First time convention attendees are invited for a continental breakfast and brief session to orient you to the week ahead. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet other first time convention attendees, connect with convention mentors, and learn about what The ACI Concrete Convention has to offer.
This session explores innovative approaches to improving the fresh-state and early-age performance of 3D-printed concrete. Topics include novel testing methods for printability, strategies for integrating coarse aggregate, bond development between layers, and self-healing capabilities. Presentations also address specialized applications, such as bioactive marine concretes, magnesium-based binders for space construction, and AI-enhanced mix design. Together, these studies provide critical insights into enhancing print quality, durability, and sustainability of 3D concrete printing across a range of environments.
Learning Objectives:
(1) Understand key fresh-state properties affecting the printability and early performance of 3D-printed concrete;
(2) Explore the impact of innovative materials such as coarse aggregates, bioactive agents, and alternative binders;
(3) Learn how ultrasonic testing can be used to assess interlayer bond development at early ages;
(4) Evaluate strategies to enhance durability, including shrinkage control and self-healing mechanisms.
Moderator: Dr Kamal H Khayat
Self-Consolidating Concrete (SCC) is a high flowing, stable concrete that can be used as a practical solution for many challenging placement scenarios because it does not require vibration or mechanical agitation for consolidation. Since its introduction, concrete professionals continue to find new applications for SCC to solve concrete construction problems. In an environment of economic considerations, sustainable building practices, increased speed of construction requirements, and high structural integrity, SCC can play an important role in achieving these demands. This session will highlight the use of SCC as a solution to challenges for many unique projects and enhance construction productivity and sustainability. Case studies will be presented and include concrete placement in congested reinforcement, cast-in-place and precast/prestressed elements, challenging conditions involving restricted access, long-haul scenarios, extended pumping conditions, underwater concreting, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) implementation. The presentation will bring insight and awareness to the opportunities for SCC use in future concrete construction that otherwise may not have been considered.
Learning Objectives:
(1) Grasp the Core Principles of SCC - Gain foundational understanding of SCC, including its mixture design, material selection, and quality control testing, and the relevance of these principles in driving construction productivity;
(2) Apply SCC in Complex Construction Scenarios - Explore practical insights from case studies involving SCC placement in demanding environments and examine SCC performance under challenging logistics like long-haul transport and extended pumping;
(3) Integrate Emerging Technologies in SCC Projects - Investigate the role of AI and other digital tools in optimizing SCC performance, testing protocols, and construction methodologies;
(4) Evaluate SCC’s Environmental and Economic Impact.
Vibration is the most common consolidation technique, as it is used to densify the fresh concrete mass and to release excessive entrapped air. However, over-vibration causes water migration and water leakage from the formwork, which could result in low surface quality and reduced structural integrity. Ongoing research and practical experiences have demonstrated that over-vibration is a combination of extensive vibration time and excessive frequency, as a function of concrete workability. This session intends to inform contractors, concrete suppliers, engineers and architects of the recent developments made in the field, which are reflected in the upcoming revision of the ACI 309 main document.
Learning Objectives:
(1) Understand the underlying theory for concrete’s response to vibration, particularly the importance of frequency and amplitude;
(2) Describe techniques to quantify the effect of vibration on different concrete mixtures;
(3) Adjust vibration parameters (frequency, amplitude and duration) for the concrete mix design;
4) Describe how vibration consideration during construction planning contributes to concrete quality.
As Ultra-High Performance Concrete (UHPC) technology continues to advance, there is an increasing need for innovative methods to characterize and assess its unique material properties properly. Sometimes conventional testing techniques used for conventional concrete and FRCs are inaccurate for UHPC, leading to potential discrepancies in the performance assessment of the material. This session will focus on novel approaches tailored specifically for UHPC characterization, highlighting advancements that address the current challenges and improve testing accuracy. Experts from national and international research groups, material suppliers, and industry professionals will present the latest methods for UHPC testing of mechanical properties such as compression and tension, fresh properties, and durability. The session aims to provide essential insights into UHPC material characterization, contribute to design practices, and ultimately improve the longevity and reliability of UHPC applications.
