should ensure that the
repaired area will conform to the balance of the work with
respect to applicable requirements for appearance,
structural adequacy, serviceability, and durability. Slight
in

color variations may occur between the repaired area and

the original surface due to the different age and curing
conditions of the repair. The repair will generally become
less noticeable over time (at least one month) with For more information, contact
exposure to the environment and should blend into adjacent
surfaces so it becomes less noticeable. Excessive variation Dan Kaste, Account Executive
in color and texture of repairs from adjacent surfaces may Email: [email protected]
be cause for rejection until the variation is minimized.”
(Section 11) MCI USA: +1.410.584.8355
• Cracks visible at 20 ft (6 m) or greater viewing distance—
“The acceptability of cracks should be determined with
respect to actual service condition requirements, structural
significance, and aesthetics. Every effort should be made to
promptly identify the cause of any cracking and to

www.concreteinternational.com | Ci | JUNE 2024 45

Comments on Industry Recommendations/ Acceptance criteria established at the preconstruction
Requirements conference will likely lead to the contractor’s request for a
Formed and unformed surfaces can be specified as change order.
architectural concrete, which includes exterior and interior
walls, floors, and ceilings. The visual inspection criteria— Viewing eye
viewing distance and lighting—appear to apply only to The terms “naked” and “unaided” eye are used to describe
exterior walls. It is unclear how to interpret a 20 ft viewing visual inspection. A Merriam-Webster Dictionary definition
distance for a floor or ceiling and what daylight to use for an says these terms are the same and mean “something that can
interior visual inspection. While ACI 301-20 requires a 20 ft be seen without any instrument that changes the apparent size
viewing distance for cast-in-place architectural and precast or distance of an object or otherwise alters visual powers.”
concrete, it strangely requires a 10 ft (3 m) viewing distance Some specifications allow visual inspection as corrected by
for tilt-up panels. eyeglasses or contacts to a 20/20 vision. Is vision correction
The differences and discrepancies in visual inspection acceptable?
criteria shown in this article need to be evaluated, discussed,
and revised in the next ACI 301 document. Other comments Viewing distance
on industry recommendations or requirements for visual A viewing distance of 20 ft for appearance is recommended.
inspection of architectural concrete are provided. That distance is also considered appropriate for viewing
repairs and cracks. Other viewing distances include 10 ft and
Acceptability authority an agreed-upon distance. There are no recommendations
Only Reference 35 discusses the problematic issue of concerning how the viewing distance is applied to floors,
visual inspection by different inspectors from the same ceilings, or interior walls with limited space for viewing.
company or inspectors from multiple companies such as the
architect, engineer, construction manager, testing agency, or Sunlight angle
owner. PCI recommends that only one person have the final The recommendation was not to view the appearance with
authority for acceptance, and that contract documents clearly the sunlight at an extreme angle as it would accentuate the
identify that accepting authority. For cast-in-place concrete, surface irregularities. None of the recommendations or
one architect could approve the mockup, but a different requirements, however, provided information on what would
architect might provide periodic approval, and then a third be “extreme.” Some recommended that viewing should not
architect could give final approval. On some projects, the occur when the sunlight is at an acute angle, which is any
architect approves the work, only to find that the owner rejects angle less than 90 degrees. Because critical lighting is defined
the final work. as a glancing angle of 15 degrees, the viewing should only
For precast, there are three approval stages: a) initial take place at that time. There is no guidance on calculating the
product at the plant; b) product as delivered; and then c) final viewing angle. Reference 1 recommends viewing surfaces
product as erected. Interjecting multiple individuals or from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. as those times would avoid any
multiple organizations for approval by visual inspection leads glancing angles.
to very real concerns about repeatability and reproducibility.
Consider the “I know it when I see it” inspection approach by Viewing angle
three different inspectors. This is fraught with considerable The viewing angle should be perpendicular (90 degrees) to
confusion, especially when the specifications don’t adequately a concrete wall, and no information is provided for viewing
convey the architectural expectations, thus leading to each floors or ceilings. If viewing is perpendicular to a wall, then
inspector’s opinion and bias. This clearly needs more the viewer’s height determines what is observed. That
emphasis and discussion within the concrete industry. recommendation seems to preclude looking up or down the
wall, which limits the amount of observable area.
Periodic inspection
ACI 301-20 allows for periodic inspection but unfortunately Illumination
leaves the inspection intervals to be determined at the Recommendations for illumination included daylight,
preconstruction meeting. ACI 301-20 does not provide for sunlight, normal daylight, typical daylight, direct daylight,
periodic inspection for architectural precast or architectural good typical daylight, typical lighting conditions, and indoor
tilt-up. Periodic inspection, while in ACI 301-20, is often not lighting that is comparable to outdoor lighting. Reference 37
performed, leaving the contractor’s fate to the final inspection. indicates the illumination of a cloudy sky is about
Regarding periodic acceptance, ACI 301-20, Section 6.1.4.5(a), 500 footcandles, while for a clear sky it could be as much as
slips in that “acceptance criteria will be established at 1500 footcandles. ACI PRC-228.4-2338 indicates that the color
preconstruction conference.” This is not appropriate, as the temperature for visual inspection of physical defects should be
acceptance criteria should be clearly stated in the project 500 to 6500 K to simulate daylight. Illumination conditions
specifications so the contractor can establish the bid. for visual inspection during construction must be considered.

46 JUNE 2024 | Ci | www.concreteinternational.com

Age Table 2:
Age is used as an indication of Comparison of TCA and ACI 301-20 specifications for architectural tilt-up
weathering and color changes due to panels
drying and fading with time. This issue TCA Specification ACI 301-20
is of concern for viewing the mockup, Formed Architectural Panel Finish Architectural Panel Finish
periodic and final acceptance, and surface Grade A SPF-3
repairs. While PCI DN-22-11
Voids Free Not greater than 1/8 in.
recommended waiting at least 1 month
to view repairs, there is no consistency Not mentioned
Holes Free
with respect to the viewing age, an issue (likely included in voids)
that plagues every project. Pockets Free
Not mentioned
(likely included in voids)
Inspector qualifications Other
Even though ACI 311.4R-05 surface Not greater than 1/8 in. Not greater than 1/8 in.
deformations
discusses qualifications and certification
of inspectors, there is no concrete No projection of reinforcing patterns,
Grind or patch floor flush surface
Projections floor joints, or other projections or
industry document that addresses this defects that show on panel surface
voids from casting surface
issue for visual inspection of
Repair cracks that allow water to
architectural concrete. Cracks Not exceed 1/32 in.
seep to interior

The Tilt-Up Conundrum— Repairs

Prevent projection of brush strokes
through finish
Ground or patch voids and offsets
greater than 1/8 in.
Conflict or Compatible
Table 2 provides a comparison of Match accepted mockup when
Maintain approved mockup for
Acceptance viewed at a distance of 10 ft in
TCA Specification36 and ACI 301-20 comparison with finish work
daylight
requirements. The TCA Specification Note: 1 in. = 25 mm
cites ACI 301. Thus, it is interesting to
evaluate whether the two specifications
are compatible or in conflict. If the
specifications contain a conflict clause Table 3:
that requires the most stringent apply, it Criteria for visual inspection of architectural concrete
would be interesting to see how the Visual Inspection for Acceptance—ACI 301-20
construction contract administrator Section 6—Architectural Concrete
would handle this. (Formed Concrete Surfaces)
Comparative standard
Recommendations Field mockup Reference sample
The authors encourage ACI
Viewing conditions
Committee 301, Specifications for
Concrete Construction, to establish a Viewing distance at 20 ft
Viewed in daylight
task group to review and revise criteria
for visual inspection of the appearance Visible surface anomalies
of formed and unformed concrete Aesthetic anomalies Physical anomalies* (SF-3)
surfaces. Representatives of the • Voids larger than 3/4 in. wide or
• Color
American Society of Concrete 1/2 in. deep
Contractors (ASCC), PCI, and TCA • Texture • Projections larger than 1/8 in.
should meet with this task group to
• Tie holes
assist in establishing criteria that are
clear, concise, and stated in • Class A surface tolerance
specification language that can’t be Acceptance
misunderstood. An expert in Match accepted mockup or reference sample
illumination would also be of benefit to
Periodic Final
this task group.
One strategy, as shown in Table 3, is Repair
to summarize the visual inspection Yes—unlimited but acceptance based on mockup repairs
criteria for each architectural concrete Visual inspection then measured for conformance
*

item such as cast-in-place formed and Note: 1 in. = 25 mm

www.concreteinternational.com | Ci | JUNE 2024 47

unformed surfaces and precast and site-cast tilt-up. The 13 pp., https://www.atas.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/1217-IMP-
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maintaining consistency in developing visual inspection 13. “The Effect of Light and Shadows on Masonry,” Masonry
requirements for architectural concrete. Institute of America, Torrance, CA, 2012, 4 pp., https://www.
masonryinstitute.org/pdf/620-12.pdf.
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TB019.pdf, accessed Apr. 22, 2024. 24. Gallwey, T.J., and Drury, C.G., “Task Complexity in Visual
12. “Visual Acceptance Parameters for Insulated Metal Panels (IMP) Inspections,” Human Factors, V. 28, No. 5, Oct. 1986, pp. 595-606.
and Panel Systems,” Metal Construction Association, Chicago, IL, 2017, 25. Drury, C.G., and Wang, M.J., “Are Research Results in Inspection
Task Specific?” Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics
Society Annual Meeting, V. 30, No. 5, Sept. 1986, pp. 476-480.
Errata for 26. ASTM E284-22, “Standard Terminology of Appearance,” ASTM
ACI Publications International, West Conshohocken, PA, 2022, 25 pp.
Available Online 27. ASTM E1808-96(2021), “Standard Guide for Designing
and Conducting Visual Experiments,” ASTM International, West
Under the menu for “Publications” at Conshohocken, PA, 2021, 8 pp.
www.concrete.org, document errata can be 28. ASTM E1499-16(2023), “Standard Guide for Selection,
searched by document number or keywords. Evaluation, and Training of Observers,” ASTM International, West
Conshohocken, PA, 2023, 4 pp.
Call ACI Customer Service at 29. ACI Committee 311, “Guide for Concrete Inspection (ACI
+1.248.848.3700 for more information. 311.4R-05),” American Concrete Institute, Farmington Hills, MI, 2005,
14 pp.
30. ACI Committee 303, “Standard Specification for Cast-in-Place
Architectural Concrete (ACI 303.1-97)(Withdrawn),” American Concrete

48 JUNE 2024 | Ci | www.concreteinternational.com

Institute, Farmington Hills, MI, 1997, 10 pp. 35. “Designer’s Notebook: Acceptability of Appearance (DN-22-11),”
31. ACI Committee 303, “Guide to Cast-in-Place Architectural Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute, Chicago, IL, 2011, 8 pp.
Concrete Practice (ACI 303R-12),” American Concrete Institute, 36. “Guide Specification for Site-Cast Tilt-Up Construction, Section
Farmington Hills, MI, 2012, 32 pp. 034700, Site-Cast Tilt-Up Concrete,” Tilt-Up Concrete Association,
32. ACI Committee 301, “Specifications for Concrete Construction Mt. Vernon, IA, 2018, 18 pp.
(ACI 301-20),” American Concrete Institute, Farmington Hills, MI, 37. “Pilkington Sun Angle Calculator Instruction Manual,” Society of
2020, 69 pp. Building Science Educators, 21 pp., https://www.sbse.org/sites/sbse/files/
33. ACI Committee 347, “Guide to Formed Concrete Surfaces uploads/documents/PSAC_Manual.pdf, accessed Apr. 22, 2024.
(ACI 347.3R-13)(Reapproved 2021),” American Concrete Institute, 38. ACI Committee 228, “Visual Condition Survey of Concrete—
Farmington Hills, MI, 2013, 17 pp. Guide (ACI PRC-228.4-23),” American Concrete Institute, Farmington
34. “Manual for Quality Control for Plants and Production of Hills, MI, 2023, 29 pp.
Architectural Precast Concrete Products (MNL-117-13),” Precast/
Prestressed Concrete Institute, Chicago, IL, 2013, 334 pp. Selected for reader interest by the editors.

