StructuresPub Date : 2025-05-06DOI: 10.1016/j.istruc.2025.109112
Christian A.F. Souza , José M. Franco de Carvalho , Marcos H.F. Ribeiro , Ana C.P. Martins , Fernando G. Bellon , Matheus S. Andrade , Diogo S. Oliveira , José C.L. Ribeiro , Kleos M.L. Cesar Jr , José C. Matos
{"title":"Bridge deterioration prediction models using artificial intelligence in a missing data scenario","authors":"Christian A.F. Souza , José M. Franco de Carvalho , Marcos H.F. Ribeiro , Ana C.P. Martins , Fernando G. Bellon , Matheus S. Andrade , Diogo S. Oliveira , José C.L. Ribeiro , Kleos M.L. Cesar Jr , José C. Matos","doi":"10.1016/j.istruc.2025.109112","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.istruc.2025.109112","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Bridge infrastructure is crucial for global transportation, but its deterioration due to environmental factors and continuous use presents significant safety and maintenance challenges. This study introduces a methodology for predicting bridge deterioration using artificial intelligence (AI) in data-limited scenarios, integrating real inspection data with simulated data. Artificial Neural network models, particularly the Multi-Layer Perceptron, outperformed conventional methods such as deterministic and probabilistic models in terms of both accuracy and applicability. The methodology progressed from deterministic models based on third-order polynomial functions to probabilistic models using Markov matrices, ultimately culminating in neural networks. This approach overcame data limitations by combining real and simulated data, resulting in a comprehensive database. The AI models effectively captured complex interactions between key variables like bridge age, traffic volume, and environmental conditions, leading to more accurate predictions. Applied in both aggressive and non-aggressive environments, the AI models consistently outperformed traditional methods, achieving a coefficient of determination (R²) of 0.84 and a mean absolute error (MAE) of 0.33 in non-aggressive environments, and an R² of 0.81 with an MAE of 0.34 in aggressive environments. Bridges in aggressive settings showed critical deterioration approximately 10 years earlier than those in non-aggressive environments. These results emphasize the potential of AI to enhance deterioration prediction, improving infrastructure management and maintenance.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":48642,"journal":{"name":"Structures","volume":"77 ","pages":"Article 109112"},"PeriodicalIF":3.9,"publicationDate":"2025-05-06","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143912364","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"工程技术","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
StructuresPub Date : 2025-05-06DOI: 10.1016/j.istruc.2025.108976
Farzad Ebrahimi , Mohammad Mahinzare
{"title":"Nonlinear vibration analysis of sandwich plate with cellular auxetic core and porous GPL reinforced piezoelectric face sheets rested on elastic foundation using GDQM via Reddy plate theory","authors":"Farzad Ebrahimi , Mohammad Mahinzare","doi":"10.1016/j.istruc.2025.108976","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.istruc.2025.108976","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study looked at how a novel sandwich plate may vibrate freely in nonlinear ways by using smart Graphene Platelets) GPLs (nanocomposite layer and a lattice structure with a Negative Poisson's Ratio (NPR) core with Reddy plate theory. The effective properties of the elastic and piezoelectric of piezo-electrically actuated GPLs nanocomposite porous layers were identified utilizing the Halpin-Tsai model (HT) and the rule of mixture (ROM), respectively. Hamilton's principle, Maxwell's law, and the nonlinearity introduced by von Karman are utilized to develop the formulas that govern smart plates. Then, the equations of a smart plate are divided into distinct parts using the Generalized Differential Quadrature Method (GDQM). Furthermore, the cellular NPR plate rests on the Winkler/Pasternak/Kerr foundations. The nonlinear frequency ratio and nonlinear natural frequency of the smart plate are noticed in terms of the electric voltage and weight fraction of GPL. Additionally, the porosity factor effects, the thickness of smart Graphene Reinforced nanocomposite)GRNC(, and cellular NPR thickness on (<em>ω</em><sub><em>nl</em></sub>/<em>ω</em><sub><em>l</em></sub>) and <em>ω</em><sub><em>nl</em></sub> were calculated and shown, respectively graph.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":48642,"journal":{"name":"Structures","volume":"77 ","pages":"Article 108976"},"PeriodicalIF":3.9,"publicationDate":"2025-05-06","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143907985","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"工程技术","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
