FIU Research Projects

On-Going Projects

2nd-Cycle Projects (2024-grant)

  • UHPC Connection For SDCL Steel Bridge System .[ABC-UTC-2024-C2-FIU01] : This research investigates the development of optimized ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) connections for simple for dead load and continuous for live load (SDCL) steel bridge systems. SDCL bridge systems eliminate field splices, reduce inspection costs, and improve service life by protecting steel girder ends with a cast-in-place concrete diaphragm. While previous designs utilize normal-strength concrete (NSC), this study explores the advantages of UHPC, including superior compressive and tensile strength, durability, and minimal steel reinforcement and detailing requirements.
  • Correlating In-situ Rapid Concrete Durability Test With Standardized Methods Via Porestructure Analysis.[ABC-UTC-2024-C2-FIU03] : This project seeks to evaluate the concrete durability through the development and optimization of a novel, non-destructive, rapid in-situ testing method known as the Water Pressure Drop Test (WPDT). Traditional methods for assessing concrete durability, such as the rapid chloride penetration test (RCPT), bulk resistivity, and rapid freeze-thaw tests, require extensive sample preparation, precise laboratory conditions, and significant time investments, often making them impractical for field use. In contrast, the WPDT enables the assessment of concrete durability on site in as little as 20 minutes, eliminating the need for sample damage or prolonged saturation processes.
  • Repair and Upgrade of Steel Culverts Using Sprayable Ultra High Performance Concrete (UHPC) [ABC-UTC-2024-C2-FIU04] : This research proposes using Ultra-High-Performance Concrete (UHPC) shotcrete to repair and upgrade steel culverts, addressing significant infrastructure challenges posed by aging, deterioration, and increased traffic demands. Many U.S. steel culverts are nearing the end of their service life, suffering from corrosion, wear, and soil erosion, which can lead to structural failure and severe environmental and economic consequences. This study aims to optimize UHPC shotcrete mixtures, evaluate their mechanical and durability properties, and assess their effectiveness in repairing and upgrading steel culverts.
  • Exploratory Study On The Suitability Of Self-healing Concrete For Applications with Enhanced Mechanical And Durability Performance [ABC-UTC-2024-C2-FIU05] : The development of self-healing concrete, particularly using Basilisk-inspired approaches, is an emerging area of research that has garnered significant attention in recent years. While conventional concrete is prone to cracking and degradation, self-healing concrete has the potential to autonomously repair damages, enhancing its durability and sustainability. Researchers have made notable progress in understanding the underlying mechanisms of self-healing concrete, including the use of bacteria-based healing agents microcapsule-based systems and shape-memory alloys.

  • Development of Innovative Two-Layered System for Upgrade of Steel Culverts (UHPC Shotcrete + Sprayable Self-Healing Concrete)[ABC-UTC-2024-C2-FIU06] : This research proposes using Ultra-High-Performance Concrete (UHPC) shotcrete combined with sprayable self-healing concrete to upgrade steel culverts, addressing challenges related to aging, deterioration, and increased traffic. An accompanying project will also be carried out at IBT/ABC-UTC that will be complementing this project. Overall, the research results will accomplish the project vision and objectives. Many U.S. steel culverts are approaching the end of their service life due to corrosion, wear, and soil erosion, which can result in structural failure and significant environmental and economic impacts. This study aims to optimize effectiveness of sprayable UHPC by applying self-healing concrete mixtures, evaluate their mechanical and durability properties, and assess their combined performance when applied to steel culverts.

  • RL-Empowered Optimizer for Bridge Fortification: A Novel Decision-Making Mechanism to Optimize Bridge Fortification in Disaster-Prone Communities [ABC-UTC-2024-C2-FIU09] : Effective operation of any society is heavily dependent on its critical infrastructures. Road infrastructure is an essential component of societies, facilitating access to different areas. This infrastructure is an integration of several modalities such as roads, highways, bridges, rails, and public transit. Among these modalities, bridges are the most vulnerable ones against disasters such as earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, and fires. This poses significant risks to the integrity and functionality of road infrastructure. Bridges have experienced the highest rates of damage during past disasters. For instance, the collapse of the I-95 bridge in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in June 2023, due to a tanker truck fire, disrupted transportation across a significant portion of the Eastern Seaboard, illustrating how critical this structure was in connecting the surrounding road network.

