Francqui Chair Ahmed Y. Elghazouli : Structural Engineering for Extreme Loads (R-7416)

Structural engineers design and upgrade structures and infrastructure exposed to a wide range of loading conditions, some of which may be extreme and uncertain, such as earthquakes, fires or explosions. The engineering challenges these loads present are complex and often require unconventional design philosophies. In recent years, advances in research have led to significant developments in performance-based structural design for extreme loads. Progress in this area has combined findings from theoretical and numerical investigations with observations and validations from large-scale tests on prototype structures and focused laboratory assessments. Lessons learnt from reconnaissance fieldwork and past structural failures have also played an important role. This gradual shift from prescriptive codes to performance-based design offers a reliable basis for protecting lives, property and livelihoods. It also provides a credible framework for estimating physical and economic losses in extreme situations.

Keywords:Chair, Steel concrete constructions

Disciplines:Building engineering, Structural engineering, Ceramic and glass materials, Materials science and engineering, Semiconductor materials