Confronting the Deception: Confronting the Deception:

9/11, NIST and 9/11, NIST and

the Road to Global Collapsethe Road to Global Collapse

Kevin RyanKevin Ryan

Scholars for 9/11 Truth Come to Colorado

Boulder and Denver, October 28th and 29th, 2006

9/11: A Long String 9/11: A Long String of Unprecedented Events and of Unprecedented Events and

AbsurditiesAbsurdities► Our nation’s air defenses effectively stood downOur nation’s air defenses effectively stood down► Many coincidental military exercisesMany coincidental military exercises

► Vast evidence of foreknowledge without anyone Vast evidence of foreknowledge without anyone knowingknowing

► Insider trading without insidersInsider trading without insiders

► Plans to invade Afghanistan and Iraq before 9/11Plans to invade Afghanistan and Iraq before 9/11► Resistance to, and obstruction of, the investigationsResistance to, and obstruction of, the investigations

► (Former?) CIA allies hate us for our freedoms(Former?) CIA allies hate us for our freedoms► ThreeThree tall buildings collapsed from fire on same day tall buildings collapsed from fire on same day

Questioning an Ever-changing Questioning an Ever-changing StoryStory

► As a manager for Underwriters Laboratories (UL), I As a manager for Underwriters Laboratories (UL), I was fired for publicly questioning the government’s was fired for publicly questioning the government’s October 2004 report on the collapse of the WTC October 2004 report on the collapse of the WTC towerstowers

► That report, generated by NIST*, is only one of That report, generated by NIST*, is only one of several conflicting reports produced in the last five several conflicting reports produced in the last five years, and even it continues to changeyears, and even it continues to change

► All the official WTC explanations have come from All the official WTC explanations have come from those profiting from the War on Terrorthose profiting from the War on Terror

► The FEMA and NIST reports are direct products of The FEMA and NIST reports are direct products of the Bush Administration (i.e. Bush Science)the Bush Administration (i.e. Bush Science)

*National Institute of Standards and Technology

““Bush Science”Bush Science”► The Bush Administration has been “deliberately The Bush Administration has been “deliberately

and systematically distorting scientific fact in the and systematically distorting scientific fact in the service of policy goals”service of policy goals”Open letter from 9000+ scientists, currently including 49 Nobel laureates Open letter from 9000+ scientists, currently including 49 Nobel laureates and 63 National Medal of Science recipientsand 63 National Medal of Science recipients

► ““We found a serious pattern of undermining We found a serious pattern of undermining science by the Bush Administration”science by the Bush Administration”Union of Concerned ScientistsUnion of Concerned Scientists

► ““[We] found numerous instances where the [We] found numerous instances where the Administration has manipulated the scientific Administration has manipulated the scientific process and distorted or suppressed scientific process and distorted or suppressed scientific findings”findings”House Committee on Government ReformHouse Committee on Government Reform

Unprecedented Building FailuresUnprecedented Building Failures

No tall buildings have ever collapsed from No tall buildings have ever collapsed from fire, but on 9/11, we’re told there were threefire, but on 9/11, we’re told there were three

No building exhibiting all the characteristics No building exhibiting all the characteristics of demolition has ever NOT been a of demolition has ever NOT been a demolitiondemolition

99.7% of steel evidence destroyed despite 99.7% of steel evidence destroyed despite outraged cries from public and fire expertsoutraged cries from public and fire experts

Demolition hypothesis?Demolition hypothesis?► The collapse of the WTC towers looked like a classic The collapse of the WTC towers looked like a classic

controlled demolition, said Mike Taylor of the National controlled demolition, said Mike Taylor of the National Association of Demolition Contractors, “It cascaded Association of Demolition Contractors, “It cascaded down like an implosion”down like an implosion”

► ““It appeared to me that charges had been placed in It appeared to me that charges had been placed in the building” -- Ronald Hamburger, structural the building” -- Ronald Hamburger, structural engineer and later a contributor to FEMA and NIST engineer and later a contributor to FEMA and NIST reportsreports

► British architect Bob Halvorson noted that the British architect Bob Halvorson noted that the collapses were "well beyond realistic experience." collapses were "well beyond realistic experience."

► But official investigations never considered demolitionBut official investigations never considered demolition

Early support for the official WTC Early support for the official WTC storystory

►““Experts” said jet fuel fires melted the Experts” said jet fuel fires melted the steelsteel BBC BBC (Chris Wise, etc.)(Chris Wise, etc.) Scientific American Scientific American (Eduardo Kausel)(Eduardo Kausel) NOVA video NOVA video (Matthys Levy)(Matthys Levy) Henry Koffman Henry Koffman from USCfrom USC Tom Mackin Tom Mackin from Univ. of Illinoisfrom Univ. of Illinois Osama Bin LadenOsama Bin Laden -- “I was thinking that the fire from the gas -- “I was thinking that the fire from the gas

in the plane would melt the iron structure of the building…” in the plane would melt the iron structure of the building…”

► Temperatures exaggerated by mediaTemperatures exaggerated by media National Geographic Channel National Geographic Channel - 2,900 F- 2,900 F A&E /History Channel -A&E /History Channel - 2500 F 2500 F

Official investigations into the collapse Official investigations into the collapse of the WTC buildingsof the WTC buildings

►ASCEASCE

►FEMA BPATFEMA BPAT Turned ASCE investigation into an Turned ASCE investigation into an

“assessment”“assessment” Report released May 2002Report released May 2002

►Silverstein/WeidlingerSilverstein/Weidlinger report released October 2002report released October 2002

►NIST NIST Final draft 10/04…Final, final draft 6/05Final draft 10/04…Final, final draft 6/05 First report 9/05…Responses to FAQs 8/06First report 9/05…Responses to FAQs 8/06

ASCE Team ASCE Team == MurrahMurrah TeamTeamInitial ASCE team Initial ASCE team leaders (9/14/01)leaders (9/14/01) Gene CorleyGene Corley Charles ThorntonCharles Thornton Paul MlakarPaul Mlakar Mete SozenMete Sozen 4 others4 others

OKC Murrah building OKC Murrah building report authors report authors Gene CorleyGene Corley Charles ThorntonCharles Thornton Paul MlakarPaul Mlakar Mete SozenMete Sozen

ASCE says there are 1.5 million US engineers.

Why so few when it comes to terrorism?

