Moderators: Dr Nishant Garg, Dr Prasada R Rangaraju
This session, sponsored by ACI Committee 236, will explore a diverse range of advanced analytical and characterization techniques for concrete and cementitious materials. Invited experts will discuss advanced methods for measuring chemical and physical composition, including but not limited to diffraction, microscopic imaging, petrography, and spectroscopy. In addition, experts will cover mechanical characterization, thermal and calorimetric analysis, rheological properties, and advanced non-destructive testing methods. Attendees will gain insights into fundamentals, practical applications, and the benefits and limitations of various techniques that contribute to enhanced concrete resilience, durability, sustainability, and overall performance. This session is suitable for researchers, engineers, and practitioners interested in expanding their toolkit of analytical methods for concrete materials.
Learning Objectives:
(1) Understand the broad categories and fundamental principles of advanced analytical techniques relevant to concrete and cementitious materials;
(2) Learn how to effectively select appropriate characterization and analysis methods based on specific material properties, structural applications, and research objectives;
(3) Gain practical knowledge regarding the implementation, interpretation of results, common challenges, and best practices for advanced concrete characterization methods;
(4) Explore recent innovations, case studies, and future directions for advanced analytical techniques aimed at improving concrete material quality, durability, and structural integrity.
Moderators: Dr Kejin Wang , Dr Kamal H Khayat
3D printed concrete (3DPC) technology brings remarkable benefits to construction industry stakeholders. It offers design flexibility, construction automation, and precision while promoting waste reduction, material efficiency, and cost savings. By meeting the growing demand for sustainable practices, 3DPC enhances the lifecycle performance of concrete structures. This technical session aims to shed light on the recent innovations and applications of sustainable 3DPC, including, but not limited to, the innovations in use of low-carbon binders, geopolymers, and recycled and waste materials as additives, the exploration of low-binder solutions and life-cycle cost and environment impact analyses, and the application of advanced analytical tools, such as machine learning, in concrete mix design and performance prediction. It is to engage industry leaders, researchers, and practitioners in advancing 3DCP technology and to promote innovative materials, efficient processes, and resilient structures.
Learning Objectives:
(1) To introduce the concept of 3DPC and its significance in the context of sustainable construction practices;
(2) To share information on the technical aspects of sustainable 3DPC, including its compositions, printing quality, performance characteristics, and AI-enhanced performance predictions;
(3) To facilitate knowledge of the environmental benefits of sustainable 3DPC, such as reduced carbon emissions, energy savings, and improved resource efficiency;
(4) To discuss challenges and opportunities associated with the widespread adoption of sustainable 3DPC.
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.
Moderators: Dr Eyitayo Opabola, Dr Shahria Alam
Major seismic events around the world, along with the aging and deterioration of civil infrastructure, continue to highlight the need for pre- and post-earthquake repair, strengthening, and rehabilitation of existing reinforced concrete (RC) structures (e.g., buildings and bridges). Significant advancements in seismic repair, strengthening, and retrofit techniques have been facilitated by the availability of large-scale testing facilities, structural health monitoring technologies, the development of advanced materials and construction methods, and sophisticated performance-based seismic design and assessment methodologies. Despite this progress, many challenges remain. For example, the accelerating deterioration of structural systems, increasing transportation demands, and more stringent seismic performance requirements have made bridge retrofit and repair critical tasks for engineers and researchers.
The main objective of this session is to present findings from recent research studies—experimental, numerical, and analytical—as well as practical examples of seismic repair and retrofit of RC structures. This session will provide a forum for practicing engineers and researchers to share and discuss various issues related to the design and construction of seismic repair, retrofit, and strengthening strategies for RC structures at both the element and system levels.
Learning Objectives:
(1) Highlight ongoing research studies on the performance of repaired and retrofitted of RC structures under extreme events;
(2) Present recent findings regarding the behavior of repaired and retrofitted RC structural components under axial and combined flexure, lateral loads or environmental loads;
(3) Discuss the new experimental and numerical approaches for the rehabilitation of concrete structures in seismic-prone areas;
(4)
Ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) is redefining what is possible in structural design through its exceptional strength, durability, and longevity. As the industry pushes toward more resilient and sustainable infrastructure, UHPC offers unique opportunities to reduce material usage, extend service life, and lower life-cycle environmental impacts. However, quantifying the full sustainability benefits of UHPC remains a complex challenge—particularly when balancing embodied carbon with long-term performance. This session will explore the holistic role of UHPC in advancing sustainability and resilience in the built environment. Presenters from academia, government, and industry will share case studies, research insights, and practical examples demonstrating how UHPC contributes to more efficient construction, reduced maintenance cycles, and improved environmental performance. The session will also open the floor for discussion on metrics, trade-offs, and future pathways to better integrate UHPC into sustainable construction strategies.