ACI member James E. Klinger is a Lots and Site Paving; 360, Design of Slabs on Ground; and Joint
Concrete Construction Specialist for ACI-ASCC Committee 117, Tolerances. He is a member of the
the American Society of Concrete ASCC Technical and Membership Committees. Manherz served as
Contractors (ASCC), St. Louis, MO, USA. TCA President in 2018 and was inducted into the TCA College of
He is a member of ACI Committees Fellows in 2020. He received the 2020 ACI Construction Award
134, Concrete Constructability, and 318, and the 2022 ACI Concrete International Award.
Structural Concrete Building Code; Joint
ACI-ASCC Committee 117, Tolerances; Anthony R. DeCarlo, FACI, is the
and ACI Subcommittee 318-A, General, President and CEO of Dominion Concrete
Concrete, and Construction. He was the recipient of the 2020 Services LLC in Cincinnati, OH, USA. He
ACI Construction Award and the 2022 ACI Roger H. Corbetta has 30 years of industry experience as
Concrete Constructor Award. Klinger received his master’s degree a concrete contractor in the commercial
in structural engineering from the University of Maryland, College and industrial markets. He is Chair of
Park, MD, USA. ACI Subcommittees 301-F, Architectural
Concrete - Section 6, and 301-L, Tilt-Up
Ron L. Kozikowski, FACI, is Vice Construction - Section 12; and a member
President of North S.Tarr Concrete of the ACI Financial Advisory Committee; ACI Committees 301,
Consulting, P.C., Dover, NH, USA, Specifications for Concrete Construction, and 330, Concrete
specializing in troubleshooting concrete Parking Lots and Site Paving; and ACI Subcommittee 301-SC,
construction issues. He has over 20 Steering Committee. He also served on the ACI Board of Direction
years of experience as a construction and is a member of the ACI Foundation’s Scholarship Council.
and materials engineer. Kozikowski is In addition, DeCarlo is Vice President of ASCC and serves
a member of ACI Committees C680, on its Board of Direction. He received his BS in construction
Adhesive Anchor Installer Certification; management from University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH.
207, Mass and Thermally Controlled Concrete; 213, Lightweight
Aggregate and Concrete; 301, Specifications for Concrete Bruce A. Suprenant, FACI, is Chair of
Construction; 306, Cold Weather Concreting; and 308, Curing ACI Subcommittee 117-M, Movements
Concrete; and Joint ACI-ASCC Committee 117, Tolerances. He Affecting Tolerances, and Vice Chair of
received his BS and MS in civil engineering from the University of Joint ACI-ASCC Committee 117, Tolerances,
New Hampshire, Durham, NH. as well as a member of ACI Committees
134, Concrete Constructability; and 302,
ACI member Tim I. Manherz is the Construction of Concrete Floors. His
Vice President of Operations at Encore honors include the 2022 ACI Concrete
Concrete Construction, Houston, TX, USA. International Award, the 2021 ACI
He has 35+ years of experience in the Arthur R. Anderson Medal, the 2020 ACI
construction industry, with over Construction Award, the 2013 ACI Certification Award, the 2010
30 years dedicated to the concrete ACI Roger H. Corbetta Concrete Constructor Award, and the 2010
segment. He is a member of ACI ACI Construction Award.
Committees 302, Construction of
Concrete Floors; 330, Concrete Parking

www.concreteinternational.com | Ci | JUNE 2024 49

A Lower Bound to the Shear
Strength of RC Beams and
One-Way Members without
Shear Reinforcement
by Santiago Pujol, Carlos E. Ospina, and Charles Kerby

I
n 1927, after 12 years of work and 131 tests, F.E. Richart unit shear stress used in allowable-stress design until 1963 for
wrote: “The action of reinforcement to resist diagonal 3000 psi concrete: 0.03 f c′.
tension is not susceptible to exact analysis.”1 In the same The expression developed by Joint ACI-ASCE Committee 326
treatise, Richart wrote that the relationship between stirrup and the simplification vc = 2 f c′ (psi) introduced in a code
unit stresses fv and nominal unit shear stress v is revision proposed in 1967 were used in the United States
until 2019.
v = vc + r × fv (1)
In response to collapses of U.S. Air Force warehouses in
where v is the nominal unit shear stress (shear force V divided the 1950s, the 1971 version of ACI 3183 included a
by the product of effective depth d and web width b); vc is the requirement for minimum web reinforcement for cases in
fraction of shear resistance attributed to the concrete (denoted which the factored shear demand exceeded “one-half of vc.”
as C in the original report); r is the transverse reinforcement Although those collapses were attributed to “a combination of
ratio (zero for beams with no stirrups); and fv is the stress in diagonal tension due to dead load and axial tension due to
stirrups. shrinkage and temperature,”4 the limit implied that the
For the concrete strengths considered, Richart observed vc capacity of reinforced concrete (RC) beams without stirrups
to vary from 90 to 200 psi at failure, saying “undoubtedly, the could be as low as 1 f c′ (psi). This limit has been used
value of C depends on the quality of the concrete as well as successfully in the design of RC beams and one-way slabs
upon the amounts of longitudinal and web reinforcement.”1 since then. Nevertheless, since approximately 19675, there
By 1962, Joint ACI-ASCE Committee 326, Shear and have been concerns about large RC beams and one-way
Diagonal Torsion (later changed to 426 and then to 445), had elements (for example, slabs and walls) not required to meet
expressed this dependency as the mentioned minimum. Murray,6 McCain,7 and Daluga et
al.8 have summarized works related to the former topic, which
(psi) (2) have been published often in relation to the term “size effect.”
For example, Kani5 reported shear strengths of 48 in. deep
where ρ is the longitudinal (flexural) reinforcement ratio (ratio beams that were ~40% smaller than the strengths of reportedly
of the area of steel in tension to the product of cross-sectional comparable 16 in. deep beams. Chana9 reported shear
width and effective depth d); V/M is the inverse of shear span strengths of ~16 in. deep beams that were ~50% smaller than
a; and f c′ is the compressive concrete strength obtained from the strengths of ~2 in. deep beams in which all dimensions,
standard (6 x 12 in.) cylinders (in psi). including maximum aggregate size, were scaled in proportion
Joint ACI-ASCE Committee 326 stated that shear strengths to depth. Later Shioya et al.10 reported shear strengths of 120 in.
measured in beams without stirrups were smaller than deep beams that were ~67% smaller than the strengths of
strengths calculated with Eq. (2) in nearly 30% of the cases.2 reportedly comparable 8 in. deep beams. Bažant and Kazemi11
For the lowest concrete strength used by Richart in his tests reported results from 16 in. deep beams that were ~60%
(2400 psi),1 the first term in Eq. (2) renders nearly 90 psi, weaker than 1 in. deep specimens made with the same
matching both Richart’s earlier observation and the maximum “micro-concrete” mixture. Others followed with similar

50 JUNE 2024 | Ci | www.concreteinternational.com

conclusions, as summarized by Murray,6 McCain,7 and estimate shear strength of RC beams and one-way slabs in
Daluga et al.8 absence of the assumed size effect: . That produces
On the other hand, Taylor12 observed 39 in. deep beams to nearly 2 f c′ for ρ = 1.5%. But for effective depths exceeding
be 90% as strong as quarter-size models made by scaling all 10 in. and flexural reinforcement ratios smaller than 1.5%,
dimensions, including aggregate size, cover, and bar diameter, ACI 318-1921 recommends shear strengths smaller than
by one quarter. Murray,6 McCain,7 and Daluga et al.8 were 2 f c′ as indicated by the expression
able to reproduce the observations by Taylor with specimens
with depths ranging from 12 to 48 in. Frosch13 observed that (3)
the inclusion of minimum longitudinal (flexural) reinforcement
offsets plausible decreases in vc attributable to “size” in large where ρ is the flexural reinforcement ratio.
RC beams. Equation (3) implies that large RC beams, one-way
Proposals to revise shear design practice in the United slabs, and retaining walls with low amounts of flexural
States were requested by ACI Committee 318, Structural reinforcement can have extremely low shear strengths. For
Concrete Building Code, in the mid-2010s because: example, for a retaining wall with minimum flexural
• The majority of the literature spoke of detrimental effects reinforcement (ρ = 0.18%) and d = 70 in., the recommended
of RC beam size increments; value of vc produced by Eq. (3) is f c′ /2. That value
• It is not always practical to increase cover, bar diameter, represents a four-fold reduction in nominal strength relative
bar spacing, and aggregate size in proportion to depth (as to 2 f c′ , which is: a) the value of vc obtained for d = 10 in.
Taylor12 did); and and ρ = 1.5% with the same expression; and b) the value
• It is not always practical to include minimum shear that was used to design structures (large and small) for
reinforcement in large RC elements. decades.
Six competing proposals produced by international teams The large reductions in nominal shear strength produced by
of researchers appeared in Concrete International in 2017.14 Eq. (3) have caused significant problems for practitioners
All six included a multiplier to reduce the nominal shear designing large one-way RC elements used in earth-retaining
strength of an RC beam (with no stirrups) tending to zero with structures, culverts, tunnels, and hydraulic structures. RC
increasing effective depth d or total depth h (in inches): elements in these structures often have large sections and low
flexural reinforcement ratios and, as it stands, the process
100
• 38 + 0.9d
from Bentz and Collins15 does not converge to sensible solutions. The reductions are so
radical that they trigger the question: If shear strength was so
badly overestimated before 2019, why have failures in these
2
• d/8
from Cladera et al.16 structures not been observed in the field yet?
In the limit, Eq. (3) implies that vc tends to zero as ρ
decreases and d increases. That seems to make little physical
1.4
• d/10
from Frosch et al.17 sense because even plain (unreinforced) concrete has some
finite resistance to shear. This argument and the other reasons
laid out forced a review of the evidence to decide whether
1
• h/11.8
from Li et al.18 Eq. (3) needs a lower bound.