Alfred P. Murrah BuildingAlfred P. Murrah Building► April 19, 1995 - Reinforced concrete building destoyed April 19, 1995 - Reinforced concrete building destoyed

in Oklahoma City, killing 168 peoplein Oklahoma City, killing 168 people Survivors reported multiple explosionsSurvivors reported multiple explosions Many media reports and witness accounts of un-detonated Many media reports and witness accounts of un-detonated

bombsbombs FBI confiscated videos and would not release themFBI confiscated videos and would not release them

► May 5, 1995 - May 5, 1995 - Memorial service with 300 people held Memorial service with 300 people held 20 feet 20 feet awayaway from building foundation from building foundation

► May 9, 1995 - Corley’s team arrivesMay 9, 1995 - Corley’s team arrives ““Investigation” completed from Investigation” completed from 250 feet (1/2 block) away250 feet (1/2 block) away. . Access only to drawings, samples from other buildings and Access only to drawings, samples from other buildings and

photosphotos They are not permitted to inspect any material from the OKC They are not permitted to inspect any material from the OKC

bombing crime scene.  They were not even allowed to tour the bombing crime scene.  They were not even allowed to tour the site.site.

One Guy / One Truck bomb?One Guy / One Truck bomb?► May 18, 1995May 18, 1995 – USAF Gen. Benton Partin to Congress: "I can say – USAF Gen. Benton Partin to Congress: "I can say

with a high level of confidence that the damage pattern on the with a high level of confidence that the damage pattern on the reinforced concrete superstructure reinforced concrete superstructure could not possibly have could not possibly have been attained from the single truck bomb without been attained from the single truck bomb without supplementingsupplementing demolition chargesdemolition charges at some of the reinforced at some of the reinforced column bases." A series of tests done by USAF’s Wright Labs column bases." A series of tests done by USAF’s Wright Labs confirmed this conclusion.confirmed this conclusion.

► May 23, 1995May 23, 1995 -- Murrah Building demolished, and rubble buried in -- Murrah Building demolished, and rubble buried in a landfill guarded by security personnel. a landfill guarded by security personnel.

► March 1996March 1996 -- -- Strategic InvestmentStrategic Investment newsletter: "A classified newsletter: "A classified report prepared by two independent Pentagon experts has report prepared by two independent Pentagon experts has concluded that the destruction of the Federal building in Oklahoma concluded that the destruction of the Federal building in Oklahoma City last April was caused by five separate bombs” City last April was caused by five separate bombs”

► October 1997October 1997 – Corley, Mlakar, Sozen & Thornton– Corley, Mlakar, Sozen & Thornton release release paper in support of the One Guy/One Bomb political story. Their paper in support of the One Guy/One Bomb political story. Their entire argument is based on one piece of data – the size of the entire argument is based on one piece of data – the size of the bomb crater - and that data was given to them. bomb crater - and that data was given to them.

Department Of Defense’s Department Of Defense’s “Blast Mitigation for Structures “Blast Mitigation for Structures

Program”Program”► Formed in 1998 to provide DOD with expertise in Formed in 1998 to provide DOD with expertise in

explosive effects on buildingsexplosive effects on buildings

► Funded at $10 million annuallyFunded at $10 million annually

► Committee chaired by Committee chaired by Sozen with Corley and Sozen with Corley and ThorntonThornton as members (and Mark Loizeaux) as members (and Mark Loizeaux)

► Blast consulting firms include ARUP, ARA, SG&H, Blast consulting firms include ARUP, ARA, SG&H, Thornton-Tomasetti, Weidlinger Thornton-Tomasetti, Weidlinger

WTC - pre-determined conclusionsWTC - pre-determined conclusions

Gene Corley knew once the jets hit the building Gene Corley knew once the jets hit the building that the WTC would collapse as it did, “I just didn’t that the WTC would collapse as it did, “I just didn’t know when it was going to happen”, said Corleyknow when it was going to happen”, said Corley(reported by St. Petersburg Times)(reported by St. Petersburg Times)

Charles Thornton -- "Karl, we all know what caused Charles Thornton -- "Karl, we all know what caused the collapse." the collapse." (From Karl Koch’s book Men of Steel)(From Karl Koch’s book Men of Steel)

Shankar Nair -- "Already there is near-consensus Shankar Nair -- "Already there is near-consensus as to the sequence of events that led to the as to the sequence of events that led to the collapse of the World Trade Center.”collapse of the World Trade Center.”(Chicago Tribune September 19, 2001)(Chicago Tribune September 19, 2001)

The first official leadersThe first official leaders► Gene Corley in charge of ASCE WTC investigationGene Corley in charge of ASCE WTC investigation

► NYC put Thornton-Tomasetti in charge of siteNYC put Thornton-Tomasetti in charge of site

► Richard Tomasetti (Thornton’s partner) “cleared” the Richard Tomasetti (Thornton’s partner) “cleared” the decision to recycle the steel, later saying had he decision to recycle the steel, later saying had he “known the direction that investigations into the “known the direction that investigations into the disaster would take, he would have adopted a disaster would take, he would have adopted a different stance.”different stance.”

► Sozen and Mlakar led the Pentagon investigation teamSozen and Mlakar led the Pentagon investigation team

Restrictions on ASCE Restrictions on ASCE investigationinvestigation

► No access to blueprintsNo access to blueprints

► Not allowed to ask for help from publicNot allowed to ask for help from public

► Team members threatened with dismissal Team members threatened with dismissal for speaking to pressfor speaking to press

► No access to steel until first week of OctoberNo access to steel until first week of October

► FEMA obstructionFEMA obstruction

FEMA BPATFEMA BPAT

► ASCE expanded and was named FEMA BPATASCE expanded and was named FEMA BPAT John Gross, NIST engineer with oil and gas historyJohn Gross, NIST engineer with oil and gas history Therese McAllister, Greenhorne and O’Mara (G&O)Therese McAllister, Greenhorne and O’Mara (G&O) Other DOD contractors (Arup, Hughes, SG&H, Other DOD contractors (Arup, Hughes, SG&H,

Weidlinger)Weidlinger)

► When FEMA took over, $1 million was When FEMA took over, $1 million was allocated, but only $100,000 was spent by allocated, but only $100,000 was spent by DecemberDecember

► At the same time, Bush was telling us “It At the same time, Bush was telling us “It costs a lot to fight this war. We have spent costs a lot to fight this war. We have spent more than a billion dollars a month…”more than a billion dollars a month…”

By January, it was a half-baked By January, it was a half-baked farcefarce

Bill Manning, editor of Fire Engineering magazine, Bill Manning, editor of Fire Engineering magazine, said the “official investigation…is a half-baked farce said the “official investigation…is a half-baked farce that may already have been commandeered by that may already have been commandeered by political forces whose primary interests, to put it political forces whose primary interests, to put it mildly, lie far afield of full disclosure.”mildly, lie far afield of full disclosure.”

