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160
June 11, 2026

EP #160: Is Type IL Cement the Problem, or Did It Just Expose One?

THIS EPISODE IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY: GPRS Before you cut, core, drill, trench, or start guessing what is inside the slab, call GPRS. GPRS helps contractors locate what is hidden below the surface with ground penetrating radar, utility locating, concrete scanning, video pipe inspection, leak detection, and mapping services. They help keep your jobsite safer, reduce costly hits, and give your team better information before the work starts. Learn more here: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/gprs...
157
May 14, 2026

EP #157: Low-Carbon Concrete - Does the Math Actually Work?

THIS EPISODE IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY: GPRS Before you cut, core, drill, or excavate, make sure you know what is inside the concrete. GPRS helps contractors locate rebar, conduit, post-tension cables, utilities, and other hidden hazards before they become expensive problems. Their scans help reduce hits, downtime, expenses, and keep your people safe. Learn more here: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/gprs ON THIS EPISODE OF THE CONCRETE LOGIC PODCAST Low-carbon cement sounds good on paper. But ...
Guest: Ryan Gilliam
151
March 24, 2026

EP #151: Most Concrete Durability Problems Start Here (Alkalinity Explained)

PRESENTED BY: GPRS Construction professionals know that utilities and concrete reinforcements can cause big problems when you’re on the job. GPRS helps you avoid them. We use ground penetrating radar to detect rebar, conduit, and post tension cables before you cut, core, or drill. And our concrete scans are 99.8% accurate… we guarantee it—helping you reduce hits, downtime, expenses, and keep your people safe. To keep your jobsite safer, visit https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/GPRS SUMMARY ...
126
July 3, 2025

EP #126: What the “State-of-the-Art” PLC Report Quietly Admitted About Concrete Performance

In this episode of the Concrete Logic Podcast, Seth Tandett breaks down the 2010 “State-of-the-Art Report on Use of Limestone in Cements” that helped launch Portland Limestone Cement (PLC) into the U.S. market. You’ll hear what the report got right, what it left out, and why Europe’s cement playbook may not fit American concrete. If you're in the industry, this episode will help you question the assumptions behind the biggest cement shift in decades. Takeaways What happens to concrete stren...
122
May 22, 2025

EP #122: How to Eliminate Concrete Cracks —Is Shrinkage Compensating Concrete Worth the Money?

Are concrete cracks draining your profits and ruining your reputation? In this eye-opening episode of the Concrete Logic Podcast, host Seth Tandett sits down with shrinkage compensating concrete expert Lee Thrasher. They reveal how this innovative material eliminates cracking, significantly improves long-term durability, and boosts your project’s profitability. Discover why industry leaders are switching to shrinkage compensating concrete, how it compares with traditional mixes, and why proper ...
Guest: Lee Thrasher
119
April 22, 2025

EP #119: Is More Limestone the Key to Stronger, Cheaper Concrete?

What if you were told there’s better concrete out there with more limestone than what’s used in Type IL cement mixes? Sounds crazy, right? But that’s exactly what we’re exploring today with John Guynn and John Kline. In this episode, we explore ACI 211-7R and its potential to reduce cement content without sacrificing performance. Learn how adjusting particle size distribution, using admixtures, and understanding the water-cement ratio can improve workability and strength. Plus, get insights on ...
103
Nov. 5, 2024

EP #103: Concrete & the Rise of Blended Cements

In this episode of the Concrete Logic Podcast, Seth and Tyler Ley delve into the intricacies of Type 1L cement, discussing its significance in the construction industry and the challenges associated with its use. They explore the evolving landscape of blended cements, the importance of consistent performance, and the need for better evaluation tools. Tyler emphasizes the necessity for industry professionals to take control of their materials and establish performance standards to ensure quality ...
Guest: Tyler Ley
102
Oct. 24, 2024

EP #102: Testing Cement: How to Ensure Quality in the Concrete Industry

In this episode of the Concrete Logic Podcast, Seth and Dr. Jon Belkowitz delve into the complexities of cement testing, particularly focusing on Type 1L cement and the challenges posed by blended cements. They discuss the importance of establishing a proactive quality management system to ensure the integrity of concrete mixes, emphasizing the need for rigorous testing and quality control measures. The conversation highlights the financial implications of poor quality control and the potential ...
98
Sept. 12, 2024

