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Civil engineering articles from across Nature Portfolio

Civil engineering is the design and fabrication of structures for improving the way we live and work and for enabling rapid, safe and high-volume transportation. Examples include building roads, railways, bridges, canals, skyscrapers and factories. Modern civil engineering often places a focus on aesthetic considerations and environmental impact.

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research papers on civil engineering

Numerical and artificial intelligence based investigation on the development of design guidelines for pultruded GFRP RHS profiles subjected to web crippling

  • Raheel Asghar
  • Muhammad Faisal Javed
  • Yaser Gamil

research papers on civil engineering

Digital technologies for construction sustainability: Status quo, challenges, and future prospects

  • Weisheng Lu
  • Jinfeng Lou

research papers on civil engineering

Fracture propagation and pore pressure evolution characteristics induced by hydraulic and pneumatic fracturing of coal

  • Cao Zhengzheng
  • Yang Xiangqian

research papers on civil engineering

Analysis of deformation mechanism of rainfall-induced landslide in the Three Gorges Reservoir Area: Piansongshu landslide

  • Jianhua Zou
  • Zhengchao Guo

research papers on civil engineering

Structural monitoring data repair based on a long short-term memory neural network

  • Zhu Songlin

research papers on civil engineering

Comparative study on convolutional neural network and regression analysis to evaluate uniaxial compressive strength of Sandy Dolomite

  • Meiqian Wang
  • Wenlian Liu

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Advanced transport systems: the future is sustainable and technology-enabled.

Transport has always played a major role in shaping society. By enabling or restricting the movement of people and goods, the presence or absence of transport services and infrastructure has historically been determining for cultures to connect, for knowledge to be shared, and for societies to evolve and prosper, or, in contrast, for societies to decay and fail. Since the beginning of the twenty-first century, transport has been going through a revolution worldwide. One of the primary goals for the transport sector is clear: it needs to be decarbonized and become more sustainable. At the same time, technological advances are shaping the transport sector toward smart services and societies. The Special Collection showcases some of the latest advances in research towards sustainable and technology-enabled transport.

  • Sybil Derrible

research papers on civil engineering

Leveraging epidemic network models towards wildfire resilience

Wildfires have increased in frequency and intensity due to climate change and have had severe impacts on the built environment worldwide. Moving forward, models should take inspiration from epidemic network modeling to predict damage to individual buildings and understand the impact of different mitigations on the community vulnerability in a network setting.

  • Hussam Mahmoud

research papers on civil engineering

Inclusive and resilient mobility

  • Danyang Cheng

research papers on civil engineering

The 2023 Kahramanmaraş Earthquake Sequence: finding a path to a more resilient, sustainable, and equitable society

Learning from the 2023 Kahramanmaraş Earthquake Sequence offers valuable insights into disaster recovery. Carmine Galasso and Eyitayo Opabola delve into the intricacies of the “Build Back Better” (BBB) concept, underscoring the importance of recovery and reconstruction efforts toward a future that is not only more resilient but also more sustainable and equitable.

  • Carmine Galasso
  • Eyitayo A. Opabola

Material durability, material failure, and material investment—the complexity of concrete

Recent high-profile concrete material failures, including the collapse of parts of public buildings in the UK, have highlighted the need for a greater understanding of the durability of concrete. Here, John Provis explores the need to recognise the complexity of concrete when planning both the research and application of this key construction material.

  • John L. Provis

research papers on civil engineering

Catching up with missing particles

The implementation of particle-tracking techniques with deep neural networks is a promising way to determine particle motion within complex flow structures. A graph neural network-enhanced method enables accurate particle tracking by significantly reducing the number of lost trajectories.

  • Séverine Atis
  • Lionel Agostini

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Civil engineering has the utmost importance in today's society, serving as the profession in which our day-to-day infrastructure is designed and built. Civil engineering is a broad profession, including several specialized sub-disciplines. It is linked to knowledge of structures, materials science, geography, geology, soils, hydrology, environmental science, mechanics, project management, along with other fields.

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Introduction Green supply in construction industries mainly discusses the utilization of resources in the construction industry in such a way that an eco-friendly environment can be brought in and wastes can be minimized that are detrimental to health and surroundings. Various processes can be implemented that will be beneficial in the UK and Dubai. But certain factors cause hindrance in implementation. Curtailing those complications and moving ahead with that in the construction sector is a significant challenge in the 21st century. The results associated with a construction project are the addition of all the efforts set out at the different steps of supply chains from the beginning until the demolition period by different stakeholders. Management of green supply chain concept in the construction industry is seen as an advanced tool in the UK and Dubai towards channeling the divided efforts at making a greener sector.

By G. Ajaya Kumar O. Ganesh Kumar K. Damodar C. Jayasree Simpa Karmakar Sai Ganapathi Engineering College, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India

Abstract— Since the ancient times, many researches and advancements were carried to enhance the physical and mechanical properties of concrete. Fiber reinforced concrete is one among those advancements which offers a convenient, practical and economical method for overcoming micro cracks and similar type of deficiencies. Since concrete is weak in tension hence some measures must be adopted to overcome this deficiency. Human hair is generally strong in tension; hence it can be used as a fiber reinforcement material. Human hair Fiber is an alternative non-degradable matter available in abundance and at cheap cost. It also reduces environmental problems. Also addition of human hair fibers enhances the binding properties, micro cracking control, Imparts ductility and also increases swelling resistance. The experimental findings in our studies would encourage future research in the direction for long term performance to extending this cost of effective type of fibers for use in structural applications. Experiments were conducted on concrete cubes, cylinders and beams of standard sizes with addition of various percentages of human hair fiber i.e., 0%, 0.5%, 1% and 1.5% by weight of cement, fine & coarse aggregate and results were compared with those of plain cement concrete of M-20 grade. For each percentage of human hair added in concrete, four cubes, three cylinders and three beams were tested for their respective mechanical properties at curing periods of 3 , 7 and 28 days. Optimum hair fiber content was obtained as 1.5% by weight of cement.

Keywords: Human Hair, Concrete, Fibre Reinforcement

By Er. Gaurav

Abstract: Fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) bars have been widely used in civil engineering used as a substitute for steel reinforcement because it has many advantages such as high strength-to-weight ratio, electromagnetic neutrality, light weight, ease of handling and no corrosion. Moreover, the productive technology becomes more and more mature and industrialized so that FRP has become one economic and competitive structure material. Based on the recent researches, this paper mainly introduces progress in the studies on concrete structures reinforced with FRP bars. These contents in this paper includes the bond performance of FRP bars in concrete, Compression Behavior, flexural behavior, and ductility of concrete structure reinforced with FRP bars in the past few years in the world.

Key words: FRP Bars, Concrete Structure, Bond Performance, Pullout Behavior, Compression Behavior, Flexural Behavior, and Ductility.

By Shubham Sunil Malu

ABSTRACT Self-healing materials are a class of smart materials that have the structurally incorporated ability to repair damage caused by mechanical usage over time. The inspiration comes from biological systems, which have the ability to heal after being wounded. Initiation of cracks and other types of damage on a microscopic level has been shown to change thermal, electrical, and acoustical properties, and eventually lead to whole scale failure of the material. Usually, cracks are mended by hand, which is unsatisfactory because cracks are often hard to detect. A material (polymers, ceramics, etc.) that can intrinsically correct damage caused by normal usage could lower production costs of a number of different industrial processes through longer part lifetime, reduction of inefficiency over time caused by degradation, as well as prevent costs incurred by material failure. For a material to be defined strictly as self-healing, it is necessary that the healing process occurs without human intervention. Some examples shown below, however, include healing polymers that require intervention to initiate the healing process.

A good way to enable multiple healing events is to use living (or unterminated chain-ends) polymerization catalysts. If the walls of the capsule are created too thick, they may not fracture when the crack approaches, but if they are too thin, they may rupture prematurely.

In order for this process to happen at room temperature, and for the reactants to remain in a monomeric state within the capsule, a catalyst is also imbedded into the thermoset. The catalyst lowers the energy barrier of the reaction and allows the monomer to polymerize without the addition of heat. The capsules (often made of wax) around the monomer and the catalyst are important maintain separation until the crack facilitates the reaction.

