N° 15.1959. Rapport sur la collaboration entre le CEB et l’American Concrete Institute (ACI). Rapport des travaux de la Commission CEB “Flexion-compression”

Because of such close similarity of aims and objectives between the Comité Européen du Béton and the American Concrete Institute, because of the possibility of reaching those goals in scientific research much sooner by concerted effort, and because of the fine spirit of cooperation already displayed between both officers and members of CEB and ACI in several recent symposia and conventions, a means should be developed for even closer collaboration.

The main handicaps to be overcome (at least by ACI) are those of language, systems of measurement, standards of research procedures, and great distance.

ACI has recently authorized foreign language translations of its publications. Most research men and many engineers have a reading knowledge, at least, of several languages. Translations can be made by competent people of important papers and circulated as required. Language need not be an insurmountable obstacle.

The metric system is quite simply converted with very little practice. Continuing cooperation will tend to unify standards of methods and procedures. Transoceanic travel in these days of jet transportation is not much of a barrier.

Establishment of elaborate mechanisms for interchanging information does not offer much likelihood of success. Cooperation grows out of mutual admiration and respect — there must be a worthwhile increase of knowledge on both sides to make any arrangement work.

Attendance of members of CEB at ACI meetings, especially committee meetings, and of ACI members at CEB meetings, is the most effective way to promote the desired collaboration. Contacts should be renewed perhaps every couple of years or at times that are most appropriate.