Articles tagged with Civil Engineering
Researchers have developed a calculation method enabling fair comparisons of energy consumption between pulp and paper companies, with potential to reduce fossil fuel usage and release raw materials. The new methodology could contribute to increased efficiency and a changed approach to energy audits.
Lowering residential speed limits to 30kph significantly boosts bicycle riding safety without affecting car trip times, according to a study. The reduction in traffic stress leads to more people choosing bikes as a safe mode of transport.
Researchers found that biochar can dramatically reduce erosion by 45% and improve soil's ability to store water, even under intense rainstorms. Biochar also improved soil structure and increased infiltration, making vineyard soils more resilient to extreme weather.
A study of 744 bridges worldwide reveals that North American and African bridges are most at risk, with spaceborne monitoring able to detect problems before they become disasters. The proposed solution integrates satellite data into risk frameworks to significantly lower the number of high-risk bridges.
Professor Dan M. Frangopol, Lehigh University's inaugural Fazlur R. Khan Endowed Chair, was recognized for his work on life-cycle civil engineering at the 21st International Probabilistic Workshop in Germany. He is widely credited with establishing this field and has authored over 500 peer-reviewed journal articles.
A new study found that historic droughts could become common for Gatún Lake, the main source of water for the Panama Canal locks. The study projects that water levels will decrease and increase evaporation under high-emissions scenarios.
Researchers created a high-resolution 3D liquefaction hazard map using machine learning and geotechnical data. The model accurately predicted soil properties and liquefaction risk, identifying high-risk areas in reclaimed coastal zones and river floodplains with unprecedented clarity and precision.
Researchers at MIT developed a new approach to design complex material structures that account for 3D printing limitations, improving reliability in aerospace and medical applications. The technique enables precise control over material performance and reduces deviations from intended mechanical behavior.
The CERCat consortium aims to improve the field of catastrophe modeling by uniting academic rigor with practical expertise, driving real-world solutions that enhance disaster resilience. The consortium is prioritizing projects on multihazard fragility curves, wildfire fragility curves, and AI-powered post-disaster damage assessment.
The project, designed by Juan José Castellón, represents a powerful model of interdisciplinary collaboration between Rice's School of Architecture and Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering. The modular system collects and cleans rainwater through hollow ceramic structural columns and a lightweight canopy membrane.
The SWiM project aims to develop intelligent and sustainable cooling systems that can reduce energy consumption in large cities by up to 30%. The system will use district heating and cooling technologies, combining expertise from Singapore and Denmark.
A new smart tracking system uses barometric sensors and LoRaWAN to measure height and identify materials on multi-story construction sites. The system has been tested in controlled environments and shows promise for improving material tracking and reducing waste and costs.
A survey by University of Washington researchers found that participants with a negative view of public charging were less likely to choose an electric vehicle than those with a moderate view. Participants demanded strikingly large concessions, such as a 30% discount or 366 extra miles of range, before choosing an EV.
Researchers developed a data-driven macroscopic mobility model that relies on simple observations from city planners' routine data collection. The D3M model can accurately represent diverse traffic conditions and simulate complex system-level dynamics.
Researchers applied particle physics techniques to measure sediment buildup in underwater infrastructure using muography, a noninvasive imaging technique. They successfully identified locations with high levels of sediment buildup and plan to deploy permanent detectors for round-the-clock monitoring.
Researchers developed a strain-controlled testing method for evaluating liquefaction resistance in chemically treated soils, reducing carbon-dioxide emissions by up to 60%. The new method yielded consistent results, improving urban resilience and reducing economic losses in earthquake-prone regions.
Researchers create a biohybrid supercapacitor by embedding energy-producing bacteria in cement, storing electrical energy and regenerating its capacity. The material shows promising potential for future development and can recover up to 80% of its original energy capacity.
A team from UPV and UVigo has discovered the hidden mechanisms that prevent bridges from collapsing under extreme events. They found that damaged bridges can still withstand loads greater than they normally bear, thanks to latent resistance.
Researchers at the University of Chicago created an unprecedented approach to urban development using high-resolution data. The analysis shows that cities with better infrastructure have better developmental outcomes, and that improving access can improve residents' well-being beyond just physical needs.
Researchers have confirmed the existence of hidden motions in granular materials like soil and snow, which can control their movement. This discovery could help understand how landslides and avalanches work, as well as benefit industries such as construction and grain filling.
