Organizers:

• Filippo Medeghini (Ruhr University Bochum, Germany)
• Rutger Vrijdaghs (KU Leuven, Belgium)

Focus:

The session aims to present recent advances in the development, characterization, and structural application of steel fiber reinforced concrete (SFRC). With its increasing use in structural design, significant progress has been made in understanding its long-term response, the influence of fiber orientation and distribution, and the result-ing structural performance, supported by advanced experimental techniques and numerical modelling approaches. A particular focus is on the translation of these scientific developments into design-oriented frameworks, including improvements in testing methodologies, material characterization, and their implementation in standards and guidelines. Con-tributions addressing structural behavior, high-performance SFRC, as well as fatigue and damage mechanisms, will be especially welcome. The session seeks to bridge the gap between research and practice, supporting the reliable and efficient use of SFRC in modern concrete structures and contributing to the ongoing evolution of international design provisions.

Organizers:

• Eline Vereecken (Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium) & David Sanio (Ruhr University Bochum, Germany)
• Irene Josa i Cullere (University College London, Great Britain)
• Iurie Curosu (Ruhr University Bochum, Germany)
• Ramon Hingorani (SINTEF, Norge)

Focus:

The reuse of entire reinforced concrete elements is a premier circular strategy to combat resource scarcity, waste, and high embodied carbon. Transitioning from "cradle-to-grave" models to a circular lifecycle introduces complex technical hurdles, which this session addresses through a broad range of topics, from basic research to industry implementation. We welcome contributions on the following topics:

• Assessment: Technical rigor in evaluating reuse potential, load-bearing capacity, durability, and residual service life using experimental, numerical and probabilistic methods.
• Design & engineering: Systematic design concepts, design for disassembly, and the assessment of connections and structural integrity.
• Processes: Innovative salvaging, deconstruction, and refurbishment techniques, supported by digital material passports and digital twins.
• Evaluation: Ecological and economic assessments, legalities of reclaimed components, and processing methods.

This session invites research and case studies to prove that reinforced concrete structural elements can and must have a second life, and how this can be realized.

Organizers:

• Enrico Baumgärtel (TU Dresden, Germany)

Focus:

This session welcomes research papers that address more sustainable reinforcement in concrete construction and examine the associated challenges as well as ways to address them. The use of non-metallic reinforcement materials in concrete as an alternative to steel reinforcement is becoming increasingly important. The replacement of steel with new, more sustainable materials made from recycled or renewable raw materials is still in its early stages of research and presents complex challenges, which will be addressed in this session. These presentations may cover topics ranging from basic research to practical applications in the construction industry. We welcome submissions on the following topics:

• Experimental studies on sustainable reinforcing materials (e.g., recycled carbon fibers, recycled glass fibers, natural fibers like bamboo, etc.).
• Environmental and economic assessments of sustainable reinforcement.
• Studies on the reuse of the respective reinforcement.
• Practical application of sustainable reinforcements in construction.

Organizers:

• Flávio De Andrade Silva (Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio de Janeiro (PUC-Rio), Brazil)
• Barzin Mobasher (Arizona State University, USA)
• Bahman Ghiassi (University of Birmingham, UK)

Focus:

The session aims to present recent research on modern manufacturing methods, mechanical characterization, structural applications, and modeling of textile reinforced concrete (TRC). Particular attention will be given to hybrid systems and bond mechanisms. The theoretical framework will address aspects of multi-scale modeling and analytical tools for predicting and designing components under tensile, flexural, and shear loading in TRC composite systems. The environmental sustainability performance of TRC systems will also be discussed. This session would be of interest to researchers, structural engineers, and concrete repair professionals.

Organizer:

• Gaute Mo (Degree of Freedom, Spain)

Focus:

The proposed Special Session would explore how the adaptive reuse of existing concrete structures can become a driver for sustainable transformation in contemporary construction. Using Kunstsilo in Norway as a case study, the session would present the structural conversion of a deteriorated industrial grain silo battery into an internationally recognised art museum through a highly complex engineering intervention. Topics would include the redefinition of structural behaviour in existing reinforced concrete systems, staged construction and load transfer methodologies, post-tensioned concrete solutions, BIM-enabled coordination and the integration of architecture, engineering and construction. The session would also discuss how retaining and upgrading existing concrete structures can significantly reduce embodied carbon while preserving cultural heritage and generating longterm social and urban value. The project offers a compelling example of how concrete structures can be transformed rather than replaced, directly responding to the symposium theme “ReThink Concrete”.

Organizers:

• Michal P. Drewniok (School of Civil Engineering at University of Leeds, UK)
• Han Fang (School of Civil Engineering at University of Leeds, UK)
• Rupert J. Myers (Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Imperial College London, UK)
• Su Meini (Department of Civil Engineering and Management at The University of Manchester, UK)
• Yuvaraj Dhandapani (School of Mechanical Engineering at  University of Leeds, UK)

Focus:

The UK is committed to achieving the national net-zero carbon goal by 2050. To confidently achieve this target, the future demand of concrete needs to be reduced by 50% by a significant reduction in the amount of Portland clinker used in cement and concrete, rethink structural shape, structural system and improve structural optimization for new designs as well as reuse of existing structures.

The session will mainly include the research on minimization of the use of raw materials in cement and concrete to deliver long lasting and durable solutions, research on material reduction in the design and methods to extend the life span of existing structures. The research will include also recent findings on innovative binders.

Organizers:

• Jakob Vogt (TU Dresden, Germany)
• Johannes Reimer (TU Dresden, Germany)

Focus:

The session explores the historical development of concrete engineering, treating structures both cultural and technical landmarks rather than focusing solely on technical metrics. It highlights the importance of their historical context for modern practice.

A key theme is evaluating cultural values from an engineering perspective. Strategies for long-term preservation are discussed, aiming to balance functional requirements with the protection of a structure’s original character. By examining the development of construction methods and materials – from early reinforced concrete to pioneering prestressing systems – the session illustrates how understanding cultural and historical significance of past innovations informs current approaches to preserving these structures.

By bridging the gap between engineering and preservation, the session provides an interdisciplinary framework for valuing and managing engineering heritage. The goal is to foster appreciation for the legacy of concrete construction and to ensure that future interventions respect structural integrity and historic significance.