Master Builders Solutions US LLC recently opened its Beachwood, Ohio headquarters and research & development center for an episode of “Trending Today.” Airing on Fox Business Network, A&E and Bloomberg channels, the series spotlights innovative, industry-driving subjects. Producers delve Master Builders Solutions’ focus on admixtures enabling production and delivery of net-zero carbon concrete and highlight its commitment to reducing the…
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Evaluating Cost and Logistical Advantages of Working with Lightweight Concrete
BY KEN NUNLEY When choosing between lightweight concrete (LWC) and normal weight concrete (NWC) for application in mid- and high-rise buildings, performance is a key factor. When designed with expanded shale, clay or slate (ESCS) aggregates, LWC offers benefits such as reduced early cracking due to internal curing facilitated by the aggregates’ porous nature. This extends structure service life. Despite…
Read MoreWhy Structural Lightweight Concrete
Addressing key differences in mix design When designing concrete mixes for bridges and other structures, project engineers have multiple options—including choosing between traditional, normal weight concrete (NWC) or structural lightweight concrete (SLC) with aggregate meeting ASTM C330, Standard Specification for Lightweight Aggregates for Structural Concrete performance. Depending on a project’s goals, SLC can create stronger, more resilient and cost-effective structures.…
Read MoreLighter Structures, Better Construction
BY DARON BROWN Precast concrete can contribute to more efficient and cost-effective construction. Because precast structures are poured and cured in a plant before being shipped to the jobsite, they can reduce the number of subcontractors working alongside each other as well as the amount of waste generated from having to place and cure concrete on site—both of which can…
Read MoreConcrete methods offer multiple paths to severe weather protection
BY KWK ARCHITECTS In areas of the country where dangerous tornadoes and severe weather occur more frequently, more universities are incorporating reinforced rooms, or storm shelters, in their residence hall designs to provide an extra layer of protection for students. These tornado-safe rooms are typically small, above- or below-ground structures made of concrete, masonry or steel—all proven to withstand extreme…
Read MorePaving the Year Forward
Five resolutions for the ready-mixed concrete industry. Happy New Year! From here on out, may our days be filled with more light, hope and resolutions for a better future. Taking a cue from Abraham Lincoln, who said, “The best way to predict the future is to create it,” let’s build a better outlook for our businesses and our industry. We…
Read MoreBuilding Better, Lighter, Stronger: We Have the Technology
Since the 1950s, the construction industry in the United States has reaped the benefits of using precast, prestressed concrete. These products increase installation efficiencies, provide ideal curing conditions for better concrete, and standardize measurements through mass production. However, because precast, prestressed concrete must be shipped to the jobsite, it can contribute to higher transportation costs. In addition, it comes with…
Read MoreConcrete A I(nnovation)
Concrete mix technology is demanding and, all too often, thankless. We ask our people to guarantee the structural integrity of the design and minimize costs despite the host of bad things that can happen with mix components and transit. When things go right, our folks are invisible. Yet when things go wrong, they are the first to bear the brunt…
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