Learning Objectives:
(1) Develop insights into the limitations of some conventional material characterization methods for UHPC characterization;
(2) Examine the latest innovations and testing methodologies tailored for UHPC;
(3) Analyze new procedures and developments for accurately assessing UHPC properties;
(
4) Recognize the impact of advanced characterization methods on the performance of UHPC in its applications.
Moderator: Dr Nestor R Rubiano
This session will present topics of great relevance for the evaluation of concrete bridges. The first presentation will help the audience become aware of the NBI database and the use of InfoBridge, the FHWA's Bridge Web Portal. The second presentation will inform the audience the performance and assessment of High-Strength Self Consolidation Concrete Bridges when load tested.
Learning Objectives:
(1) Discuss how evaluation of NBI data can inform concrete bridge owners;
(2) Review the tools in InfoBridge and the LTBP Program’s research;
(3) Report on the assessment of bridges built with High-Strength Self Consolidation Concrete;
(4) Evaluate the performance of SCC versus conventional concrete girders’ response when subjected to service loads.
25th ACI International Forum – Chaired by ACI Vice President Maria Juenger, Professor, University of Texas at Austin
The ACI International Forum provides an opportunity for convention attendees to meet and learn from ACI international partners, ACI chapter representatives, and ACI leadership. Attendees are encouraged to network and inquire about worldwide events, activities, initiatives, and common themes of interest to the concrete materials, design, and construction industry.
Speakers include:
TBD
The objective of this competition is to design and build the highest-impact-load resistant plain or reinforced concrete Egg Protection Device (EPD). Learn and report on concrete’s sustainable benefits related to durability, impact resistance, and other real-life aspects which an EPD simulates.
Competition Sponsors and Committees:
American Concrete Institute
S801, Student Competitions
Moderators: Dr Jan Vosahlik, Mr Christopher Power
This session will be focused on the specific challenges of the constructability of mass concrete placements. A specific focus will be placed on case studies, reviews of best practices, and real-world examples of constructability challenges related to mass concrete. Specific learning outcomes will be developed later; however, broadly speaking, attendees will understand the challenges related to the constructibility of mass concrete, such as effective measures to control heat development in challenging conditions, the effect of thermal control measures on project schedules, how the cooling pipes affect constructability, etc.
This session highlights recent innovations aimed at minimizing cracking and optimizing the printability of 3D-printed cementitious materials. Presentations explore strategies from both laboratory mix design and field implementation, including shrinkage-reducing admixtures, curing practices, and interlayer bond control. Advances in sustainable, low-clinker printable systems incorporating cellulose nanomaterials are discussed alongside rheological optimization using metakaolin blends. Additionally, in-situ neutron radiography is also introduced as a tool to visualize moisture redistribution during extrusion, offering critical insights into early-age behavior and durability of printed structures.
Learning Objectives:
(1) Understand key causes of early-age cracking in 3D-printed concrete and how to mitigate them through mix design and field practices;
(2) Explore the role of low/zero-clinker systems and cellulose nanomaterials in improving printability and sustainability;
(3) Learn how rheological testing guides mix optimization for stable, printable concrete;
(4) Gain insights into moisture movement during and after extrusion using neutron imaging and its impact on early-age behavior.
Moderators: Mr Larry Rowland, Hessam AzariJafari
This session is seeking to inform stakeholders on an important sustainability topic. It is being co-sponsored by NEU and several ACI committees. It will be of acute interest to the concrete and associated industries. This session will inform ACI and interested stakeholders on progress and work being done by NIST Low Carbon Cements and Concretes Consortium (The Consortium). The purpose of The Consortium is to develop standardized measurement methods in support of low carbon concrete materials and provide consensus based guidance for organizations and individuals seeking to produce and use these materials. This session will deliver updates from the four primary working groups that are taking on these tasks: Performance Specifications, Quantifying Carbonates, Carbon Accounting & Innovative Materials.
Learning Objectives
(1) Discover the technologies and standards that enable lower-carbon concrete mixes and the challenges and opportunities to scaling up these technologies to meet market needs;
(2) Understand the environmental and economic savings gained by shifting to performance-based specifications;
(3) Identify standardized methods to quantify and validate carbon uptake in cement and concrete in the production, construction, use and end-of-life phases of a project’s life cycle;
(4) Learn how researchers evaluate durability of concrete optimized for carbon uptake and sequestration and the standardize test methods used to determine carbonation levels in cement-based products.
