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School of Engineering

Research Structural Engineering & Mechanics

The Structural Engineering and Mechanics (SEM) group is engaged in a wide variety of experimental, analytical and theoretical research.

fatigue-induced rupture of reinforcing steel in FRP-retrofit concrete beamThe large scale test facilities of the Watkins Haggart Structural Engineering Laboratory is host to projects investigating the structural behavior of innovative structural systems and high performance material testing. A primary theme of much of this testing is rehabilitation and retrofit of deteriorating bridge and building structures. Most experimental work is additionally coupled with analytical study to extend the parameters of a study or to provide a solid mechanistic basis for observed behavior.

The Laboratory for NDE and SHM Studies conducts state of the art research into non-destructive evaluation techniques and structural health monitoring for infrastructure systems. Specific work focuses on wave-propagation techniques and their application for efficient long-term structural monitoring. Studies include a combination of experimental and analytical components.

Lake View Drive Bridge collapse - December 2005 (photo: Pittsburgh Post Gazette)The SEM group also conducts extensive field-based studies of both decommissioned and operating structures. Forensic studies, such as that conducted on decommissioned girders recovered from the Lake View Drive Bridge provide significant experience for the entire SEM team. In situ structural testing, coupled with advanced NDE techniques is a specialty of the SEM group.

The expertise of the SEM group is deeply founded in theoretical and applied mechanics. A variety of studies - with an emphasis on structural dynamics are conducted by all SEM group members.

Structural research

Faculty & students perform leading edge research using advanced computing techniques.

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