Dick Cheney called Senate leader Tom Daschle and Dick Cheney called Senate leader Tom Daschle and asked him to “limit the scope and overall review of asked him to “limit the scope and overall review of what happened [on 9/11]”, claiming resources what happened [on 9/11]”, claiming resources would be pulled from the War on Terrorism. would be pulled from the War on Terrorism. President Bush met with Daschle privately and President Bush met with Daschle privately and asked him to limit the investigation.asked him to limit the investigation.

Who would design a building for plane Who would design a building for plane crashes but forget the jet fuel fires?crashes but forget the jet fuel fires?

Eduardo Kausel – The WTC buildings were designed Eduardo Kausel – The WTC buildings were designed to withstand Boeing 707 impacts but were “never to withstand Boeing 707 impacts but were “never designed for the massive explosions nor the designed for the massive explosions nor the intense jet fuel fires that came next – a key design intense jet fuel fires that came next – a key design omission.”omission.”

Loring Knoblauch (CEO of UL) – the jet fuel fires Loring Knoblauch (CEO of UL) – the jet fuel fires were not “reasonably foreseeable.”were not “reasonably foreseeable.”

What? How would the planes get to the buildings? What? How would the planes get to the buildings? Who would really do this?Who would really do this?

Not the WTC’s design EngineerNot the WTC’s design Engineer

Towers designed by John Skilling (Leslie Towers designed by John Skilling (Leslie Robertson worked for Skilling)Robertson worked for Skilling)

Skilling had this to say in 1993 when asked if Skilling had this to say in 1993 when asked if he considered plane crashes in his design.he considered plane crashes in his design.

““Our analysis indicated the biggest problem Our analysis indicated the biggest problem would be the fact that all the fuel would dump would be the fact that all the fuel would dump into the building. [But] the building structure into the building. [But] the building structure would still be there.”would still be there.”City in the Sky, Glanz and LiptonCity in the Sky, Glanz and Lipton

                            

Where’s the fire?Where’s the fire?

Windsor building, Madrid, February 2005

                    

                    

Twin towers shortly after WTC2 hit

FEMA findingsFEMA findings

► April 2002 NOVA video with commentators April 2002 NOVA video with commentators Corley and ThorntonCorley and Thornton

►Fireproofing easily blown offFireproofing easily blown off►Floors collapsedFloors collapsed►Columns buckled Columns buckled outwardoutward

► May 2002 final FEMA reportMay 2002 final FEMA report ““a pancake-type of collapse of successive floors”a pancake-type of collapse of successive floors”

June 2002 – NIST drafts planJune 2002 – NIST drafts plan

► National Institute of Standards and TechnologyNational Institute of Standards and Technology Directors are Presidential appointeesDirectors are Presidential appointees

► First meeting included “Public” comments byFirst meeting included “Public” comments by Gene CorleyGene Corley Richard TomasettiRichard Tomasetti Shankar NairShankar Nair Other contributors to official reportsOther contributors to official reports

► Charles Thornton later named to NIST’s Charles Thornton later named to NIST’s Advisory CommitteeAdvisory Committee

October 2002October 2002Silverstein / Weidlinger reportSilverstein / Weidlinger report

► Corley and Thornton-Tomasetti involved in Corley and Thornton-Tomasetti involved in study to establish Silverstein insurance study to establish Silverstein insurance claimclaim

► Report results Report results No floor failure of any kindNo floor failure of any kind Column failure onlyColumn failure only Directly contradicts FEMA reportDirectly contradicts FEMA report

They knew what happened from the They knew what happened from the start?start?

► ””Experts” Towering InfernoExperts” Towering Inferno Steel meltedSteel melted

► FEMA FEMA Floor failure: “A pancake-type of collapse of Floor failure: “A pancake-type of collapse of

successive floors”successive floors”

► Silverstein/Weidlinger Silverstein/Weidlinger Column failure onlyColumn failure only

► NIST NIST Final theory is mixed bag of sagging floors, Final theory is mixed bag of sagging floors,

softening core columns and external column softening core columns and external column bowing – apparently leading to pile driver bowing – apparently leading to pile driver collapse…collapse…(but the story remains flexible)(but the story remains flexible)

Characteristics of demolition - Characteristics of demolition - ignoredignored

► Sudden onsetSudden onset► Straight downStraight down► Nearly free-fall speedNearly free-fall speed► Total collapseTotal collapse► Sliced steelSliced steel► Pulverization of Pulverization of

concreteconcrete

► Dust cloudsDust clouds► Horizontal ejections Horizontal ejections

(squibs)(squibs)► Demolition ringsDemolition rings► Sounds of explosionsSounds of explosions► Pools of molten steelPools of molten steel

All supported by photographic evidence and All supported by photographic evidence and eyewitness testimonieseyewitness testimonies

The WTC towers exploded.The WTC towers exploded.

Eyewitness interviews not usedEyewitness interviews not used► Paramedic Daniel Rivera – “[Did] you ever see Paramedic Daniel Rivera – “[Did] you ever see

professional demolition where they set the charges on professional demolition where they set the charges on certain floors and then you hear ‘Pop, pop, pop, pop, certain floors and then you hear ‘Pop, pop, pop, pop, pop?’…I thought it was that.”pop?’…I thought it was that.”

► Witness Timothy Burke – “the building popped, lower Witness Timothy Burke – “the building popped, lower than the fire…I was going oh, my God, there is a than the fire…I was going oh, my God, there is a secondary device because the way the building popped. secondary device because the way the building popped. I thought it was an explosion.”I thought it was an explosion.”

► Firefighter Edward Cachia – “It actually gave at a lower Firefighter Edward Cachia – “It actually gave at a lower floor, not the floor where the plane hit. We originally floor, not the floor where the plane hit. We originally thought there was like an internal detonation, thought there was like an internal detonation, explosives…”explosives…”

► Assistant Commissioner Stephen Gregory -- “I thought…Assistant Commissioner Stephen Gregory -- “I thought…that I saw low-level flashes…[at] the lower level of the that I saw low-level flashes…[at] the lower level of the building. You know like when they demolish a building?” building. You know like when they demolish a building?”