EP #098: Concrete Challenges: Mastering Water-to-Cement Ratios

In this Concrete Logic Podcast episode, Seth, Rich, and Dr. Jon discuss the potential issues with water-to-cement ratios in concrete production. They highlight the challenges of using new cement and fly ash materials, as well as the variability in water content and cement quantities. The conversation emphasizes the importance of managing risk and the need for accurate calculations to ensure the desired concrete properties. The episode revolves around the need to re-educate construction industry...
92
July 18, 2024

EP #092: Concrete Contractors Unite: PLC Troubleshooting

In this episode, Seth interviews Mike Hernandez, the Technical Director of the American Society of Concrete Contractors (ASCC), about a survey they conducted on Portland Limestone Cement (PLC). The survey aimed to understand the challenges and differences contractors were experiencing when using PLC compared to traditional cement mixes. Mike discusses the survey results, which showed increased water demand and set times, as well as changes in plastic and hardened properties. He explains that th...
85
April 25, 2024

EP #085: Dr. Concrete Answers Hokie Queries

In this episode of the Concrete Logic Podcast, Seth and Dr. Belkowitz answer questions from students at Virginia Tech about concrete mix design. They discuss the role of aggregate size in a mix design, its impact on the cost and control of the concrete, and the importance of a well-graded gradation. They also touch on the use of recycled concrete aggregate and its potential effects on the hydration process. The conversation highlights the economic and technical considerations involved in sele...
81
March 28, 2024

EP #081: Beyond the Big Bad CO2: Why Concrete is the Hero of Sustainability Stories

In this Concrete Logic Podcast episode, Aaron Fisher discusses the importance of engaging with sustainability in the concrete industry. He highlights the need for concrete professionals to be part of the conversation and influence the rules and regulations being developed. Aaron explains how the focus on CO2 emissions has led to an oversimplification of sustainability and the need to consider other factors such as water usage, fire resistance, and durability. He emphasizes the importance of p...
Guest: Aaron Fisher
68
Dec. 14, 2023

EP #068: Banking on a Greener Concrete

In this episode of the Concrete Logic Podcast, Seth interviews Jason Adams from Megaslab, a technology company focused on optimizing concrete design and reducing material usage. They discuss the concept of jointless slabs and how Megaslab has evolved to offer a range of unique features. Jason highlights the industry's commitment to sustainability and reducing embodied carbon in concrete. They also explore the challenges and misconceptions in the industry and the need for innovation in concret...
Guest: Jason Adams
65
Nov. 22, 2023

EP #065: Reclaiming Fly Ash: A Concrete Solution

Ever wondered how reclaimed fly ash could revolutionize the concrete industry? Tune into this episode of the Concrete Logic podcast where we’re shaking things up with Pete Paone. We’re diving deep into the world of reclaimed fly ash, a byproduct that’s about to make a big splash in the concrete world. If you’re curious about the future of concrete and reclaimed fly ash, this is one episode you won’t want to miss! *** Did you learn something from this episode? If so, please consider dona...
Guest: Peter Paone
61
Sept. 28, 2023

EP #061: Capturing the Concrete Boogeyman

What is carbon capture? Why is CO2, the gas that we all exhale, considered a pollutant when it comes to producing concrete? This Concrete Logic Podcast episode features a special guest, John Kline, a seasoned chemical engineer with a rich 50-year career in the cement industry. John has worn many hats, from research to project management, plant operations to optimization, and most recently, he has been focusing on reducing the carbon footprint of concrete by different means including carbon ca...
Guest: John Kline
58
Aug. 24, 2023

EP #058: Challenging Concrete Trends: AI, CO2 Emissions, & Type 1L

Get ready for a no-holds-barred conversation on the Concrete Logic Podcast! In this episode, we’re bringing back Matt “Mr. Concrete” McCombs, a veteran of the ready-mix industry and a die-hard Ohio State Buckeyes fan. We’re diving deep into the controversial topics that are shaking up the concrete industry. From the push for reducing CO2 emissions to the introduction of Type 1L cement, we’re tackling it all. But that’s not all. We’re also exploring the role of AI in the industry and the promi...
Guest: Matt McCombs
57
Aug. 17, 2023