As Ultra-High Performance Concrete (UHPC) technology continues to advance, there is an increasing need for innovative methods to characterize and assess its unique material properties properly. Sometimes conventional testing techniques used for conventional concrete and FRCs are inaccurate for UHPC, leading to potential discrepancies in the performance assessment of the material. This session will focus on novel approaches tailored specifically for UHPC characterization, highlighting advancements that address the current challenges and improve testing accuracy. Experts from national and international research groups, material suppliers, and industry professionals will present the latest methods for UHPC testing of mechanical properties such as compression and tension, fresh properties, and durability. The session aims to provide essential insights into UHPC material characterization, contribute to design practices, and ultimately improve the longevity and reliability of UHPC applications.
By attending this session, attendees will be able to:
1. Gain insights into the limitations of some conventional material characterization methods for UHPC characterization.
2. Explore the latest innovations and testing methodologies tailored for UHPC.
3. Understand new procedures and developments for accurately assessing UHPC properties.
4. Recognize the impact of advanced characterization methods on the performance of UHPC in its applications.
Please join us in attending the International Lunch.
Speaker: Marco Menegotto, PE, Designer and Consulting Engineer; Full Professor of structural engineering at Sapienza University of Rome
Title: Development of Prefabrication of Structural Concrete in Europe
This presentation traces the evolution of concrete prefabrication—from its artisanal beginnings to the rise of industrialized systems in the mid-twentieth century. It explores how construction demand and prestressing techniques fueled growth, compares prefabricated and cast-in-place methods, and highlights innovations in architectural concrete. Applications across diverse environments, the role of advanced materials, sustainability considerations, and contributions from scientific-technical bodies and standardization efforts are also discussed.
PREREGISTRATION IS REQUIRED TO ATTEND. Tickets may be purchased at the ACI Registration Desk up to 24 hours prior to the event, based on availability. Please notify the ACI Registration Desk if you have any dietary restrictions.
International Lunch Flyer
Moderator: Dr Jussara Tanesi
Presentations will provide state-of-the-art information regarding workability and reactivity of low-carbon binders. Recently, many low-carbon binders have been developed from thermal, mechanochemical, leaching, and CO2 uptake processes. These can behave differently from conventional supplementary cementitious materials. High reactivity materials can result from such processes, but they often have high specific surface, and thus have high water demand. Thus, for engineered supplementary cementitious materials and other similar binders, balancing workability and reactivity is key. Presentations will address issues in designing mixtures containing low carbon binders in relation to balancing the requirements to achieve acceptable workability in one hand, and in the other hand, achieving the necessary reactivity. Blended materials, further processing, modifications of w/cm, use of specific admixtures, grinding aids, and other related strategies are of interest.
Learning Objectives:
(1) Identify the different types of low-carbon binders produced through thermal, mechanochemical, chemical leaching, and CO2 uptake processes and how they differ from conventional supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs);
(2) Explain the relationship between specific surface area, water demand, and workability in high-reactivity low-carbon binders;
(3) Evaluate strategies to optimize mixture proportions for balancing workability and reactivity in systems incorporating engineered SCMs and other low-carbon binders;
(4) Assess the effects of blended materials and further processing on the workability-reactivity balance of low-carbon binder systems.
Moderator: Dr Amir Bonakdar
ACI 544 committee has developed several publications related to the design and applications of fiber reinforced concrete (FRC) in the last 10 years. The committee would like to provide a broader outreach to other ACI committees and present various opportunities for using fiber reinforcement. ACI 544.4-18 (guide to design with FRC) will be reviewed along with examples of actual projects designed and constructed with FRC showing efficiency and sustainability advantages.
Learning Objectives:
(1) Learn about the various publications of ACI 544 committee;
(2) Become familiar with structural testing of FRC;
(3) Explore design methods for FRC intended for structural uses;
(4) Gain insight into a wide range of structural applications of FRC.