1st-Cycle Projects (2024-grant)

  • Prefabricated Bridge Columns with Self-Centering Capability Using Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) and Ultra High Performance Concrete (UHPC) In Plastic Regions [IBT-ABC-UTC-2024-C1-FIU01]: The objective of this project is to demonstrate low-damage bridge columns with improved seismic performance compared to conventional cast-in-place columns. Reduced and controlled concrete damage using UHPC in plastic hinge regions. Reduced residual displacement by incorporating SMA with self-centering capability and Development of a step-by-step seismic design method for bridge column-cap beam connections, and plastic hinge zones with UHPC, SMA, and ECC.
  • Upgrading and Protecting Steel Columns Using UHPC [IBT-ABC-UTC-2024-C1-FIU03] : This project aims to integrate numerical studies and experimental testing to investigate the structural performance of steel columns wrapped with Ultra-High Performance Concrete (UHPC). The primary objective is to  assess the structural enhancements provided by UHPC in non-seismic and seismic regions and to develop practical design guidelines from the findings.
  • Automated System to Feed UHPC to 3D Printer [IBT-ABC-UTC-2024-C1-FIU04]: The objective of this research is to developing an automated UHPC mixing and feeding system that ensures the continuous and uninterrupted supply of material to various types of 3D concrete printers developed at ABC-UTC at the laboratory scale. Investigating and optimizing UHPC mixtures for 3D printing, focusing on achieving consistent quality and flow properties. Implementing a real-time monitoring and adjustment system that utilizes sensor data to maintain precise material supply, quality, and printing conditions.
  • Development of Architecture for Generative Pre-trained Transformer (GPT) Inspired Model for Bridge Engineering with Application to Service Life Design, called BridgeGPT [IBT-ABC-UTC-2024-C1-FIU05]: The research approach for this project focuses on developing the general architecture of the BridgeGPT platform, demonstrating the feasibility and usefulness of the BridgeGPT by developing a service life module compatible with the requirements of BridgeGPT. The data for service life design of bridges will be obtained from outputs of the SHRP2 R19A project. The beta version of the developed BridgeGPT platform and service life design module will be tested by select DOTs and consultants. The service life design module will be completed after receiving their feedback. This project will also include the development of a roadmap for future activities leading to the design of other modules, as well as a business plan for ensuring sustainability of the developed system.
  • The Next Generation of Transportation Asset Management [IBT-ABC-UTC-2024-C1-FIU06] : The main objectives for this project include  Accumulation of extensive information on the existing approaches (successes, challenges and shortcomings) for individual national, state and international TAMPs, through literature reviews, expert interviews, surveys and workshops.
  • Accelerated Foundation Repair/Retrofits For Capacity Upgradation and Strengthening [IBT-ABC-UTC-2024-C1-FIU08] : The project will explore potential of data science and soil-structure interaction mechanics guided AI (machine learning) approaches to reuse of foundation. Further, the type of analyses and standardization envisaged goes well beyond the current practice in design (currently based upon FHWA methods whose database could be enhanced and which need major refinement for harmonizing ultimate and service limit capacity estimation), technology evaluation and implementation in construction.

6th-Cycle Projects (2016-grant)

  • Comprehending the Structural Performance and Examining Potential Field Applications of Sileto, as a New Material [ABC-UTC-2016-C6-FIU02]: This project aims to comprehensively assess the structural performance of Sileto, a new polymer-based concrete material, in various applications. Collaborating with ABC-UTC and funded by Sileto and ABC-UTC, the project’s Phase II will involve conducting proof-of-concept tests in areas such as bridge deck overlay, precast deck panels, 3D printing, and retrofitting. The project’s objective is to determine the viability of Sileto in these applications, potentially leading to field implementation and demonstration projects in partnership with relevant agencies.
  • Advanced Corrosion Detection Combining Chemical Odor and Magnetic Flux Measurementss [ABC-UTC-2016-C6-FIU05]: This project combines the non-destructive test Magnetic Flux Leakage Method (MFL) with odor analysis by SPME-GC/MS and canine olfaction. The combined methods will be optimized utilizing AI/ML to make better decisions and accurately locate the source of significant corrosion.

5th-Cycle Projects (2016-grant)

  • Use of Canines as a Corrosion Detection Device [ABC-UTC-FIU-2016-C5-FIU04]: This proposal outlines the utilization of canines for the detection of corrosion within bridges and other large concrete structures. This proposal will identify the proper techniques required to effectively and rapidly train a canine to detect corrosion and apply this detection capability to actual concrete structures. Figures of merit such as accuracy of detection and comparisons to current schemes such as magnetic flux will also be reported.