Learning Objectives:
(1) Examine case studies showcasing the sustainable and resilient benefits of UHPC in real-world applications;
(2) Identify material characteristics and design approaches that enable lower environmental impact with UHPC;
(3) Understand ongoing research in life-cycle assessment and low-carbon UHPC mixtures;
(4) Engage in discussions around current limitations and opportunities for implementing UHPC in sustainable infrastructure.
The objective of this competition is to design, construct, and test a concrete structure reinforced with fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) reinforcement to achieve the lowest cost-load ratio.
These are the challenges in this competition:
- Design, construct, and test a concrete structure reinforced with fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) reinforcement to achieve the lowest cost-load ratio. Cost is defined as the calculated batch cost for concrete materials and chemical admixtures plus the cost of the FRP used to reinforce the structure, increased by forming costs for more complicated geometries and transportation costs, and reduced by credits given for implementation of sustainable design concepts.
- Submit a presentation on the specimen design and calculations indicating the theoretical type of failure and load. Calculations may be made using Chapter 22 Sectional Strength of the ACI CODE-440.11-22: Building Code Requirements for Structural Concrete Reinforced with Glass Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) Bars, which will be provided by ACI to each student team or made using other calculation methods.
- Predict the ultimate load, which may differ from calculated values. Differences in your predicted load from your calculated load must be justified or explained in your presentation.
- Comply with the contest rules and associated dates.
26th ACI International Forum - Chaired by ACI Vice President Scott Anderson, Vice President General Manager, Keystone Structural Concrete
The ACI International Forum provides an opportunity for convention attendees to meet and learn from ACI Allied Organizations, 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.
Agenda:
8:30am-9:00am – Start the program by connecting with fellow ACI attendees and industry leaders in a casual networking environment ahead of the formal program. Enjoy light refreshments as you connect.
9:00am-11:00am – International Forum program
Speakers:
TBD
Moderators: Dr Nishant Garg, Dr Prasada R Rangaraju
This session, sponsored by ACI Committee 236, will explore a diverse range of advanced analytical and characterization techniques for concrete and cementitious materials. Invited experts will discuss advanced methods for measuring chemical and physical composition, including but not limited to diffraction, microscopic imaging, petrography, and spectroscopy. In addition, experts will cover mechanical characterization, thermal and calorimetric analysis, rheological properties, and advanced non-destructive testing methods. Attendees will gain insights into fundamentals, practical applications, and the benefits and limitations of various techniques that contribute to enhanced concrete resilience, durability, sustainability, and overall performance. This session is suitable for researchers, engineers, and practitioners interested in expanding their toolkit of analytical methods for concrete materials.
Learning Objectives:
Moderators: Dr Kejin Wang , Dr Kamal H Khayat
3D printed concrete (3DPC) technology brings remarkable benefits to construction industry stakeholders. It offers design flexibility, construction automation, and precision while promoting waste reduction, material efficiency, and cost savings. By meeting the growing demand for sustainable practices, 3DPC enhances the lifecycle performance of concrete structures. This technical session aims to shed light on the recent innovations and applications of sustainable 3DPC, including, but not limited to, the innovations in use of low-carbon binders, geopolymers, and recycled and waste materials as additives, the exploration of low-binder solutions and life-cycle cost and environment impact analyses, and the application of advanced analytical tools, such as machine learning, in concrete mix design and performance prediction. It is to engage industry leaders, researchers, and practitioners in advancing 3DCP technology and to promote innovative materials, efficient processes, and resilient structures.