EP #057: Concrete Chemistry from Cement's Perspective

Join us on the latest episode of the Concrete Logic Podcast as we delve into the intricacies of cement production with industry veterans Pete Paone and Robert Higgins. We’re pulling back the curtain on cement kiln dust, its types, production methods, and alkali content. With over two decades of experience, Pete offers unique insights, while Bob shares perspectives from the ready mix side. If you’ve ever been curious about the chemistry behind your concrete, this episode is a must-listen. T...
56
Aug. 10, 2023

EP #056: Concrete's Potential

🎧 Join us on the Concrete Logic Podcast as we explore the fascinating world of concrete alkalinity and its impact on the longevity of concrete structures. Our returning guest, Robert Higgins, sheds light on the changes in cement production over the last century, including the introduction of higher alkaline content due to EPA regulations. Discover how these changes have led to detrimental chemical reactions and increased permeability. If you’re a concrete enthusiast or industry professional, thi...
49
June 1, 2023

EP #049 - Unveiling Concrete Innovators

Curious about the one of the government's driving force behind groundbreaking innovations in the construction industry? Join Seth as he engages in a riveting conversation with Joseph King, an esteemed authority on sustainable construction and energy innovation. Gain exclusive access to the inner workings of the Department of Energy's ARPA-E and explore its audacious mission to revolutionize the way we build. From unraveling the challenges of enhancing concrete durability to reducing emissions,...
45
April 20, 2023

EP #045: EPA NOx Out Concrete

In this episode of the Concrete Logic Podcast, host Seth sits down with Peter Paone, Director of Engineering at ZAP Engineering, to discuss the cement manufacturing process, regulations surrounding NOx emissions, and technological innovations in kiln designs. Peter dives into how the cement industry is addressing both efficiency and environmental concerns, specifically focusing on the "Good Neighbor" rule, which impacts NOx emissions from cement plants. They explore how emission control methods ...
Guest: Peter Paone
44
April 13, 2023

EP #044 - Concrete & Type IL Cement: No Turning Back

💥 The Concrete Logic Podcast 💥 🛠️ Hosted by: Seth Tandett Thinking about using Type I/II cement? You might want to think again! Rich S. Szecsy, PhD, PE, FACI from Big Town Concrete returns to break down how Type IL cement has rapidly taken over the industry. Is this the fastest shift in concrete history? What does it mean for your next project? We’ve got the answers! 🔎 What’s Inside: ✔️ Why Type I/II cement is disappearing from the market ✔️ The surprising reasons behind the Type IL cement tak...
Guest: Rich Szecsy
41
March 9, 2023

EP #041 - Typical Concrete Vapor Barrier Detail Defies Science

Are we detailing the placement of vapor barrier in the typical slab-on-ground design all wrong? When moisture develops on a concrete surface, where is it coming from? Below the surface or above? Bob Higgins, a concrete and waterproofing expert, joins the podcast to help us answer these questions. We discuss extensively the science of how water vapor is created and why today's concrete must be internally cured to perform its best. If you want to learn about another controversial topic in the conc...
32
Dec. 8, 2022

EP #032 - Concrete & The IRA

The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 (IRA) was signed into law in August. It's been a catalyst in the latest push for project stakeholders to demand concrete reduce its CO2 use. Do these stakeholders know what they are asking for? In this episode of Concrete Logic, Eric Koehler of Titan America joins the podcast to help us understand who is requesting carbon-reduced concrete in addition to the general government. Also, Eric proposes that we look beyond the concrete to truly appreciate the o...
3
April 28, 2022

EP #003 - Concrete with a Twist of Lime(stone)

On today's episode of Concrete Logic, we welcome Stephanie Hampton to the show. Stephanie is a Senior Technical Sales Engineer with Lehigh Hanson, one of the largest producers of cement in the world. Lehigh Hanson is pursuing carbon neutrality by 2050 and is a leading proponent of utilizing Portland Limestone Cement (PLC) to achieve this ambitious goal. If you don't know what Portland Limestone Cement (PLC) is, this is the episode for you! Stephanie shares what the difference is between PLC a...