StructuresPub Date : 2025-05-06DOI: 10.1016/j.istruc.2025.109085
Minsheng Guan , Yang Li , Weijie Zhao , Vipulkumar Ishvarbhai Patel , Andrew Antiohos , Zora Vrcelj , Qing Quan Liang
{"title":"Experimental study on seismic behavior of self-slitting composite shear walls with external O-type dampers","authors":"Minsheng Guan , Yang Li , Weijie Zhao , Vipulkumar Ishvarbhai Patel , Andrew Antiohos , Zora Vrcelj , Qing Quan Liang","doi":"10.1016/j.istruc.2025.109085","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.istruc.2025.109085","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Shear walls are efficient lateral load resisting systems for high-rise buildings due to their significant stiffness and load-carrying capacity. The constraints such as floor height can lead to the design of squat walls with brittle failure characteristics. Earthquake damage assessments highlight the need for improved elastic-plastic deformation and energy dissipation capacities to enhance structural safety. To address these needs, this study proposes an innovative self-slitting composite shear wall (CSW) incorporating four circular concrete-filled steel tubular (CFST) columns, plain concrete regions, and external O-type dampers. Experimental program and results are described on four CSWs under quasi-static cyclic loads with varying parameters, such as plain concrete spacing, the number of O-type dampers, and axial load ratios. The results indicate that increasing the number of O-type dampers considerably improves the strength, ductility, and energy dissipation capacity of CSWs. The flexural strength of CSWs is shown to decrease with an increase in the plain concrete spacing. Increasing the axial load ratio enhances the stiffness, delays cracking but diminishes the ductility and energy dissipation of CSWs. The observed failure process of CSWs under lateral loads was characterized by initially forming macroscopic cracks in plain concrete regions, followed by transitions through three distinct phases: integral, slit, and segmented walls. This behavior aligns with the three-level seismic design criteria: enhancing structural resilience by effectively resisting minor earthquakes, accommodating moderate ones, and safely dissipating energy during severe seismic events.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":48642,"journal":{"name":"Structures","volume":"77 ","pages":"Article 109085"},"PeriodicalIF":3.9,"publicationDate":"2025-05-06","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143911934","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"工程技术","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
StructuresPub Date : 2025-05-06DOI: 10.1016/j.istruc.2025.109088
Tong Li , Mingke Deng , Zhengtao Qiu , Xuesong Wang , Shuo Yang
{"title":"In-plane shear behavior of masonry walls strengthened with HDC repointing in bed joints and HDC layer under diagonal compression loads","authors":"Tong Li , Mingke Deng , Zhengtao Qiu , Xuesong Wang , Shuo Yang","doi":"10.1016/j.istruc.2025.109088","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.istruc.2025.109088","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>In this study, a simple and easy construction strengthening method, referred to as high ductile concrete (HDC) repointing in bed joints and/or HDC overlay, were proposed for improving in-plane shear behavior of unreinforced masonry (URM) walls. For this purpose, one URM wall and five HDC-strengthened masonry walls were prepared and tested under diagonal compression. The failure mode, shear stress-strain behavior, shear strength and ultimate strain were analyzed and discussed. HDC strengthening system improved the shear failure mode of masonry walls, preventing masonry from serious damage. The reinforced masonry walls exhibited a more ductile failure and kept good integrality. Besides, HDC system effectively increased both shear strength and ultimate shear strain of masonry walls, with normalized value ranging from 1.8 to 6.5 for shear strength and from 21.1 to 109.0 for ultimate strain. Based on the contribution provided by HDC repointing and HDC layer, the results obtained from the current paper allowed the use of superposition method to calculate shear capacity of HDC-strengthened masonry walls. The analytical model gave a conservative and reliable prediction, which can be used in engineering design.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":48642,"journal":{"name":"Structures","volume":"77 ","pages":"Article 109088"},"PeriodicalIF":3.9,"publicationDate":"2025-05-06","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143908091","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"工程技术","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
