Moderator: Kenneth E. Hays, Masonry Arts/Physical Security, Bessemer, Ala.
Kevin A.B. O’Connor, AIA, LEED AP, Ross, Barney + Jankowski, Chicago
Robert Smilowitz, PhD, PE, Weidlinger Associates, New York City
Morgan R. Williams, AIA, Hellmuth, Obata + Kassabaum PC, Washington, D.C.

      Using case studies from the Pentagon (before and after September 11, 2001), the award-wining Oklahoma Federal Building Complex, and the U.S. Embassy in Moscow, we’ll explore innovative solutions in blast-resistant curtain wall design, including examples of blast-resistant post-September 11 exterior walls that reflect cutting-edge design without being solid pill boxes.

Learning objectives:

• Discuss real threats to building occupants from an explosion and how typical glazed curtain walls behave during the blast event
• Examine how exterior curtain wall can be used to harden building skins, and provide the flexibility to create interesting, livable, healthy interior environments
• Analyze how innovative, high-quality design can be done while complying with today's restrictive blast-resistant design criteria.