4th-Cycle Projects (2016-grant)

3rd-Cycle Projects (2016-grant)

  • Automated MFL System for Corrosion Detection [ABC-UTC-2016-C3-FIU08]: The proposed project is aimed at using the methodology that is developed under other projects and supported by other agencies and automates the process for accelerated field application. The scope of the work and budget is kept at minimum budget since the majority of the related work and research have been completed under other projects.

2nd-Cycle Projects (2016-grant)

  • Laminated Wood Deck System for Folded Plate Girder [ABC-UTC-2016-C2-FIU06]: The proposed research suggests experimental testing and finite element modelling for a modular unit of FPG with laminated wood deck. In the suggested experimental work, large scale specimen will be tested under fatigue loading for service life design and under ultimate load for AASHTO strength design.

Completed Projects

6th-Cycle Projects (2016-grant)

  • Equitable Restoration Strategies for Bridge and Road Infrastructure Networks after Hurricanes in Coastal Communities [ABC-UTC-2016-C6-FIU04]: This project will develop equitable restoration strategies for bridge and road infrastructure networks in coastal communities following hurricanes. Research activities will focus on understanding the impact of hurricanes on infrastructure networks, identifying vulnerable communities, developing restoration plans that prioritize accessibility for all community members, and collaborating with local stakeholders to implement these plans. The project aims to address issues related to the disproportionate impact of natural disasters on marginalized communities and ensure that infrastructure restoration efforts are inclusive and sustainable.
  • High-Resolution Approach for Hurricane Risk and Resilience Analysis for Miami-Dade County[ABC-UTC-2016-C6-FIU06]: In this research project, building-level multi-hazard hurricane risk analysis will be developed for Miami-Dade County. The state-of-the-art high-resolution approach will be used for hazard, exposure, and vulnerability modeling. The final outputs will be in terms of loss ratios and damage estimates corresponding to specific hurricane scenarios.
  • Integration of Machine Learning in Structural Health Monitoring for Damage Identification and Response Prediction in Bridges [ABC-UTC-2016-c6-FIU07]: Bridges, being critical infrastructure, need consistent monitoring as they are susceptible to damage from environmental factors, aging, and other causes. To address these challenges, advancements in structural health monitoring are being made, integrating new techniques to protect and enhance the longevity of bridges. SHM has transitioned from manual inspections to automated monitoring, aiding in maintenance of infrastructure and enhancing disaster prevention through effective monitoring.
  • Upgrading Capacity and Protecting Concrete Columns Against Corrosion [ABC-UTC-2016-C6-FIU01]: This project focuses on developing effective techniques to upgrade concrete bridge columns and protect them against corrosion. By utilizing full encasement with Ultra-High-Performance Concrete (UHPC), the project aims to enhance the capacity and durability of existing columns, particularly in coastal areas. Through a combination of experimental testing, numerical analysis, and the creation of an ABC-UTC guide, the research will provide practical solutions for state departments of transportation and bridge engineers to effectively upgrade and safeguard concrete bridge columns.

5th-Cycle Projects (2016-grant)

  • A Comprehensive Decision Support Tool for Accelerated Bridge Construction[ABC-UTC-2016-C5-FIU02]:This project aims at developing a multi-criteria decision support tool for determining the suitability of adopting ABC techniques in bridge construction projects that is more comprehensive, less subjective, and more flexible than the existing tools, extending its applicability to all state DOTs. The tool will be developed by improving the Connecticut DOT’s ABC Decision Matrix to consider (1) the benefits of ABC on roadway safety, (2) quantitative measures for the evaluation of decision criteria where possible, and (3) a systematic method for the determination of relative weights of criteria.
  • Development of Rapid In-Situ Testing for Concrete Deck Durability [ABC-UTC-2016-C5-FIU01]: This project is aiming at establishing a relationship that might exist between routine Freeze/Thaw, Rapid Chloride Permeability (RCP), Bulk Resistivity (BR), and Surface Resistivity (SR) tests and the novel method developed at FIU. If such a relation exists, the durability assessment of concrete bridge elements can be achieved in less than 20 minutes.
  • Development of Accelerated Bridge Construction Handbook (ABC Handbook) [ABC-UTC-FIU-2016-C5-FIU03]: The overarching goal of this project is to develop the most document in ABC area not only for profession and practicing design engineers but also for education purposes. The handbook will provide actual design example, sample details, and other useful information for the benefit of the reader.