There are many challenges in designing this type of material. First, the reactivity of the catalyst must be maintained even after it is enclosed in wax. Additionally, the monomer must flow at a sufficient rate (have low enough viscosity) to cover the entire crack before it is polymerized, or full healing capacity will not be reached. Finally, the catalyst must quickly dissolve into monomer in order to react efficiently and prevent the crack from spreading further.

By Vijayvenkatesh Chandrasekaran Student, Department of Civil Engineering, St. Josephs College of Engineering & Technology, India

Abstract: Large quantities of construction and demolition wastes are continuing being generated which are just being dumped in the landfills. This requires large areas of land which is becoming difficult to find. The best solution would be to recycle and reuse the demolished waste which would not only help in protecting the environment but also help in dealing with construction wastes. Consequently, it have a grave difficulty to produce ecological toxic waste and in addition, obligatory a huge sum of liberty. That says about the project reuse waste crushed concrete maters (WCC) from the lath wastage of crushed concrete replacing from coarse aggregate 20%, 30%, 40% (WCC), 3% of crushed coarse aggregate (lathe waste) to reduce the generation of demolition wastes. (The analysis of demolished crushed concrete aggregate (DCCA) concrete in regular mold cast is to be ready in (7, 14, 28) days hydration and examination to be conduct lying on concrete. Such as compressive strength, split tensile strength, & flextural strength.) The replacing of coarse aggregate uses of waste mater and required strength attain in the conventional M20 grade concrete.

Keywords – Demolished Crushed Concrete Aggregate (DCCA), OPC (53 grade) cement, Lathe waste, Fine aggregate, coarse aggregate.

By Aswin Kumar Das Suvendu Parida Subha Prakash Ratha Phani Bhusan Panda Bishnu Prasad Gariagadu Diptimayee Sahu Priyanka Sahu Anubhab Panigrahi

Chapter- 1 Introduction 1.1. General:

Mahatma Gandhi envisioned a society where the man would live in harmony with nature. He Propounded having self-sufficient village communities to achieve this goal, having a civilization built on renewable resources. He insisted for the growth of human beings from every stratum of the society and to avoid wasteful use of resources. It is in the Indian culture system to find use for everything, which may be considered as waste by many. However in the race of rapid urbanization and globalization we have lost these practices leading to unsustainable growth of cities.

As per Figure 1.1, by 2008, 30% of Indian population was living in cities generating 58% of the total GDP of India. It is estimated that by 2030, more than 40% of Indians would be living in urban areas contributing to about 70% of the GDP. The cities are going to be the engines of growth for India to become a developed nation and so, the quality of life needs to be improved for sustaining the growth in the long term. India being the second most populated country in the world has some of the most densely populated cities in the world. The rise in Indian economy in the last couple of decades has created many job opportunities in the cities leading to a rapid influx of migrants from the rural areas to the urban areas.

ABSTRACT: As the infrastructure is developing there is need for some changes in the construction field, as one cannot rely on the same method for a long time as it can have different consequences. The main consequence is the shortage of material and manpower. Also, money matters a lot in construction department along with it the machines, equipment and technology in some region is not at a level, which we want. Hence in order to satisfy these results Bubble deck slab is one of the most effective slab techniques to replace conventional slab in terms of money and materials. Also, it requires less time to construct as compared to conventional slab.

1.0 INTRODUCTION: Bubble Deck is a revolutionary method of virtually eliminating concrete from the middle of a floor slab not performing any structural function, thereby dramatically reducing structural dead weight. Bubble Deck is based on a new patented technique- the direct way of linking air and steel. Void formers in the middle of a flat slab eliminates 35% of a slabs self-weight removing constraints of high dead loads and short spans.

Incorporation of recycled plastic bubbles as void formers permits 50% longer spans between columns. Combination of this with a flat slab construction approach spanning in two directions – the slab is connected directly to insitu concrete columns without any beams -produces a wide range of cost and construction benefits including:-

By Shubham Malu DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING N.D.MV.P.S’s K.B.T.C.O.E NASHIK

1.INTRODUCTION The artificial recharge to ground water aims at augmentation of ground water reservoir by modifying the natural movement of surface water utilizing suitable civil construction techniques. Artificial recharge techniques normally address to following issues –

(i) To enhance the sustainable yield in areas where over-development has depleted the aquifer

(ii) Conservation and storage of excess surface water for future requirements, since these requirements often changes within a season or a period.

(iii) To improve the quality of existing ground water through dilution.

(iv) To remove bacteriological and other impurities from sewage and waste water so that water is suitable for re-use.

Thus, in most situation, artificial recharge projects not only serve as water conservation mechanism but also assist in overcoming problem associated with overdraft.The increasing demand for water has increased awareness towards the use of artificial recharge to augment ground water supplies. Stated simply, artificial recharge is a process by which excess surface-water is directed into the ground – either by spreading on the surface, by using recharge wells, or by altering natural conditions to increase infiltration – to replenish an aquifer. It refers to the movement of water through man-made systems from the surface of the earth to underground water-bearing strata where it may be stored for future use. Artificial recharge (sometimes called planned recharge) is a way to store water underground in times of water surplus to meet demand in times of shortage. Read More

CHAPTER 1 1.1 INTRODUCTION Rainwater harvesting is a technology used to collect, convey and store rain for later use from relatively clean surfaces such as a roof, land surface or rock catchment. The water is generally stored in a rainwater tank or directed to recharge groundwater. Rainwater infiltration is another aspect of rainwater harvesting playing an important role in storm water management and in the replenishment of the groundwater levels. Rainwater harvesting has been practiced for over 4,000 years throughout the world, traditionally in arid and semi-arid areas, and has provided drinking water, domestic water and water for livestock and small irrigation. Today, rainwater harvesting has gained much on significance as a modern, water-saving and simple technology.

The practice of collecting rainwater from rainfall events can be classified into two broad categories: land-based and roof-based. Land-based rainwater harvesting occurs when runoff from land surfaces is collected in furrow dikes, ponds, tanks and reservoirs. Roof-based rainwater harvesting refers to collecting rainwater runoff from roof surfaces which usually provides a much cleaner source of water that can be also used for drinking.

By Technical paper Presented by: Mr.Jismon Issac B.E (Mech) A.I.E, MBA

Over the past few years, India has seen a spurt in the vertical growth of buildings. They range from individual houses to very tall skyscrapers. Whenever news on earthquake is reported, we have only one question in our mind – Is our home safe during an earthquake?

Engineers always tell us that earthquake don’t kill, but that will be done by poorly built constructions. Earthquake resistant buildings can be made, only by constructing our homes with ductile character. For a better understanding in earthquake resistant buildings, we must acquire knowledge about earthquakes and its occurrence. The points are given as below;

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We are proud to announce the third issue of Civil Engineering Journal.

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About Civil Engineering Journal (C.E.J)

Civil Engineering Journal (C.E.J) is a multidisciplinary, an open-access, internationally double-blind peer -reviewed journal concerned with all aspects of civil engineering.

Civil Engineering Journal welcomes contributions, which promote the exchange of ideas and rational discourse between practicing educators and civil engineering researchers all over the world. C.E.J provides researchers and practitioners in structural and civil engineering with a unique forum for disseminating new ideas and techniques with significant potential impact.

The C.E.J is dedicated to advancing the boundary of knowledge and technology by encouraging cross-disciplinary research studies and innovative applications in major engineering projects. The journal intends to capture and archive in a timely manner and in one venue significant advancements of a broad field that encompasses.

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News: Editorial Board Changes

From time to time, we make changes to the membership of the Journal’s Editorial Board, with some long-serving existing members stepping down and new members joining us. The departure of existing members is always sad, but the following colleagues have agreed to step down from the Board in order to make room for new members.

As CEJ’s Editors, we owe the following colleagues a huge thanks:

Prof. Evangelos J. Sapountzakis, Prof. Massimiliano Ferraioli, Prof. Mohammad Mehdi Rashidi, Prof. Dintie S. Mahamah and Dr. Srinivas Allena.

