Research Group Sustainable Concrete Structures

Research on concrete structures

We aim at finding new solutions for building and managing concrete structures more efficiently. For this goal we leverage sensing technologies, data science, new materials and advance modelling tools to propose innovative structural designs, and examination models of civil structures, such as bridges.

Regenerative rehabilitation

Existing bridge lifespan extension

In addition, we are leveraging the latest sensing technologies to better understand the behavior, degradation, and load levels on existing structures. Novel datasets, combined with advanced data-science tools, lead to building digital twins for better evaluation of structural safety. The aim is to reveal an untapped reserve of capacity, allowing extending structural lifespan. Moreover, these digital replica allows for a continuous monitoring of structural behavior, enabling a quick detection of structural damage and improving user safety.

We are developing novel intervention methods to strengthen existing bridges with ultra-high performance fiber reinforced cementitious composite. This new material mix with a large amount of steel fibers allows for significantly increasing the load-carrying capacity of structures, while providing a protective layer on the old concrete underneath. Regenerative interventions enable the extension of structural lifespan, leading to significant environmental and cost savings for infrastructure management.