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Civil Engineering CE 5990
Graduate Seminar

2012 Spring Seminar Schedule

ARCHIVE

(Alternate Archive CEE Seminar Blog)


Civil Engineering Graduate Seminar April 19th:
Time: 4-5pm, Thursday (April 19)
location: Dow 642
Seminar title: Material Matters
by Jerry Anzalone, Lab Supervisor/Research Scientist I, PhD candidate
Dr. Larry Sutter, advisor

Abstract provided by speaker:

Jerry manages the Nonvolotile, nonconductive phase characterization
facility on M&M’s seventh floor. The position allows him to engage
in a number of research activities from several disciplines.

Jerry will be discussing a few of the projects he has taken part in as
well as investigations of the effect potassium acetate deicer has on
alkali-silica reactivity, the subject of his doctoral research. Other
discussion topics include ASR mitigation; new and old methods for
determining air void parameters in hardened concrete; recent aggregate
polishing research; development of open source technologies; relevant
extracurricular activity, all the while giving an overview of the ample
capabilities of the materials characterization facility.


Civil Engineering Graduate Seminar April 12th:
Time: 4-5pm, Thursday (April. 12th), Location: Dow 642
Public welcome

Presenter: Chris Carroll, Ph.D., E.I. Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, University of Louisiana at Lafayette (hosted by Dr. Devin Harris)

TOPIC: Sustainability from the Perspective of an Ancient Engineer

BIO: Dr. Carroll received his Ph.D. from Virginia Tech in August of 2009 and has been an assistant professor at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette since. Dr. Carroll’s research focus is primarily in the areas of prestressed and reinforced concrete with a concentration on the bond between concrete and reinforcing steel. He is an active member of the American Concrete Institute and American Society of Civil Engineers. In addition to his experimental interests, he also has an interest in engineering education, specifically those related to active and visual teaching techniques and project and problem based learning used in structural engineering courses. Furthermore, Dr. Carroll has also hosted three television shows in conjunction with the History Channel and Discovery Channel as a technical expert. Most recently, he served as co-host on a pilot series entitled Engineering the Impossible for the Discovery Channel. The pilot series included two shows focused on the engineering techniques used by the Ancient Engineers of Rome and Egypt. Dr. Carroll along with a group of his students recreated various structures from the ancient Roman and Egyptian Empires showcasing some of the techniques believed to be used by each to construct some of the most famous structures in the world.

ABSTRACT: For centuries, the Coliseum, Pantheon, and aqueducts have been admired time and time again. Their sheer size alone is awe inspiring and constantly raises the question, “How were they built?” While hypotheses exist for their construction, maybe the more important question is “How have they withstood the test of time?” In a day and age where sustainability is a key concern in new designs, looking at the work of ancient engineers could reiterate what sustainability is and to what areas structural engineers should devote their attention. This presentation highlights the methods used by the Romans in the construction of the Coliseum, Pantheon, and Pont du Gard Aqueduct and touches on some key principles related to their continued survival.
Flyer


Civil Engineering Graduate Seminar April 5th:
Time: 4-5pm, Thursday (April. 5th); location: Dow 642, Public welcome

Topic: Climate Informed Flood Risk Projections
Presenter: Casey Fritsch, Master student, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, (Adviser: Dr. Veronica Griffis)

Abstract: Standard procedures for forecasting flood risk (Bulletin 17B) assume annual maximum flood (AMF) series are stationary, meaning the distribution of flood flows is not significantly affected by climatic trends/cycles, or anthropogenic activities within the watershed. Historical flood events are therefore considered representative of future flood occurrences, and the risk associated with a given flood magnitude is modeled as constant over time. However, in light of increasing evidence to the contrary, this assumption should be reconsidered, especially as the existence of nonstationarity in AMF series can have significant impacts on planning and management of water resources and relevant infrastructure. Research presented in this thesis quantifies the degree of nonstationarity evident in AMF series for unimpaired watersheds throughout the contiguous U.S., identifies meteorological, climatic, and anthropogenic causes of this nonstationarity, and proposes an extension of the Bulletin 17B methodology which yields forecasts of flood risk that reflect climatic influences on flood magnitude.