We welcome as new members the following:

Dr. Bao-Jie He, Prof. Viorel Ungureanu, Dr. Fabrizio Scozzese, Dr. Hua-Ping Wan, Dr. Katarzyna Pietrucha-Urbanik, Dr. Gino Dardanelli, and Dr. Ruoyang Wu.

Special Issue " Innovative Strategies in Civil Engineering Grand Challenges " - 2023

Aim and Scope

In today's challenging world, Civil engineering is regarded as one of the most important engineering fields across the globe. Since the biggest challenges are facing the world today include: High building energy consumption; Crude estimation of sea level; Increased soil and coastal erosion; Inadequate water quality; Untapped and depleting groundwater; Increasing traffic congestion; Poor infrastructure resilience to disasters; Poor and degrading infrastructure; Need for better mining and coal ash waste disposal; and Low construction site safety, solutions that will often be provided by civil engineers.  The civil engineering studies often need to create complex numerical or mathematical models to deal with large amounts of data and experimental study of repeated, thus providing a broad application platform for computer-aided design and simulation technology.

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.civilejournal.org by registering and logging in to this website .

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Home > Engineering > CEE > CE_THESES

Civil and Environmental Engineering

Civil Engineering Masters Theses Collection

Theses from 2024 2024.

Machine and Statistical Learning for Sustainable Infrastructure and Mobility Systems , Atanas Apostolov, Civil Engineering

Theses from 2023 2023

The Current State of Practice of Building Information Modeling , Kevin P. Brooks, Civil Engineering

Loads Analysis of Fixed-Bottom and Floating Offshore Wind Structures , Michael G. Davis, Civil Engineering

Comparison Of Scaling Performance Between Sidewalks Placed Using Hot and Cold Weather Concreting Procedures , Likhitha Rudraraju, Civil Engineering

CORRELATION BETWEEN LABORATORY TESTING RESULTS AND IN-SITU SIDEWALK SCALING , Brian R. Shea, Civil Engineering

The Effects of Hurricane Wind Field Characteristics on Wind Blade Loads , Michael S. Tsai, Civil Engineering

Post-Fire Damage Inspection of Concrete Tunnel Structures , James Viglas, Civil Engineering

Theses from 2022 2022

Measuring Accessibility to Food Services to Improve Public Health , Efthymia Kostopoulou, Civil Engineering

Euplectella Aspergillum’s Natural Lattice Structure for Structural Design & Stability Landscape of Thin Cylindrical Shells with Dimple Imperfections , Zoe Y. Sloane, Civil Engineering

Theses from 2021 2021

Post-Fire Assessment of Concrete Tunnel Structures , Nicholas C. Menz, Civil Engineering

Utilizing Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) for the Estimation of Beam Corrosion of Steel Bridge Girders , Gabrielle Pryor, Civil Engineering

Parametric Study of Integral Abutment Bridge Using Finite Element Model , Asako Takeuchi, Civil Engineering

Theses from 2020 2020

School Bus Routing To Allow Later School Start Times , Rana Eslamifard, Civil Engineering

QUANTIFICATION OF THERMAL BRIDGING EFFECTS IN COLD-FORMED STEEL WALL ASSEMBLIES , Divyansh Kapoor, Civil Engineering

Theses from 2019 2019

Sustainable Travel Incentives Optimization in Multimodal Networks , Hossein Ghafourian, Civil Engineering

High Fidelity Modeling of Cold-Formed Steel Single Lap Shear Screw Fastened Connections , Rita Kalo, Civil Engineering

Modeling the Effect of New Commuter Bus Service on Demand and the Impact on GHG Emissions: Application to Greater Boston , Christopher Lyman, Civil Engineering

Performance of Concrete Tunnel Systems Subject to Fault Displacement , Michael Morano, Civil Engineering

Behavior of Prestressed Concrete Bridges with Closure Pour Connections and Diaphragms , Gercelino Ramos, Civil Engineering

Analysis of Adhesive Anchorage Systems Under Extreme In-Service Temperature Conditions , Rachel Wang, Civil Engineering

Theses from 2018 2018

Driver Understanding of the Flashing Yellow Arrow and Dynamic No Turn on Red Sign for Right Turn Applications , Elizabeth Casola, Civil Engineering

Evaluating the Impact of Double-Parked Freight Deliveries on Signalized Arterial Control Delay Using Analytical Models and Simulation , Aaron J. Keegan, Civil Engineering

Reward Allocation For Maximizing Energy Savings In A Transportation System , Adewale O. Oduwole, Civil Engineering

Impact of S-Curve on Speed in a Modern Roundabout , Akshaey Sabhanayagam, Civil Engineering

All-Red Clearance Intervals for Use in the Left-Turn Application of Flashing Yellow Arrows , Francis Tainter, Civil Engineering

Theses from 2017 2017

Evaluation of New England Bridges for Bat Roosting Including Methodology and Case Studies , Angela Berthaume, Civil Engineering

Evaluating Variances Between Departments of Transportation in New England to Create a Strategic Transportation Workforce , Chelsea Bouchard, Civil Engineering

Development of High Early-Strength Concrete for Accelerated Bridge Construction Closure Pour Connections , Stephanie Castine, Civil Engineering

I. THE HIGH STRAIN RATE RESPONSE OF HOLLOW SPHERE STEEL FOAM; II. THE DYNAMIC RESPONSE OF AN AMERICAN ELM TREE , Ignacio Cetrangolo, Civil Engineering

Performance of Adhesive and Cementitious Anchorage Systems , Mirna Mendoza, Civil Engineering

Theses from 2016 2016

Integrated Solar Technologies with Outdoor Pedestrian Bridge Superstructure Decking , Richard K. Racz, Civil Engineering

LIVE LOAD DISTRIBUTION FACTORS FOR HORIZONTALLY CURVED CONCRETE BOX GIRDER BRIDGES , Mohammed Zaki, Civil Engineering

Theses from 2015 2015

Bonded Anchors in Concrete Under Sustained Loading , Douglas Droesch, Civil Engineering

An Observational Evaluation of Safety Resulting from Driver Distraction , Christina M. Dube, Civil Engineering

Measuring the Resilience of Transportation Networks Subject to Seismic Risk , Mark N. Furtado, Civil Engineering

Nano-Scale Investigation of Mechanical Characteristics of Main Phases of Hydrated Cement Paste , Shahin Hajilar, Civil Engineering

Driver Behavior Evaluation of Variable Speed Limits and a Conceptual Framework for Optimal VSL Location Identification , Curt P. Harrington, Civil Engineering

A Real-time Signal Control System to Minimize Emissions at Isolated Intersections , Farnoush Khalighi, Civil Engineering

Structural Vulnerability Assessment of Bridge Piers in the Event of Barge Collision , David A. Ribbans, Civil Engineering

Towards Sustainable Roundabouts: An Evaluation of Driver Behavior, Emissions, and Safety , Derek Roach, Civil Engineering

Resilience of Transportation Infrastructure Systems to Climatic Extreme Events , Alexandra C. Testa, Civil Engineering

Theses from 2014 2014

Short and Long-term Performance of a Skewed Integral Abutment Prestressed Concrete Bridge , Rami Bahjat, Civil Engineering

Performance of Circular Reinforced Concrete Bridge Piers Subjected to Vehicular Collisions , Nevin L. Gomez, Civil Engineering

Field and Analytical Studies of the First Folded Plate Girder Bridge , Man Hou Sit, Civil Engineering

Theses from 2013 2013

The Effect of Roadside Elements on Driver Behavior and Run-Off-the-Road Crash Severity , Cole D. Fitzpatrick, Civil Engineering

Evaluating At-Grade Rail Crossing Safety along the Knowledge Corridor in Massachusetts , Timothy P. Horan, Civil Engineering

An Evaluation of Alternative Technologies to Estimate Travel Time on Rural Interstates , Qiao Li, Civil Engineering

