"University of Kentucky"
(12th place overall; 7th in paper; 12th in presentation; 11th in product)

Presentation:

One man dressed in casual attire gave the presentation.  The critical strength requirements were highlighted along with the factor of safety.  The tests used to determine critical parameters were described.

A method for working the concrete into the mix was described to eliminate problems associated with delamination.  The salient features of the canoe were also presented. 

The judges asked questions related to the aggregates used and asked about the method used to prevent delamination.  They questioned why the report referred to tensile tests as non-destructive and asked the presenter to define the most innovative feature of the project.

The remaining questions were:  "Why was Class C fly ash chosen as opposed to the other choices mentioned?"  "What load cases were taken into account and why did you consider your analysis to be conservative?"  "What is the effect of adding silica fume to the mix and how did the actual timetable compare to the projected schedule?"

Product:

Name: Kentucky's First National Entry
Length: 21' 6"
Weight: 175 lb
Color: blue and white

Vital Stats:

The University of Kentucky is located in Lexington, Kentucky. The team made their debut at the national level in 2003 and proudly represented the Ohio Valley Region as a second place qualifier.  Their highest finish to date was this year's impressive twelfth place overall.

Canoe/Materials/Facts:

The canoe had a long and narrow design with an offset center and was made of cement, sand, glass bubbles, and miniature ceramic beads.  It was reinforced with materials including carbon and Kevlar meshes.

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