1/ 4 The Evidence
 12 
•  
d 
from Park and Choi19 The following are observations related to the need for a
lower bound to Eq. (3):
1 • The most salient observation regarding the reliability of
• 3
d
from Reineck20 Eq. (3) is that, despite its indication that large elements
with minimum flexural reinforcement are unsafe, no
All these multipliers describe more or less the same trend. failures have been observed in the field. In fact, the
If used to reduce an assumed strength of 2 f c′ at d = 20 in., estimate vc = 2 f c′ and the requirement for minimum
they all tend toward ~ f c′ for d = 160 in. The average of the reinforcement for RC beams in which the shear demand
proposed factors does not deviate much from the multiplier exceeded f c′ worked well for five decades;
adopted by the selection • From the works of Chana,9 Taylor,12 and Daluga et al.,8 it
follows that, if there is a “size effect” independent of the
1.4
committee evaluating the competing proposals: , relative dimensions of cover, bar spacing and diameter, and
d/10 aggregate, it seems to be much less pronounced for larger
which was later simplified by ACI Committee 318 to beams than it is for beams with depths smaller than ~20 in.
2/(1 + d/10). This multiplier is 1 at d = 10 in. The selection In larger beams with comparable ratios of cover, bar
committee also decided to adopt the following expression to spacing and diameter, and aggregate size to depth, the unit

www.concreteinternational.com | Ci | JUNE 2024 51

 shear strength does not seem to vary as sharply with size as strength on the left side of the plot correspond to beams with
it does for small beams and beam models; and large flexural reinforcement ratios, while the low values on
• RC beam shear strength is affected by ρ, aspect ratio a/d, the right side correspond to low flexural reinforcement ratios.
and, at least for larger beams, aggregate size dagg. So, it is It is evident that the apparent decrease in shear strength seen
prudent to organize the available experimental data into in the plot may not be the exclusive result of the plausible
groups of beams with similar values of ρ, a/d, and dagg effects of increases in size. If one focuses on the data from
before judging other plausible trends in test results. beams with flexural reinforcement ratios smaller than 0.5%
(Fig. 2), the plausible rate of decrease in strength with
The Data increasing depth seems to be smaller for larger effective
Joint ACI-ASCE Subcommittee 445-D, Shear & Torsion- depths. This “decreasing rate of strength decrease” suggests a
Shear Databases, has collected data from nearly 800 tests of plausible, or at least pragmatic, asymptote not far from
RC beams (without stirrups) classified as having failed in vc = 1 f c′ regardless of the aspect ratio a/d.
shear.22 To focus on a domain of relevance to practice, only a Within the ranges being considered, the potential trends in
subset of the data is considered here. In this data subset, the the data may also be affected by aggregate size. Tests of
flexural reinforcement ratio ρ does not exceed 3%, and the otherwise identical beams with different aggregate sizes have
effective depth d is larger than 11 in. (to capture beam produced different measurements of shear strength.8
specimens with total depths of at least ~1 ft). In addition, the Aggregate size dagg may provide an indication of the ability of
data have been reexamined to report values of shear at failure the aggregate to span a crack and resist friction along the
at a section located at a distance d from the closest support. crack. Crack width, in turn, can be assumed to be proportional
Other authors in the past have chosen to report shear force at to crack spacing, and the spacing between inclined cracks has
other sections. Joint ACI-ASCE Subcommittee 445-D has been reported to be proportional to effective depth d.15 It
calculated the shear at a section along the inclined crack
causing failure, but the section at d from the support is the
section that would govern the design of a beam with uniform
load. Even in RC beams with large cross sections under
concentrated applied load, uniform loading caused by
self-weight can cause large shear forces near the supports.
Within the stated limits, the available test data include test
results from Daluga et al.8 that had not been included in the
database by Joint ACI-ASCE Subcommittee 445-D, as well as
data on large RC beams (also referred to as “slices of one-way
slabs”) from four recent tests (one by Collins et al.23 and three
by Moehle24). The tests by Collins et al. and Moehle are the
most recent results from tests of deep beams and are
highlighted in Fig. 1.
The ranges of critical variables in all considered tests are
listed in Table 1.
The trend described by the coefficient 2/(1 + d/10) is
close to the average trend for the entire data set but not for the Fig. 1: Measured unit shear strength of beams with d > 11 in. and ρ <
beams with low ρ. In Fig. 1, the highest values of shear 3% versus effective depth d. Symbols represent flexural
reinforcement ratios

Table 1:
Ranges of critical variables considered in test results
Variable Minimum Maximum Units
Effective depth d 11 151 in.

Total depth h 12 158 in.

Aspect ratio a/d 2.4 8.1 —

Aggregate size dagg 0.01 1.6 in.

dagg/d 0.004 0.18 —

Concrete strength f c′ 1780 14,000 psi

Flexural reinforcement ratio ρ 0.14 2.88 %

52 JUNE 2024 | Ci | www.concreteinternational.com

 follows that the ratio dagg/d can serve as a measure of frictional
strength along inclined cracks or “aggregate interlock.”
The test data shown in Fig. 3(a) suggest that there may be
correlation between relative aggregate size and shear strength
at least for RC beams with depths exceeding 2 ft. Focusing on
beams with lower flexural reinforcement ratios (Fig. 3(b))
leads to a similar conclusion.
Given the possibility that aggregate size may affect the
shear strength of large beams, it is prudent to revisit the
apparent trend between shear strength and d considering
differences in relative aggregate size. Figure 4 shows that the
high values of shear strength represented by symbols on the
left side of the plot not only correspond to test beams with
high flexural reinforcement ratios, but they also correspond to
beams with relatively large aggregates. The most critical
elements may therefore be large members with smaller
Fig. 2: Measured unit shear strength of RC beams with d > 11 in. and aggregates and less longitudinal reinforcement, such as beams
ρ < 0.5% versus effective depth d. Symbols represent the aspect
tested by Shioya et al.,10 which had 2.5 and 5 mm (0.1 and
ratio a/d
0.2 in.) aggregate in 600 and 1000 mm (24 and 39 in.) deep
beams with a flexural reinforcement ratio of 0.4%.
Focusing exclusively on test data from such test beams
produces the plot in Fig. 5. This plot suggests again that the
most critical beams tend to have shear strengths that do not
deviate far from f c′ , by and large. This tendency does not
seem to change if the data are organized in bins referring to
similar a/d values.
It must be admitted, however, that it is difficult to separate
the plausible effect of aggregate size from that of depth if the
former must be normalized by the latter to evaluate “aggregate
interlock.” Nevertheless, it is safer to say that the most critical
specimens in the available test data, that is, specimens with
the parameters that seem most likely to lead to low shear
strengths (large members with low flexural reinforcement
ratios and small aggregates), have not had measured strengths
much smaller than ϕ f c′ , with ϕ being the strength reduction
(a) ρ < 3%
factor for shear (0.75). For the ranges considered here (ρ < 3%
and d > 11 in.), only 1.3% (three of 232) of the available test
results fall below that threshold. Moreover, the recommended
minimum value is consistent with the “floor” defined by
ACI 318 in 1971.

An Idealized Construct
If the test data discussed previously are deemed
representative and sufficient, we must also ask: How can a
lower bound to shear strength of RC members without stirrups
be justified? Richart1 made it clear that a rigorous justification
may very well be beyond our reach. But there is a plausible
scenario that offers, if nothing else, a frame of reference.
If we assume shear failure occurs only after the first
flexural crack forms near a section at d (or d + c/2 from face
of support, where c is support length) from center of support
(b) ρ < 1% in beams with rectangular cross sections, no stirrups, and
Fig. 3: Measured unit shear strength of RC beams with d > 11 in. aspect ratios a/d > 2.5 (as in the majority of the considered
versus ratio of maximum aggregate size dagg to effective depth d. tests), then
Symbols represent effective depth Vc > S fr /d (4)

www.concreteinternational.com | Ci | JUNE 2024 53

Fig. 4: Measured unit shear strength of beams with d > 11 in. and Fig. 5: Measured unit shear strength of RC beams with d > 11 in.,
ρ < 3% versus effective depth d. Symbols represent the ratio of ρ < 1%, and dagg/d ≤ 0.015 versus effective depth d. Symbols
aggregate size to effective depth represent flexural reinforcement ratio. Straight lines represent
best-fit linear regressions

where S is the sectional modulus bh2/6 and fr is the modulus of

rupture of concrete.
If fr is assumed to be 6 f c′ (as it is done to estimate the
shear strength of prestressed beams), then the unit shear
strength v = V/bd should be expected to exceed the limit
given by
h2
vc > f c′ (5)
d2

h2 h2
Assuming the term 2 (or ) approaches 1 in
large beams d (d c/2)2

vc > f c′ (6)

Resistance to shear beyond the limit represented by Eq. (6) Fig. 6: Measured unit shear strength (psi) of beams with d > 11 in. and
is likely to be a function of parameters other than tensile ρ < 1% versus tensile strength ft measured from split cylinders and
concrete strength (for example, flexural reinforcement ratio, flexure beams. The straight line represents the relationship v = ft/6
aggregate size, and aspect ratio). In an RC beam with substantial
self-weight, the limit represented by Eq. (6) would have to be
reduced, but the reduction would be in the order of 150 lb/ft3 × cylinder tests.
h/2. For example, for h = 10 ft, 150 lb/ft3 × h/2 = 5 psi. This The above is not a demonstration but an indication that a
quantity is not critical considering the dispersion in values of lower bound to vc independent of aspect ratio, aggregate size,
tensile strength of concrete that can vary from ~4 f c′ to effective depth, and reinforcement ratio may be plausible and/
~12 f c′ . or pragmatic. In addition, decades of successful experience
Given Eq. (6), it holds that the shear strength of deep RC with RC design point in the same direction.
beams with low flexural reinforcement ratios should be
proportional to modulus of rupture or, to be more generic, Conclusion
tensile strength ft. Figure 6 shows that for the subset of data The field evidence, the available test data, and a simple
with ρ < 1%, the inferred proportionality describes a mechanical construct suggest that 1 × f c′ can be used as a
reasonable lower bound to the available data. Part of the pragmatic lower bound to shear strength of RC beams and
scatter in the figure can be assumed to be related to the fact one-way slabs without transverse reinforcement at least within
that x coordinates refer to results reported by Joint ACI-ASCE the ranges listed in Table 1. As a consequence, and at the
Subcommittee 445-D22 from both flexure-beam and split- request of ACI Subcommittee 318-F, Foundations, ACI