Researchers Kent Harries and Luisa Molari are advancing sustainable bamboo construction by sharing experience and insight to standardize its use. Bamboo, with its strong culms and effective carbon sequestration, holds promise for affordable housing globally.
A new study by York University researchers found that a machine learning-enabled tool, Safe Water Optimization Tool (SWOT), can deliver safe drinking water at nearly three times the rate as compared to standard practices. The SWOT has been shown to achieve safe water for 90% of households in humanitarian response settings.
Purdue researchers found that heat-based hair care routines release significant amounts of airborne nanoparticles, posing serious health risks. The team's study reveals that using typical store-bought hair care products can expose individuals to upward of 10 billion nanoparticles in a single session.
Researchers create digital twin facility management system for relocatable modular buildings, improving asset management and decision making. The DT-FMS enhances the lifecycle management of RMBs, minimizing waste and maximizing value through reuse and reconfiguration.
The book provides a roadmap for sustainable and ethical leadership in engineering management, focusing on ESG reporting, CSR integration, and industry-specific insights. It offers practical tools and strategies for professionals to make informed decisions that reduce ecological impact and improve resource efficiency.
Researchers from Shibaura Institute of Technology used machine learning algorithms to predict bearing layer depth and assess liquefaction risk. The study found that random forest models outperformed others, especially with increasing spatial data density.
The American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) has launched a new journal, Civil Engineering Sciences, which aims to publish interdisciplinary and cutting-edge works on discoveries and innovations in civil engineering. The journal will promote future reform and innovation in civil engineering science and technology.
The study developed a three-dimensional heat transfer model to analyze energy pile performance in soft clay soils. The results revealed thermal interference and crowding effects, but also introduced practical multiplier factors to simplify predictions and reduce computational resources.
Researchers in Spain and Italy design a new type of asphalt that uses recycled materials from cigarette butts to improve its crack resistance. The additive increases the material's ductility and flexibility, while also reducing manufacturing temperature and energy consumption.
Researchers from FAMU-FSU College of Engineering have identified US dams with the highest probability of overtopping, classified as large and high hazard. The study found an increasing trend in critical overtopping probabilities and a decline in non-critical overtopping probabilities since 1973.
Drexel engineers create vascular network within cement-based building materials that can help passively regulate surface temperature, reducing energy loss in buildings. The approach is inspired by nature's circulatory system and uses phase-change material to maintain a desired indoor temperature.
Dan M. Frangopol, a pioneer in life-cycle civil engineering, has been recognized by the International Association of Structural Safety and Reliability (IASSAR) for his sustained service to the organization. He is the inaugural recipient of the Distinguished Service Award, established in 2013.
A new study from Tulane University reveals that parts of New Orleans are sinking at an alarming rate, with some areas experiencing up to 2 inches of elevation loss annually. The findings highlight the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the city's flood defenses remain effective.
Two Purdue researchers received funding to advance university innovations. Andrew Mesecar aims to develop new treatments for hepatocellular carcinoma using patented enzyme inhibitors. Meanwhile, Pablo Zavattieri is working on a patent-pending system to address saltwater intrusion in the Panama Canal.
A powerful earthquake struck Myanmar, causing widespread collapse of vulnerable buildings that led to majority of deaths and destruction. The report calls for adopting modern seismic building codes and prioritizing retrofitting of existing structures.
Researchers at University of South Australia develop a new material using water treatment sludge and blast-furnace slag, showing over 50% stronger compressive strength and resistance to acid degradation. The discovery has the potential to extend service life of sewage pipes, reduce maintenance costs, and promote circular economy.
A new study from North Carolina State University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill reveals that coastal flooding is occurring more frequently than previously thought. The study found major flaws with the widely used approach of using marine water level data to capture instances of flooding.
A new study published in Science finds that strong climate policy can preserve twice as much ice as current warming trajectories, even if temperatures stabilized today. At a 1.5°C temperature increase, 53% of global glacier mass could be preserved, alleviating hazards like flooding and freshwater deficiency.
The article discusses recent advancements in pipeline safety technologies, including defect detection, environmental risks monitoring, and structural integrity assessment. The integration of high-grade steel, large-diameter pipelines, and unconventional energy sources has introduced new complexities to pipeline safety.
A study uses a probabilistic life cycle approach to evaluate the carbon emission intensity of magnesium silicate hydrate cement (MSHC), finding that its low-carbon characteristics vary depending on mix proportions and Mg/Si ratio. Machine learning techniques improve accuracy and provide reliable scientific evidence for the construction...
