The 2025/4 edition of Cement contains a wide range of interesting articles without a specific theme. A significant part of this issue focuses on the renovation of the entrance to the western passenger tunnel at Amsterdam Central Station, with three dedicated articles. Other topics include Artificial Intelligence, a new Stufib report on innovative concrete types, and shear capacity in existing concrete structures. The issue also features an interview with Herman van der Horst (Movares).
Series of articles – Entrance to the Western Passenger Tunnel, Amsterdam Central Station
The entrance to the western passenger tunnel at Amsterdam Central Station (project name Westknoop) has been completely renewed. This entrance connects the passenger tunnels to the monumental station building. In a three-part series, the architect, structural engineer, and contractor explain the design, structural engineering, and execution of this impressive project.
Part I – Design coherence
Author:
ir. Teun Teeuwisse, ZJA Architects & Engineers
Amsterdam Central Station has undergone a large-scale renovation to provide more space for the growing number of passengers. A key part of this transformation is the new entrance to the western passenger tunnel. Within this relatively small project area, all challenges of the large-scale station renovation converge: creating more space within a listed building, with all its restrictions, opportunities, and surprises.
Part II – Structural design of a monumental renovation
Author:
ing. Dennis Kooijman RC/RO, Arcadis
The existing structures posed major challenges for the structural design of the new entrance to the western passenger tunnel at Amsterdam Central Station. Archival data of the original monument were also limited.
Part III – Small project area, complex construction methods
Authors:
ing. Laura van der Tuijn, BAM Infra Civiel; ir. Gijs van den Brand RC, BAM Advies & Engineering
Construction in the complex environment of Amsterdam Central Station requires unconventional methods with specific challenges. This was especially true for the renovation of the western passenger tunnel entrance. Characteristic were the small project area with simultaneous works, limited accessibility for the supply and removal of materials and equipment, evacuation routes for passengers at all stages, the monumental character of the building, uncertainties in the existing condition, the short schedule, and hardly any room for delays.
Lower CO2 emissions with innovative concrete
New Stufib report on innovative concrete types
Authors:
ir. Govert Dorrenboom, ABT; ir. Jacques Linssen, Cement / Aeneas Media
To achieve CO2 reduction targets, alternative concrete types must be used in construction. Such alternatives do exist, but their use is still limited. A key reason is lack of awareness in the sector. To address this, the joint Stufib/Stutech study group “Innovative Concrete” has published a report.
Shear verification based on NEN 8702
Practical calculations (27)
Author:
Rick van Middelkoop MSc, Witteveen+Bos
When calculating the shear resistance of an existing structure, both the contribution of the concrete and the shear reinforcement may be considered. Specific rules for this are set out in NEN 8702. This article elaborates the verification of shear–tension failure, illustrated with the assessment of an existing bridge deck. The case concerns a statically determinate structure without prestressing.
Interview Herman van der Horst
After a long and varied career at Movares, and its predecessors NS and Holland Railconsult, Herman van der Horst retired in April 2024. Throughout his career, he found as much satisfaction in personal development and collaboration as in engineering itself. A bridge builder in both the literal and figurative sense.
Rock, building, instrument – Chapel of Sound, Chengde, China
Author:
ir. Kirsten Hannema
The Chapel of Sound, resembling a giant concrete rock, lies in a valley near Chengde, two hours northeast of Beijing. It is a concert hall with a semi-open amphitheatre, an outdoor stage, service spaces, and a rooftop terrace with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. Inspired by the rugged landscape and cave acoustics, OPEN architecture designed a building that resonates sound in a similar way. The space is intended for music performances, but is also used for gatherings and personal contemplation.
The Young Structural Engineer
This issue introduces Emilia Andrade Borges. She talks about her PhD research, her views on the profession, and highlights one of her first projects.
The Questions of AI
Structural Engineer of the Year (7)
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is set to play a major role in construction. But what exactly will that role be? The Cement editorial team asked outgoing Structural Engineer of the Year Diederik Veenendaal and Talent of the Year Lonneke van Haalen for their views.
Column – Maurice Hermens
“And who will close the tap again, and with which tool?”
“Structural safety is not solely the responsibility of the structural engineer. The client also plays a crucial role. Time and again, practice shows that early decisions about collaboration determine whether a building excels or falters.”
Structural Concrete 26/1 and 26/2
Structural Concrete Vol. 26/1 (February 2025) and Vol. 26/2 (April 2025) contain a variety of papers. A selection of those most relevant for Cement readers is summarized:
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