Eyewitness interviews not usedEyewitness interviews not used► Firefighter Richard Banaciski – “It seemed like on television Firefighter Richard Banaciski – “It seemed like on television

[when] they blow up these buildings. It seemed like it was [when] they blow up these buildings. It seemed like it was going all around like a belt, all these explosions.”going all around like a belt, all these explosions.”

► Deputy Commissioner Thomas Fitzpatrick – “My initial Deputy Commissioner Thomas Fitzpatrick – “My initial reaction was that this was exactly the way it looks when reaction was that this was exactly the way it looks when they show you those implosions on TV.”they show you those implosions on TV.”

► Battalion Chief Brian Dixon – “the lowest floor of the fire in Battalion Chief Brian Dixon – “the lowest floor of the fire in the south tower actually looked like someone had planted the south tower actually looked like someone had planted explosives all around it because…everything blew out on explosives all around it because…everything blew out on the one floor.”the one floor.”

► Firefighter Kenneth Rogers – “there was an explosion in Firefighter Kenneth Rogers – “there was an explosion in the south tower…I kept watching. Floor after floor after the south tower…I kept watching. Floor after floor after floor. [It] looked like a synchronized deliberate kind of floor. [It] looked like a synchronized deliberate kind of thing.”thing.”

Sept 2005 - The NIST WTC Sept 2005 - The NIST WTC ReportReport

► 42 sub-reports and 42 sub-reports and 10,000 pages10,000 pages

► Only for Twin TowersOnly for Twin Towers

► Like others, focused only Like others, focused only on political storyon political story

► With same people as before With same people as before (i.e. FEMA, DOD contractors) (i.e. FEMA, DOD contractors)

FEMA authors become NIST FEMA authors become NIST authorsauthors

► FEMA Chapter 1 authorsFEMA Chapter 1 authors Therese McAllister: co-wrote NIST report 1-6 and 1-Therese McAllister: co-wrote NIST report 1-6 and 1-

77 John Gross: co-wrote NIST report 1-6 and 1-7John Gross: co-wrote NIST report 1-6 and 1-7 Ronald Hamburger: NIST contributorRonald Hamburger: NIST contributor

► FEMA Chapter 2 authorsFEMA Chapter 2 authors Ronald Hamburger: see aboveRonald Hamburger: see above William Baker: NIST contributor, Freedom towerWilliam Baker: NIST contributor, Freedom tower Harold Nelson: co-wrote NIST report 1-5 and 1-7Harold Nelson: co-wrote NIST report 1-5 and 1-7

► FEMA chapter 5 authors (WTC 7)FEMA chapter 5 authors (WTC 7) Ramon Gilsanz: co-wrote NIST report 1-6FRamon Gilsanz: co-wrote NIST report 1-6F Harold Nelson: see aboveHarold Nelson: see above

NFPA 921 used?NFPA 921 used?Standard for fire investigationStandard for fire investigation

► Sec 6-5: Important to remember that conflict of Sec 6-5: Important to remember that conflict of interest should be avoided (The War on Terrorism interest should be avoided (The War on Terrorism is big business!)is big business!) NIST used specialists/contractors who were dependent on NIST used specialists/contractors who were dependent on

government contracts or on the official story itselfgovernment contracts or on the official story itself

► Sec 12-4: Unusual residues …could arise from Sec 12-4: Unusual residues …could arise from thermite, magnesium or other pyrotechnic thermite, magnesium or other pyrotechnic materialsmaterials NIST report does not mention evidence of intragranular NIST report does not mention evidence of intragranular

melting of WTC samples or FEMA’s puzzling Sulfur melting of WTC samples or FEMA’s puzzling Sulfur residue – “No clear explanation for the source of the residue – “No clear explanation for the source of the Sulfur has been identified.”Sulfur has been identified.”

The New York Times called this “perhaps the deepest The New York Times called this “perhaps the deepest mystery uncovered in the investigation.”mystery uncovered in the investigation.”

NIST’s review of documentsNIST’s review of documents

►Reports of original design claims?Reports of original design claims? No, many relevant claims not mentionedNo, many relevant claims not mentioned

►Fire resistance test data (e.g. UL test Fire resistance test data (e.g. UL test documents)?documents)? No, documents came up missingNo, documents came up missing

►Skilling’s fire resistance analysis?Skilling’s fire resistance analysis? No, documents missingNo, documents missing

Original design claimsOriginal design claims► ““The World Trade Center towers would have an The World Trade Center towers would have an

inherent capacity to resist unforeseen calamities.” inherent capacity to resist unforeseen calamities.”

► For the perimeter columns (83% of total columns), For the perimeter columns (83% of total columns), “live loads on these columns can be increased more “live loads on these columns can be increased more than 2,000% before failure occurs.”than 2,000% before failure occurs.”

► One “could cut away all the first story columns on One “could cut away all the first story columns on one side of the building, and partway from the one side of the building, and partway from the corners of the perpendicular sides, and the building corners of the perpendicular sides, and the building could still withstand design live loads and a 100 mph could still withstand design live loads and a 100 mph wind from any direction.”wind from any direction.”

All quotes from Engineering News-Record, 1964

Were the WTC steel components Were the WTC steel components tested for fire resistance?tested for fire resistance?

► The NYC building code requires fire resistance The NYC building code requires fire resistance testing of both columns (steel assemblies) and testing of both columns (steel assemblies) and floors (floor assemblies)floors (floor assemblies)

► NIST said they found no documents, yet states NIST said they found no documents, yet states the buildings were rated as Class 1B (3 hours for the buildings were rated as Class 1B (3 hours for columns and 2 hours for floors)columns and 2 hours for floors)

► Port Authority -- “there are no test records in our Port Authority -- “there are no test records in our files”files”

► ASTM E119 is used for testing both steel ASTM E119 is used for testing both steel components and floor assembliescomponents and floor assemblies

ASTM E119 Time-temperature curveASTM E119 Time-temperature curve

UL comments on testing the WTC UL comments on testing the WTC steelsteel

► September 2001September 2001 Loring Knoblauch, UL’s CEO, told staff that UL had certified Loring Knoblauch, UL’s CEO, told staff that UL had certified

the steel used in the WTCthe steel used in the WTC► November 2003November 2003

I asked Knoblauch in writing about UL’s involvement, and I asked Knoblauch in writing about UL’s involvement, and he responded in December confirming details.he responded in December confirming details.

