Masonry 2018 Symposium Call for Papers

Words: Dan KamysThe objective of Masonry 2018 Symposium is to gather and disseminate the latest information on all aspects of the innovations in masonry materials, design, specification, construction, maintenance, and rehabilitation. It will emphasize the application of ASTM standards to those areas, and their coordination with building codes, project specifications, and international standards. ASTM has released its call for papers for the Symposium, to be held on Tuesday, June 26, 2018. The Symposium will be held at the Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina, San Diego, Calif., in conjunction with the standards development meetings of Committees C01, C07, C12 and C15. Papers are sought on the following topics:
  • Anchors and Ties
  • Materials Testing
  • ASTM Standards
  • Moisture Management
  • Building Codes
  • Mortars: Cement: Lime, Masonry Cement, Mortar Cement
  • Cements: Portland, Blended, Hydraulic, Masonry, Plastic
  • Performance-Based Design and Specification
  • Grout
  • Specifications
  • Inspection
  • Structural Masonry and Testing
  • Joints
  • Sustainability
  • Thermal Performance
  • Maintenance
  • Thin Brick Facades and Veneers
  • Water Penetration and Resistance 

    ... and much more.

To participate in the symposium, presenters/authors must submit online the Abstract Submittal Form and attach a 250- to 300-word preliminary abstract no later than April 21, 2017. Complete details are available here.
Is Contact with Wet Mortar or Grout Dangerous?
April 2026

In the world of masonry, few materials are as common as mortar and grout. Whether you are laying brick, concrete masonry units (CMU), or pouring grout into masonry walls, wet cement and mortar are constant companions. However, beneath their utility lies a

Zach Everett
Technical Talks
Read More
The Importance of Instructor Support
April 2026

Whether you are a new or veteran masonry instructor, we all need support throughout our careers. We can never stop learning, and keeping up with ever-changing technology, materials, and installation techniques can be overwhelming alongside the everyday pr

Curtis Hoover
Resources
Read More
Vibing Masonry #11: Innovative Concrete Masonry Technologies in Healthcare Design
April 2026

In the high-stakes environment of healthcare design, every material choice is a clinical decision. Architects, engineers, and facility administrators are tasked with creating spaces that are not only resilient and code-compliant but also conducive to heal

Steve Blye
Technical Talks
Read More
Why Termination Bars Still Matter: A Practical Look at Long‑Term Flashing Performance
April 2026

In recent discussions across the masonry industry, I have heard termination bars described as “old school.” The implication is that with modern materials, primerless peel-and-stick flashings, advanced sealants, and structural insulated sheathing, mechanic

Linda Potter
Technical Talks
Read More