Operational and Safety-based Analyses of Varied Toll Lane Configurations , Ian A. Mckinnon, Civil Engineering

Preferred Sensor Selection for Damage Estimation in Civil Structures , Matthew Styckiewicz, Civil Engineering

An Evaluation of Drivers’ Cell Phone Use Prevalence and Safety Related Impacts , Keith E. Wenners, Civil Engineering

Theses from 2012 2012

Probabilistic Analysis of Offshore Wind Turbine Soil-Structure Interaction , Wystan Carswell, Civil Engineering

Vehicle Miles Traveled (vmt) Fee Financing Alternatives: Lessons Learned and Future Opportunities , Ashley L. Costa, Civil Engineering

Evaluating and Modeling Traveler Response to Real-Time Information in the Pioneer Valley , Tyler De Ruiter, Civil Engineering

An Optimal Adaptive Routing Algorithm for Large-scale Stochastic Time-Dependent Networks , Jing Ding, Civil Engineering

A Quantitative Analysis of the Impacts from Selected Climate Variables Upon Traffic Safety in Massachusetts , Katrina M. Hecimovic, Civil Engineering

Automated Enforcement Using Dedicated Short Range Communication , Gilbert Kim, Civil Engineering

New Technologies in Short Span Bridges: A Study of Three Innovative Systems , Andrew Lahovich, Civil Engineering

Driver Dynamics and the Longitudinal Control Model , Gabriel G. Leiner, Civil Engineering

Interfacial Strength Between Prestressed Hollow Core Slabs and Cast-in-Place Concrete Toppings , Ryan M. Mones, Civil Engineering

User Equilibrium in a Disrupted Network with Real-Time Information and Heterogeneous Risk Attitude , Ryan J. Pothering, Civil Engineering

Spatial and Temporal Correlations of Freeway Link Speeds: An Empirical Study , Piotr J. Rachtan, Civil Engineering

Evaluation of Live-Load Distribution Factors (LLDFs) of Next Beam Bridges , Abhijeet Kumar Singh, Civil Engineering

Material Characterization and Computational Simulation of Steel Foam for Use in Structural Applications , Brooks H. Smith, Civil Engineering

Varied Applications of Work Zone Safety Analysis through the Investigation of Crash Data, Design, and Field Studies , Erica Swansen, Civil Engineering

Using Micro-Simulation Modeling to Evaluate Transit Signal Priority in Small-to-Medium Sized Urban Areas; Comparative Review of Vissim and S-Paramics Burlington, Vermont Case Study , Joseph C. Tyros, Civil Engineering

Theses from 2011 2011

Evaluating Alternative Toll-Based Financing Approaches: A Case Study of the Boston Metropolitan Area , Rosaria M. Berliner, Civil Engineering

Analysis of Measurement Errors Influence on the Quantitative and Qualitative Results of Car-Following Model Calibration , Mariya A. Maslova, Civil Engineering

Development of Anchorage System for Frp Strengthening Applications Using Integrated Frp Composite Anchors , Geoffrey N. Mcguirk, Civil Engineering

An Application of Spatially Based Crash Analyses and Road Safety Investigations to Increase Older Driver Safety , Deanna A. Peabody, Civil Engineering

Safety and Operational Assessment of Gap Acceptance Through Large-Scale Field Evaluation , Steven Maxwell Tupper, Civil Engineering

Theses from 2010 2010

Historic Bridge Evaluation Using Finite Element Techniques , Helena M. Charron, Civil Engineering

A Quantitative Analysis of the Impacts from Selected Variables Upon Safety Belt Usage in Massachusetts , Samuel W. Gregorio, Civil Engineering

Analysis of Curved Integral Abutment Bridges , Emre Kalayci, Civil Engineering

Material Characterization and Structural Response of Historic Truss Bridges , Sean L. Kelton, Civil Engineering

Earthquake Engineering Simulation with Flexible Cladding System , Jun Jie Li, Civil Engineering

Route Choice Behavior in Risky Networks with Real-Time Information , Michael D. Razo, Civil Engineering

Route Choice Behavior in a Driving Simulator With Real-time Information , Hengliang Tian, Civil Engineering

Investigation of the Behavior of Open Cell Aluminum Foam , Patrick J. Veale, Civil Engineering

Theses from 2009 2009

Computer-Assisted Emergency Evacuation Planning Using TransCAD: Case Studies in Western Massachusetts , Steven P. Andrews, Civil Engineering

Value of Traveler Information for Adaptive Routing in Stochastic Time-Dependent Networks , He Huang, Civil Engineering

Analytical Modeling of Tree Vibration Generated during Cutting Process , Payman Karvanirabori, Civil Engineering

Optimal Adaptive Departure Time Choices with Real-Time Traveler Information Considering Arrival Reliability , Xuan Lu, Civil Engineering

Seismic Energy Dissipation of Steel Buildings Using Engineered Cladding Systems , Quan Viet Nguyen, Civil Engineering

Developing an Evaluation Approach to Assess Large Scale Its Infrastructure Improvements: I-91 Project , Melissa Paciulli, Civil Engineering

Enhancing Concrete Barrier Reflectivity With A Focus On Recycled Glass Aggregate Replacement , Regina Shklyan, Civil Engineering

Theses from 2008 2008

Performance Evaluation Of Existing Steel And Concrete Girder Bridges Through Non-destructive Live-load Testing , Andrew E. Jeffrey, Civil Engineering

Evaluation of Traffic Simulation Models for Work Zones in the New England Area , Pothu Raju Khanta, Civil Engineering

The Application of Traffic Calming and Related Strategies in an Urban Environment , Stacy A. Metzger, Civil Engineering

Terrazzo Cracking: Causes and Remedies , Michael J. Mitchell III, Civil Engineering

Anchorage of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymers to Reinforced Concrete in Shear Applications , Carl W. Niemitz, Civil Engineering

Measurement and Computational Modeling of the Mechanical Properties of Parallel Strand Lumber , Russell S. Winans, Civil Engineering

An Evaluation of Simulation Models To Assess Travel Delay In Work Zones , Fan Wu, Civil Engineering

Theses from 2007 2007

An Analysis Of The Saftey Effects Of Crosswalks With In-pavement Warning Lights , George Gadiel, Civil Engineering

The Development of a Dynamic-Interactive-Vehicle Model for Modeling Traffic Beyond the Microscopic Level , Dwayne A. Henclewood, Civil Engineering

A Comparative Evaluation of Crash Data Quality Identification Methods , Arianna M. Mickee, Civil Engineering

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200+ Civil Engineering Research Topics: Exploring Promising Topics

civil engineering research topics

Civil engineering research is the driving force behind the development of sustainable infrastructure and innovative construction methods. It plays a crucial role in shaping our world, from designing earthquake-resistant buildings to developing advanced transportation systems. 

In this blog post, we will explore the importance of choosing the right civil engineering research topics and provide a list of promising research areas to inspire your academic journey.

Why Choose the Right Research Topic?

Table of Contents

Before delving into the exciting world of civil engineering research topics, it’s important to understand why selecting the right research topic is critical.

  • Impact of the Research Topic Selection: The choice of your research topic can have a profound impact on your academic and professional career. A well-defined, relevant topic can lead to groundbreaking discoveries, publications, and recognition in the field.
  • Facilitation of the Research Process: A clearly defined research topic serves as your roadmap. It guides your literature review, data collection, experimentation, and analysis. Without a focused topic, research can become directionless and overwhelming.
  • Benefits of a Relevant and Engaging Topic: An engaging topic keeps you motivated throughout your research journey. It’s much easier to stay dedicated when you’re passionate about your subject matter.

How to Select the Perfect Civil Engineering Research Topics?