54 JUNE 2024 | Ci | www.concreteinternational.com

Committee 318 has evaluated and agreed to adopt this limit Sept. 2017, pp. 47-52.
on the estimated shear strength of RC beams and one-way 18. Li, Y.-A.; Hsu, T.T.C.; and Hwang, S.-J., “Shear Strength of
elements without shear reinforcement. Prestressed and Nonprestressed Concrete Beams,” Concrete
International, V. 39, No. 9, Sept. 2017, pp. 53-57.
References 19. Park, H.-G., and Choi, K.-K., “Unified Shear Design Method of
1. Richart, F.E., “An Investigation of Web Stresses in Reinforced Concrete Beams Based on Compression Zone Failure Mechanism,”
Concrete Beams,” University of Illinois Bulletin, V. XXIV, No. 43, June 21, Concrete International, V. 39, No. 9, Sept. 2017, pp. 59-63.
1927, 106 pp. 20. Reineck, K.-H., “Proposal for ACI 318 Shear Design,” Concrete
2. Joint ACI-ASCE Committee 326, “Shear and Diagonal Tension,” International, V. 39, No. 9, Sept. 2017, pp. 65-70.
ACI Journal Proceedings, V. 59, No. 1, Jan. 1962, pp. 1-30; No. 2, Feb. 21. ACI Committee 318, “Building Code Requirements for Structural
1962, pp. 277-334; and No. 3, Mar. 1962, pp. 353-396. Concrete (ACI 318-19) and Commentary (ACI 318R-19),” American
3. ACI Committee 318, “Building Code Requirements for Reinforced Concrete Institute, Farmington Hills, MI, 2019, 624 pp.
Concrete (ACI 318-71),” American Concrete Institute, Farmington Hills, 22. Reineck, K.-H.; Kuchma, D.A.; Kim, K.S.; and Marx, S., “Shear
MI, 1971, 78 pp. Database for Reinforced Concrete Members without Shear
4. Elstner, R.C., and Hognestad, E., “Laboratory Investigation of Reinforcement,” ACI Structural Journal, V. 100, No. 2, Mar.-Apr. 2003,
Rigid Frame Failure,” ACI Journal Proceedings, V. 53, No. 1, Jan. 1957, pp. 240-249.
pp. 637-668. 23. Collins, M.P.; Bentz, E.C.; Quach, P.T.; and Proestos, G.T., “The
5. Kani, G.N.J., “How Safe Are Our Large Reinforced Concrete Challenge of Predicting the Shear Strength of Very Thick Slabs,”
Beams?” ACI Journal Proceedings, V. 64, No. 3, Mar. 1967, pp. 128-141. Concrete International, V. 37, No. 11, Nov. 2015, pp. 29-37.
6. Murray, M.R., “An Investigation of the Unit Shear Strength of 24. Moehle, J., personal communication, July 26, 2023.
Geometrically Scaled Reinforced Concrete Beams,” MS thesis, Purdue
University, West Lafayette, IN, 2010, 24 pp. Selected for reader interest by the editors.
7. McCain, K.A., “The Effect of Scale on the Resistance of
Reinforced Concrete Beams to Shear,” MS thesis, Purdue University,
West Lafayette, IN, 2012, 24 pp.
8. Daluga, D.; McCain, K.; Murray, M.; and Pujol, S., “Effect of Santiago Pujol, FACI, is a Professor of civil
engineering at the University of
Geometric Scaling on Shear Strength of Reinforced Concrete Beams
Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand.
without Stirrups,” ACI Structural Journal, V. 115, No. 1, Jan. 2018, pp. 5-14.
He is Chair of ACI Committee 133, Disaster
9. Chana, P.S., “Some Aspects of Modelling the Behaviour of
Reconnaissance and Vice Chair of Joint
Reinforced Concrete under Shear Loading,” Technical Report No. 543,
ACI-ASCE Subcommittee 445-B, Shear &
Cement and Concrete Association, Wexham Springs, Slough, UK, 1981,
Torsion-Seismic Shear. He is also a
22 pp.
member of ACI Committee 314, Simplified
10. Shioya, T.; Iguro, M.; Nojiri, Y.; Akiyama, H.; and Okada, T.,
Design of Concrete Buildings; Joint
“Shear Strength of Large Reinforced Concrete Beams,” Fracture ACI-ASCE Committee 445, Shear and Torsion; and ACI
Mechanics: Application to Concrete, SP-118, V.C. Li and Z.P. Bažant, Subcommittees 318-F, Foundations, and 318-1W, Wind Provisions.
eds., American Concrete Institute, Farmington Hills, MI, 1990,
pp. 259-280. Carlos E. Ospina, FACI, is Principal and
11. Bažant, Z.P., and Kazemi, M.T., “Size Effect on Diagonal Shear Vice President with Simpson Gumpertz &
Failure of Beams without Stirrups,” ACI Structural Journal, V. 88, No. 3, Heger in Houston, TX, USA. He is Chair of
May-June 1991, pp. 268-276. ACI Subcommittee 318-F, Foundations,
12. Taylor, H.P.J., “Shear Strength of Large Beams,” Journal of the and a member of multiple ACI committees,
Structural Division, V. 98, No. 11, 1972, pp. 2473-2490. including ACI Committee 318, Structural
Concrete Building Code, and Joint
13. Frosch, R.J., “Behavior of Large-Scale Reinforced Concrete
ACI-ASCE Committee 445, Shear and
Beams with Minimum Shear Reinforcement,” ACI Structural Journal,
Torsion.
V. 97, No. 6, Nov.-Dec. 2000, pp. 814-820.
14. Belarbi, A.; Kuchma, D.A.; and Sanders, D.H., “Proposals for
ACI member Charles Kerby is a PhD
New One-Way Shear Equations for the 318 Building Code,” Concrete
Candidate in civil engineering at the
International, V. 39, No. 9, Sept. 2017, pp. 29-32.
University of Canterbury. He received his
15. Bentz, E.C., and Collins, M.P., “Updating the ACI Shear Design
BS and MS from Purdue University, West
Provisions,” Concrete International, V. 39, No. 9, Sept. 2017, pp. 33-38. Lafayette, IN, USA.
16. Cladera, A.; Marí, A.; Bairán, J.M.; Oller, E.; and Ribas, C.,
“One-Way Shear Design Method Based on a Multi-Action Model,”
Concrete International, V. 39, No. 9, Sept. 2017, pp. 40-46.
17. Frosch, R.J.; Yu, Q.; Cusatis, G.; and Bažant, Z.P., “A Unified
Approach to Shear Design,” Concrete International, V. 39, No. 9,

www.concreteinternational.com | Ci | JUNE 2024 55

Tech
Spotlight
Fortera’s First Industrial
Green Cement Plant
ReCarb technology is a cost-effective way to lower the carbon footprint of cement
and concrete

I
n a milestone step toward lowering global carbon occurring when limestone is heated in a kiln—and draws the
emissions, materials technology company Fortera gas from CalPortland’s flue gas stack into the ReCarb plant,
Corporation has opened its Redding ReCarb® Plant, the where it undergoes mineralization to transform the gas into
first industrial green cement and carbon mineralization facility ReAct green cement, a rare form of calcium carbonate.
in North America and one of the largest of its kind in the “For 132 years, CalPortland has developed resilient and
world. Located in Redding, CA, USA, Fortera’s plant will sustainable cement and concrete products. We understand the
capture carbon dioxide (CO2) emitted during cement importance of using science-driven research to continue to
production and permanently sequester it by mineralizing the develop new and innovative products that will have a positive
CO2 into ready-to-use cement. Not only will this reduce impact on the future,” said Steve Regis, CalPortland
carbon emissions by 70% on a ton-for-ton basis and eliminate Executive Vice President. “We are excited to partner with
feedstock waste associated with traditional concrete Fortera at our Redding Cement plant as they develop their
production but also, every year, the facility will capture 6600 new ReCarb technology and congratulate them on the
tons (5990 tonnes) of CO2 and produce 15,000 tons (13,600 completion of their new facility.”
tonnes) of low-carbon ReAct™ cement. Fortera will integrate Because cement is the most significant source of CO2
with green energy supply at future plants, achieving true emissions in concrete production, the ReCarb technology
zero-CO2 cement. reduces carbon emissions throughout the value chain without
“Redding is the first of many plants in Fortera’s future as a imposing substantial capital costs and creates a product that is
green cement producer, and achieving this milestone brings just as effective as ordinary portland cement (OPC). ReCarb
the industry that much closer to realizing zero-carbon cement, also increases overall product output. When limestone is
which is critical for both our continued infrastructure and the heated in a kiln to make OPC, nearly half is lost as CO2.
health of our planet,” said Ryan Gilliam, CEO of Fortera. Mineralizing those emissions through ReCarb produces 1 ton
“While significant, we recognize this is one step in a much of green cement for every ton of limestone feedstock used.
larger effort to reach commercialization globally, and we are Further, ReCarb reduces energy use by using a lower kiln
committed to scaling our technology using existing temperature and creates a path to zero-CO2 cement when
infrastructure to mobilize widespread adoption of low- and combined with renewable energy.
zero-carbon cement.”
ReAct Green Cement
Working with Existing Infrastructure With the opening of the Redding ReCarb plant, Fortera will
Fortera’s ReCarb process is a collaborative technology that begin producing ReAct green cement, which will be available
works within existing cement production infrastructure rather later this year for ready mixed concrete suppliers. ReAct can
than building new stand-alone plants from the ground up, be used on its own or blended with OPC. There are two
providing a sustainable solution that can be implemented primary variations:
quickly, economically, and efficiently. In Redding, Fortera’s • ReAct Blend is engineered to work with cement to improve
ReCarb facility is adjacent to CalPortland’s cement plant. early strength and flow; and
Fortera captures CO2 emitted during calcination—the process • ReAct Pure is a stand-alone cement replacement.