StructuresPub Date : 2025-05-06DOI: 10.1016/j.istruc.2025.109040
Jinyu Lu, Jiang-Jun Hou, Ding Lu, Jilei Liu
{"title":"Study on the mechanical properties of the Miura-ori inspired retractable roof structure","authors":"Jinyu Lu, Jiang-Jun Hou, Ding Lu, Jilei Liu","doi":"10.1016/j.istruc.2025.109040","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.istruc.2025.109040","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>A retractable roof is a structure that can move or fold to open or close a covered area. Detailed static and dynamic analyses of an innovative Miura-ori inspired retractable roof structure are investigated using the finite element parametric modeling method. Essential geometric parameters (such as the acute angles of parallelograms, the shape of the parallelogram panels, and the number of scissor joint units) are parameterized to investigate the mechanical properties of the structure in various geometric configurations under three distinctive operational states (completely folded, half-opened, and fully open). Initially, a static performance analysis of this innovative retractable roof structure is conducted. Subsequently, studies of the instability modes and parametric static stability performances in different states are examined. Finally, the basic natural frequency characteristics and the parametric dynamic stability of the structure in various states are performed. The preliminary mechanical analysis indicates the Miura-ori inspired retractable roof is a viable structural system. Additionally, the parametric analysis results herein offer guidance for further investigation and real-world implementation of this novel roofing system.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":48642,"journal":{"name":"Structures","volume":"77 ","pages":"Article 109040"},"PeriodicalIF":3.9,"publicationDate":"2025-05-06","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143912399","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"工程技术","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
StructuresPub Date : 2025-05-05DOI: 10.1016/j.istruc.2025.109078
Hesam Azizi
{"title":"Numerical evaluation of cyclic and seismic performance of three-core buckling-resistant braces with partially re-centering properties","authors":"Hesam Azizi","doi":"10.1016/j.istruc.2025.109078","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.istruc.2025.109078","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Recent studies have demonstrated the enhanced seismic performance of structures incorporating dual-core buckling-resistant braces (DC-BRBs) utilizing materials with distinct yield strengths. This research introduces a novel three-core BRB (TC-BRB) featuring partially re-centering characteristics, assembled from diverse metallic constituents. Initially, the TC-BRB configuration is delineated, followed by a numerical investigation employing finite element analysis to ascertain the factors influencing its cyclic behavior, encompassing hysteresis curves, cumulative energy dissipation, and re-centering properties under cyclic loading. High-strength steels (HSS), structural steels, and low-yield point (LYP) steels were employed as TC-BRB cores. Furthermore, an examination of parameters affecting TC-BRB behavior was conducted by incorporating cores with variable lengths and cross-sections. Subsequently, by integrating the proposed brace into 4- and 8-story structural systems and subjecting them to two hazard levels, namely, the design base earthquake (DBE) and maximum considered earthquake (MCE), the seismic response of these structures was assessed through nonlinear dynamic and incremental dynamic analysis. Additionally, fragility response curves were generated and compared for the investigated structures. The findings revealed that the cyclic behavior of TC-BRBs, characterized by desirable multi-stage characteristics, contributes to a reduction in structural responses, including inter-story drift ratio (IDR), residual drift ratio (RIDR), and peak floor acceleration (PFA), within the studied systems. Moreover, while achieving higher performance levels, the probability of collapse was diminished.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":48642,"journal":{"name":"Structures","volume":"77 ","pages":"Article 109078"},"PeriodicalIF":3.9,"publicationDate":"2025-05-05","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143908087","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"工程技术","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
StructuresPub Date : 2025-05-05DOI: 10.1016/j.istruc.2025.109058
Yi Zhou, Huqi Wang
