Concrete: Material Properties and Future Implications

This lecture discusses the properties and applications of concrete as a construction material. It highlights the versatility of concrete, which can be produced from inexpensive materials and used globally. The instructor emphasizes the historical context of concrete usage, particularly during the Great Acceleration, and the ongoing challenges related to material durability. The lecture also addresses the importance of monitoring infrastructure such as dams and bridges, which require continuous maintenance due to deformation. The instructor advocates for a shift in sensibility towards understanding the cultural and material value of existing buildings. By instilling practices that respect these values, future generations can better anticipate the challenges they will face. The discussion underscores the need for sustainable practices in construction and the significance of concrete in shaping our built environment.