56 JUNE 2024 | Ci | www.concreteinternational.com

 Tech Spotlight

Site view of Fortera’s ReCarb plant in Redding, CA

Mortar cube sample

made with ReAct
green cement

ReAct meets ASTM C595/C595M, “Standard Specification

for Blended Hydraulic Cements,” requirements at a 15%
blend. It exhibits the same strength and durability as OPC and
complies with existing regulations. When blended, ReAct
lowers the overall carbon footprint of construction projects
while maintaining strength and increasing workability.
The Fortera Redding ReCarb Plant is the culmination of
over 100,000 hours of research and development and more
than a decade of rigorous testing and real-world product
demonstrations. The Net-Zero Industries Awards recently
named Fortera the 2023 U.S. National Winner for Outstanding
Projects. ReAct is a Green Builder Media 2024 Sustainable
Product of the Year.
To learn more about how Fortera is paving a path to
zero-CO2 cement production, visit http://forteraglobal.com.

ReCarb plant tour, April 2024 Selected for reader interest by the editors.

www.concreteinternational.com | Ci | JUNE 2024 57

Shotcrete
Resources
Shotcrete is used for new structural concrete construction and a variety
of repair and repurposing applications. ACI offers numerous industry-
leading shotcrete products and programs. Some highlights include:
ACI 506R-16, “Guide to Shotcrete”; On-Demand Course: Shotcrete –
Guide and Specification; ACI 506.4R-19, “Guide for the Evaluation of
Shotcrete”; and more. For a complete list of all shotcrete products and
programs, visit www.concrete.org or www.shotcrete.org.

www.concrete.org www.shotcrete.org
Products &
Practice
Rapid Set Cement All Plus
CTS Cement Manufacturing Corp. introduced Rapid Set® Cement All® Plus.
Rapid Set Cement All Plus is a single-component (just add water), multipurpose
general and structural concrete repair material that can be used in anchoring and
doweling, formed work, and vertical and horizontal trowel applications. Its
durability in wet environments allows it to be well-suited for marine as well as
airport, highway, and industrial projects. This product provides excellent freezing-
and-thawing performance for longer-lasting repairs in areas that experience
significant temperature fluctuations. It is installed using traditional placement
methods and can be floated or broom-finished in addition to troweled. Rapid Set
Cement All Plus is colored gray to better match existing concrete, self-curing to
save time by eliminating the need for water curing or a curing compound, and slower-setting so crews can complete more
repairs without having to mix more material. It is nonmetallic and no chlorides are added.
—CTS Cement Manufacturing Corp., www.ctscement.com

STACK Assist
STACK Construction Technologies launched STACK Assist, a new artificial intelligence (AI) functionality automating
takeoff tools for contractors. The component will incorporate floor plan focused utility, powered by leading AI software
and new integration partner, Workpack. This development aims to further improve the preconstruction process with
increased time-savings, efficiency, and opportunity for business growth. STACK Assist uses machine learning to
automatically measure floor plan items, such as walls, doors, rooms, and symbols. With Workpack’s fast, automated
takeoffs built into the STACK platform, contractors have a time-savings projection of 50 to 90%. STACK Assist will
allow contractors to use measurements specific to the trades they need, and AI will perform takeoff and counts
automatically.
—STACK Construction Technologies, www.stackct.com

Bosch Cordless Tools and Accessories

Bosch Power Tools will debut over 30 new cordless products in 2024. Many of
Bosch’s latest products aim to give users greater versatility and extended battery
runtimes. These tools and accessories include the 18 V Multidirectional LED
Worklight (GLI18V-800N), the Bulldog Tough™ SDS-plus® Rotary Hammer
4-Cutter Head Bit, and the 18 V 1⁄2 in. Brushless Connected-Ready Drill/Driver
(GSR18V-800C).
The 18 V Multidirectional LED Worklight has three brightness modes that can
tailor the work light to the job with 250, 500, or 800 lumen options.
Multidirectional lighting allows the lamp head to tilt 180 degrees in seven settings
and 360 degrees in 21 settings. The light’s integrated magnet enables it to be
mounted to ferrous metal surfaces.
The Bulldog Tough™ SDS-plus Rotary Hammer 4-Cutter Head Bit has a four-
cutter carbide tipped head design that helps prevent the bit from getting stuck, and a
four-flute design that efficiently pulls dust away from the hole. The centering tip is
ideal for drilling the anchoring holes to enhance the precision of placement.
The 18 V 1⁄2 in. Brushless Connected-Ready Drill/Driver delivers 565 in.-lb
(64 J) of max torque. The drill’s KickBack control reduces the risk of sudden
rotational torque reaction in a bind-up scenario, and the integrated LED work light
illuminates the working area for better visibility.
—Bosch Power Tools, www.boschtools.com

www.concreteinternational.com | Ci | JUNE 2024 59

Products & Practice

Blastcrete X-40D
Blastcrete Equipment LLC introduced the X-40D trailer-mounted
concrete pump system. Capable of handling aggregate mixtures up to
1.5 in. (38 mm), the X-40D provides a highly versatile pump solution
that contractors can use for a vast array of projects ranging from
residential concrete jobs to highway infrastructure improvements. The
X-40D includes a unique PULSAR piston pump from Mecbo that
incorporates a long stroke to push a greater volume of concrete with
less mechanical movement. The swing tube piston pump is
complemented by a rugged receiving agitator to keep the concrete
mixed and prime for pumping. The 7080 lb (3211 kg) pump and
integrated trailer is easy to haul to jobs that range from creating piers
for overpasses to backyard projects. The pump’s four crane lifting eyes
also provide transportation advantages, allowing operators to position
the machine precisely where they need it. Forklift tubing is mounted to
the lower hopper for convenient flat pack removal. The X-40D features
a wireless remote control for operators to control the pump’s functions with precision from a distance. The durable, solid-state
electronic components function in a wide variety of weather conditions.
—Blastcrete Equipment LLC, https://blastcrete.com

Command Cloud
Command Alkon, a software and solutions provider for the heavy building materials industry, announced the next
generation of the company’s technology platform, Command Cloud. Command Cloud is engineered as a comprehensive
technology ecosystem to supercharge heavy building materials operations. Delivering the inherent value of cloud systems,
including cost-efficiency and modern user interface design, the platform will harness the latest advances in machine
learning, generative AI, predictive analytics, and Internet of Things (IoT)-enabled technologies. This product highlights
Command Alkon’s commitment to advancing the technology needs of ready mixed and concrete product producers.
—Command Alkon, https://commandalkon.com

Ergodyne Sustainable Solutions

Ergodyne is actively putting sustainable business practices in place,
and the company’s “Blue Marble” campaign aims to communicate the
organization’s overall approach. As a part of this initiative, Ergodyne
announced new personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety gear
made with post-consumer materials.
• The 8205HL-ECO Hi-Vis Vest repurposes about 11 water bottles,
steering them away from landfills and into practical use;
• The 8289-ECO Hi-Vis Shirt gives a new lease on life to
approximately 30 water bottles, blending visibility with
responsibility;
• The 7002-ECO Coated Gloves are made with 37% post-consumer
plastics, equivalent to nearly a full water bottle per pair; and
• The 6821-ECO Fleece Balaclava is crafted from 95% post-consumer plastics, offering a warm approach to cold weather and
waste reduction, saving about seven water bottles from landfills.
—Ergodyne, www.ergodyne.com

60 JUNE 2024 | Ci | www.concreteinternational.com

 Products & Practice

TSA 300 STIHL Cutquik

The TSA 300 STIHL Cutquik® is a battery-powered cut-off machine powered by the
STIHL AP battery system. Created to be used by professionals in construction and
landscaping, this lightweight, compact tool is designed to cut through a 4 in. (102 mm)
concrete slab. The high-cutting performance of the cut-off machine is comparable to
gasoline-powered cut-off machines, with a well-balanced, easy-to-maneuver
powerhead. The TSA 300 is equipped with a commercial-grade high-torque
brushless motor, virtually eliminating maintenance, while the magnetic filter helps
protect the motor from the influence of fine metal dust particles. The magnesium
cutting wheel guard also improves maneuverability. With an IPX4 rating, this
machine can be used in wet conditions. Additionally, the quick-connect water
hose adapter is designed to prevent water from spraying on the user when the
pressurized water hose is disconnected. The TSA 300’s variable-speed
trigger enables the user to select the desired speed of the wheel depending
on the material, thickness, density, and composition, allowing control of every cut.
—STIHL, www.stihlusa.com

Products&Service
Literature&Videos
NRMCA 100, Prescriptive Design of Exterior Concrete Walls for One- and Two-Family
Dwellings
by The National Ready Mixed Concrete Association
The National Ready Mixed Concrete Association (NRMCA) published the 2023 edition of
“NRMCA 100, Prescriptive Design of Exterior Concrete Walls for One- and Two-Family
Dwellings.” The publication was accepted as a standard by the American National Standards
Institute (ANSI). NRMCA 100 provides a simplified approach to the design of concrete footings,
foundation walls, and above-grade walls, both load bearing and nonload bearing, intended
primarily for use in detached one- and two-family dwellings. Originally developed by the
Portland Cement Association, the standard benefits architects, engineers, and designers. With the
2023 edition, NRMCA assumes responsibility for development and maintenance of the standard.
The 2023 NRMCA 100 coordinates with the design criteria of ASCE/SEI 7-16, “Minimum
Design Loads for Buildings and Other Structures,” and ACI 318-19, “Building Code
Requirements for Structural Concrete and Commentary.” The report is available for download
from NRMCA.
—National Ready Mixed Concrete Association, www.nrmca.org

Optimizing Concrete Pavement Opening to Traffic

by The National Concrete Pavement Technology Center
The National Concrete Pavement Technology Center (CP Tech Center) published the technical summary “Optimizing
Concrete Pavement Opening to Traffic.” The publication reviews the science and strategy behind the decision to open
new pavement surfaces to traffic and describes how opening to traffic can be accelerated when necessary. Topics
covered include planning and contracting considerations, pavement strength development, traffic loading, pavement
stresses, early-age concrete pavement fatigue damage, and materials and construction considerations for early opening
of concrete pavements.
—National Concrete Pavement Technology Center, https://cptechcenter.org

www.concreteinternational.com | Ci | JUNE 2024 61

Product
Showcase
Formwork & Accessories
Greif EasyPour
Greif EasyPourTM Light Pole Base Concrete Forming Tubes are built to withstand the rigors of
construction and are designed to hold the full hydrostatic pressure load of concrete in a single
continuous placement. The EasyPour Light Pole Base is a 100% recyclable paper solution that creates
a spiral-free finish. Greif EasyPour Light Pole Base Concrete Forming Tubes provide a cost-effective
solution that is Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)-certified. With a 24 in.
(610 mm) inside diameter and custom lengths between 3 to 6 ft (0.9 to 1.8 m), tubes do not need to
be cut on site, helping eliminate waste, improve safety, and drive down material and labor costs.
—Greif, www.greif.com

