Research

Based on currently what we do and what we know, we perform and support research that is aimed at future for a safer, longer-lasting, and more economical infrastructure.  Our focus areas include research on new generation and high-performance construction materials, innovative testing and monitoring techniques, and improved design and construction practices.  We cover research areas such as wireless instrumentation, nanotechnology, 3-D printing, and connected vehicles and highways.  With our research endeavor, we strive to improve the current code of practice as it relates to materials, design, and construction.

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On-Going Research

Our on-going research interests include the following:

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• Development of ink (material formulations) for 3-D printing in construction

• Integrated concrete and reinforcing steel 3-D printing

• Pilot study for 3-D printing of a bridge from substructure to superstructure

• Property improvements for concrete incorporating nanomaterials

• Nano-sensors for structural health monitoring of concrete

• Dispersion of nanomaterials in concrete mixtures

• Environmental concerns associated with nanomaterials

• Sensors for monitoring changes in concrete and steel properties

• Corrosion monitoring sensors for reinforced concrete

• Sensors for scour monitoring of bridges

• Aligning infrastructure sensors and vehicle sensors

• Deterioration modeling of bridges

• Non-destructive evaluation techniques for bridges

• Non-destructive evaluation techniques for water infrastructure (dams, locks, levees)

• Tunnel inspection techniques

• Development of a rapid and reliable test procedure for determining entrained and entrapped air in concrete

• Optimum blend of supplementary cementitious materials in concrete

• Non-portland cement concrete 

• Understanding and mitigating alkali-silica reaction (ASR) in concrete

• Guidelines for controlling cracks in bridge decks