► ““We tested the steel with all the required fireproofing We tested the steel with all the required fireproofing on, and it did beautifully.”on, and it did beautifully.”

► ““As we do not do follow-up service on this kind of As we do not do follow-up service on this kind of product, we can give an opinion only on the test sample product, we can give an opinion only on the test sample which was indeed properly coated.”which was indeed properly coated.”

► ““We test to the code requirements, and the steel We test to the code requirements, and the steel clearly met [the NYC code] requirements and exceeded clearly met [the NYC code] requirements and exceeded them.”them.”

Underwriters Laboratories Underwriters Laboratories

Lying To Us?Lying To Us? ► August 2004August 2004

UL performed tests of WTC floor modelsUL performed tests of WTC floor models Floors barely affected and didn’t collapseFloors barely affected and didn’t collapse Loring Knoblauch resigned suddenlyLoring Knoblauch resigned suddenly

► November 2004November 2004 My letter to NIST became publicMy letter to NIST became public UL quickly backtracked, saying UL quickly backtracked, saying

► ““No evidence” any firm tested the steelNo evidence” any firm tested the steel► They played only a “limited” role in investigationThey played only a “limited” role in investigation

► No evidence? Does that mean their CEO was No evidence? Does that mean their CEO was wrong or they were in no way involved?wrong or they were in no way involved?

NIST’s analysis of steel NIST’s analysis of steel samplessamples

►Most of the steel evidence destroyedMost of the steel evidence destroyed Tomasetti decision (Thornton’s partner)Tomasetti decision (Thornton’s partner) 236 samples saved for testing (0.3%)236 samples saved for testing (0.3%)

►NIST testsNIST tests Paint test indicated low steel temps (480 F Paint test indicated low steel temps (480 F

) “despite pre-collapse exposure to fire”) “despite pre-collapse exposure to fire” Microstructure test showed Microstructure test showed no steelno steel

reached critical, half-strength value (1100 reached critical, half-strength value (1100 F)F)

NIST Comments Before and NIST Comments Before and AfterAfter

► Before steel temperature analysis Before steel temperature analysis

(12/02/03)(12/02/03) ““Regions of impact and fire damage emphasized Regions of impact and fire damage emphasized

in selection of steel pieces.”in selection of steel pieces.”

► After steel temperature analysis After steel temperature analysis (final report)(final report) ““None of the samples were from zones where None of the samples were from zones where

[high] heating was predicted.”[high] heating was predicted.”

Other NIST testsOther NIST tests

► UL floor model tests evaluated Pancake UL floor model tests evaluated Pancake TheoryTheory

► Workstation burn testsWorkstation burn tests Gas temperatures, not steel temperaturesGas temperatures, not steel temperatures Used double the average amount of jet fuelUsed double the average amount of jet fuel Used “Over-ventilation”Used “Over-ventilation”

► Tests to prove loss of fireproofing?Tests to prove loss of fireproofing? Fifteen rounds from a shotgunFifteen rounds from a shotgun

Pancake TheoryPancake Theory ““I could see it in my mind’s eye: The fire burned until the I could see it in my mind’s eye: The fire burned until the

steel was weakened and the floors above collapsed, starting steel was weakened and the floors above collapsed, starting a chain reaction of gravity, floor falling upon floor upon floor, a chain reaction of gravity, floor falling upon floor upon floor, clunk – clunk – clunk, the load gaining weight and momentum clunk – clunk – clunk, the load gaining weight and momentum by the nanosecond, unstoppable. Once enough floors by the nanosecond, unstoppable. Once enough floors collapsed, the exterior walls and the core columns were no collapsed, the exterior walls and the core columns were no longer laterally supported and folded in.” -- Karl Kochlonger laterally supported and folded in.” -- Karl Koch

(from Karl Koch’s book Men of Steel)(from Karl Koch’s book Men of Steel)

Those clouds of dust may create the impression of a Those clouds of dust may create the impression of a controlled demolition, Sunder adds, "but it is the floor controlled demolition, Sunder adds, "but it is the floor pancaking that leads to that perception." - NIST’s Shyam pancaking that leads to that perception." - NIST’s Shyam Sunder in Popular MechanicsSunder in Popular Mechanics

Floor panels 20 feet wide

WTC floor model tests by UL (Aug WTC floor model tests by UL (Aug 2004)2004)

► Began with less fireproofing than was known to Began with less fireproofing than was known to exist in WTC1, and then reduced fireproofing exist in WTC1, and then reduced fireproofing furtherfurther

► Performed “…four standard fire resistance tests Performed “…four standard fire resistance tests (ASTM E119) of the floor truss assemblies with (ASTM E119) of the floor truss assemblies with twice the floor load that was on the WTC floors.” twice the floor load that was on the WTC floors.” (NCSTAR 1-6)(NCSTAR 1-6)

► Minimal floor saggingMinimal floor sagging► No floor collapseNo floor collapse► ““The results established that this type of The results established that this type of

assembly was capable of sustaining a large assembly was capable of sustaining a large gravity load, without collapsing, for a substantial gravity load, without collapsing, for a substantial period of time relative to the duration of the fires period of time relative to the duration of the fires in any given location on September 11th.”in any given location on September 11th.”