Choosing the right research topic in civil engineering is a crucial step in your academic and professional career. Here are some steps to help you make the best choice:

  • Consider Your Interests and Passion: Think about what aspects of civil engineering interest you the most. Are you fascinated by structural design, transportation systems, environmental issues, or construction management? Choosing the civil engineering research topics that align with your interests will make the research process more enjoyable and meaningful.
  • Review Recent Developments in the Field: Stay updated with the latest trends and breakthroughs in civil engineering. Browse through academic journals, magazines, and websites to identify emerging issues and areas of interest.
  • Assess the Feasibility and Resources Available: Ensure that your chosen topic is feasible given the resources and facilities at your disposal. You should have access to the necessary equipment, data, and expertise to conduct your research effectively.
  • Discuss with Professors and Mentors: Seek advice from your professors and mentors. They can provide valuable insights, suggest potential research questions, and guide you in the right direction.
  • Explore Interdisciplinary Possibilities: Civil engineering is often interconnected with other fields. Consider exploring interdisciplinary research topics that combine civil engineering with subjects like materials science, environmental science, or computer science for a unique perspective.

200+ Civil Engineering Research Topics: Category Wise

Structural engineering.

  • Innovative materials for earthquake-resistant buildings.
  • Advancements in bridge design and construction.
  • Sustainable skyscraper designs.
  • Application of nanotechnology in structural engineering.
  • Rehabilitation of historic structures using modern techniques.
  • Seismic retrofitting of critical infrastructure.
  • Wind and earthquake-resistant building designs.
  • Performance-based design of structures.
  • Structural health monitoring for bridges and buildings.
  • Resilient design for extreme weather conditions.

Geotechnical Engineering

  • Soil stabilization techniques for foundation support.
  • Geotechnical investigation methods in urban areas.
  • Landslide prediction and prevention.
  • Seismic site characterization and liquefaction assessment.
  • Innovative foundation systems for high-rise buildings.
  • Soil-structure interaction in deep foundations.
  • Geotechnical challenges in offshore engineering.
  • Sustainable slope stabilization methods.
  • Ground improvement techniques for soft soils.
  • Geothermal energy extraction from the Earth’s crust.

Transportation Engineering

  • Traffic management and congestion reduction strategies.
  • High-speed rail systems and urban development.
  • Autonomous vehicles and their role in future transportation.
  • Sustainable urban transportation planning.
  • Transportation network optimization using AI.
  • Public transportation infrastructure development.
  • Pedestrian and cyclist-friendly city design.
  • Environmental impact assessment in transportation projects.
  • Intelligent transportation systems for smart cities.
  • Emergency evacuation and traffic management.

Environmental Engineering

  • Water treatment and purification methods.
  • Green infrastructure and urban stormwater management.
  • Wastewater treatment plant optimization.
  • Air quality monitoring and pollution control technologies.
  • Groundwater contamination assessment and remediation.
  • Solid waste management in urban areas.
  • Renewable energy generation from waste.
  • Climate change adaptation in infrastructure design.
  • Eco-friendly construction materials and practices.
  • Sustainable urban planning and design.

Construction Management

  • Learn construction techniques and practices.
  • Building Information Modeling (BIM) applications in construction.
  • Safety management in construction projects.
  • Risk management in construction projects.
  • Quality control and assurance in construction.
  • Sustainable construction materials and methods.
  • Project scheduling and time management.
  • Cost estimation and budget management in construction.
  • Construction contract management and dispute resolution.
  • Innovative prefabrication and modular construction techniques.

Materials Engineering

  • Development of advanced construction materials.
  • Durability of concrete in harsh environments.
  • Recycling and reuse of construction materials.
  • Nano-materials in construction.
  • Sustainable construction materials.
  • Corrosion protection for infrastructure.
  • High-performance concrete mix design.
  • Materials for lightweight and high-strength structures.
  • Fire-resistant building materials.
  • Testing and quality control of construction materials.

Water Resources Engineering

  • River basin management and flood control.
  • Watershed modeling and management.
  • Sustainable urban water supply systems.
  • Urban drainage system design and management.
  • Dams and reservoir engineering.
  • Water resource optimization and allocation.
  • Water quality modeling and management.
  • Climate change impact on water resources.
  • Groundwater recharge and management.
  • Desalination technologies for freshwater production.

Coastal and Ocean Engineering

  • Coastal erosion control and beach nourishment.
  • Offshore wind energy farms and their impact.
  • Design of marine structures for port facilities.
  • Coastal zone management and resilience.
  • Coastal hydrodynamics and wave modeling.
  • Tidal energy harnessing and environmental considerations.
  • Coastal protection against storm surges and tsunamis.
  • Oceanography and marine environmental studies.
  • Design of breakwaters and seawalls.
  • Harbor and navigation channel design.

Earthquake Engineering

  • Seismic hazard assessment and mapping.
  • Retrofitting of existing structures for earthquake resistance.
  • Seismic design of lifeline systems (water, gas, power).
  • Soil-structure interaction in seismic events.
  • Non-destructive testing for seismic damage assessment.
  • Seismic behavior of innovative materials.
  • Performance-based earthquake engineering.
  • Post-earthquake reconnaissance and lessons learned.
  • Seismic risk assessment and mitigation strategies.
  • Earthquake early warning systems.

Bridge Engineering

  • Innovative bridge designs and aesthetics.
  • Long-span bridge construction and materials.
  • Cable-stayed and suspension bridge technology.
  • Bridge health monitoring and maintenance.
  • Bridge inspection and assessment techniques.
  • Advanced seismic retrofitting of bridges.
  • Smart bridges and sensor technology.
  • Bridge management and asset management systems.
  • Innovative bridge construction techniques.
  • Load rating and capacity evaluation of existing bridges.

Traffic Engineering

  • Traffic flow modeling and simulation.
  • Adaptive traffic signal control systems.
  • Pedestrian and cyclist safety studies.
  • Intelligent transportation systems for traffic management.
  • Congestion pricing and traffic demand management.
  • Driver behavior analysis and safety measures.
  • Intermodal transportation planning.
  • Traffic impact assessment of new developments.
  • Transportation planning for urban and rural areas.
  • Sustainable transportation infrastructure.

Urban Planning and Design

  • Sustainable urban development and planning.
  • Smart city infrastructure and technology integration.
  • Urban revitalization and brownfield redevelopment.
  • Transit-oriented development (TOD) planning.
  • Green building and urban design.
  • Affordable housing design and policy.
  • Historical preservation and urban conservation.
  • Mixed-use development and zoning.
  • Resilient urban planning for climate change.
  • Inclusive and accessible urban design.

Surveying and Geospatial Engineering

  • Land surveying and cadastral mapping advancements.
  • Remote sensing and GIS applications in civil engineering.
  • 3D laser scanning and point cloud data analysis.
  • Geodetic surveying for infrastructure projects.
  • UAVs (drones) in geospatial data collection.
  • GPS technology for precise positioning in construction.
  • BIM integration with geospatial data.
  • Underground utility mapping and detection.
  • Geospatial analysis for disaster management.
  • Geospatial data privacy and security.

Energy-Efficient Buildings

  • Net-zero energy building design.
  • Energy-efficient HVAC and lighting systems.
  • Passive solar design for buildings.
  • Green roofs and living walls in urban design.
  • Building energy modeling and simulation.
  • Building envelope insulation and materials.
  • Daylight harvesting and control systems.
  • Carbon footprint reduction in building design.
  • Sustainable building certification (LEED, BREEAM, etc.).
  • Building-integrated renewable energy systems.

Advanced Computational Techniques

  • Finite element analysis in structural design.
  • Computational fluid dynamics for hydraulic modeling.
  • Artificial intelligence in civil engineering applications.
  • Machine learning for predictive maintenance in infrastructure.
  • Optimization algorithms for infrastructure design.
  • High-performance computing in engineering simulations.
  • Data analytics for infrastructure asset management.
  • Digital twins in civil engineering projects.
  • 3D modeling and visualization tools for design.
  • Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) in construction.

Disaster Resilience and Risk Management

  • Disaster risk reduction strategies for infrastructure.
  • Post-disaster recovery and reconstruction planning.
  • Seismic and tsunami hazard mitigation measures.
  • Floodplain mapping and management.
  • Climate change adaptation for infrastructure.
  • Resilience of lifeline systems (water, power, etc.).
  • Risk assessment and vulnerability analysis.
  • Emergency response planning for natural disasters.
  • Insurance and financing for disaster recovery.
  • Public awareness and education for disaster preparedness.