Learning Objectives:
Moderators: Dr Eyitayo Opabola, Dr Shahria Alam
Major seismic events around the world, along with the aging and deterioration of civil infrastructure, continue to highlight the need for pre- and post-earthquake repair, strengthening, and rehabilitation of existing reinforced concrete (RC) structures (e.g., buildings and bridges). Significant advancements in seismic repair, strengthening, and retrofit techniques have been facilitated by the availability of large-scale testing facilities, structural health monitoring technologies, the development of advanced materials and construction methods, and sophisticated performance-based seismic design and assessment methodologies. Despite this progress, many challenges remain. For example, the accelerating deterioration of structural systems, increasing transportation demands, and more stringent seismic performance requirements have made bridge retrofit and repair critical tasks for engineers and researchers. In addition, engineers must adopt efficient and cost-effective repair and strengthening methods to enhance the seismic resilience of existing RC buildings.
The main objective of this session is to present findings from recent research studies—experimental, numerical, and analytical—as well as practical examples of seismic repair and retrofit of RC structures. This session will provide a forum for practicing engineers and researchers to share and discuss various issues related to the design and construction of seismic repair, retrofit, and strengthening strategies for RC structures at both the element and system levels.
Ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) is redefining what is possible in structural design through its exceptional strength, durability, and longevity. As the industry pushes toward more resilient and sustainable infrastructure, UHPC offers unique opportunities to reduce material usage, extend service life, and lower life-cycle environmental impacts. However, quantifying the full sustainability benefits of UHPC remains a complex challenge—particularly when balancing embodied carbon with long-term performance. This session will explore the holistic role of UHPC in advancing sustainability and resilience in the built environment. Presenters from academia, government, and industry will share case studies, research insights, and practical examples demonstrating how UHPC contributes to more efficient construction, reduced maintenance cycles, and improved environmental performance. The session will also open the floor for discussion on metrics, trade-offs, and future pathways to better integrate UHPC into sustainable construction strategies.
Join us for the International Lunch, featuring a guest speaker (details to come). This lunch provides attendees with an opportunity to hear about concrete-related topics from an international viewpoint. Additional information regarding the speaker and final schedule will be shared as details are confirmed. Visit
www.aciconvention.org for more information.
International Lunch Flyer
Moderators: Mr Patrick J. Frawley, Mr Erik S. Josephson
The ACI Foundation's Concrete Innovation Council (CIC) collaborates with the concrete community to further innovative solutions for industry-wide challenges, by effectively identifying new technology and helping to nurture and support emerging and mature technologies. The council is comprised of a diverse group of industry representatives - material suppliers, architectural & engineering firms, contractors, academics, owners and regulatory agencies. If you are interested in learning about innovations, meeting technology owners and networking with industry leaders please attend this session or one of our annual Concrete Innovation Forums.
CIC Objective: To identify technologies and innovations that are aligned with ACI and industry strategies and help implement their use when appropriate.
Theme: Scaling technology in the concrete industry.
Learning Objectives:
(1) Learn about the ACI Foundation’s Concrete Innovation Council;
(2) Understand how new technologies are born, developed and tested;
(3) Discuss how technologies are adopted and scaled from the lab to pilot to production;
(4) Understand regional variance in adoption, and hurdles to adoption for innovations in the concrete industry.
Moderators: Dr Nishant Garg, Dr Prasada R Rangaraju
This session, sponsored by ACI Committee 236, will explore a diverse range of advanced analytical and characterization techniques for concrete and cementitious materials. Invited experts will discuss advanced methods for measuring chemical and physical composition, including but not limited to diffraction, microscopic imaging, petrography, and spectroscopy. In addition, experts will cover mechanical characterization, thermal and calorimetric analysis, rheological properties, and advanced non-destructive testing methods. Attendees will gain insights into fundamentals, practical applications, and the benefits and limitations of various techniques that contribute to enhanced concrete resilience, durability, sustainability, and overall performance. This session is suitable for researchers, engineers, and practitioners interested in expanding their toolkit of analytical methods for concrete materials.
Moderator: Mr Richard Huza, PE
The sessions will primarily overview the material properties of the various categories of steel reinforcement highlighted in the ACI 439.4R document which has been significantly overhauled by the Committee and is in the process of being submitted to TAC for comment. The steel reinforcement categories include the various rebar reinforcement types including black, and corrosion resistant products such as epoxy coated, galvanized, stainless and low chromium alloy bars, as well as plain and deformed wire, welded wire, and pre-stressing steels. The Session will touch on other aspects such as availability of the steel products, welding, unique material properties, stress-strain curves, fabrication aspects while providing an overview of the various applicable standards and industry resources.