Civil Engineering Seminarfor March 29:
Time: 4-5pm, Thursday (March. 29th)
location: Dow 642
Public welcome

Topic: Domain Microstructure Evolution and Magnetomechanical Property of Giant Magnetostrictive Materials

Presenter: Dr. Yongmei M. Jin, Assistant Professor, Materials Science and Engineering Department, Michigan Technological University

Bio: Dr. Jin received B.E. and M.E. in Mechanical Engineering from University of Science and Technology of China in 1994 and 1997, respectively, and Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering from Rutgers University in 2003. After two years of postdoctoral research at Rutgers University, she joined the Department of Aerospace Engineering at Texas A&M University in 2005 as an Assistant Professor and transferred to the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at Michigan Tech in 2009. Her research interest focuses on materials modeling and computer simulation. In particular, she has been working on the development and application of phase field models to investigate microstructure evolutions in crystalline materials during various physical processes, e.g., martensitic transformation, decomposition, ordering, ferromagnetic domain switching, magnetomechanical behaviors, and defect evolutions (dislocations, cracks, voids, and free surfaces) in single- and poly-crystalline bulk and thin film materials and nanoparticles.

Abstract: Domain microstructure evolution and magnetomechanical property of giant magnetostrictive materials are investigated by phase field micromagnetic microelastic modeling. The model explicitly treats magnetic and elastic domain microstructures, accurately calculates various thermodynamic driving forces (magnetostatic, elastostatic, magnetocrystalline, exchange, chemical, interfacial, applied magnetic field, mechanical loading), simultaneously takes into account multiple physical mechanisms, and automatically describes the domain microstructure evolutions along kinetically favorable pathways without a priori constraint. In particular, coupled magnetic and elastic domain microstructure evolutions in magnetic shape memory alloys are simulated. The simulation results reveal the effects of external magnetic field, twin boundary mobility, and twinning strain on domain structure evolutions, which help explain peculiar magnetic field-induced strain behaviors observed in magnetic shape memory alloys. Application of phase-field modeling to the microstructure evolutions in other material processes are also discussed. Connections between mesoscale phase-field modeling, atomistic (first principles, molecular dynamics) and continuum (finite element) simulations, thermodynamic and kinetic databases as well as experiments are addressed.
PDF of Civil Engineering Seminarfor March 29


Civil Engineering Graduate Seminar: Mar 22
Time: 4-5pm, Thursday (March. 22nd)
Location: Dow 642
Public welcome

Topic: Railroads and Environment - Steps in Locomotive and Power Development to Improve the Environmental Footprint of Rail Transportation

Presenter: Mike Iden - General Director, Car and Locomotive Engineering, Union Pacific Railroad
(hosted by Pasi Lautala)

Abstract: Railroads and rail transportation is often considered the "green" transportation alternative, but there is never-ending development process toward improving both the energy efficiency and the environmental footprint of rail transportation. One of the greatest priorities has been locomotives, whether it has been in reducing emissions or in improving operational practices toward better fuel consumption. This presentation will review some of the latest and future advances related to the development of north American diesel locomotives that today dominate the market. The difference between on-board power (diesel-electric or other prime movers) versus centralized power ("electrification") will also be discussed, including technical and economic issues.


Civil Engineering Graduate Seminar March. 15th:
Time: 4-5pm, Thursday (March. 15th)
location: Dow 642
Public welcome

Topics:

1. Integration of Mainshock-Aftershock Sequences Into Performance-Based Engineering
Presenter: Ruiqiang Song, Ph.D. Student, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, (Adviser: Dr. Yue Li)

Abstract: During earthquake events, it is very common to observe many aftershocks following the mainshock. Although they are normally smaller in magnitude, aftershocks may have a large ground motion intensity, even longer duration and different energy content. Aftershocks have the potential to cause severe damage to buildings and threaten life safety even when only minor damage is present from the mainshock. However, most of current seismic risk assessment researches focus on risk due to a mainshock event only. The primary goal of this research is to systematically integrate aftershock seismic hazard into Performance Based Engineering through a combination of analytical studies with structural degradation models. In this study, the global-level hysteresis damage models is calibrated, structural Collapse Capacity subjected to Mainshock and aftershock sequence is carried out by performing incremental dynamic analysis, the effect of frequency content on structural collapse capacity are also checked and ground motion attenuation relationship of response spectral values are presented.

