Computational structural analysis
Overview
Modern engineering practice relies on advanced computer models to assess the performance of structures. This is the field of computational structural analysis, and is a core expertise of the Department of Structural Engineering and Building Materials and encompasses for example:
- Multi-physics modelling of concrete structures
- NLFEM modelling of concrete structures
- Modeling of cast-in and post-installed anchorage solutions
- Lattice Discrete Particle Modelling of concrete structures
- Time-dependent behaviour and degradation
- Topology optimization
- Structural fire engineering
- Reliability-based design and assessment of structural elements and system
- Robustness assessment of structural systems
- Modelling of reinforcement corrosion and service life assessment
- Modelling at mesoscale and structural level of FRP composites for structural applications
- Numerical analysis of concrete printing
- Numerical analysis of tunnel lining joints
Within the department, advanced numerical models have been developed, for example, to:
- Optimize structures, e.g. to minimize the material usage.
This allows to limit resource consumption without a reduction in structural performance. - Predict prestress loss and long-term deformation
- Evaluate the effects of membrane actions in structural elements. Such analysis provides insight in the robustness of a structural frame in case of unforeseen events, through the development of alternative load paths.
- Assess the breakage and post-breakage behavior of load-bearing glass elements.
This allows to demonstrate the safe usage of such innovative building components. - Simulate the behavior of structures exposed to fire.
The developed models allow to assess for performance for realistic exposures, and to go beyond prescriptive fire resistance ratings. - Simulate the cracking potential of mass concrete due to the exothermal reaction of concrete
- Simulate the cracking potential of restrained concrete elements at early age
- Simulate multi-material and multi-objective structural optimizations, including optimization of reinforced/ prestressed concrete elements
- Simulate the failure behaviour of tiled laminates at meso scale
- Assess the printability of very complex 3D printed structures with time dependent material behaviour during the printing phase