Learning Objectives:
(1) Gain an in depth knowledge of exceptional and consistent predictability of the mechanical properties of steel reinforcement;
(2) The range of different types of steel reinforcement materials available;
(3) The simplicity, effectiveness, efficiency and successful track record of designing structures with steel reinforcement;
(4) The long term sustainability of steel and the range of durable steel reinforcement options available to designers.
Moderator: Dr Corina-Maria Aldea
Novel materials and technologies on Carbon Conscious Concrete will play a key role in the low carbon transition in the construction industry. Join us for an engaging session aimed at addressing the challenges associated with international efforts for CO2 reduction in the concrete industry. The presentations will include examples of how industry stakeholders and concrete professionals alike are helping to deliver on concrete’s promise to be the globe’s resilient, low carbon, building material of choice. Contractors, material suppliers, engineers, architects, researchers and scientists will benefit from this session.
Learning Objectives:
(1) Gain insight into international efforts for CO2 reduction in the concrete industry;
(2) Learn about emerging and established approaches for decarbonizing concrete;
(3) Learn about pathways toward broader adoption of carbon-conscious concrete supported by evolving standards, verification frameworks, and successful regional implementations;
(4) Gain practical insights into what truly works on active projects, how low-carbon strategies influence schedules and costs, and where opportunities exist to drive meaningful climate action from the construction side;
(5) Present new innovative technical approaches that can enhance more effective construction.
The objective of this session is to provide an update on the research performed in the area of concrete vibration. The session will focus on two topics: the effect of mix design parameters on the vibration of slipformed concrete, and the effect of aggregate parameters on the vibration of pavement concrete.
Learning Objectives:
(1) Learn the importance of aggregate gradation on the transfer of vibration energy;
(2) Highlight measurement techniques and test methods to assess the response of concrete to vibration;
(3) Highlight the important effect of other factors, such as w/c and paste volume on the adequacy of vibration;
(4) Cover how a paradigm shift is needed in the concrete industry: Mix design and vibration parameters need to be matched for successful concrete pavement construction.
Moderators: Dr Kay Wille, Dr Zoi Ralli
This session serves as an open forum which will explore a key question in UHPC material characterization: is direct tension testing required to adequately and accurately characterize UHPC materials or can bending tests combined with inverse analysis provide sufficient insights? Experts in the field will share their experiences, discussing the strengths and limitations of each approach to help advance best practices in UHPC testing and application.
Learning Objectives:
(
1) Understand the advantages and limitations of both direct tension and combined bending tests with inverse analysis methods;
(
2) Gain insights into the effectiveness of bending tests with inverse analysis in capturing UHPC tension properties;
(
3) Learn whether bending tests and inverse analysis are suitable for quality acceptance and control;
(4)
Moderator: Phil Diekemper
Moderator: Mr Richard Huza, PE
The sessions will primarily overview the material properties of the various categories of steel reinforcement highlighted in the ACI 439.4R document which has been significantly overhauled by the Committee and is in the process of being submitted to TAC for comment. The steel reinforcement categories include the various rebar reinforcement types including black, and corrosion resistant products such as epoxy coated, galvanized, stainless and low chromium alloy bars, as well as plain and deformed wire, welded wire, and pre-stressing steels. The Session will touch on other aspects such as availability of the steel products, welding, unique material properties, stress-strain curves, fabrication aspects while providing an overview of the various applicable standards and industry resources.
Moderator: Dr Brock D Hedegaard
This session will present applications, protocols, and other recent developments in the use of digital twins for structural health monitoring and asset management. This session will include case studies of ongoing digital twins will be presented, and the use for digital twins in different sectors within the greater concrete structural industry will be compared. The use of AI in developing and updating the digital twins will be discussed.
Learning Objectives:
(1) Explain the role of digital twins in structural health monitoring;
(2) Identify key protocols for implementing digital twins in structural health monitoring;
(3) Analyze the benefits and challenges of long-term digital twin implementation;
(4) Compare the use of digital twin applications across various concrete sectors.
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 new Honorary Members, Fellows, and 50-Year Members for their contributions to the concrete industry. There will also be a segment to the program where awards will be given out.
Immediately following the Opening Session, attendees are invited to the exhibit hall for an evening reception featuring beer, wine, and light hors d’oeuvres. Reconnect with colleagues, network with new acquaintances, and explore the products and services offered by exhibitors. Each attendee will receive one drink ticket, sponsored by the Hyatt Regency O’Hare.
Moderator: Ms Claire A Hiltz
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.