Introduction
Department of Structural Engineering Research Research
The Department of Structural Engineering Research researches and develops the structures that make up the infrastructure of a country, with safety, economy, and the well-being of the public at the heart of its endeavors. Its world-class research workforce, networking with experts around the world, and advanced R&D resources enable the Department of Structural Engineering Research to develop the technology needed for the planning, installation, operation, and maintenance of infrastructure for public safety; to develop and utilize new advanced construction materials in response to changes and rising needs in the construction industry; to install and maintain smart structures featuring advanced sensing technology and IT, AI, and big data capabilities; and to help manage the environmental crisis with technology for the control of climate change, particulate matter, and greenhouse gas emissions. With its ear to the ground when it comes to environmental imperatives and new needs brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Department of Structural Engineering Research will develop technology for the planning, installation, operation, and maintenance of the infrastructures we will need in our changing times.
Major Research Areas
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Enhanced infrastructure safety
- Building and maintenance of structures (bridges, railroads, plants, maritime structures, harbor facilities, etc.)
- Systemization of measurement, monitoring, control, and data management of structural integrity
- Application of big data planning and AI analysis and control to the maintenance of structures
- Development and operation of functional assessment, lifespan prediction, and management system of (old) existing structures
- Maintenance and reinforcement of structures
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Infrastructure for response to disasters and accidents
- Risk safety assessment of infrastructures in relation to earthquakes, climate change, and structural failure
- Collection, storage, analysis, application, and operation of safety data
- Installation and maintenance of special structures (protection against explosions and weaponized EMP, pressurized gas storage, etc.)
- Enhanced reliability of structural components (dampers, support, expansion joints, etc.)
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Sustainability and liveability
- Infrastructure for renewable energy (geothermal heat, wind power, small modular reactors (SMR), hydrogen, piezoelectricity, etc.) and development of resources in polar regions
- Safe decommissioning of structures (nuclear power plants, aged or undesirable facilities, etc.)
- Environmental conditions (heavy vehicles, atmospheric pollution, particulate matter, noise, vibration, etc.) and climate change response (global warming, carbon emissions, etc.)
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Next-generation construction
- Advanced construction materials and resource recycling
- Advanced structures (deep-sea structures, special road infrastructures, etc.)
- Design and automated installation of digital infrastructure featuring smart construction and 3D printing technology
- Advanced infrastructure management
