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GCO podcast

Global Construction Online

This podcast series will provide you with the most recent articles, research papers and innovations in the construction industry. In each episode, we will break down the research papers and offer you a convenient way to stay up to date with the latest findings in the industry.

  • 57 episodes
  • Updated July 18

Episodes57

  • July 18 · 6 min

    CPI 01 - Adding Water to a Concrete Truck: Risks to Concrete Strength and Durability

    Can adding water to a concrete truck affect the long-term performance of concrete? In this episode of the Concrete Placement Inspector (CPI) Podcast Series, we explain why unauthorised water addition after batching can increase the water-cement ratio, reducing concrete strength, durability and resistance to cracking. We also discuss why slump alone cannot confirm concrete quality and outline the practical checks inspectors should carry out before any action is taken on site. Whether you are a concrete inspector, site engineer, contractor or construction professional, this episode provides practical guidance to help you avoid costly quality issues and make informed decisions. Thank you for listening to the CPI Podcast Series, prepared by GCO Academy. Follow the series for more practical insights into concrete inspection and construction quality. Read the Full Episode

  • Mar 10, 2025 · 7 min

    Concrete Inspection Insights: Concrete Bonding Agents Application

    Explore the essentials of Concrete Bonding Agents Application in this podcast. Learn about types, uses, and inspection tips to enhance concrete durability and strength. Episode Question: What is Your Top Priorities When You Overseeing the Use of Bonding Agents? Episode Insights

  • Dec 23, 2024 · 7 min

    Transforming Urban Spaces with Sustainable Solutions

    Discover how sponge cities are revolutionising urban water management! This episode of the GCO Podcast explores sustainable solutions, benefits, challenges, and real-world applications, offering insights for professional civil engineers. Episode Question What challenges does your city face in transitioning to sponge city models? Episode Insights

  • Aug 19, 2024 · 6 min

    Concrete Inspection Insights: Types of Concrete Aggregates

    Join hosts Ava and Andrew on the GCO Podcast as they explore the different types of concrete aggregates, crucial for civil engineers and concrete inspectors. Discover how the right aggregate choice impacts concrete strength, durability, and aesthetics. Tune in for expert insights and stay ahead in construction industry practices. Visit GCOportal.com for more. Episode Question: Why is understanding different types of aggregates important for concrete inspectors? Episode Insight

  • Jul 29, 2024 · 5 min

    Concrete Batteries: Revolutionizing Energy Generation and Storage for Buildings and Roads

    Discover the future of construction and energy with the latest episode of the GCO Podcast! Join host Ava as she explores the revolutionary concept of concrete batteries, a breakthrough merging structural utility with energy storage. Learn about the cutting-edge research from MIT, expert insights, and the potential applications transforming our infrastructure. Ideal for professional civil engineers, this episode offers a deep dive into sustainable innovation. Tune in to find out if concrete batteries could be the future of energy supply in the construction industry. Listen now and stay ahead in your field! Episode Question: Can concrete batteries serve as a viable alternative for energy supply in the construction industry,? Episode Insight

  • Jun 26, 2024 · 7 min

    Transforming Skyscrapers into Self-Sustaining Power Producers with Gravity Battery Storage

    Explore the innovative use of gravity-based energy systems in skyscrapers on this episode of the GCO Podcast. Host Andrew discusses how gravity batteries can transform urban energy storage and generation. Ideal for professional civil engineers interested in sustainable solutions. Episode Question: Have you ever implemented renewable energy systems in any of your projects? If so, could you share your experiences and the outcomes? Episode Insight

  • Jun 17, 2024 · 31 min

    Concrete Inspection Insoghts: The Health, Safety, and Environmental Aspects of Cement - Cement HSE

    Explore the critical Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) aspects of cement handling and usage in construction with hosts Ava and Andrew on the GCO Podcast. This episode provides valuable insights for concrete inspectors and civil engineers, covering health hazards, safety measures, environmental considerations, and regulatory compliance. Join the discussion, share your experiences, and stay updated with the latest industry practices. Tune in for an engaging dialogue aimed at promoting safe and sustainable construction practices. Don't miss out – visit gcoportal.com for more content and follow GCO Podcast for ongoing professional insights. Eposode Insight

  • Jun 5, 2024 · 6 min

    Coffee Grounds in Concrete: Sustainable Biochar Concrete

    concrete are revolutionising construction with carbon-negative solutions. Discover the benefits, applications, and sustainable practices of using biochar in construction for stronger, eco-friendly concrete. Episode Insight

  • May 22, 2024 · 4 min

    Concrete Inspection Insights: Cement Strength Development

    Tune into the GCO Podcast with Androw and Ava as they explore the vital role of cement strength development in construction. Discover key factors, testing methods, and challenges faced by concrete inspectors. Engage with experts and share your views on this cornerstone of structural integrity. Join the conversation on GCOportal.com. Related Content

  • May 14, 2024 · 3 min

    Concrete Inspection Insights: Cement setting and Hardening

    une into the GCO Podcast for an engaging discussion on cement setting and hardening. Join hosts Androw and Ava as they delve into the crucial aspects of cement chemistry, practical implications for inspectors, and environmental influences on cement strength. Perfect for civil engineers and concrete inspectors looking to enhance their expertise. Share your thoughts in our comment section! Related Content

