Topics in Conservation: Conserving Modern Concrete

200 years have now passed since the introduction of artificial Portland Cement in 1824.  No other building material in this time period transformed global life, helping to usher in the modern age. As the main ingredient in concrete, the most widely used substance on Earth after water and the foundation of modern development, cement is the third largest carbon dioxide emitter in the world. The technology and use of concrete in engineering and architecture has evolved greatly over time. Despite its first deployment in the 3rd century BCE by Roman engineers, concrete reemerged in the 19th century to become the signature material of Modern 20th century architecture and engineering, and the key protagonist to the development of our modern cities and infrastructure.

With over a century of modern concrete structures, the topic of concrete conservation and modern heritage has become a central subject amongst design and heritage professionals. This seminar will offer an in-depth study of modern concrete and its conservation. The course will provide an overview of the history of concrete technology and its applications, and through case studies, lab and field applications, students will learn about its deterioration mechanisms, assessment techniques and repair methods. International guests and experts will participate in the seminar to provide different global perspectives on the challenges and issues related to the conservation of concrete heritage. The seminar will also reflect on concrete conservation in relation to today's demanding topic of sustainability and ecological transition.  As part of the course, students will participate in fieldwork on the concrete desert masonry at Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West in partnership with the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation. 

The seminar is relevant to interested students of conservation and preservation, architecture, landscape architecture, and architectural history.