Sustainable Transportation Technologies

  • Electric and hybrid vehicles in transportation.
  • Hydrogen fuel cell technology in transport.
  • Sustainable fuels for aviation and shipping.
  • High-speed magnetic levitation (maglev) trains.
  • Hyperloop transportation system feasibility.
  • Green infrastructure for urban transportation.
  • E-mobility and charging infrastructure.
  • Sustainable transportation policy development.
  • Impact of ride-sharing and carpooling on traffic.
  • Multi-modal transportation integration.

Innovative Bridge Materials

  • Self-healing concrete in bridge construction.
  • Carbon fiber-reinforced polymers (CFRP) in bridges.
  • Ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) for bridge connections.
  • Bamboo as a sustainable bridge building material.
  • Bridge cable materials and corrosion resistance.
  • Innovative composites for bridge components.
  • Timber bridge construction and sustainability.
  • Green bridge design with vegetation integration.
  • Recycled and upcycled materials in bridge building.
  • Smart materials for real-time bridge health monitoring.

Smart Infrastructure and IoT

  • Internet of Things (IoT) applications in infrastructure.
  • Sensor networks for structural health monitoring.
  • Smart traffic management systems and IoT.
  • Predictive maintenance of infrastructure using IoT.
  • Asset tracking and management in construction.
  • Smart city infrastructure development.
  • Energy-efficient street lighting systems.
  • Environmental monitoring with IoT.
  • Remote control and automation of infrastructure.
  • Data analytics for smart infrastructure decision-making.

Nanotechnology in Civil Engineering

  • Nanomaterials for enhanced construction materials.
  • Nanosensors for structural health monitoring.
  • Nanotechnology applications in water treatment.
  • Nano-coatings for corrosion protection.
  • Nanomaterials in geotechnical engineering.
  • Nanoparticles for pollutant removal in soil and water.
  • Nanofibers in lightweight and high-strength materials.
  • Nanostructured materials for earthquake resistance.
  • Nanorobotics for infrastructure inspection and repair.
  • Nanotechnology in sustainable building design.

Examples of Recent Research Breakthroughs

To illustrate the impact of research in civil engineering, let’s look at a few recent breakthroughs in the field:

  • 3D-Printed Concrete Structures: Researchers have developed 3D-printing technology that can construct complex concrete structures, offering cost-effective and sustainable building solutions.
  • Self-Healing Materials: Self-healing materials , such as concrete that can repair its own cracks, have the potential to extend the lifespan of infrastructure.
  • Smart Transportation Systems: Smart transportation systems use real-time data and sensors to optimize traffic flow and reduce congestion, making transportation more efficient and sustainable.
  • Zero-Energy Buildings: Research into zero-energy buildings has led to the development of structures that produce as much energy as they consume, reducing the environmental impact of construction.

Challenges and Considerations

As you embark on your civil engineering research topics journey, consider these challenges and important factors:

  • Ethical Considerations: Ensure that your research is conducted with the highest ethical standards, considering the safety and well-being of both people and the environment.
  • Funding Opportunities and Grants: Seek out funding sources and grants to support your research endeavors. Many organizations offer financial support for innovative civil engineering projects.
  • Collaboration and Networking: Collaborate with fellow researchers, attend conferences, and join professional organizations to network and stay updated with the latest developments in the field.

Selecting the right civil engineering research topics are the first and most crucial step in your journey as a civil engineering researcher. The choice of topic can define the impact and success of your research. The field of civil engineering is vast, dynamic, and full of exciting possibilities. 

Whether you’re interested in structural engineering, geotechnical engineering, transportation systems, environmental engineering, or construction management, there are countless avenues to explore. 

As you embark on your research, remember that every innovation in civil engineering contributes to a more sustainable and advanced world.

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Civil engineering is the field of science dedicated to the designing, building, and maintaining of infrastructure 1 . Researchers in this field constantly explore new and improved ways of constructing roads, bridges, airports, canals, dams, buildings, and more.

Researchers in civil engineering are often experts in several subjects, including chemistry, physics, advanced mathematics, statistics, geology and more. They are usually more at ease working with numbers and mathematics and may at times have trouble with writing 2 .

Why Writing Should be Made More Accessible in Civil Engineering

Research in civil engineering informs professionals in several engineering fields and even policymakers. Therefore, it is important that the content of a civil engineering paper, including technical information, is made accessible to readers. Here are five tips to make your paper in civil engineering more engaging and easier to understand.

Provide a Proper Introduction

Civil engineering papers often deal with a specific challenge or problem in construction. To make your paper more accessible, provide a broad context on the problem before getting into specific details. Additionally, explain all the abbreviations you will likely use in the paper beforehand 3 . To make your paper a more engaging read, mention the problem’s relevance for the economy, environment, or the general public.

Discuss Theory

All civil engineering papers are either application-based or meant to aid the implementation of projects. However, discussing theory is an effective way to introduce the complexities of a problem to the readers or demonstrate the feasibility of your solutions 4 .

Use a Mix of Passive and Active Voice

Studies have found that researchers in civil engineering are more inclined to use passive voice even in places where active voice is more effective 5 . Although civil engineering manuscripts accommodate the impersonal style, use active voice whenever possible, to create a more engaging read.

Use of passive voice exclusively: The reservoir design was made in keeping with the latest environmental protection guidelines. However, the implementation was done in a way that significantly impacted the local ecosystem.

Use of active voice exclusively: The reservoir design followed the latest environmental protection guidelines. However, the implementation significantly impacted the local ecosystem.

Use of a passive-active voice combination: The reservoir design was made in keeping with the latest environmental protection guidelines. However, the implementation significantly impacted the local ecosystem.

Find a Balanced Tone

The language in civil engineering papers cannot be too informal or formal. Find a balance so that the subject feels relatable to the reader despite being explored in a scientifically rigorous manner 6 .

Too formal: Just over two tons of steel is needed to realize the proposed project.

Too informal: Just over two tons of steel is needed to make the project a reality.

Balanced: Just over two tons of steel is needed to implement the project.

Reduce Ambiguity

Engineering papers often contain complex ideas, and therefore, reducing cognitive load through any means is desirable. Avoid using unnecessary words like ‘really’ or ‘quite’. In addition, limit the use of pronouns such as ‘it’, ‘these’, and ‘this’ to necessary cases 3 .

Do not write: The high-rise buildings built using data from the latest earthquake emulation model are really stable.

Instead, write: The high-rise buildings built using data from the latest earthquake emulation model are stable.

You can use the above tips not only for writing civil engineering papers, but also for manuscripts in other disciplines. These tips make your research findings clear and easy to understand, resulting in greater scientific outreach. Visit Elsevier’s Language Editing Services to learn more about our specific writing and editing solutions.

Subject experts at Elsevier Language Services (ELS) can help you improve the readability of your manuscript while retaining all necessary information. Through useful language suggestions, our experienced editors can improve your manuscript’s chances of publication and enhance its reach upon publication.

We would like to share some exciting news with you. Elsevier Language Services (ELS) has now launched its new and improved website. It has been upgraded to offer a user-friendly interface and a more intuitive content layout. With improved ease of navigation, our website now provides researchers the ultimate browsing experience. Make the most of our high-quality language services through a world-class online platform!

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  • What is Civil Engineering? (n.d.). Swenson College of Science and Engineering | UMN Duluth. https://scse.d.umn.edu/about/departments-and-programs/civil-engineering-department/what-civil-engineering
  • Conrad, S. (2012, June 10). Preparing students for writing in civil engineering practice. https://peer.asee.org/preparing-students-for-writing-in-civil-engineering-practice
  • Utah State University. (n.d.). Technical Writing Standards | Engineering Writing Center | College of Engineering. USU. https://engineering.usu.edu/students/ewc/writing-resources/technical-writing-standards
  • Hailiang, Y. (2019). 4 Must-dos when writing an engineering research paper. Editage Insights. https://www.editage.com/insights/4-must-dos-when-writing-an-engineering-research-paper
  • Conrad, S. (2017). The use of passives and impersonal style in civil engineering writing. Journal of Business and Technical Communication, 32(1), 38–76. https://doi.org/10.1177/1050651917729864
  • Engineering writing style | English for Engineers | University of Southampton. (n.d.). https://www.southampton.ac.uk/englishforengineers/understanding_assessed_tasks/key_skills/writing-style.page

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  • MyU : For Students, Faculty, and Staff

Catherine French, NAE

Catherine French, headshot in MAST Lab

Professor Catherine E. Wolfgram French has been elected to the National Academy of Engineering (NAE). This is among the highest professional distinctions awarded to an engineer. The NAE elected only 114 new members and 21 foreign members this year. 

