Events > Tilt-Up Convention and Expo 2024 - Phoenix > SESSION

Embodied Carbon 101 & Low-Carbon Concrete in Tilt-Wall Construction

October 10, 2024 from 11:00am to 12:00pm Mountain Standard Time

Solana Ballroom E [Stage A]

Erika Winters-Downey, S.E., LEED AP BD+C

Kyle Kammer

This presentation will start with an introductory segment on Embodied Carbon 101, providing a foundational understanding of the environmental impact of construction materials. The session will then delve into the practical application of low-carbon concrete mix designs in the context of schedule-driven tilt-wall construction. Typically, high early-strength concrete mixes are used to facilitate the rapid tilting of wall panels, often within 3-7 days after pouring. However, integrating Supplemental Cementitious Materials (SCMs) can slow the strength gain process. In 2023, a collaborative effort between Clayco, Concrete Strategies, Wiss Janney Elstner engineers, Ozinga ready-mix, Breakthrough Energy, and Climate Works foundations tested various carbon-reducing mixes under challenging winter conditions. This talk will cover the tested mixes, lab and field results, feedback from crews on handling the mixes, and future plans for incorporating low-carbon solutions in tilt-wall construction.