|
|
 |
 |
|
|
Client Need:
The United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) in Colorado Springs, CO wanted to investigate the best way to build a concrete mix design that could withstand Colorado’s fickle freeze-thaw conditions and the accompanying caustic, but necessary, de-icing chemicals used on traffic areas. They tasked North Wind, Inc. to organize a team of specialists to investigate this for them. This team included engineers who designed the construction methods, a consulting company that pre-tested all the materials (rock, sand, and cement), and Colorado Hardscapes as the installer.
The team’s goal was to set the standard for future installation techniques and specifications for future architectural rigid pavement on the Academy’s campus.
Solution:
The resulting 10,000 square foot mock-up was divided into twelve concrete panels, each with a different installation technique. The primary finishes included exposed aggregate, Sandscape, mock marble, and real marble. The USAFA specified that all of the concrete materials needed to come from within a 300-mile radius of the campus.
Results:
Laboratory and on-site testing of the different concrete mixes and finishes will continue for eighteen months, into 2011. The results of these tests will determine the best construction method and will be used as the standard for future projects.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
Owner:
AFCESA
|
|
|
Architect:
AFCESA
|
|
|
General Contractor:
Northwind
|
|
|
Completed:
September 2009
|
 |
|
|
USAFA
8120 Edgerton Dr
Colorado Springs, CO
|
 |
|
|
|
 |
|
|
 |
Plaza |
|
On-Site Mock Up |
|
|
 |
|
