Jim NRMCA Ext FWF Finisher

Technical

Adobe Stock 257146187

PennDOT / PACA: Working Together

PACA and PennDOT partner through four Technical Work Groups (TWGs) focused on improving specifications and advancing material performance in these key areas:

  1. Alkali Silica Reaction (ASR)
  2. Skid Resistance (SRL)
  3. Deleterious Shale in Aggregates
  4. Cement and Supplementary Cementitious Materials (SCM) Reporting

Recent advancements include:

  • Automated monitoring of concrete test cylinders.
  • A statewide Concrete Plant Technician Certification Program.

A leadership group of PACA and PennDOT officials meets quarterly to evaluate TWG progress and ensure meaningful improvements. Throughout all efforts, aggregate availability remains a foundational concern.

Adobe Stock 249267063

Improper Field Testing of Concrete

Improper testing in the field leads to costly consequences, wasted materials, and code violations—despite the availability of affordable, compliant testing technology.

PACA has taken proactive steps:

  • A 2020 survey of 103 projects showed 85% non-compliance with PA Building Code testing standards.
  • Developed warranty language for use in bids and submittals.
  • Created a concise checklist for producers, specifiers, and project managers to reduce poor testing practices.

A PACA workgroup, with legal counsel, is developing further resources to help producers defend against continued negligent testing.

ACI Logo

Codes & Standards

PACA ensures Pennsylvania's voice is heard in the development of national codes and standards. We are actively involved with ACI and ASTM committees that shape the standards adopted by the International Code Council (ICC) and the PA Regulatory Advisory Committee (RAC).

PACA staff serves as officers of:  

  • ACI Committee 132 - Responsibility in Concrete Construction
  • ACI Committee E701 - Materials for Concrete Construction - Education

PACA staff and members serve as voting members of: 

  • ACI Committee 221 - Aggregates
  • ACI Committee 201-H - Aggregate Reactions
  • ACI Committee 332 - Residential Concrete Code and Specifications
  • ASTM C01 – Cement
  • ASTM C09 – Concrete and Concrete Aggregates
  • ASTM C09.20 - Aggregates
  • ASTM C09.40 - Ready-Mixed Concrete
  • ASTM C09.50 - Aggregate Reactions in Concrete
  • ASTM C09.60 - Testing Fresh Concrete
  • ASTM C09.61 - Testing for Strength

PACA also holds a voting seat on the PA Regulatory Advisory Council, reviewing statewide adoption of ICC code updates.

20210415 122747

Education

Durability issues in Northeast PA (2017) revealed a need for better training among tradesmen. PACA, in collaboration with PennDOT, responded by providing education to more than 2,000 finishers across the state.

Through the NRMCA Exterior Flatwork Finisher Certification, we’ve helped bridge knowledge gaps in concrete finishing techniques. While the program has made significant strides, many finishers still lack access to essential training. PACA remains committed to offering both formal and informal education to support quality construction across Pennsylvania.

Adobe Stock 73200230

Pennsylvania ASR Exposure Block Study

Since the 1990s, Pennsylvania producers have faced strict SCM requirements based on assumptions about aggregate reactivity. Despite extensive testing in 2013–2015 that reduced the number of reactive sources, SCM mitigation levels have continued to rise—contributing to durability and constructability problems, as seen in 2017 failures in Northeast PA.

In response, PACA collaborated with NSSGA and Dr. Hadi Rashidi to secure funding for advanced research by Penn State University and partner institutions. This new ASR exposure block study—using updated methods and Pennsylvania aggregates—aims to align lab testing with field performance, better define true reactivity, and inform future specification updates.

Technical Communities

Leads

Aggregate Technical Community
Tom Abbey, Glenn O. Hawbaker, Inc.

Concrete Technical Community
Chair - Mark Moyer, New Enterprise Stone & Lime Co., Inc.

Cementitious Materials Community
Chair - Jeff Hook, Lehigh Cement Company

Staff Liaison - Jim Casilio, P.E.

Adobe Stock 465164163

PACA's Online e-Learning Center

This program provides free continuing education to the design and specifying communities. There are currently four courses available, ranging from 30-60 minutes focused on the cement, aggregates and concrete industries. You'll receive a certificate of completion once you pass a quiz. The bookmarking feature allows you to leave the course and resume where you left off when you return

The Pennsylvania Aggregates and Concrete Association (PACA) is the industry’s unified voice, representing more than 200 member companies across the state.