concrete structure with cracks and numbers

Research

Research Themes

Concrete wall after testing

Design for Natural Hazards

We aim to reduce the impacts of natural hazards like earthquakes using large-scale tests and field data to better understand behavior and improve design.
Cracked concrete

Assessment and Repair

As U.S. infrastructure ages, there is a pressing need to more efficiently assess existing structures and devise improved retrofit methods.
FRC placement

New and Advanced Materials

We study advanced materials like high-strength steel and ultra-high-performance concrete to improve the behavior and constructability of structures.
Concrete tower

High temperature effects

We study the mechanics of reinforced concrete at high temperature to support the development of advanced nuclear reactors.

Current Research Projects

Deformation Capacity of Column-Foundation Connections

Buildings must be able to deform without losing strength during earthquakes. We are working to understand the mechanics of column-foundation connections to improve design requirements.
Column-foundation connection after testing

Assessment and Repair of Concrete Dams

Thousands of concrete dams in the U.S. are aging. Our team is developing methods to better assess whether structures can continue to serve safely and improved methods to repair and extend the service-life of structures.
Concrete dam

Earthquake-Resistant Walls with Mechanical Splices

Nuclear power plants and tall buildings rely on reinforced concrete walls when earthquakes occur. We are studying special reinforcement details and advanced materials to improve behavior and reduce the cost of safe buildings.
Laboratory with wall specimen during test

Bridge Load Rating and Repair

Our team devises new, more cost-effective, methods for determining the safe load capacity of existing concrete bridges. We are also developing models to more accurately assess the effects of repair choices like replacing bridge decks on long-term performance.
Concrete bridges

Concrete Mechanics at High Temperature

Our group is studying concrete the mechanics of how concrete and steel reinforcement interact at high temperature. This work is important for the development of advanced nuclear reactors.
Clinker in a kiln