NIST comments before and NIST comments before and afterafter

► Before UL floor testsBefore UL floor tests ““[Tests will] determine the fire rating of typical [Tests will] determine the fire rating of typical

WTC floor systems under both as-built and WTC floor systems under both as-built and specified conditions”specified conditions”

► After UL floor testsAfter UL floor tests ““The Investigation Team was cautious about using The Investigation Team was cautious about using

these results directly in the formulation of collapse these results directly in the formulation of collapse hypotheses”hypotheses”

► August 2006August 2006 ““NIST’s findings do not support the “pancake NIST’s findings do not support the “pancake

theory” of collapse”theory” of collapse”

NIST’s computer simulationsNIST’s computer simulations

► Input parameters could be tweakedInput parameters could be tweaked

► ““Realistic” parameters tossed in favor of Realistic” parameters tossed in favor of “More severe” parameters“More severe” parameters

► Animations generated to “compare with Animations generated to “compare with observed events” (but we can’t see them)observed events” (but we can’t see them)

NIST’s investigative practices NIST’s investigative practices were deceptive and unscientificwere deceptive and unscientific

► Documents needed just happened to be missingDocuments needed just happened to be missing

► Eyewitnesses to demolition characteristics were Eyewitnesses to demolition characteristics were ignoredignored

► Physical tests that disproved pre-determined Physical tests that disproved pre-determined conclusions were downplayed or ignoredconclusions were downplayed or ignored

► Entire theory is built on fudged, inaccessible Entire theory is built on fudged, inaccessible computer simulationscomputer simulations

NIST’s Final, Computer-Based StoryNIST’s Final, Computer-Based Story

1. The aircraft severed “a number of columns”1. The aircraft severed “a number of columns”

2. Loads were redistributed (from -20% to +25%)2. Loads were redistributed (from -20% to +25%)

3. Insulation (fireproofing) was widely dislodged3. Insulation (fireproofing) was widely dislodged

4. High temperatures softened columns and floors 4. High temperatures softened columns and floors

5. Some floors began to sag5. Some floors began to sag

6. Sagging floors pulled exterior columns inward 6. Sagging floors pulled exterior columns inward

causing them to bucklecausing them to buckle

7. Instability spread around entire building7. Instability spread around entire building

““Global collapse ensued”Global collapse ensued”

1. How many columns were severed?1. How many columns were severed?

► NIST now admits only a small percentage of NIST now admits only a small percentage of columns were severedcolumns were severed 14% in WTC114% in WTC1 15% in WTC215% in WTC2

► But since one “could cut away all the first story columns on But since one “could cut away all the first story columns on one side of the building, and partway from the corners of the one side of the building, and partway from the corners of the perpendicular sides, and the building could still withstand perpendicular sides, and the building could still withstand design live loads and a 100 mph wind from any direction”, we design live loads and a 100 mph wind from any direction”, we know the buildings could withstand > know the buildings could withstand > 25% column loss25% column loss without a problem.without a problem.

2. How much load was re-distributed?2. How much load was re-distributed?

► NIST says loads on some columns were decreased NIST says loads on some columns were decreased (as much as 20%) and other loads were increased (as much as 20%) and other loads were increased (up to 25%). What about failure zone?(up to 25%). What about failure zone?

► Since the original design claims were that, “live Since the original design claims were that, “live loads on these [perimeter] columns can be loads on these [perimeter] columns can be increased more than 2,000% before failure occurs”, increased more than 2,000% before failure occurs”, these columns should have supported the extra these columns should have supported the extra load and much, much moreload and much, much more

► So far, no reason to even suspect collapseSo far, no reason to even suspect collapse

3. Fireproofing widely dislodged?3. Fireproofing widely dislodged?

““The towers would not have collapsed under the The towers would not have collapsed under the

combined effects of aircraft impact and the combined effects of aircraft impact and the

subsequent multi-floor fires if the insulation had subsequent multi-floor fires if the insulation had

not been not been widely dislodgedwidely dislodged or had been only or had been only

minimally dislodged by aircraft impact.” -- NISTminimally dislodged by aircraft impact.” -- NIST

3. NIST must have done extensive testing to 3. NIST must have done extensive testing to prove fireproofing was widely dislodged!prove fireproofing was widely dislodged!

► No, they shot 15 rounds from a shotgun at non-No, they shot 15 rounds from a shotgun at non-representative samples in a plywood boxrepresentative samples in a plywood box

► No evidence that Boeing 767 would transform into No evidence that Boeing 767 would transform into so many shotgun blasts so many shotgun blasts (many thousands would be needed)(many thousands would be needed)

► Shotgun test actually proved fireproofing could not Shotgun test actually proved fireproofing could not have been widely dislodged because the energy have been widely dislodged because the energy was simply not availablewas simply not available

No energy left to dislodge No energy left to dislodge fireproofingfireproofing

► NIST says 2500 MJ of kinetic energy from NIST says 2500 MJ of kinetic energy from plane that hit WTC1plane that hit WTC1 Calculations show that all this energy was Calculations show that all this energy was

consumed in crushing aircraft and breaking consumed in crushing aircraft and breaking columns & floors*columns & floors*

Shotgun tests found that 1 MJ per sq meter was Shotgun tests found that 1 MJ per sq meter was needed to dislodge fireproofingneeded to dislodge fireproofing

For the areas in question, intact floors and For the areas in question, intact floors and columns had > 6000 sq meters of surface areacolumns had > 6000 sq meters of surface area

*Calculations by Tomasz Wierzbicki of MIT*Calculations by Tomasz Wierzbicki of MIT

4. How hot could the steel have 4. How hot could the steel have become?become?

► NIST now says about 4,500 gallons of jet fuel were NIST now says about 4,500 gallons of jet fuel were available to feed fires. This would have provided available to feed fires. This would have provided 590,000 MJ of energy.590,000 MJ of energy.

► Office furnishings in the impact zone would have Office furnishings in the impact zone would have provided 490,000 MJ of energy.provided 490,000 MJ of energy.

► Using masses and specific heats for materials heated, a Using masses and specific heats for materials heated, a maximum temperature in the impact zone can be maximum temperature in the impact zone can be calculated.calculated.

► The result is less than 600 degrees FThe result is less than 600 degrees F Assuming fuel burnt with perfect efficiency, that no hot gases left the Assuming fuel burnt with perfect efficiency, that no hot gases left the

impact zone, that no heat escaped by conduction, and that the steel and impact zone, that no heat escaped by conduction, and that the steel and concrete had an unlimited amount of time to absorb all the heat. concrete had an unlimited amount of time to absorb all the heat.

Steel Temperatures Discussed Steel Temperatures Discussed (F)(F)

0

500

1000

1500

2000

2500

3000

Paint test Calculated Steel at halfstrength

Steel Forged ASTM E119 TV Program Steel melts

Review Review NIST Story and and ProblemsProblems

► Column breakage (14%) weakened building, then external columns saw up to 25% increases in total load

► Fireproofing “widely dislodged”

► High steel temps required for long time

► Can lose an additional 30 Can lose an additional 30 or more before challenging or more before challenging design claims; external design claims; external columns designed to columns designed to withstand 2000% increases withstand 2000% increases in live loadin live load

► No evidence that Boeing No evidence that Boeing 767 would transform into 767 would transform into thousands of shotgun thousands of shotgun blasts; no energy available blasts; no energy available to dislodge fireproofingto dislodge fireproofing

► Tests and calculations Tests and calculations show steel temps were show steel temps were way too lowway too low

How long did fires last in failure How long did fires last in failure zones?zones?

