Brenda Stern
Username
Brenda Stern
Proposer First Name
Brenda
Proposer Email
bstern@thorntontomasetti.com
Proposer Last Name
Stern
Proposer Company/Organization
Thornton Tomasetti
Proposer Phone
(617) 250-4130
Proposer Job Title
Senior Engineer
Boston 2023 Areas of Focus
Proposed Session Description
There are many new technological advances in low carbon structural materials, but there are still many questions surrounding their direct application in the field. This session will delve into several emerging materials, including carbon-sequestering concrete, glass pozzolan, and Portland Limestone Cement. We will discuss material development, manufacturing, and procurement, and provide case studies that use the materials. Which of these materials can we use today? Which can we help bring to scale in the next 5-10 years? What might a zero carbon structure built in 2050 look like?
Diversity and Inclusiveness
Co-presenter is a woman and emerging professional
Learning Objectives
Identify feasible low carbon alternatives to traditional concrete mix designs
Gain confidence in discussing the structural, architectural, and construction implications of the use of these materials
Understand how these technologies affect the bigger picture of decreasing carbon emissions
Recognize how industry collaboration is key to solving the climate crisis, especially within the local market
Has this session been presented before?
No
Session Format
Presentation followed by facilitated discussion or breakout groups
Session Format Details
40 minute presentation followed by Q&A/discussion
Recommended Length
60-minute session
Strongest Content Connection - Boston 2023
Reviewer 1
Smith, Greg
Proposal #
168
Committee Decision
Rejected
Presenters
Full Description
This topic addresses potential pathways to a zero carbon future in the built environment. With commitments such as Structural Engineers 2050 and Concrete Zero there is a need to learn about and use these emerging technologies. Oftentimes, while there may be successful laboratory data, design professionals are hesitant to specify them on their projects due to uncertainty surrounding procurement, cost, and performance. The speakers are actively collaborating with the creators of many of these innovative materials and will help demystify the unknowns. The use of low carbon alternatives is a climate solution that needs widespread adoption in order to make significant impact. This session will build awareness of their applicability and make it easier to implement these solutions on everyday projects.