{"title":"An improved guide weight method for multi-constraints structural optimization design","authors":"Yi Zhou, Huqi Wang","doi":"10.1016/j.istruc.2025.109058","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.istruc.2025.109058","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The guide-weight method (GWM) is an effective approach for structural optimization, known for its exceptionally fast convergence rate. However, the inability to optimize multiple constraints simultaneously limits the effectiveness of this method. This study proposes an improved guide-weight method (MIGW) for multi-constraints structural optimization. Different from existing GWM, the proposed MIGW concurrently solves all Lagrange multipliers (variable <em>λ</em>) for multi-constraints, enabling synchronously optimization under multiple constraints. Therefore, this method reduces the complexity of structural analysis and number of structural analyses. Additionally, the range of step length (variable <em>α</em>) for each design variable is also determined to ensure that the post-iteration values remain within the preset limits. Different <em>α</em> values are assigned to different design variables, enhancing the flexibility of the optimization process. The convergence speed is improved by comparing the guide weight with the weight to determine the iterative direction of the design variables. The performance of the proposed MIGW is evaluated using a ten-bar planar truss as a benchmark example. The results show that compared to the GWM and heuristic optimization algorithms, the number of analyses required by MIGW was reduced by 50 % and 178 times, respectively, while yielding similar results.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":48642,"journal":{"name":"Structures","volume":"77 ","pages":"Article 109058"},"PeriodicalIF":3.9,"publicationDate":"2025-05-05","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143908090","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"工程技术","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
StructuresPub Date : 2025-05-05DOI: 10.1016/j.istruc.2025.109098
Mingze Wu , Yuanqing Wang , Shenggang Fan , Huan Lu , Wei Li , Yecheng Dai
{"title":"Study on mechanical behavior of single-sided ring-groove riveted aluminum alloy (SS-RGRAA) shear connections","authors":"Mingze Wu , Yuanqing Wang , Shenggang Fan , Huan Lu , Wei Li , Yecheng Dai","doi":"10.1016/j.istruc.2025.109098","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.istruc.2025.109098","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Single-sided ring-groove rivets are a type of rivet that can be installed using only one accessible side. Due to their single-sided forming characteristics, these rivets are particularly well-suited for the installation and construction of closed-section components, such as box-section members. In aluminum alloy joints, connections formed by aluminum alloy plates and single-sided ring-groove rivets (referred to hereafter as SS-RGRAA shear connections) are commonly used for shear loading. The mechanical performance of these connections is crucial for the analysis and design of joints. However, current standards do not provide specific calculation methods for the ultimate resistance of SS-RGRAA shear connections, and existing research on this topic is limited. Therefore, this study employs experimental research, numerical simulation analysis, parametric analysis, and theoretical analysis to investigate the mechanical performance of SS-RGRAA shear connections. Firstly, this study conducts experimental studies on the mechanical performance of SS-RGRAA shear connections, focusing on the effects of rivet layout, end distance (<em>e</em><sub>1</sub>), rivet edge distance (<em>e</em><sub>2</sub>), and et al. on mechanical behavior. Secondly, a refined finite element analysis (FEA) model was developed and validated against experimental results. Based on the established FEA model, parametric analyses were performed to explore in detail how aluminum alloy material properties, end distance (<em>e</em><sub>1</sub>), edge distance (<em>e</em><sub>2</sub>), rivet diameter (<em>d</em><sub>pin</sub>), and inner plate thickness (<em>t</em>) affect the mechanical performance of shear connections. Finally, based on the results of the parametric analysis and referencing existing calculation methods from relevant standards, an improved and refined calculation method for the ultimate resistance of SS-RGRAA shear connections was proposed.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":48642,"journal":{"name":"Structures","volume":"77 ","pages":"Article 109098"},"PeriodicalIF":3.9,"publicationDate":"2025-05-05","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143903978","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"工程技术","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