► In NCSTAR 1-6, section In NCSTAR 1-6, section 9.4.3 and section 10.9.4, 9.4.3 and section 10.9.4, NIST says…NIST says…

““The fires in WTC 2 The fires in WTC 2 reached the east side of reached the east side of the building more quickly, the building more quickly, within 10 to 20 minutes, within 10 to 20 minutes, than the 50 to 60 minutes than the 50 to 60 minutes it took the fires in WTC 1 it took the fires in WTC 1

to reach the south side.”to reach the south side.”

5. Some floors began to sag?5. Some floors began to sag?

► Only very slight sagging is visible in NIST Only very slight sagging is visible in NIST photos from UL tests (and no collapse)photos from UL tests (and no collapse)

► After After two hourstwo hours in high temp furnace, the in high temp furnace, the deck of 35 ft floor model sagged about 3 deck of 35 ft floor model sagged about 3 inches in the middle, and the major joist inches in the middle, and the major joist parts did not sag at allparts did not sag at all

► NIST’s computer turned this into dramatic NIST’s computer turned this into dramatic 42 inch sagging, with joists bending 42 inch sagging, with joists bending downward severelydownward severely

6. How did the sagging floors pull exterior 6. How did the sagging floors pull exterior columns inward causing them to buckle?columns inward causing them to buckle?

► Over 30 columns would have to be pulled in to Over 30 columns would have to be pulled in to challenge design claim. challenge design claim.

► What new force did a few inches of deck sagging What new force did a few inches of deck sagging apply to those 30+ columns? apply to those 30+ columns?

► NIST did not perform tests to prove inward buckling NIST did not perform tests to prove inward buckling via sagging floors. This pivotal argument is via sagging floors. This pivotal argument is supported only by a highly manipulated, and supported only by a highly manipulated, and ultimately absurd, computer model.ultimately absurd, computer model.

*Note: NIST’s “enhanced” photos showing bowing just before failure do not prove that this was caused by sagging floors – it could more easily be explained by demolition.

Manipulated and disconnected Manipulated and disconnected ► ““An exterior wall section (9 columns wide and 9 An exterior wall section (9 columns wide and 9

floors high) was found to bow inward when floor floors high) was found to bow inward when floor connections applied an inward force.”connections applied an inward force.”(computer result for one case out of nine)(computer result for one case out of nine)

► NIST had to double the height of the inward pull NIST had to double the height of the inward pull zone, strip of ALL the fireproofing, exaggerate zone, strip of ALL the fireproofing, exaggerate temperatures (1300 F), and then apply these temps temperatures (1300 F), and then apply these temps for 90 minutes to produce even a hint of inward for 90 minutes to produce even a hint of inward bowing from fire.bowing from fire.

► But firstBut first - the floors had to be disconnected. - the floors had to be disconnected. Where does the inward pull come from !?!Where does the inward pull come from !?!

7. Instability spread around entire 7. Instability spread around entire building perimeter?building perimeter?

► Buildings fell at nearly free-fall speed. How fast would Buildings fell at nearly free-fall speed. How fast would instability have to spread first? How much of the ~10 instability have to spread first? How much of the ~10 sec fall time could be spared?sec fall time could be spared?

► Perimeter of building was 832 feet. If complete in 0.5 Perimeter of building was 832 feet. If complete in 0.5 seconds, speed of “instability spread” would have been seconds, speed of “instability spread” would have been >1100 mph (Mach 1.5)>1100 mph (Mach 1.5)

► ““A steel structure, generally speaking, does not collapse A steel structure, generally speaking, does not collapse suddenly when attacked by fire. There are unmistakable suddenly when attacked by fire. There are unmistakable warning signs, namely, large deformations.” warning signs, namely, large deformations.” Hart, Multi-Storey Buildings in Steel, Halsted PressHart, Multi-Storey Buildings in Steel, Halsted Press

NIST’s collapse initiation sequence: NIST’s collapse initiation sequence: What would objective scientists have found?What would objective scientists have found?

1. Relatively few columns were lost on impact1. Relatively few columns were lost on impact

2. Remaining columns had considerable extra capacity 2. Remaining columns had considerable extra capacity

3. Fireproofing could not have been widely dislodged3. Fireproofing could not have been widely dislodged

4. Steel could not have softened at the temps found 4. Steel could not have softened at the temps found

5. Even at higher temps and longer periods tests showed 5. Even at higher temps and longer periods tests showed

minimal sagging of floorsminimal sagging of floors

6. Forces were not produced to pull columns inward6. Forces were not produced to pull columns inward

7. “Instability spread” would have taken much more time 7. “Instability spread” would have taken much more time

and would not result in uniform free-falland would not result in uniform free-fall

NIST’s computer story is Bush NIST’s computer story is Bush ScienceScience

► The parameters NIST originally considered The parameters NIST originally considered “realistic” were discarded because computer “realistic” were discarded because computer results “did not compare to observed events.”results “did not compare to observed events.”

► ““More severe” parameters were substituted until More severe” parameters were substituted until animations gave the desired resultanimations gave the desired result

► Public has no access to NIST’s computer model or Public has no access to NIST’s computer model or to their 6,899 photographs and 6,977 segments to their 6,899 photographs and 6,977 segments of video footageof video footage

““Global collapse ensued?”Global collapse ensued?”

► What about resistance of floors below? If these floors What about resistance of floors below? If these floors each caused hesitation of only half a second, an extra each caused hesitation of only half a second, an extra 40 seconds would be needed.40 seconds would be needed.

► What about the observed squibs?  (No more What about the observed squibs?  (No more pancaking!)pancaking!)

    ► What about the molten metal observed pouring from What about the molten metal observed pouring from

the building and the pools of molten metal in the the building and the pools of molten metal in the basement areas of both Towers and WTC 7? basement areas of both Towers and WTC 7? 

► What about the intragranular melting and sulfur What about the intragranular melting and sulfur residue found on the steel?residue found on the steel?