4th-Cycle Projects (2016-grant)

  • Developing ABC Success Index to Support Contractors During Pre-Project Planning [ABC-UTC-2016-C4-FIU01]: This study would foster the development of a streamlined procedure for effective adoption of ABC, which support (1) educating contractors to adopt ABC projects successfully; and (2) encouraging ABC stakeholders to understand and realize the success indicators of ABC projects particularly during pre-project planning phase.
  • Life-Cycle Cost Analysis of Ultra High-Performance Concrete (UHPC) in Retrofitting Techniques For ABC Project [ABC-UTC-2016-C4-FIU03]: This research will develop a life-cycle cost performance-based methodology to incorporate Ultra High-Performance Concrete (UHPC) applications in retrofitting techniques for ABC projects. Life-expectancy models will be developed for Life-Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA), and a case study will evaluate the applicability of the methodology.
  • Integrated Flood and Socio-Environmental Risk Analysis for Prioritizing ABC Activities [ABC-UTC-2016-C4-FIU04]: A GIS-based, multi-criterion, and multi-stakeholder decision support tool is developed to support the selection of accelerated bridge upgrade/repair projects based on the vulnerability of urban areas and risk of bridges against flooding and socio-environmental factors.
  • Risk and Resilience of Bridges: Toward Development of Hazard-Based Assessment Framework, Research Needs, and Benefits of Accelerated Construction [ABC-UTC-2016-C4-FIU-OU-UNR-Collab1]: This project seeks to document and synthesize the current state of practice related to assessment of risk and resilience of bridges and other structures and conducting target surveys to identify the current state of practice with transportation agencies and cities. The collected information will be utilized to develop holistic resilience and risk assessment framework for existing and new bridges, including ABC bridges, accelerated upgrade (enhanced robustness), and accelerated repair (enhanced rapidity), under multi-hazards to emphasis on accelerated construction benefits.
  • Use of All Lightweight Concrete in Conjunction with UHPC Connection for Prefabricated Barrier System [ABC-UTC-2016-C4-FIU02]: The use of all lightweight concrete in barriers and in some cases bridge overhangs provides a reduction in the total weight of the barriers by almost 33% allowing the transportation of more barrier units on one truck and easy handling. Furthermore, in seismic regions, lighter barrier contributes to a lesser total mass of bridge superstructures which is beneficial in many cases. In this project, two barriers, made of all lightweight concrete, will be tested under static load test setup and the results will be compared to the specimens which are being tested under project number.

3rd-Cycle Projects (2016-grant)

  • Work Zone Safety Analysis, Investigating Benefits from Accelerated Bridge Construction (ABC) on Roadway Safety [ABC-UTC-2016-C3-FIU03]: This research project fills the gap by, at first glance, seeking to identify the contributing factors that affect the severity of work zone crashes associated with worker presence and crash frequency at construction work zone locations. Then, provides quantitative evidence of how much benefits can be obtained through the ABC implementation as compared with conventional on-site bridge construction from roadway safety points of view.
  • Alternative Technical Concepts for Contract Delivery Methods in Accelerated Bridge Construction [ABC-UTC-2016-C3-FIU02]: The primary objective for this research project is to determine the factors which impact the integration of ATC in ABC projects through the analytic hierarchy process (AHP). A hierarchy model will be developed and used to create a guideline for effective adoption of ATC in ABC projects, which will accelerate the design, construction processes, and procurement of infrastructure assets for either rehabilitation or new projects related to ABC.
  • Prefabricated Barrier System Utilizing UHPC Connections [ABC-UTC-2016-C3-FIU05]: A new prefabricated barrier system utilizing UHPC connection to deck overhangs is proposed under this project. Under this project, component and large scale testing will be conducted along with extensive finite element models to ensure that the proposed prefabricated barrier system with UHPC connections meets TL-4 requirements.
  • UHPC connection for SDCL steel bridge system [ABC-UTC-2016-C3-FIU09]: In this research UHPC is utilized in for an SDCL steel bridge system instead of cast-in-place normal strength concrete diaphragm. The research project proposes a connection detail and numerically evaluates the structural behavior of the connection.
  • Alternative Materials and Configurations for Prestressed-precast Concrete Pile Splice Connection [ABC-UTC-2016-C3-FIU01]: The objective of this project is to explore alternative pile splice connection configurations and materials, and to investigate the feasibility of these connections in comparison with the existing epoxy dowel splice for prestressed-precast concrete piles.
  • Use of UHPC in Conjunction with Pneumatic Spray Application and Robotic for Repair and Strengthening of Culverts- Phase I [ABC-UTC-2016-C3-FIU04]: The main objective of this project is to develop a roadmap for conducting systematic research that could lead to the development of complete design and construction approach for strengthening existing substandard culverts using UHPC through robots with pneumatic spray application.
  • Rapid Repair and Retrofit of Timber Piles Using UHPC [ABC-UTC-2016-C3-FIU07]: Ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) offers great solutions for repairing and retrofitting bridge elements. In this research UHPC is utilized to restore and upgrade the capacity of deteriorated timber piles. This research project investigates both bond strength between timber as substrate material and UHPC as repair material in addition to studying the load carrying mechanism of repaired/retrofitted timber piles using UHPC.
  • Robotic Bridge Construction: Experimental Phase I [ABC-UTC-2016-C3-FIU06]: The proposed research is the second phase of the Cycle 2 project “Robotics and Automation in ABC Projects: Exploratory Phase- ABC-UTC-2016-C2-FIU05”. In the exploratory phase, the PIs are identifying suitable materials, ultra-high performance concrete”, suitable robotic systems “mobile robot and 3d-printing system”, and suitable prefabricated bridge elements “UHPC shells for bridge columns and beams”.