French joins previously elected members from the Department of Civil, Environmental, and Geo- Engineering: Professor Emmanuel Detournay and Professors Emeriti Steve Crouch, Charles Fairhurst, and Theodore Galambos. 

Catherine French, a College of Science and Engineering Distinguished Professor in the Department of Civil, Environmental, and Geo- Engineering, is a renowned structural engineer. She was recognized by NAE for “design, safety, and construction of structural concrete buildings and bridges.” Her research interests include the behavior of reinforced and prestressed concrete structural systems, field monitoring of structures, numerical and experimental investigations of structural systems including time-dependent and environmental effects, evaluation and repair of damaged structures, and development and application of new aterials. French led the creation of the Multi-Axial Subassemblage Testing (MAST) Laboratory in 2004. She has served on the national concrete building code committee for nearly 30 years. Her research on reinforced and prestressed concrete structural systems led to new guidelines to improve public safety.

French has received national recognition for her contributions in the area of structural engineering, and for her teaching, leadership, and research. She received the highest honors from the American Society of Civil Engineers (Distinguished Member 2018) and the American Concrete Institute (ACI Honorary Member 2019). 

French started her academic career at UMN, following in the footsteps of her father, who earned his Electrical Engineering degree at UMN, and two sisters (Electrical Engineering and Math Education). After completing her bachelor’s degree in 1979, French went on to complete her master’s and Ph.D. at the University of Illinois at Urbana- Champaign. French then returned to UMN as a new faculty member in 1984. She was the first female professor in civil engineering.

Since 2019, she has been a member of the University of Minnesota Academy of Distinguished Teachers. She has mentored more than 85 graduate students, postdoctoral  researchers, and visiting scholars. She also has published and edited more than 175 research papers and discussions. 

French's family in the MAST Lab

In addition to her academic and professional  accomplishments, French counts relationships among her great fortunes. “I have been very fortunate with a supportive family, with great students, colleagues, and collaborators. My graduate advisor Mete Sozen had a huge impact on my pursuing a Ph.D. and was very supportive throughout my career. And my family is so important to me!”

Two UMN professors and six alumni elected to NAE this year.

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Civil Engineering Entering ‘Renaissance’ with Shift to Sustainable Infrastructure

At a recent duke university symposium, experts exchanged ideas about accelerating sustainable infrastructure development., march 20 panel: what is sustainable infrastructure building consensus to accelerate financing.

The symposium’s opening event at Duke in DC explored how global adoption of infrastructure sustainability standards could help mobilize public and private finance.

  Watch video

Infrastructure projects built today will confront dramatically different conditions over their lifecycles, due to climate change’s impacts and shifting societal expectations. Future-proofing energy, transportation, telecommunication, water and other infrastructure systems will require a new sustainability and resilience mindset, infrastructure experts said during a panel discussion at Duke University on March 21.

“I’d like to think that we’re entering a renaissance period in civil engineering with the opportunities that are before us,” said Todd Bridges, professor of practice in resilient and sustainable systems at the University of Georgia’s College of Engineering.

The panel was part of a three-day, two-city symposium focused on accelerating development of sustainable infrastructure. Moderator Jerome Lynch, Vinik Dean of Duke University’s Pratt School of Engineering, teed up the March 21 conversation by describing a paradox at the heart of the growing push for climate-resilient, sustainable infrastructure.

Panelists repeatedly noted the importance of innovative approaches to building climate-resilient infrastructure that minimize negative social and environmental consequences, including the loss of benefits that nature provides.

Motoko Aizawa, Jerome Lynch, and Anita van Breda

“We want to be resilient, so we want to ensure that our infrastructure continues to serve society as we intend,” Lynch noted. “But at the same time, we need to be sustainable and more deliberate about controlling carbon emissions associated with our infrastructure projects.”

Many people think of infrastructure as single-purpose projects built with concrete, asphalt and steel — like roads, bridges or dams. As the panelists explained, sustainable infrastructure is multidimensional. These projects balance environmental, economic, societal and governance considerations — from land use to design and construction to operation to decommissioning.

“Communities are demanding a lot from their infrastructure,” said Roni Deitz, global director of climate adaptation at Arcadis. “Part of sustainable design is really pushing what we ask of infrastructure and ensuring that every dollar we invest, we’re maximizing the use that comes from it.”

Nature-based solutions — actions to protect, manage or restore natural or modified ecosystems that address societal challenges — are gaining attention as a way to meet infrastructure needs, noted Rowan Palmer, a program management officer with the United Nations Environment Programme. For example, a restored wetland can work in concert with built infrastructure to lessen flooding impacts, expand habitat for native species and provide other environmental and societal benefits.

As Bridges put it, sustainable infrastructure largely revolves around “not engineering on nature, but engineering with it.”

March 22 Workshop: Infrastructure Sustainability Learning Initiative

The symposium’s closing event brought together three dozen Duke faculty and research staff and invited experts to develop networks for the Infrastructure Sustainability Learning (ISLe) Initiative.

The ISLe Initiative builds local capacity in sustainable infrastructure by virtually bringing together practitioners and experts to share information and problem-solve using a case-based learning approach. New ISLe networks focus on themes like disaster resilience and recovery, sustainable transportation, nature-positive infrastructure solutions and climate and sustainability engineering curricula.

Support for the ISLe Initiative is provided by the Schmidt Initiative for Long Covid.

  More about the ISLe Initative

Even with nature-based solutions, each infrastructure project comes with tradeoffs between various benefits and consequences for people and nature. Quantifying these to inform decisions can be a complex process.

Sustainably rebuilding after a disaster poses additional challenges. Anita van Breda, senior director of environment and disaster management at World Wildlife Fund-US, often sees long-term decisions being made quickly in the rush to rebuild after a disaster — and not always with community support.

“One of the barriers — and also one of the opportunities — for us in our work is really being deliberate and thoughtful about community engagement,” van Breda said. “Communities need to be organized so that when decisions are made, they’re better able to be at the table and influence the decisions, the planning and the funding.”

Funding is another major barrier for sustainable infrastructure, despite a recent uptick in infrastructure investments. While the United States is making its largest investment in domestic infrastructure in generations, and the U.S. and its G-7 partners have pledged $600 billion in public and private investments for emerging markets and developing countries, one speaker cited the need for $15 trillion in infrastructure investment globally by 2040, and another pegged the global need at $100 trillion by the century’s end.

Institutional investors — for example, pension and insurance funds that have ESG mandates — have more than enough assets to fill this gap. However, as researcher Motoko Aizawa noted, the challenge is bringing that money off the sidelines.

Particpants in the March 22 workshop seated at table in discussion

“They don't necessarily have in-house expertise to invest in infrastructure, especially in emerging markets, which scares investors quite a lot,” Aizawa said. “So that money is sitting there and everybody's trying to figure out how to crack that nut open.”

The March symposium also included a panel discussion at Duke in DC on mobilizing public and private finance and a full-day workshop to advance best practices in sustainable infrastructure. (See sidebars.)

The symposium was organized by Duke University’s Nicholas Institute for Energy, Environment & Sustainability and Pratt School of Engineering in partnership with the United Nations Environment Programme , International Coalition for Sustainable Infrastructure and World Wildlife Fund-US .

