Mark Verbaten

Introduction

My name is Mark Verbaten. I am at my best when solving technical problems in a Sherlock Holmes-like manner. The concrete world is developing rapidly. New types and alternative reinforcement materials, but also new calculation methods and application possibilities make me feel like the little boy in the sweet shop.

What do I do at ABT

As ‘leader’ of the concrete specials knowledge group, I train young specialists and initiate new developments and innovation processes. I specialise in the subsequent reinforcement of concrete structures through carbon adhesive reinforcement. I am also actively involved in the development of standards and guidelines. It was under my chairmanship that CUR recommendation 127 with ‘smart breaker materials’ came about. To promote the safe use and application of low-carbon concrete types, I chair the NEN working group ‘Constructing with Alternative Concrete Types’. The aim is to unify the structural requirements and investigations for safe construction. This is an important step towards achieving the objectives in the concrete agreement: climate-neutral in 2030.

My dream for the future

Concrete is an incredibly versatile material with many potential applications. However, this also means that the material is not always used in the most ideal way. My dream is about knowledge and experience having increased to such an extent that concrete is used in the most efficient way. With regard to execution, sustainability, circularity and costs, and with smart use of advanced calculation methods and sustainable reinforcement materials.