StructuresPub Date : 2025-05-05DOI: 10.1016/j.istruc.2025.109091
Arkadeep Sen , Lipika Halder , Pranoy Debnath
{"title":"Seismic strengthening of masonry structures using sustainable reinforceing materials: A comparative analysis","authors":"Arkadeep Sen , Lipika Halder , Pranoy Debnath","doi":"10.1016/j.istruc.2025.109091","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.istruc.2025.109091","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>URM Structures are highly vulnerable to seismic activities, often suffering sudden failure with significant loss of life and property. Locally sourced materials like bamboo strips can be a cost-effective solution to improve the seismic performance of unreinforced masonry (URM) walls in many developing countries. Bamboo reinforcement is explored as a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to traditional retrofitting methods, filling a gap in existing literature. This study simulates the in-plane behaviors of URM walls with varying aspect ratios and reinforcement types. The structural responses of URM walls reinforced with bamboo splints and wire mesh were simulated under lateral loading conditions using a detailed finite element model in ABAQUS. Validation of the numerical model against existing experimental data confirms the model’s accuracy in simulating URM behaviour. Results reveal that bamboo-reinforced URM walls substantially increase load-carrying capacity, with strength improvements reaching up to 100 % in certain configurations. Using sustainable materials like bamboo offers a cost-effective alternative for URM structures, enhancing resilience while minimizing environmental impact. This work underscores the potential of natural fiber reinforcements to improve the seismic performance of masonry structures, providing a viable solution for low-income communities in earthquake-prone areas. Further research is recommended to explore reinforcement configurations and optimize bamboo treatment techniques for increased durability.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":48642,"journal":{"name":"Structures","volume":"77 ","pages":"Article 109091"},"PeriodicalIF":3.9,"publicationDate":"2025-05-05","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143908089","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"工程技术","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
StructuresPub Date : 2025-05-05DOI: 10.1016/j.istruc.2025.108969
Xuebei Pan , Jingfeng Wang , Beibei Li
{"title":"Seismic performance and fragility evaluation of assembly blind-bolt CFST composite frames under mainshock-aftershock sequences","authors":"Xuebei Pan , Jingfeng Wang , Beibei Li","doi":"10.1016/j.istruc.2025.108969","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.istruc.2025.108969","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This paper highlights the importance of considering semi-rigid characteristics of blind-bolt connections when examining the seismic performance and fragility of the assembly concrete-filled steel tube (CFST) composite frame structure, with a particular focus on the influence of mainshock-aftershock sequences. The design of a nine-story blind-bolt CFST composite frame based on the energy balance-based plastic design method was first presented. The fiber-based numerical model of the frame was developed and validated against experimental results, which was used for the assessment of the rationality and robustness of the designed structure. It indicated that the frame achieved predefined seismic performance targets in terms of the inter-story drift, residual drift and joint rotation. Following this, the seismic fragility curves of the frame subjected to mainshock-aftershock sequences were developed. The results showed that the structural seismic probabilities for inter-story drift exceeding pre-designated limits of 0.2 %, 1.0 % and 2.0 % were respectively 0.54, 0.44 and 0.32, under mainshocks only scaled to frequently occurred earthquake, design basis earthquake and maximum considered earthquake levels. While the probabilities of exceeding a certain damage limit of the frame will be significantly improved, under the identical hazard levels of mainshocks followed with aftershocks. It showed the importance of considering the extra damages induced from aftershocks during the design of the blind-bolt CFST composite frame structure.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":48642,"journal":{"name":"Structures","volume":"77 ","pages":"Article 108969"},"PeriodicalIF":3.9,"publicationDate":"2025-05-05","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143908086","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"工程技术","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}