EP #129: What Hoover Dam Concrete Can Teach Us Today

What if the answer to today’s concrete durability and sustainability challenges isn’t new—but something we left behind decades ago? 

In Episode #129 of the Concrete Logic Podcast, host Seth Tandett talks with Joseph E. Thomas, Executive Director of the Natural Pozzolan Association, about a material used in the Hoover Dam and Roman aqueducts: natural pozzolans. Joseph explains how these natural pozzolans are making a quiet comeback and why they may deserve another look.

What You'll Learn:
- What exactly are natural pozzolans, and how do they compare to fly ash?
- Can natural pozzolans genuinely enhance concrete durability?
- Why have iconic structures like the Pantheon and Hoover Dam relied on natural pozzolans?
- What are the realistic limitations, such as water demand and regional availability?
- How natural pozzolans stack up against traditional cement and fly ash.
- Emerging trends and the growing role of activated pozzolans in construction.

Chapters: 
00:00 - Intro 
02:15 - Understanding Natural Pozzolans 
07:30 - Historical Examples & Real-World Performance 
14:05 - Benefits vs. Limitations in Today's Market 
20:20 - Challenges: Water Demand & Availability 
27:50 - Where Natural Pozzolans Fit in Future Projects 
33:15 - Summary & Closing Thoughts
 
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Guest Information: 
Joseph E. Thomas
Executive Director, Natural Pozzolan Association
Website: https://www.naturalpozzolan.org
Email: [email protected]

Producer: Jodi Tandett

Music by: Mike Dunton (Instagram: @Mike_Dunton)

Stay Connected & Watch More!

Host: Seth Tandett
Email: [email protected]
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-tandett/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@concretelogicpodcast
Website: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com 
 
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