2nd-Cycle Projects (2016-grant)

  • Development of Non-Proprietary UHPC Mix [ABC-UTC-2016-C2-FIU01]: The proposed study by FIU is part of a larger overall project including all five of the ABC-UTC partner universities. The main objective of this proposed study is to develop a non-proprietary UHPC mix design, labeled “ABC-UTC Non-Proprietary UHPC Mix,” made with local materials that can achieve the necessary mechanical properties and durability for use in bridge components, repair, and connections.
  • Performance Of Existing ABC Projects: Inspection Case Studies [ABC-UTC-2016-C2-FIU02]: The primary objective of this project is to collect much needed information on performance of two in-service ABC bridges. It is envisioned that inspection will include routine visual inspection, special inspection of certain details, and application of NDT methods wherever needed.  The results will be compiled in a format for effective recording and will be reported accordingly.
  • Robotics and Automation in ABC Projects: Exploratory Phase [ABC-UTC-2016-C2-FIU05]: The use of automation and robotics in ABC projects has numerous advantages including increased quality of prefabricated elements, and reducing the accident rate at construction sites. In order to facilitate the implementation of automation and robotics, a comprehensive literature review and feasibility studies will be carried out to identify suitable mobile robots, construction material, prefabricated elements, and in-situ connections.
  • Understanding Critical Impacting Factors and Trends on Bridge Design, Construction, and Maintenance for Future Planning [ABC-UTC-2016-C2-FIU07]: The main objective of this project is to understand the trends of critical impacting factors and examine how these factors may impact the way that bridges are designed, constructed, and maintained.
  • Complex Network Perspectives Towards Accelerated Bridge Construction (ABC) [ABC-UTC-2016-C2-FIU08]: The objective of this study is to present a method for assessing the vulnerability of a bridge network system and a strategy for improving its resiliency. With growing attention to risk-based inspection and maintenance of infrastructure, accurate knowledge of the vulnerabilities and importance, as well as consideration of interrelation among bridges in a network becomes crucial. The bridge network system in the state of Florida, USA will be used as a case study in this project.
  • Optimization of Advanced Cementitious Material for Bridge Deck Overlays and Upgrade, Including Shotcrete [ABC-UTC-2016-C2-FIU04]: This research project addresses the design considerations required for successful application of UHPC as an alternative material for deck overlay. The research project conducts a comprehensive literature review on bridge deck overlay, material level testing, large scale level testing for UHPC bridge deck overlays, and numerical modelling to optimize design parameters.
  • Available ABC Bridge Systems for Short Span Bridges – Course Module [ABC-UTC-2016-C2-FIU03]: The primary objective of development of this course is to provide a general knowledge about the application of ABC for short-span bridges covering various aspects of decision-making, construction methods, available elements and systems, performance and inspection, design, detailing and connections.

1st-Cycle Projects (2016-grant)

3rd-Cycle Projects (2013-grant)

2nd-Cycle Projects (2013-grant)

1st-Cycle Projects (2013-grant)