High Performance Structures

The three structural engineering research teams of Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering have conducted pioneering research in the areas of structural materials and forms, computational and design methodologies, and performance monitoring technologies.

(1) The composite structural research team has developed systematic theories for the behavior and design of fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP)-strengthened structures. The team members also pioneered the innovative high-performance FRP−steel−concrete structures.

(2) The steel research team has developed an innovative and practical computation and design method known as the second-order direct analysis, allowing for imperfections in practical structures.

(3) The structural health monitoring team has developed systematic theories and techniques in system design, system identification, model updating, damage diagnosis and prognosis, infrastructure resilience and sustainability, life cycle management and rating system.

The outcomes enhance the performance of civil engineering structures in resisting harsh environments, material deterioration, and multiple hazards. The research has produced a significant impact on the international scientific and engineering communities through its direct adoption in regional and national design codes/guidelines around the world, widely utilised design software, and applications to landmark structures such as Tsing Ma Bridge and Canton Tower. It also led to a HK$52M theme-based research project.

Canton Tower sensor layout