2. Building Information Modeling: A Demonstration of Parametric Modeling and its Use in the Construction Industry
Presenter: Christopher Brokaw, Master student, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, (Adviser: Dr. Amlan Mukherjee)

Abstract: Building information modeling (BIM) is a type of software that can be used to create a 3D model of a construction project that integrates information about the materials and scheduling. This makes it is possible to quickly explore multiple alternate designs and evaluate their performance, as well as plan out the entire project and management strategies. This allows for improved information management and project control when compared to projects designed with 2D drafting software. In this presentation, I will use a hands-on demonstration to explore BIM software and illustrate how stakeholders can use this software to streamline the design process, reduce conflicts, and save money. I will also present an overview of my ongoing research project that, in addition to the above, will explore the benefits of transitioning to BIM software, and will show some of the lessons learned from the early adopters.


Civil Engineering Graduate Seminar Mar 1st:
Time: 4-5pm, Thursday (March. 1st)
location: Dow 642
Public welcome

Topics:

1. Application of Ultra High Performance Concrete (UHPC) as Thin-Bonded Overlay for Concrete Bridge Decks
Presenter: Sarah Shann, MS student, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, (Adviser: Dr. Devin Harris)

Abstract: As transportation infrastructure across the globe approaches the end of its service life, new innovative materials and applications are needed to sustainably repair and prevent damage to these structures. The feasibility of using Ultra-High Performance Concrete (UHPC) as a thin-bonded overlay on concrete bridge decks is investigated in this study. Design optimization of the bridge deck overlay system was examined to minimize overlay thickness, dead load, and cure time without sacrificing bond integrity or loss of protective capabilities. This was done with a 3-D finite element model of a simply supported bridge under a notional truck, the HL-93 design truck common to the United States, in the worst case loading position.

2. Title: Increasing the Piezoelectric Effect in Cement Paste.

Presenter: Benjamin Roskoskey, MS Student, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, (Adviser: Dr. Andrew Swartz).

Abstract: The object of this study is to attempt to increase the piezoelectric effect (and as a result the reverse piezoelectric effect) in cement paste. Piezoelectric sensors and actuators are frequently used nowadays to monitor the health of structures. However they are expensive and when embedded within concrete, can separate from the concrete and cause degradation due to differences between their Young’s modulus and thermal expansion coefficient and those of the concrete. The expectation is that the concrete itself, by utilizing its piezoelectric effect, can be used as the sole means of structural health monitoring for a structure.


Civil Engineering Seminars Feb 23rd:
Time: 4-5pm, Thursday (Feb. 23rd)
Location: Dow 642
Public welcome

Title: Increasing the Piezoelectric Effect in Cement Paste.

Presenter: Benjamin Roskoskey, MS Civil Engineering Student Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, (Adviser: Dr. Andrew Swartz).

Abstract: The object of this study is to attempt to increase the piezoelectric effect (and as a result the reverse piezoelectric effect) in cement paste. Piezoelectric sensors and actuators are frequently used nowadays to monitor the health of structures. However they are expensive and when embedded within concrete, can separate from the concrete and cause degradation due to differences between their Young’s modulus and thermal expansion coefficient and those of the concrete. The expectation is that the concrete itself, by utilizing its piezoelectric effect, can be used as the sole means of structural health monitoring for a structure.