PERI Alpha Column

PERI Formwork Systems, Inc., a manufacturer and supplier of formwork and scaffolding
systems, has launched Alpha Column, an efficient, safe, and optimized column formwork
solution. The new imperial Alpha Column is a cost-effective column system targeted to
achieve tieless rectangular and square columns up to 36 x 36 in. (914 x 914 mm). The robust
column system features integrated accessories that reduce material on site and increase
safety during assembly. The new Alpha Column is available through PERI USA’s seven yard
locations, with PERI engineering, sales, customer service specialists, and logistics readily
available nationally to support all customer product and service needs.
—PERI Formwork Systems, Inc., www.peri-usa.com

BoMetals QuicDiamond
BoMetals QuicDiamondTM (QD) System is a cost-effective, load-transfer solution for
slabs-on-ground. Each product is allied to optimize the use of the steel in the flat-plate system.
QD Sleeves and Plates are used during forming slabs, QD Baskets are placed for saw-cut
joints, and QD Edges are used for high-traffic areas. The diamond design places the widest
portion of steel where it is needed most with the best expansion flexibility. The corresponding
plates are from hot-rolled A36 steel. Plates are available in three thicknesses to meet the needs
of various slab thicknesses. Steel options for both QD Plates for sleeves and QD Baskets are
epoxy, painted, galvanized, and stainless steel. The newest addition to the QD line is the
QuicDiamond Edge, a solution for reinforcement, avoiding joint spalling in high-traffic areas
for forklifts, thresholds, or cold storage.
—BoMetals, Inc., https://bometals.com

Doka Frami Xlife

Doka’s Frami Xlife is a complete framed formwork system for walls, cores,
columns, foundations, and footings that includes high-performance safety and
workplace accessories. Frami Xlife panels are lightweight and easy to handle, so
they can be erected very quickly by hand, without the use of a crane. Frami Xlife
panels are also tough enough to be moved by a crane in a gang form. This product’s
modular design allows for nearly unlimited possible combinations for a form’s
width and height. The panels can be used in an upright or horizontal position, and
6 in. (152 mm) increments combine with steel fillers (2, 1.5, and 1 in. [51, 38, and
25 mm]) to provide optimum adaptability for any project.
—Doka, www.doka.com

62 JUNE 2024 | Ci | www.concreteinternational.com

 Product Showcase

HP SitePrint
HP Inc. announced value pack
updates for HP SitePrint—an end-to-end
robotic solution designed to automate
the site layout process with pinpoint
accuracy in a fraction of the time it
takes manually. The new features have

SEEKING
been included to drive heightened
performance and improve workflow.
The software update, Value Pack 2.0,

NOMINATIONS
can boost additional device productivity
by up to 40%. HP also announced an
upcoming Revit plug-in to further
streamline job preparation. HP SitePrint
has been designed for real construction The ACI Foundation is seeking your
sites and to adapt to customer
workflows. The device pairs with a nominations for anyone who has
Robotic Total Station to achieve precise made outstanding contributions to
layouts and is fully integrated into the
control workflow and software that the concrete industry.
customers use. With eight different
interchangeable inks that work on
different surfaces with different levels There are currently three awards
of durability, HP SitePrint is designed to
work over porous (polished and rough open for nominations:
concrete, tarmac, wood, or pavement) or
nonporous materials (terrazzo, vinyl, • Robert E. Philleo Award
and epoxy) while navigating obstacles,
due to its light detection and ranging • Arthur J. Boase Award
(LiDAR) sensors and navigation • Jean-Claude Roumain
algorithm. The device operates in
temperatures ranging from 14 to 104℉ Innovation in Concrete Award
(‒10 to 40℃), allowing construction
professionals to lay out no matter the
season.
—HP Inc., www.hp.com/us-en/ NOMINATE Deadline is
home.html TODAY July 1, 2024

www.concrete.org/acifoundationawards

Building the Future

www.concreteinternational.com | Ci | JUNE 2024 63

Industry
Focus
Alcrete Acquires American Concrete Terra CO2 Announces Concrete Trials for
Industries OPUS ZERO
Alcrete LLC, a provider of precast concrete products, has Terra CO2 has started concrete trials for OPUS ZERO™, a
acquired American Concrete Industries, Inc. This move, portland cement replacement for everyday concrete
which includes American Concrete Industries’ National applications. OPUS ZERO is expected to be produced in the
Precast Concrete Association (NPCA) Certified Plant and its same plants that will produce Terra’s market-ready
10 acre (4 ha) manufacturing site, will allow Alcrete to expand supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs). OPUS ZERO
its reach and serve a significantly larger geography. Based in also differentiates from other solutions that lean heavily on
Fort Pierce, FL, USA, American Concrete Industries has been carbon capture and sequestration, making it a distinctive
serving the Florida market since 1987. According to Alcrete, alternative in the green technology industry. Additionally,
the acquisition includes all American Concrete Industries’ Terra’s OPUS ZERO cement efficiently reduces carbon
production facilities, equipment, and skilled workforce, which emissions by using just one-fifth of the calcium equivalent of
will allow Alcrete to increase its production capabilities and conventional cements, further enhancing its environmental
competitiveness within the precast concrete market. benefits, and demonstrating a commitment to full
decarbonization from source to deployment. The concrete trials
for OPUS ZERO are comprehensive, involving extensive
testing, batching, placing of test slabs, vertical concrete, and
pumping, with a plan to continue through most of 2024.

Bluebeam Partners with One Tree Planted

Bluebeam, a developer of solutions and services for
architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC)
professionals, announced a corporate sponsorship with One
Tree Planted, a nonprofit organization that focuses on global
reforestation. Together, Bluebeam and One Tree Planted will
plant 10,000 trees across North America. This donation and
subsequent tree planting underscores Bluebeam’s commitment
to sustainability initiatives and the company’s dedication to
advancing a global vision of ecological progress. The trees
planted in partnership with One Tree Planted will significantly
Alcrete expands reach with American Concrete Industries’ benefit communities, biodiversity, and the environment. With
production facilities every tree planted, critical watersheds are restored and
essential wildlife habitats are being rebuilt.
Green Cement Technology Tracker Expanded
to Monitor Calcined Clays Cemex Earns EPA ENERGY STAR Partner of
The Green Cement Technology Tracker was launched by the Year
the Global Cement and Concrete Association (GCCA) and Cemex earned the Partner of the Year award from the U.S.
Leadership Group for Industry Transition (LeadIT). The Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) ENERGY STAR®
tracker monitors the global use of technologies that will help program. ENERGY STAR award winners lead their industries
the industry decarbonize and will provide transparency and in the production, sale, and adoption of energy-efficient
useful data to the industry, policymakers, academics, and the products, homes, buildings, services, and strategies. Cemex’s
public. The tracker has been expanded to include the use of commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability aligns
clay calcination kilns. Calcined clay, also known as with its goals of reducing carbon emissions per ton of
metakaolin, can be used in the making of cement and can help cementitious material by 47% and in concrete by 41% by
to make significant carbon dioxide (CO2) reductions due to 2030 and reaching net-zero carbon emissions across its value
the lower amount of energy needed in the manufacturing chain by 2050. The company continues to implement
process. The GCCA’s Roadmap estimates that by using innovative strategies and technologies to reduce emissions,
calcined clays in the production of cement instead of conserve resources, and promote a cleaner, more sustainable
limestone, it is possible to reduce emissions in the production future. Notable projects contributing to Cemex’s ENERGY
process by 11%. STAR Partner of the Year achievement include sourcing 100%

64 JUNE 2024 | Ci | www.concreteinternational.com

 Industry Focus

renewable electricity at a cement plant, launching more than from a single source. With this acquisition, MFE gains an
30 thermal and electrical efficiency upgrade projects, extensive global sales network as Doka is active in over 60
replacing dozens of ready mixed concrete trucks and transport countries with more than 170 locations.
tractors with low emission, compressed natural gas vehicles,
and replacing three diesel-powered locomotives with near-
zero emissions locomotives.

Doka Acquires MFE Formwork Technology

Doka acquired Malaysian-based MFE Formwork
Technology, a market leader in monolithic aluminum
formwork. By acquiring MFE, Doka achieves another
milestone in its strategic growth plan and strengthens its
position in Southeast Asia and the Pacific region, an important
growth market alongside North America. Founded in 1991,
MFE has become a leader in monolithic aluminum formwork
solutions. With its headquarters in Malaysia and more than
2200 employees, the company has established itself as a
reliable partner for efficient construction projects and sets
standards in the construction industry. For the formwork
industry, this integration means more innovative solutions MFE Formwork Technology headquarters

The ACI Detailing Manual

Includes FREE
Downloadable CAD Files
The 2020 edition of the ACI Detailing
Manual includes many new updates and
revisions, plus the addition of valuable
downloadable CAD files.

Visit concrete.org/store for

more information.

