Integrated Design for a Sustainable Future:
The Structure
SOM structural engineers worked on the lab’s structure with lab users, researchers, vibration and acoustic experts, and the other SOM players. Unconventional floor configurations in the lab spaces accommodate both the very strict vibration criteria and allow for a large column-free span.
Much of the structure is exposed, eliminating the need for architectural finishes both on the exterior and interior—and reducing the cost of materials and labor. The architecturally exposed concrete features very special formwork—and provides another sustainable element. Concrete is normally composed of Portland cement, water, and aggregates. SOM replaced a portion of the Portland cement with slag cement, a by-product of the steel industry that is thrown into landfills if not used. If captured and processed, it can replace up to 50-60% of the cement in concrete. An additional benefit is its color—a white tone that is useful for architectural work.
The slag cement is being used in the exposed concrete and foundation of the building, and serves to reduce the concrete temperatures during the hydration process, further limiting the amount of cracking in the exposed concrete.
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