The NIST WTC report is false The NIST WTC report is false because…because…

► They did not explain why and how the buildings They did not explain why and how the buildings collapsed, and their investigation was deceptive collapsed, and their investigation was deceptive and unscientific at every stepand unscientific at every step

► They reported findings that were in direct They reported findings that were in direct contradiction to their physical testingcontradiction to their physical testing

► They omitted or distorted many important factsThey omitted or distorted many important facts Original design claims and John Skilling’s analysisOriginal design claims and John Skilling’s analysis Resistance from building structure belowResistance from building structure below WTC 1 antenna moving firstWTC 1 antenna moving first Pools of molten metal lingering for weeksPools of molten metal lingering for weeks Numerous eyewitness testimonies about explosionsNumerous eyewitness testimonies about explosions Sulfur residue on the steelSulfur residue on the steel

NIST’s FAQ responses – Aug NIST’s FAQ responses – Aug 20062006

► Why didn’t NIST consider demolition?Why didn’t NIST consider demolition? No answer, but in retrospect they say demolition is not No answer, but in retrospect they say demolition is not

reasonablereasonable ““NIST’s findings do not support the ‘pancake theory’ of NIST’s findings do not support the ‘pancake theory’ of

collapse” (unless being interviewed by Popular Mechanics)collapse” (unless being interviewed by Popular Mechanics)

► Where did the squibs come from?Where did the squibs come from? Compressed air, but not pancaking Compressed air, but not pancaking

► Did UL test the steel for fire resistance?Did UL test the steel for fire resistance? Not for six hoursNot for six hours

► Where does the molten metal come from?Where does the molten metal come from? This is irrelevant, but it may have been Aluminum from the planeThis is irrelevant, but it may have been Aluminum from the plane Or it may have been caused by the duration of the fires in the Or it may have been caused by the duration of the fires in the

pilepile

Who else have we heard Who else have we heard from?from?

► Popular MechanicsPopular Mechanics Hearst magazine (propaganda tool again?) promotes Hearst magazine (propaganda tool again?) promotes

the pancake theory and magic fuel the pancake theory and magic fuel

► ImplosionworldImplosionworld The photographer Brent Blanchard, with The photographer Brent Blanchard, with

uninformative bluster, speaks for the demolition uninformative bluster, speaks for the demolition industry and gets State Dept approvalindustry and gets State Dept approval

► The ProgressiveThe Progressive Corley and Sozen strike againCorley and Sozen strike again

► Rolling StoneRolling Stone We must cling to the false story until the We must cling to the false story until the

“conspiracy theorists” prove another, more “conspiracy theorists” prove another, more outrageous one.outrageous one.

Who have we NOT heard Who have we NOT heard from?from?

► Advances in Applied MechanicsAdvances in Applied Mechanics ► International Journal of PlasticityInternational Journal of Plasticity ► Proceedings of the IEEEProceedings of the IEEE ► Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Industrial & Engineering Chemistry

ResearchResearch ► Journal of Chemical & Engineering Journal of Chemical & Engineering

DataData ► Fluid Phase EquilibriaFluid Phase Equilibria ► Materials scienceMaterials science► Acta MaterialiaActa Materialia ► Advanced MaterialsAdvanced Materials ► Advanced Functional MaterialsAdvanced Functional Materials ► Annual Review of Materials ResearchAnnual Review of Materials Research ► Chemistry of MaterialsChemistry of Materials ► International Materials ReviewInternational Materials Review ► Journal of Materials ResearchJournal of Materials Research ► Journal of Materials ScienceJournal of Materials Science ► Metallurgical and Materials Metallurgical and Materials

TransactionsTransactions ► Nature MaterialsNature Materials

► Progress in Materials ScienceProgress in Materials Science ► Advances in PhysicsAdvances in Physics ► Journal of PhysicsJournal of Physics ► Physical ReviewPhysical Review ► Reports on Progress in PhysicsReports on Progress in Physics ► Reviews in Modern PhysicsReviews in Modern Physics ► Journal of the American Chemical Journal of the American Chemical

SocietySociety ► Angewandte Chemie International Angewandte Chemie International

EditionEdition ► Chemical CommunicationsChemical Communications ► Chemical ReviewsChemical Reviews ► Accounts of Chemical ResearchAccounts of Chemical Research ► Chemistry - A European JournalChemistry - A European Journal ► Chemistry LettersChemistry Letters ► Bulletin of the Chemical Society of Bulletin of the Chemical Society of

JapanJapan ► Helvetica Chimica ActaHelvetica Chimica Acta ► Canadian Journal of ChemistryCanadian Journal of Chemistry

What about WTC 7?What about WTC 7?

► Would have been tallest building in 33 statesWould have been tallest building in 33 states

► Collapsed in 6.6 secondsCollapsed in 6.6 seconds

► Larry Silverstein, leaseholder for all three buildings -- Larry Silverstein, leaseholder for all three buildings -- “I said…maybe the smartest thing to do is pull it. “I said…maybe the smartest thing to do is pull it. And [the fire department commander and I] made And [the fire department commander and I] made that decision to pull and we watched the building that decision to pull and we watched the building collapse.” PBS, 2002collapse.” PBS, 2002

► FEMA -- “the collapse was due primarily to fire, rather FEMA -- “the collapse was due primarily to fire, rather than any impact damage from the collapsing towers” than any impact damage from the collapsing towers”

How did we get here?How did we get here?

► The collapse of the WTC buildings is only a part of a The collapse of the WTC buildings is only a part of a long list of unprecedented events on 9/11/01long list of unprecedented events on 9/11/01

► The explanations we’ve been given have come from The explanations we’ve been given have come from those working for the Bush Administration, or from those working for the Bush Administration, or from those profiting from the War on Terrorthose profiting from the War on Terror

► We know these people lie to us about everything, and We know these people lie to us about everything, and that they distort and manipulate scientific findingsthat they distort and manipulate scientific findings

► We know NIST’s story about the WTC is false, and is We know NIST’s story about the WTC is false, and is only the latest in a string of false stories only the latest in a string of false stories

How can we turn away How can we turn away from the road to global from the road to global

collapse?collapse?► By admitting that this is not just about By admitting that this is not just about

demons wanting to steal our freedomsdemons wanting to steal our freedoms

► By consciously examining ALL of the By consciously examining ALL of the evidence behind the false story of 9/11/01evidence behind the false story of 9/11/01

► By considering ALL the hypotheses no By considering ALL the hypotheses no

matter where they leadmatter where they lead

► By taking responsibility for the deception in By taking responsibility for the deception in our livesour lives