www.concreteinternational.com | Ci | JUNE 2024 65

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Calls for
Papers
CICE 2025 life-cycle assessment/whole life costing.
Meeting: The 12th International Conference on Fiber- Requirements: For more information, visit
Reinforced Polymer (FRP) Composites in Civil Engineering https://concrete-solutions.org/.
(CICE 2025) will be held July 14-16, 2025, in Lisbon, Portugal. Deadline: Abstracts are due by October 31, 2024.
Solicited: CICE 2025 will cover all aspects of research, Contact: [email protected].
development, and application of FRP composites in civil
engineering, with particular emphasis on some of the most Undergraduate Research Session
relevant and emerging challenges. Topics will include (but are Meeting: The Undergraduate Research Session will be
not limited to): FRP materials and products; concrete held at the ACI Concrete Convention – Spring 2025 in
structures with FRP reinforcement; strengthening of concrete, Toronto, ON, Canada; sponsored by ACI Committee S805,
steel, masonry, and timber structures; bond behavior; Student Leadership Council.
confinement; seismic retrofit of existing structures; hybrid Solicited: Undergraduate students are invited to submit an
structures combining FRP with other materials; concrete-filled abstract describing their concrete-related research. Research
FRP tubular members; sandwich structures; all-FRP described in an abstract should be work conducted predominately
structures; smart FRP structures; fire, impact, and blast by undergraduate students. Presentations are to be made by
loading; durability; inspection, monitoring, and quality undergraduate students. Graduate students who conducted
assurance; life-cycle performance; sustainability and research while an undergraduate are also welcome to submit an
recycling; bio-based composites; thermoplastic-based abstract. Presentations on concrete materials, structural design,
composites; composites for wind energy; design codes and construction, or other concrete-related issues are all welcome.
guidelines; education; and case studies. Requirements: Submit the following in a single PDF to
Requirements: For more information, visit https:// ACI Committee S805 at [email protected]:
cice2025.org/. 1) presentation title; 2) abstract of no more than one‐half
Deadline: Abstracts are due by June 30, 2024. page; 3) presenter(s) first and last name, title if any, affiliation,
Contact: [email protected]. mailing address, phone, and email; 4) co‐author(s) first and
last name, title if any, affiliation, mailing address, phone, and
Concrete Solutions 2025 email; 5) research faculty advisor’s first and last name, title,
Meeting: Concrete Solutions 2025 will be held June 16-18, affiliation, mailing address, phone, and email; 6) a statement
2025, at the National Laboratory for Civil Engineering in by the research faculty advisor confirming that the research
Lisbon, Portugal. was conducted predominately by the undergraduate student(s);
Solicited: Concrete Solutions 2025 is the ninth in a series and 7) a statement by the research faculty advisor confirming
of international conferences on concrete repair, durability, and that the presenter will be able to attend the ACI Concrete
technology. The aim of the event is to inform on the latest Convention – Spring 2025.
knowledge in concrete. Papers are invited on case studies, Deadline: Abstracts are due by November 15, 2024.
concrete and admixture technology, concrete durability, Contact: Timothy Kohany, [email protected].
electrochemical repair, patch repair, repair of fire damage,
in-place strength assessment, nondestructive testing and Bridge Engineering Conference 2025
diagnosis, repair and conservation of heritage structures, risk Meeting: The Bridge Engineering Institute Conference
management, self-healing materials, service life design and (BEI-2025) will be held July 21-24, 2025, at Centre de
modeling, repair and strengthening materials and techniques/ conférences internationales – Sorbonne Université, Paris, France.
rehabilitation with composites, structural health monitoring, Solicited: BEI-2025, an official conference of the Bridge
surface protection methods and materials, sustainability, and Engineering Institute (BEI), is a forum for international
researchers and practitioners around the globe. State-of-the-art
knowledge on bridge engineering and related fields will be
Calls for Papers: Submission Guidelines discussed with distinguished speakers in plenary and parallel
Calls for papers should be submitted no later than 3 months prior to the sessions.
deadline for abstracts. Please send meeting information, papers/presentations Requirements: For more information, visit https://
being solicited, abstract requirements, and deadline, along with full contact beibridge.org/BEI2025.html.
information, to: Lacey Stachel, Managing Editor, Concrete International,
38800 Country Club Drive, Farmington Hills, MI 48331; email: lacey.stachel@ Deadline: Abstracts are due by November 30, 2024.
concrete.org. Visit www.callforpapers.concrete.org for more information. Contact: Yongcheng Ji, Conference Secretariat,
[email protected].

www.concreteinternational.com | Ci | JUNE 2024 67

 Programs
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ACI Committee Document
Abstracts
The following ACI documents are, or will soon be, available: Abstract: This TechNote describes the application of
prewetted fine lightweight aggregate in internal curing.
“Curing Efficiency of Internally Cured Discussions review conditions that suggest the use of
Concrete—TechNote (ACI PRC-213.1-24)” internally cured concrete and the associated benefits
Reported by ACI Committee 213, Lightweight Aggregate concerning economy, sustainability, and resilience.
and Concrete
Steven Maloof, Chair; Daron R. Brown, Secretary; Kamran “Construction of Concrete Shells Using
Amini, Armen Amirkhanian, Michael A. Caldarone, Chris Inflatable Forms—Report (ACI PRC-334.3-24)”
Calvin, Joshua J. Edwards, Royce W. Floyd, Kenneth S. Reported by Joint ACI-ASCE Committee 334, Concrete
Harmon, Khandaker M. Anwar Hossain, Thomas McCurry, Shell Design and Construction
Fred Meyer, Avi A. Mor, Bruce W. Ramme, G. Michael Robert B. Esplin, Chair; Bryan S. Butikofer, Charles S.
Robinson, Fariborz M. Tehrani, Naga Pavan Vaddey, Payam Hanskat, Takashi Hara, Brent K. Hardy, Michael D. Hunter,
Vosoughi, and William H. Wolfe, Members; Andrea L. Breen, Samaan Ladkany, Ryan Partridge, Ryan E. Poole, Theodore J.
Reid W. Castrodale, Dean M. Golden, Tor Arne Hammer, Smulski, Andrew J. South, Jason P. South, Mark E. Williams,
Edward S. Kluckowski, Ronald L. Kozikowski Jr., Michael L. and Chris S. Zweifel, Members; John F. Abel, Arthur J. Boyt Jr.,
Leming, W. Calvin McCall, Jeffrey F. Speck, Alexander M. James L. Byrne, Frederick L. Crandall, Charles W. Dolan,
Vaysburd, Jody Wall, Jason Weiss*, and Shelley Wright, Phillip L. Gould, Ajaya Kumar Gupta, Mark Allen Ketchum,
Consulting Members. Lei Lou, John C. Miller, Thomas E. Nelson Jr., John M.
*
Member who authored this TechNote. Rotter, William C. Schnobrich, Barry South, Bing-Yuan Ting,
The committee would like to thank M. Khanzadeh-Moradllo for his and Arnold Wilson, Consulting Members.
contribution to this TechNote.
Abstract: This report provides information on the
Abstract: This TechNote describes a process for construction of structural concrete shells using inflated forms.
determining equivalent curing durations for concrete made Major facets of the construction process are covered,
using conventional external curing and internal curing with including foundations, inflation, monitoring, and backup
pre-wetted fine lightweight aggregates in ordinary portland systems. Other aspects, such as the geometric variations of
cement (OPC) and supplementary cementitious material inflated forms, thickness of polyurethane foam, and mixture
(SCM) systems. The criteria presented offer one approach that proportions for shotcrete, are also considered.
can be used to determine the duration of external curing that is
equivalent to internal curing. This would allow any benefits of
using internally cured concrete on construction time to be
quantified.

“Internal Curing Using Prewetted Fine

Sign up for Concrete
Lightweight Aggregate—TechNote
(ACI PRC-213.2-24)”
Reported by ACI Committee 213, Lightweight Aggregate
and Concrete
Steven J. Maloof, Chair; Daron R. Brown, Secretary;
Kamran Amini, Armen Amirkhanian, Michael A. Caldarone, The smart way to stay on top of
Chris Calvin, Joshua J. Edwards, Royce W. Floyd, Kenneth S. concrete industry news.
Harmon, Khandaker M. Anwar Hossain, Thomas McCurry,
Fred Meyer, Avi A. Mor, Bruce W. Ramme, G. Michael Created by SmartBrief in partnership with ACI, Concrete
Robinson, Fariborz M. Tehrani, Naga Pavan Vaddey, Payam SmartBrief provides a daily e-mail snapshot of the concrete
industry with news from leading global sources. Summaries
Vosoughi, and William H. Wolfe, Members; Andrea L. Breen, of what matters to you, written by expert editors, to save
Reid W. Castrodale, Dean M Golden, Tor Arne Hammer, you time and keep you informed and prepared.
Edward S. Kluckowski, Ronald L Kozikowski Jr., Michael L.
Welcome to Concrete SmartBrief; sign up at:
Leming, W. Calvin McCall, Jeffrey F. Speck, Alexander M.
Vaysburd, Jody Wall, Jason Weiss, and Shelley Wright, www.smartbrief.com/ACI
Consulting Members.

www.concreteinternational.com | Ci | JUNE 2024 69

What’s
New from
ACI UNIVERSITY ONLINE COURSES manufacturers, structural engineers, governments, and
contractors) will be educated and informed about the
On-Demand Course: Fundamentals of Ultra- environmental product declarations (EPDs) and life-cycle
High-Performance Concrete assessment (LCA) methods for performing environmental
This course will cover the basics of ultra-high-performance impact assessments and disclosing their potential
concrete (UHPC). The course content will define UHPC and environmental impacts. Basic content and progress toward
its properties, describe several applications of UHPC, and developing assessment tools and guidelines are demonstrated.
explain the differences between UHPC and conventional Speakers provide their insight and experiences with the
concrete with regard to proportioning, mixing, placing, challenges and opportunities for using available sustainability
finishing, and curing. tools concerning the performance and design criteria.
Continuing Education Credit: 0.20 CEU (2.0 PDH) Participants will also be informed about the role played by
different concrete stakeholders in the evaluation and
On-Demand Course: Role of Life-Cycle implementation of environmental impact metrics.
Assessment (LCA) and Environmental Product Continuing Education Credit: 0.10 CEU (1.0 PDH)
Declarations (EPDs) in Concrete Sustainability
Evaluation, Part 1 of 2 On-Demand Course: Role of Life-Cycle
During these two sessions, concrete stakeholders Assessment (LCA) and Environmental Product
(including, but not limited to, materials producers, concrete Declarations (EPDs) in Concrete Sustainability
Evaluation, Part 2 of 2
During these two sessions, concrete stakeholders

Career Center
(including, but not limited to, materials producers, concrete
manufacturers, structural engineers, governments, and
contractors) will be educated and informed about the EPDs
and LCA methods for performing environmental impact
Students—the next step assessments and disclosing their potential environmental
impacts. Basic content and progress toward developing
has never been easier assessment tools and guidelines are demonstrated. Speakers
provide their insight and experiencs with the challenges and
Find internships, browse jobs, opportunities for using available sustainability tools
concerning the performance and design criteria. Participants
and post your résumé.
will also be informed about the role played by different
concrete stakeholders in the evaluation and implementation of
environmental impact metrics.
The Career Center Offers
Continuing Education Credit: 0.10 CEU (1.0 PDH)
 Résumé writing On-Demand Course: Fiber-Reinforced
assistance Concrete for Durable Structures – Case
 Career coaching Studies
This session brought together experts from around the
 Career learning world to address the topic of fiber-reinforced concrete (FRC).
center The session includes presentations reviewing several case
studies of projects where FRC was successfully used and
 Reference checking provided sustainable, resilient, and durable solutions. Case
studies include projects over 10 years old at various
geographic locations all over the world using different types
Follow @ACICareerCenter of fibers, as well as hybrid solutions for a broad range of
applications. Material suppliers, engineers, designers,
researchers, and scientists will benefit from this session.
www.concrete.org/careercenter Continuing Education Credit: 0.10 CEU (1.0 PDH)

70 JUNE 2024 | Ci | www.concreteinternational.com

Meetings
JUNE 24 - Tilt-Up Future Think 4.0, Chicago, IL, USA
www.tilt-up.org/events/details/?event=15c95172-0078-c7e0-
9-14 - SCMT 6 - Sustainable Construction Materials and a7b1-0b46029b0988
Technologies, Lyon, France
www.scmt-conferences.com/scmt6 JUNE-JULY
12-14 - DFI SuperPile ‘24: Piling Design & Construction 30-5 - 18th World Conference on Earthquake
Conference, San Francisco, CA, USA Engineering (WCEE2024), Milan, Italy
https://dfi-events.org/superpile24/index.html www.wcee2024.it