Researchers at UCF used a combination of emerging technologies to evaluate the safety of concrete bridges. By combining infrared thermography, high-definition imaging and neural network analysis, they can quickly identify defects and prioritize repairs.
Researchers found that socially and economically marginalized groups face higher earthquake risk due to housing conditions, income, language, and race. Governments can design more inclusive emergency response strategies by integrating social vulnerability measures into disaster-risk assessments.
The new simulator successfully reproduced the main characteristics of tornado-like vortices, including velocity and surface pressure fields. The results showed that fan speed had little effect on vortex structures, while swirl ratio significantly influenced them.
Reginald DesRoches, Rice University President, has been elected to the 2025 class of ASCE distinguished members for his groundbreaking research in earthquake engineering and disaster resilience. He is recognized for his leadership and mentorship in improving engineering education.
Engineers at Princeton University and Georgia Institute of Technology have created a method to reinforce structures without creating new weaknesses. The approach uses microstructures designed to protect against multiple loads, allowing designers to counter various stresses simultaneously.
Researchers at Graz University of Technology developed a holistic solution for structural monitoring, combining various technologies to provide usable findings for service life forecasts and proactive maintenance planning.
A research team at HKU has developed a computational tool called Argo to track antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in environmental samples, providing insights into their transmission and associated risks. The tool uses long-read sequencing and can accurately identify and quantify ARGs, enhancing host identification accuracy.
A new numerical computer model tracks how pollution travels through Galveston Bay, helping scientists understand water movement in estuaries. The model is critical for evaluating climate variability and sea level fluctuation impacts on coastal communities, guiding better decisions to keep water clean and prevent flooding.
A new AI-powered training platform is being developed to simulate pipeline incidents and provide real-world scenarios for pipeline operators. The platform will use artificial intelligence to create a realistic environment where teams can practice handling hazardous conditions and responding to emergencies.
The journal is inviting submissions on AI for engineering, focusing on novel methodologies and applications to solve real-world problems. Submissions can cover various areas such as intelligent manufacturing, energy, transportation, and medicine.
University of Missouri researchers developed a method using lidar and AI to analyze pedestrian, cyclist, and vehicle interactions at traffic signals. The approach aims to enhance driver awareness, reduce accidents, and improve mobility.
Researchers used reinforcement learning to simulate coastal defense strategies against sea level rise and flooding, finding dynamic seawalls to be more cost-effective than traditional methods. The study aimed to address uncertainty in long-term climate change mitigation efforts and provide a flexible approach for communities to prepare...
A new University of Texas at Arlington study reveals high concentrations of microplastics in bird lungs, with average particles per species and gram of lung tissue measured. The study highlights the urgent need to address plastic pollution and its far-reaching impacts on ecosystem health and human health.
Researchers at Drexel University have developed a new way to improve textile-based filters by coating them with MXene nanomaterial. The non-woven polyester textile coated with a thin layer of MXene nanomaterial can turn it into a potent filter capable of pulling some of the finest nanoparticles from the air.
Researchers at the University of Houston have developed a new membrane that allows water to flow eight times faster while maintaining high salt rejection rates. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient and cost-effective desalination systems, lowering costs and increasing access to clean water.
A recent study led by Qian found that income, rather than proximity, is the dominant factor in determining who benefits most from public EV infrastructure. Wealthier individuals have more flexibility to spend time at charging stations while charging their vehicles, whereas lower-income communities struggle to integrate public charging ...
Researchers at Purdue University are studying mosquito antennae to develop acoustic sensors that can detect natural disasters like earthquakes and tsunamis. By mimicking the unique structure of these antennae, they hope to create more sensitive sound-detection technology.
Professor Dan Frangopol has made transformative contributions to structural reliability, optimization, and sustainable infrastructure management. His work represents the dedication to research and scholarship that Lehigh University strives to cultivate.
Purdue University engineers have found that household products like air fresheners and wax melts can release nanoscale particles that penetrate deep into the lungs. These nanoparticles are formed when fragrances interact with ozone, potentially posing risks to respiratory health.
Researchers developed a five-minute quality test for sustainable cement industry materials, reducing testing time from seven days to just five minutes. The test uses colorimetry and camera technology for real-time quality control of calcined clays, which can partially replace ordinary Portland cement.