ACI Council forum to spotlight algae-based binder, CO2-formed aggregate

Source: American Concrete Institute, Farmington Hills, Mich.

The ACI Foundation’s Strategic Development Council has scheduled showcases on new binder and aggregate developments, plus pavement joint testing methods during its Technology Forum 42, September 6-7 in Reston, Va.:

  • Oceans Technology Group will present Zero Thermal, an algae-based supplementary binder and concrete additive. Working through exothermic reaction and covalent bond formation, the material can impart advanced thermal properties, increased R-values, anti-corrosion attributes, plus mold and mildew control.
  • Blue Planet Ltd. will present “Utilization of Carbon Dioxide for Limestone Aggregate,” illustrating the potential to convert 20-plus gigatons of CO2 emitted annualy from power and large industrial plants into limestone aggregates with properties similar to natural counterparts.
  • Texas A&M Transportation Institute’s Dr. Dan Zollinger will discuss the use of ground-penetrating radar (GPR) to detect the existence of moisture under concrete pavement slabs near joints. Recent research indicates that it may be feasible to use GPR to determine when a sealed joint is no longer effective; such assessment can help to determine crack potential and support the use of concrete pavement performance monitoring versus repair.

The SDC collaborates across the concrete industry to address technical challenges, hosting two 1.5-day technology forums per year aimed at highlighting innovative technologies and research that Council members feel have positive productivity or economic impacts on the industry. More information about Technology Forum 42, including registration and agenda details, is available at www.ConcreteSDC.org.