  • May 4, 2024 · 6 min

    Concrete Inspection Insights: Cement Hydration Process

    Explore the intricacies of cement hydration in our latest GCO Podcast episode, where hosts Andrew and Ava discuss the chemical reactions and practical implications vital for civil engineers and concrete inspectors. Tune in for expert insights into ensuring the strength and durability of concrete structures. Related Content

  • May 3, 2024 · 3 min

    Exploring and Inovation: Exploring Composite Columns with Steel, Timber, and CFRP

    Discover the future of structural engineering in this episode of the GCO Podcast, where we delve into the innovative use of timber, steel, and CFRP in composite columns. Learn how these materials combine to enhance structural integrity and performance. Tune in now for groundbreaking insights! Authors: Tohid Ghanbari-Ghazijahani, Hamid Valipour, and Martin Mensinger Published by: ASCE Published on: 2 May 2024 Read Article

  • Apr 27, 2024 · 3 min

    Concrete Inspection Insights: Cement Types

    Explore essential cement types with Androw and Ava in our latest podcast for civil engineers and concrete inspectors. Learn key properties and applications to enhance your projects. Listen now for expert insights. Related Content

  • Apr 26, 2024 · 3 min

    Research on the Crushing of Reinforced Concrete Two-Way Slabs by Pulse Power Discharge Technology

    Tune into the GCO Podcast for an insightful discussion on the innovative use of Pulse Power Discharge technology in crushing reinforced concrete slabs. Discover how this green and safe method holds the potential to transform urban construction and engineering. Join us as we explore the findings of a recent study, published by MPDI in April 2024, that delves into the technical and practical applications of this groundbreaking technique. Authors: Xinxin Lin, ,Fei Yang, Youwei Liu and Yang Published by: MPDI Published on: 25 April 2024 Read Article

  • Apr 12, 2024 · 3 min

    Enhancing sustainability in concrete construction: A comprehensive review of plastic waste as an aggregate material

    Explore the innovative integration of plastic waste in concrete construction with the GCO Podcast. Delve into research findings that reveal economic benefits and sustainability enhancements in civil engineering. Tune in for expert discussions on transforming environmental challenges into opportunities. Authors: Hussein M. Hamada, , Alyaa Al-Attar, Farid Abed, Salmia Beddu, Ali M. Humada, Ali Majdi, Salim. Yousif, Blessen Skariah Thomas Published by: Science direct Read Article

  • Apr 5, 2024 · 3 min

    Preparation and Performance Evaluation of Warm-Mixed Epoxy Asphalt Ultrathin Overlay by Post-Doping Method

    Dive into the GCO Podcast as we explore the groundbreaking study on Warm-Mixed Epoxy Asphalt Ultrathin Overlay by Post-Doping Method, published by ASCE. Discover how this innovative technology revolutionises the application of epoxy asphalt, offering superior performance and efficiency in civil engineering. Join us for an insightful discussion on the future of construction technology. Authors: Fei Chen, Zhaohui Min, Mingyue Li, Zhiyong Shi, Yingqin Zhao and Jiliang Feng Published by: ASCE Published on: 27 March 2024 Read Article

  • Mar 9, 2024 · 3 min

    Shear Behavior of Bamboo-Reinforced Sulfur Concrete Beams Using Martian Soil Simulant

    This episode unveils the potential of using bamboo and Martian soil to revolutionise construction on Mars. Discover how this innovative approach offers sustainable solutions for future Martian habitats. Join us on GCOportal.com for a journey beyond the confines of Earth, into the realm of advanced civil engineering and Martian colonization. Authors: Matthew Soltani, Ph.D., P.E., Mitchell Thiel and Patrick Fishburne Published by: ASCE Published on: 6 March 2024 Read Article

  • Feb 24, 2024 · 2 min

    Innovative Asphalt Pavement Repair: The Prefabricated Flexible Ultrathin Overlay

    Discover the future of asphalt pavement repair with our latest GCO Podcast episode. Join us as we delve into a groundbreaking study on a prefabricated flexible ultrathin overlay, designed to mend reticulation cracks swiftly while enhancing skid resistance. This episode is a must-listen for professionals seeking innovative solutions in civil engineering Authors: Qiqi Tan, Hongzhou Zhu, , Hongduo Zhao, Ning Zhao, Song Yang, and Xiaosi Yang Published by: ASCE Published on: 16 Feb, 2024 Read Article

  • Feb 17, 2024 · 2 min

    Effect of Paraffin Oil Nanoemulsion as a Hydrophobic Modifier on Cement Paste Workability and Hydration

    Explore the innovative study on enhancing cement with Paraffin Oil Nanoemulsion for hydrophobicity and workability, published by ASCE and featured on GCO Podcast. Dive into groundbreaking civil engineering advancements with Menghan Jiang, Keren Zheng, Hao Yao, and Ghimire Prateek's research #HydrophobicCement #CivilEngineeringInnovation #SustainableMaterials #ConstructionTech #EngineeringResearch #gcoportal Author(s): Menghan Jiang, Keren Zheng, Hao Yao, and Ghimire Prateek Published by: ASCE Published on: 25 Jan 2024 Read Article