Moderator: Mrs Tricia G. Ladely
The ACI Foundation’s mission is to make strategic investments in ideas, research, and people to create the future of the concrete industry. We are interested in projects that advance the knowledge and use of concrete materials, structures, construction as well as new technologies and innovations that provide solutions to industry issues. The ACI Foundation can provide funding or support in a variety of ways, such as hosting stakeholder meetings, funding a road map, business plan or research, or supporting document development. We will consider large-scale interdisciplinary projects and visionary topics and welcome co-funding and collaborating with other organizations. Join us as we review the new program and discuss industry needs.
The objective is to understand how to submit project ideas, research needs and problem statements related to research and innovation to the ACI Foundation.
Learning Objectives:
(1) Learn about the ACI Foundation & its mission;
(2) Understand the new submission process;
(3) Learn about the funding constraints;
(4) Learn about the evaluation criteria used to rank submissions and proposals.
Moderators: Dr Cesar A. Constantino, Mario E Rodriguez
As the global construction industry increasingly turns to prefabricated concrete systems for efficiency, sustainability, and resilience, new challenges and opportunities are emerging, especially in seismic, industrial, and marine environments. This International Session brings together leading experts from academia and industry to explore cutting-edge applications of precast concrete in high-demand structural contexts.
The session builds on the themes introduced during the International Lunch where Prof. Marco Menegotto addresses historical and forward-looking perspectives on the evolution of prefabricated concrete.
Topics will include near-damage-free seismic performance using all-precast column bents, innovative seismic protection strategies for large-scale industrial buildings, and the application of precast concrete in ports and coastal structures. Attendees will gain a global perspective on how prefabrication is being adapted to meet the demands of modern infrastructure.
Learning Objectives:
(1) Discuss the evolution and future directions of prefabricated concrete systems;
(2) Examine innovative seismic design strategies using precast components;
(3) Review real-world applications of precast concrete in marine and industrial environments;
(4) Develop insights into international practices and standards influencing prefabricated concrete design.
Moderator: James M Casilio
Who is responsible? This a common question when projects encounter challenges. Disputes over responsibility can lead to costly delays, repairs, or removals, underscoring the importance of clearly defined roles for all parties involved. This session reviews the recently revised ACI 132-24: Guide for Responsibility in Concrete Construction and the new ACI PRC-132.2-22: Responsibility in Concrete Rehabilitation Construction. These documents provide practical guidance to all of the parties involved in concrete construction. By clarifying responsibilities in both new construction and rehabilitation, these resources aim to reduce disputes and promote successful outcomes on your project.
Learning Objectives:
(1) Summarize ACI 132-24 and ACI PRC-132.2-22 that provide guidance on the responsibility allocation for all entities involved with concrete construction and rehabilitation;
(2) Identify the typical roles and responsibilities of project team members, including designers, contractors, producers, and testing agencies;
(3) Apply key principles from the documents to real-world scenarios involving cracking, performance shortfalls, or project delays;
(4) Evaluate how early role clarification can mitigate risk, improve project coordination, and reduce costly disputes in concrete construction projects.
Moderators: Dr Brock D Hedegaard, Dr Mi-Geum Chorzepa
This session will explore cutting-edge advancements in using Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data analytics for monitoring and evaluating concrete structures. As concrete remains a critical component of global infrastructure, effective monitoring methods are essential to ensure safety, performance, and longevity. Presentations will delve into AI-driven approaches, such as machine learning models for real-time damage detection, computer vision techniques for crack analysis, and data-driven predictive maintenance strategies tailored for concrete assets. The session will highlight practical applications, including case studies where AI has significantly improved the assessment and management of concrete structures. Attendees will gain insights into overcoming the unique challenges of concrete monitoring, leveraging AI tools to enhance reliability, reduce maintenance costs, and ensure the structural integrity of these essential assets.
Learning Objectives:
(1) Apply machine learning to field observation data to facilitate condition assessment of concrete bridge elements;
(2) Demonstrate the integration of AI with physics-based models for structural performance assessment;
(3) Present case studies showcasing cost-effective, non-destructive approaches to bridge evaluation;
(4) Integrate machine learning into non-destructive evaluations techniques to improve their accuracy.