19 - CBDG 27th Annual Conference: The Future of JULY

Concrete Bridges - Embracing Technology, London, UK
www.cbdg.org.uk/conference.asp 8-11 - NICOM8: Eighth International Symposium on
Nanotechnology in Construction Materials, Catania, Italy
19-21 - Net-Zero Future 2024 - 1st International www.nicom.global
Conference on Net-Zero Built Environment: Innovations
in Materials, Structures, and Management Practices, Oslo, 18-20 - CFACON24 – Concrete Foundations Convention,
Norway Rio Grande, Puerto Rico
https://netzfuture.com www.cfaconcretepros.org/events/details/?event=573fb936-
0078-c608-9610-0b460fb96925
19-21 - Italian Concrete Conference 2024, Florence, Italy
www.cte-it.org/attivita-e-programmi/italian-concrete- 23 - CIA Victoria Annual Engineering Trade Exhibition,
conference_2022 Preston, VIC, Australia
https://concreteinstitute.com.au/professional-development/
23-26 - 12th ACI/RILEM International Conference on upcoming-events/cia-vic-annual-engineering-trade-
Cementitious Materials and Alternative Binders for exhibtition-309
Sustainable Concrete (ICCM 2024), Toulouse, France
https://www.iccm2024.com 21-24 - 18th International Brick and Block Masonry
Conference (IB2MaC), Birmingham, UK
23-26 - UCA North American Tunneling Conference – https://more.bham.ac.uk/ib2mac2024
NAT 2024, Nashville, TN, USA
https://natconference.com 22-25 - BEI-2024 – Bridge Engineering Institute
Conference, Las Vegas, NV, USA
www.beibridge.org

THE ACI CONCRETE CONVENTION: AUGUST

FUTURE DATES
6-8 - The Concrete Show 2024, São Paulo, Brazil
2024 — November 3-7, Philadelphia Marriott www.concreteshow.com.br/en/home.html
Downtown, Philadelphia, PA, USA
2025 — March 30-April 3, Sheraton Centre 21-23 - 2nd International Conference on Sustainable
Toronto Hotel, Toronto, ON, Canada Development in Concrete Technology - ICSDCT 2024,
2025 — October 26-29, Hilton Baltimore & Pune, India
Marriott Baltimore Inner Harbor, https://sites.google.com/dypcoeakurdi.ac.in/icsdct2021
Baltimore, MD, USA
For additional information, contact: ACI Industry Events Calendar:
Event Services, ACI, 38800 Country Club Drive, For more information and a listing of additional upcoming events,
visit www.concrete.org/events/eventscalendar.aspx. To submit
Farmington Hills, MI 48331 | Telephone: +1.248.848.3795 meeting information, email Rachel Schick, Editor, Concrete
www.concrete.org/events/conventions.aspx International, at [email protected].

www.concreteinternational.com | Ci | JUNE 2024 71

 BRAND-
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procedures can be found at www.concrete.org/publications/standards/upcomingstandards.aspx. These are not yet official
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CODE-318 Building Code Requirements for Structural Concrete and Commentary

CODE-318.2 Building Code Requirements for Concrete Thin Shells (ACI 318.2-25) and Commentary

CODE-562 Assessment, Repair, and Rehabilitation of Existing Concrete Structures—Code Requirements and Commentary

Committee responses to public comments for the following standards can be found at www.concrete.org/publications/
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Advertiser
Index
June CI Advertisers CI Advertisers in the 2024 Concrete
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Product & Service Guide
Dan Kaste, Account Executive
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Visit Concrete International online at www.concrete.org/

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Themes
July—Floors & Foundations
August—Mixing, Placing & Curing
September—Emerging Technologies

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+1.410.584.8355 • [email protected]

74 JUNE 2024 | Ci | www.concreteinternational.com

Concrete
Q&A
Measuring Flatness of
Elevated Floors

Q.
As a concrete contractor, I’m dealing with a over the acceptability of the floor and to alert the Contractor
problem related to floor flatness of an elevated of the need to modify finishing techniques on subsequent
slab. The general contractor (GC) surveyed the placements, if necessary, to achieve compliance.”
elevated slab 20 days after the first placement and 5 days All slabs deform due to temperature contraction and drying
after the second—all of which was after tensioning of tendons shrinkage, and resulting restraint cracking can impact flatness.
and partial removal of shoring. The GC is trying to hold me And, for elevated slabs, the tensioning of tendons and removal
accountable for 1/4 in. in 10 ft (6 mm in 3 m) tolerance when of shoring can result in deflections that can impact flatness
the survey cut sheet is showing as much as 3/4 in. (19 mm) testing results. Concrete contractors are only responsible for
positive deviation from floor flatness (FF ) elevation. Can I establishing specified flatness during the finishing operations.
dispute that the slab FF meets the ±3/4 in. deviation from the While the FF measured using the F-number system has
elevation limit for formed suspended slabs provided in specific test requirements outlined in ASTM E1155,2 the
Section 4.4.1 of ACI 117-10(15)1? manual straightedge method is not covered by an ASTM test

A.
standard. However, ACI 117-10(15) provides compliance
This question comes up regularly but is clearly requirements for this method in Table 4.8.6.1. For the “Flat”
answered in ACI 117-10(15). floor surface classification, 90% of the test samples are
ACI 117-10(15) includes a full six pages (from required to be within a maximum gap of 1/4 in. under a 10 ft
Section 4.8.4 to 4.8.7) of specification and commentary straightedge, and 100% of the test samples are required to not
covering random traffic floor surface finish tolerances. exceed a maximum gap of 3/8 in. (10 mm) under a 10 ft
Several techniques for measuring the flatness (bumpiness) are straightedge. A sample is a single placement of the
included to describe the degree to which a floor surface is straightedge. ACI 117-10(15) also requires a minimum number
smooth or plane. of samples based on the area of the floor (Section 4.8.6.2.2),
It sounds as though your specific project had a flatness as well as samples to be evenly distributed over the test
requirement of 1/4 in. in 10 ft measured using the manual surface (not closer than 5 ft [1.5 m] apart per Section 4.8.6.2.6).
straightedge method. Commentary Section R4.8.4 in ACI ACI 117-10(15), Section 4.8.6.3, permits a computerized
117-10(15) includes Table R4.8.4, which provides a rough simulation of a freestanding 10 ft straightedge as an
relationship between the manual straightedge method and the alternative to the manual test procedure discussed above or
statistical FF method based on a study of six groups of 100 established in contract documents. As stated in Commentary
individual profiles each (600 total). A requirement of 1/4 in. in Section R4.8.6.3, this method requires that data be collected
10 ft roughly equates to a specified overall floor flatness along lines in a manner similar to the description in ASTM
(SOFF) ranging from 24.0 to 45.9, which is in the “Flat” floor E1155 or ASTM E1486.3
classification. Whichever method is used, the testing must be So, as the GC surveyed the two placements in your project
completed within 72 hours of final finishing and before the well beyond the required 72-hour limit, the opportunity to
removal of any shores, as specified in Section 4.8.4.4 of ACI verify compliance with the specified 1/4 in. in 10 ft was
117-10(15): missed. There is no way to determine whether or not the
“Floor test surfaces shall be measured and reported within specified flatness was achieved during finishing operations as
72 hours after completion of slab concrete finishing
operations and before removal of any supporting shores.” Questions in this column were asked by users of ACI documents and have
As stated in Commentary Section R4.8.4.4, “The purpose been answered by ACI staff or by a member or members of ACI technical
committees. The answers do not represent the official position of an ACI
for establishing a default 72-hour time limit on the committee. Comments should be sent to [email protected].
measurement of floor surfaces is to avoid any possible conflict

www.concreteinternational.com | Ci | JUNE 2024 75

Concrete Q&A

the time limit was exceeded, the tendons were tensioned, and random traffic operation but, occasionally, local issues arise at
the shoring was partially removed. It is unclear whether the some joints over the first 2 years of service. An extended
GC even measured flatness correctly. warranty to provide grinding at these localized areas, if and
Compliance with the ±3/4 in. deviation from elevation, as when they develop, has been a successful remedy. Note that
specified in ACI 117-10(15), Section 4.4.1, is an entirely grinding will remove the troweled surface finish and
separate requirement. And this requirement must also be potentially expose aggregate, so owners may choose to forego
measured before removal of supporting shores, so the test grinding and accept the as-constructed surface until grinding
results obtained on your project cannot be used to verify actually becomes necessary. Therefore, when accepted as a
compliance with that requirement either. remedy for noncompliance, the amount of potential grinding
If these floors were measured within the required time provided in an extended warranty should consider the type of
limits and before the removal of shoring, the remedy for operation anticipated as well as the design details for the floor
noncompliance for the elevated slab would be the same as the (that is, the anticipated amount of deformation due to drying
one provided in Commentary Section R4.8.4 of ACI 117- shrinkage and/or deflection after tensioning tendons,
10(15) for slabs-on-ground: removing shoring, and concrete drying, none of which the
“The remedy for noncompliance with specified defined concrete contractor is responsible for).
flatness tolerances should be included in specification
language. For random traffic slabs-on-grade, the remedy can References
range from liquidated damages, to localized grinding, to 1. ACI Committee 117, “Specification for Tolerances for Concrete
application of a topping, to removal and replacement, Construction and Materials (ACI 117-10) and Commentary (ACI
depending on the purpose for which the slab is being installed. 117R-10) (Reapproved 2015),” American Concrete Institute, Farmington
The remedy for defined traffic installations is generally Hills, MI, 76 pp.
grinding of high spots.” 2. ASTM E1155-23, “Standard Test Method for Determining FF Floor
It is rare that a remedy is included in the contract Flatness and FL Floor Levelness Numbers,” ASTM International, West
documents. It is advisable that a discussion be held regarding Conshohocken, PA, 2023, 8 pp.
the remedy prior to concrete placement and finishing. 3. ASTM E1486-14(2022), “Standard Test Method for Determining
Depending on the intended use of the floor, an example of an Floor Tolerances Using Waviness, Wheel Path and Levelness Criteria
appropriate resolution for noncompliance has been to provide (Metric),” ASTM International, West Conshohocken, PA, 2014, 12 pp.
a warranty covering an appropriate amount of localized
grinding in areas that impact the operation. It is often difficult Thanks to Scott Tarr, North S.Tarr Concrete Consulting, PC, Dover, NH,
to predict whether noncompliance will actually impact a USA, for providing the answer to this question.

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 THE WORLD’S GATHERING PLACE FOR ADVANCING CONCRETE

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