The Post-Tensioning Institute (PTI) has launched a new podcast which will deliver expert insights and in-depth discussions to concrete industry professionals. The podcast, Strength in Concrete will highlight emerging trends and the latest innovations driving advancements in the field.

Targeting professionals in the concrete and post-tensioning sectors, Strength in Concrete fosters knowledge sharing and promotes professional development. The podcast will offer engaging content on a variety of topics including updated post-tensioning specifications, certification opportunities and methods for constructing durable and sustainable structures. The first episode is now available, with more to follow in this ongoing series.

PTI's Executive Vice President Tim Christle, P.E., emphasizes the podcast’s value, “Through this series, we’re eager to engage with our experts, PTI members and industry stakeholders.”

Highlights from Episode 1 and Beyond

In the first episode, Modern Post-Tensioned Concrete Bridges, host  Christle and guest Bob Sward, vice president of Structural Technologies, LLC, take an in-depth look into the evolution of post-tensioned concrete bridges. Episode 2, featuring former PTI president Greg Hunsicker, P.E., will dive into key PTI specifications: M50.3 and M55.1. Hunsicker discusses the evolution of these standards over the past two decades, their adoption by various states and their role in shaping industry-wide quality benchmarks.

“These specifications have continually raised the bar for quality and durability in post-tensioning systems,” Hunsicker explains in Episode 2. “Their development ensures long-lasting structures and emphasizes critical components for durability.”

Episode 2 will be available in the coming weeks.

Upcoming Topics

Strength in Concrete dives into a range of essential topics designed to deepen understanding and advance the field of concrete technology and post-tensioning.  Future episodes will cover the use of flexible fillers and the role of grouted post-tensioning in ensuring structural integrity. Discussions will also explore the application of epoxy strand technology and electrically isolated tendons to enhance both durability and corrosion resistance in bridge systems.

Listeners will gain insights into emerging methods for extending bridge spans, designing for durability, and adopting innovative technologies that address the evolving demands of infrastructure projects. These episodes aim to equip professionals with practical insights and strategies to meet the industry's advancements and challenges head-on.

Future Strength in Concrete episodes include discussions on use of flexible fillers and the role of grouted post-tensioning in ensuring structural integrity; the application of epoxy strand technology and electrically isolated tendons; emerging methods for extending bridge spans and much more.

Where to Listen

Concrete enthusiasts and professionals can tune in to the the Strength in Concrete podcast on all major platforms, including YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and directly from the PTI website.