Moderator: Dr Jussara Tanesi
Presentations will provide state-of-the-art information regarding workability and reactivity of low-carbon binders. Recently, many low-carbon binders have been developed from thermal, mechanochemical, leaching, and CO2 uptake processes. These can behave differently from conventional supplementary cementitious materials. High reactivity materials can result from such processes, but they often have high specific surface, and thus have high water demand. Thus, for engineered supplementary cementitious materials and other similar binders, balancing workability and reactivity is key. Presentations will address issues in designing mixtures containing low carbon binders in relation to balancing the requirements to achieve acceptable workability in one hand, and in the other hand, achieving the necessary reactivity. Blended materials, further processing, modifications of w/cm, use of specific admixtures, grinding aids, and other related strategies are of interest.. The audience would be researchers, material suppliers, and practitioners.
Learning Objectives:
(1) Compare the performance of various chemical admixtures, grinding aids, and other additives in improving the workability of high-reactivity, high-surface-area binders;
(2) Discuss how modifications to water-to-cementitious materials ratio (w/cm) influence both fresh and hardened properties of low-carbon binder mixtures;
(3) Analyze case studies or experimental results demonstrating successful approaches to achieving adequate workability without compromising reactivity in low-carbon binder systems;
(4) Formulate guidelines for selecting and proportioning low-carbon binders in practical applications to meet both sustainability goals and performance requirements.
Moderator: Mr Alec Zimmer
Attendees will learn how specifications play an important role in decarbonizing concrete from the perspective of governmental agencies, designers, concrete producers, and concrete contractors. The owner’s project requirements for improved sustainability and durability and the designer’s approaches for implementing these requirements directly affect how concrete producers and concrete contractors procure and execute the project. The session will highlight experience from concrete producers and concrete contractors that can help owners and designers achieve their goals while overcoming potential constructability challenges.
Learning Objectives:
(1) Understand how owner and agency-driven specifications can contribute to concrete durability and sustainability;
(2) Understand the structural designer’s role in preparing concrete specifications with sustainability goals that materials suppliers and contractors can achieve;
(3) Understand the challenges concrete materials suppliers face in interpreting and achieving specified sustainability requirements ;
(4) Understand how sustainability requirements in concrete specifications influence construction practices.
Moderators: Dr Anol Kanti Mukhopadhyay, Mr Mahipal Kasaniya
This session will delve into recent advancements in technologies for utilizing ground glass pozzolans (GGP) in the production of low-carbon concrete. Key topics include the assessment of pozzolanic reactivity and the performance of GGP-blended cements in relation to concrete’s fresh properties, hardened properties, and durability. Special focus will be given to critical mechanisms impacting concrete durability, such as alkali-silica reaction (ASR), transport properties, chemical resistance, and corrosion resistance. Technical presentations will be provided by leading researchers, practicing engineers, and manufacturers actively working with GGPs.
Learning Objectives:
(
1) Discuss the latest insights from the forthcoming ACI 240 report on GGP;
(
2) Recognize the challenges in producing specification-compliant GGPs for concrete applications;
(
3) Assess the adequacy of current standard testing methods and specifications for GGPs;
(
4) Evaluate the role of GGPs in the development of performance-based concrete mixtures.
The ACI Student Forum provides an opportunity for student chapters and competition teams to exchange ideas and best practices. Student speakers will deliver presentations about their university activities and achievements. A limited number of presentations spots are available. Speakers may present as a group or an individual.
The Opening Session is the official start to the Convention and will begin with a welcome address by ACI President Maria Juenger. Next, the emcee for the night will recognize awards to be given out. The Opening Session will conclude with a keynote presentation.
Immediately following the Opening Session, attendees are invited to the exhibit hall for this evening reception. Congratulate ACI Awardees, reunite with colleagues, network with new acquaintances, and learn about the products and services offered by the exhibitors. A cash bar and light refreshments will be available.
Moderator: Dr Eric R Giannini
Student and Young Professionals Activities Committee (SYPAC) invites all students, young professionals, and convention mentors to a casual networking exchange following the Opening Reception. Attendees will establish connections with fellow young members. Prizes will be awarded during ice breaker activities.