NSF Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU)
2008 Research Projects

Recently enhanced analytical and computational capabilities and higher strength materials have led to lighter, larger and more complex structures. To design them, the engineer must be able to evaluate their overall behavior, including their performance under possible heavy overloads of both static and dynamic (seismic, wind, blast) environments. Because of the inherent nonlinearities and the complexities in describing the material behavior and the interaction between the components of a structure, to simply use analytical tools for studying the response is not adequate by itself. There is no substitute for understanding how the material and the structure respond to a full range of loading which may cause failure. This can only be done by experimental testing. Testing full-scale structural systems and/or components is often time consuming, requires high capacity and expensive equipment, and is limited by economic constraints. Thus, utilizing small-scale models is becoming a viable approach to solve many complicated problems. The goal of the REU Site is to provide an eight-week immersion in research using modern technology and both full-scale and small-scale models to explore the use of innovative materials and components to mitigate damage caused by earthquakes.

Three logical research areas to improve small-scale modeling expertise are the development of model materials and associated testing procedures, manufacture and testing of model components, and construction and testing of complete model structures. It is proposed to provide state-of-the-art experience to undergraduates in this REU Site by: 1) developing improved materials and testing procedures for small-scale models, 2) manufacturing and testing structural components used for small-scale models in seismic performance evaluation studies; and 3) performance evaluation of various modern structural systems for aseismic design. Students will construct and test the model materials, components or system assemblages using modern computerized data acquisition systems. Most of the small-scale structures and model material specimens of this project are selected to be easily manufactured or fabricated within the time scheduled. Thus, this approach will provide a "hands-on" experience in all phases of research.

Three laboratory projects are identified which involve full-scale testing of a retrofitted component, new smart material, and small-scale model frame fitted with asiesmic device. All three projects will improve the capabilities of seismic performance of structural systems. The projects will collectively show how full (1:1) and scaled models (1:24 to 1:2) are used to test novel techniques/materials before prototype versions can be deployed.