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Expert: - 6/4/2007


Question
I have a project in which I have to build a biosphere that will last 1000 years under water/ground and I need to know what the strongest material is against ground and water. Remember, this would need to be stable enough to last 1000 years and to last even when the ground underneath moves by tectonic plates. By the way, I am in 7th grade, just to let you know. Thanks.

Answer
Dear Lily,
Who thinks up these projects??  I suppose the day will arrive when we will need biospheres to survive. When that day arrives, I'm betting that metalurgical engineers will have developed a new alloy that will last forever, be plastic and flexible, non toxic and inexpensive to create.  The closest thing we have now is aluminum - it's impermeable, mallable and strong under certain conditions.  
Also, the auto industry has developed a laminated metal that is strong and flexible.  Saturn cars use the material.

I hope this is helpful

Roger

Construction Industry

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Roger Zona

Expertise

I am experienced in all types of construction: residential, industrial and commercial; single family, multi-family, mid-rise and high rise buildings (16 story office building) as well as remodeling, additions and tenant improvements. I can field most any question that relates to general construction. I have consulted with infrastructure (utility) contractors also and have a good general knowledge of underground utility construction for subdivisions and commercial projects.

Experience

After college, I began my career in the construction industry. I chose to become an apprentice Architect and 4 yrs later I opened my own architectural design firm. Six years later I moved to Florida to buy & develop land and build. I became a State of Florida Certified General Contractor and operated my business for 45 years. I built all types of residential and commercial buildings including warehouses, shopping centers, high rise apartments and office buildings and developed sites for other contractors. I retired and became a consultant to the construction industry. I maintain my license and continuing education requirements, operate a small construction company and write a weekly newspaper column for the Palm Beach Post (a Cox publication) with the byline "Ask The Contractor". I am the "technical editor" for a publisher of books that relate to home maintenance.

Organizations
Previously - NAHA Currently - FLCA (Florida Licensed Contractors Assoc.)

Publications
Palm Beach Post newspaper - weekly Q & A column Happy Herald monthly real estate publication - monthly column

Education/Credentials
Michigan State University University of Detroit BS in Engineering

Past/Present Clients
I built a home in Palm Beach for a member of the Pulitzer Family. I was responsible for the completion of a twin hi-rise condominium project for G.E. Credit. I was a partner in the successful development of a P.U.D. (Planned Urban Development) subdivision. I represented the largest home builder from France (Bati Service, S.A.) in the development of a subdivision and the design and construction of the homes.

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