Title: Enabling Sustainable and Natural Hazard Resistant Structures

Presenter: Joshua Cardinal , MS Civil Engineering Student Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, (Adviser: Dr. Yue Li)

Abstract: Building construction consumes 40% of the raw stone, gravel, and sand used globally, and 25% of the virgin wood. Current research into sustainable design options for structures has become an increased topic for discussion. Natural hazard resistance is a significant part of the structural design requirements of a building, particularly in geographical locations where seismic hazards are prevalent. Sustainability can be identified in three key areas: economic, social, and environmental impact. The concept of sustainability has started to evolve from focusing on only one of the areas mentioned above to an integrated design method. This presentation will focus on researching the development of a new metric of design that encompasses all three areas to balance the deficiencies of each key area.

Structural design must be understood and approached holistically to generate the most viable option for all three areas of sustainability. This involves the coordination of all disciplines involved in the completion of a structure. By utilizing the metric presented, seismic structural analysis using ANSYS will be used to generate the maximum story drift, which will be used to estimate the damage and repair costs to the structure, as well as estimate a dollar amount associated with casualty losses. Environmental impact analysis will be performed using the program SimaPro through life-cycle analysis. To help validate structural and social losses, the FEMA program HAZUS will provide a comparison and validation for structural and social damage by geographic location.


Civil Engineering Graduate Seminar: Feb 16
Time: 4:00 p.m.
Location: DOW 642
Speaker: William Leder, Adjunct Professor and Roland A. Mariucci Distinguished Practitioner in Residence

In the early 1970s many automated guideway transit technologies and concepts were emerging, and numerous applications were proposed. One of the urban transportation initiatives of that era was the Downtown People Mover (DPM) Program, sponsored by the U.S government, in which support in the form of grants was provided to demonstrate automated guideway transit as a circulation system in downtowns. These systems were envisioned as important transportation links that would help to reverse urban decay. This presentation will provide a history of the Downtown People Mover (DPM) Program, a description of and current status of the three DPM systems that were built, and lessons learned.

More information: Civil Engineering Graduate Seminar-Bill Leder


Civil Engineering Graduate Seminar: Feb 2:
Dr. Gregory M. Odegard
Associate Professor, ME-EM, Michigan Tech
Topics: "Molecular Modeling of Polymers and Nanocomposites"
Time: 4-5pm, Thursday, February 2 Dow 642

Civil Engineering Graduate Seminar: Jan 26:
Time: 4-5pm, Thursday (Jan. 26th) location: Dow 642 Public are welcome; Topics:
1. Development of Dynamic Asphalt Stripping Machine for Better Prediction of Moisture Damage of Porous Asphalt Pavement in Malaysia
Presenter: Mohd Rosli Bin Mohd Hasan, Ph.D. candidate, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, (Adviser: Dr. Zhaping You).
2. The Properties of Modified Asphalt Binders Blended with Electronic Waste Powders
Presenter: Baron Colbert, Ph.D. candidate, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering (Adviser: Dr. Zhaping You)


Civil Engineering Graduate Seminar: Jan 19:
Topic: The Aging Properties of SBS Modified Bitumen and Its Recycling; Speaker: Dr. Xiaoming Huang, Professor, Associate Dean, School of Transportation, Southeast University, China; Thursdays, 4:00 p.m. #642 Dow.
Brief Abstract: In China, following the huge  new highway constructions, large portion of the highway network needs to be maintained and rehabilitated. Reclaimed asphalt material has been studied, produced and used for pavement rehabilitations. This lecture will cover the study of aging of the modified asphalt binder, the influence of mineral filler and trichloroethylene. The lecture will also cover an introduction of research in pavement engineering in China as well as the research in Southeast university in China.
Please find the detailed seminar flyer in the attachment.


Civil Engineering Graduate Seminar: Jan 12:
Thursday, January 12, 4:00 p.m. at 642 Dow.
1. An EXtended Finite Element Model (XFEM) for Predicting Crack Propagation within Infrastructure Materials; Presenter: Kenny Ng, Ph.D. candidate, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, (Adviser: Dr. Qingli Dai).
2. Two- and Three-Dimensional Micromechanical Constitutive Modeling of Heterogeneous Infrastructure Materials with X-Ray Computed Tomography Images; Presenter: Dr. Qingli Dai, Assistant professor, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering.


Archive:

Fall 2011

Spring 2011

Fall 2010