This was the second installment in the Duke Climate Collaboration Symposia series, which is helping to identify opportunities for Duke University to make the most of its interdisciplinary expertise and convening power for meaningful impact on climate challenges. The series is funded by a gift from The Duke Endowment in support of the Duke Climate Commitment , which unites the university’s education, research, operations and public service missions to address the climate crisis.

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three mechanical engineers examining a machine

Mechanical Engineering vs. Civil Engineering: What's the Difference?

Author: University of North Dakota April 23, 2024

Every day, we see engineering in action without even realizing it.

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The cars on the road, the buildings touching the sky, the bridges we cross and the quiet machines working around us are all thanks to engineers. These professionals, whether they're mechanical engineers, civil engineers or another kind, use their skills to make our world better.

In this blog, we're taking a closer look at two types of engineers: mechanical and civil. What do they do? How are they different? Read on to find out more about these important roles in engineering.

What is Mechanical Engineering?

Mechanical engineering involves designing, analyzing and producing mechanical systems and devices. This field integrates principles from physics, mathematics, materials science and computer-aided design to develop innovative solutions across diverse industries.

The interdisciplinary nature of mechanical engineering drives technological innovation and advancements in various industries, such as transportation, where engineers optimize vehicle performance and safety; aerospace , where they design aircraft and spacecraft components for efficiency and reliability; biomedical engineering , where they develop prosthetics and medical devices for improved patient care; and renewable energy, where they design efficient systems for harnessing solar, wind and hydroelectric power.

What is Civil Engineering?

Civil engineering encompasses the management of infrastructure and public works projects involving the planning, design, construction and maintenance of various essential facilities. This field incorporates specialties such as structural engineering, transportation engineering and environmental engineering.

The significance of civil engineering lies in its role in shaping the world's infrastructure through elements like roads, bridges, water supply systems and wastewater treatment plants. By overseeing the development and maintenance of these crucial facilities, civil engineers contribute to economic growth, public safety and environmental sustainability.

What is the Difference Between Mechanical Engineering and Civil Engineering?

Now that we have a clearer understanding of what each engineering field encompasses, let's begin a direct comparison between civil engineering vs. mechanical engineering.

Mechanical engineers typically pursue a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or mechanical engineering technologies. These programs cover subjects such as mechanics of materials, heat transfer and control systems. Students learn to apply engineering principles to design and analyze mechanical systems, such as engines, power plants, robots and medical devices. 

Pursuing a graduate degree, such as a master's or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering , allows students to explore specialized areas like advanced materials, renewable energy systems or mechatronics. These advanced degrees provide research opportunities and equip graduates for leadership roles across various sectors, enhancing their impact and influence in engineering.

Similarly, civil engineers typically begin their careers with a bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or a related field. These programs include coursework in mathematics, physics, engineering mechanics and construction systems. The curriculum typically combines theoretical learning with practical laboratory work to develop technical proficiency and practical skills necessary for the field.

While a bachelor's degree is sufficient for entry-level positions, civil engineers can also pursue advanced degrees, such as master's in Civil Engineering and Ph.D. in Civil Engineering , to enhance their qualifications for higher-level roles and leadership positions.

civil engineering students observing a construction site

Skill Set Requirements

Mechanical and civil engineers have some shared skill requirements but also possess distinct sets of skills tailored to their fields. For example, both need creativity for innovative solutions and effective communication skills to collaborate with stakeholders. They also require strong problem-solving skills to analyze and optimize designs to meet objectives.

However, mechanical engineers also rely on strong mathematical skills, such as calculus and statistics, innovative design and precise troubleshooting of mechanical systems. Moreover, proficiency in mechanical principles allows them to apply fundamental engineering concepts to create advanced devices, fostering technological progress across industries. 

In contrast, civil engineers are more focused on analytical abilities to understand design intricacies, including how mechanical systems impact building operations. They also need organizational skills for managing contracts and project details, ensuring smooth progress and resource allocation as well as proficiency in computer-aided design tools to aid in visualizing structures accurately.

Job Responsibilities

The specific duties and responsibilities of mechanical engineers may vary depending on factors such as specialization and project scope; however, they typically encompass:

  • Overseeing the entire manufacturing process for designed devices, ensuring quality and efficiency
  • Analyzing problems to determine how mechanical devices can address specific challenges
  • Utilizing computer-aided design to develop or modify designs as needed
  • Investigating equipment failures and diagnosing faults to recommend appropriate solutions
  • Developing and testing prototypes, analyzing results and modifying designs/systems as necessary

On the other hand, civil engineers' responsibilities usually include the following:

  • Designing infrastructure such as roads, bridges and buildings with a focus on functionality and safety
  • Supervising construction activities to ensure adherence to project specifications and timelines
  • Collaborating with architects, urban planners and other professionals to develop comprehensive project plans
  • Assessing the environmental impact of projects and proposing sustainable solutions
  • Providing technical expertise and support to project teams throughout the construction process

Work Environment

The work environment of engineers, whether in civil or mechanical fields, spans from traditional office settings to dynamic field sites, reflecting the diversity and adaptability required in their roles. Here's a closer look at what these environments entail for both civil and mechanical engineers.

Civil Engineers

Civil engineers have a versatile work environment that divides between offices and field sites.

  • Office work: Their office responsibilities include drafting project plans, conducting research and communicating with clients and team members.
  • Fieldwork: When on-site, they oversee construction activities, inspect infrastructure projects and ensure compliance with design specifications and safety standards. This includes frequent visits to construction sites, conducting surveys and collaborating with contractors and professionals on-site.

Mechanical Engineers

Mechanical engineers also enjoy a diverse work setting, including offices, laboratories and field sites.

  • Office and laboratory work: Inside offices, they're tasked with designing mechanical systems and developing simulations. Laboratory responsibilities focus on experiments, testing prototypes and data analysis to improve mechanical device performance.
  • Fieldwork: Their field duties involve overseeing the installation of equipment, troubleshooting and ensuring systems operate effectively in real-world conditions. This might involve visits to manufacturing facilities, site inspections and working closely with technicians on-site.

Job Outlook and Salary

The field of mechanical engineering is projected to experience a growth rate of 10% from 2022 to 2032, resulting in an average of 19,200 job openings annually over the decade. On the other hand, the employment of civil engineers is expected to grow by 5% during the same period, with a slightly higher average of 21,200 job openings per year.

In terms of salary, mechanical engineers tend to have a higher median annual income compared to civil engineers. The median annual wage for mechanical engineers is $96,310 , whereas the salary of civil engineers is $89,940 per year.

mechanical engineering students collaborating and discussing a machine model displayed on the computer

Mechanical Engineering vs. Civil Engineering: Which One is Right for You?

Deciding whether mechanical or civil engineering is right for you comes down to your personal interests, strengths and career goals.

Discover your Passion

Think about what captures your interest. If you're drawn to designing and improving machinery, vehicles and products, mechanical engineering might be your calling. If you're inspired by creating and maintaining infrastructure like bridges, roads and buildings, then civil engineering could be a better fit. Your passion for certain projects can help guide your choice.

Evaluate your Strengths

Consider the skills you excel in. Mechanical engineering requires a good grasp of math and a knack for solving complex problems creatively. Civil engineering, on the other hand, demands strong analytical skills and a thorough understanding of structural principles. Matching your skills to the field can lead you to the right path.

Seek Advice

Talking to people working in these fields can provide valuable insights. Mentors, professors and career counselors can offer perspectives on each profession's challenges and rewards. Networking with professionals can also shed light on your decision.

Look to the Future

Finally, think about your long-term goals. Each field offers different opportunities for advancement and specialization. Choose the one that aligns with your aspirations and promises a fulfilling career.

Mechanical and civil engineers, while focusing on distinct disciplines, share a unified purpose: to innovate, solve complex challenges and improve our world through their engineering efforts. Whether your interest lies in devising next-generation machinery or constructing the infrastructure of the future, both paths offer enriching careers and the opportunity for meaningful contributions.

If you're poised to further explore your potential in these exciting fields, the University of North Dakota has the resources to guide you. Delve into the specifics and see how your aspirations align with our offerings by exploring the Civil Engineering or Mechanical Engineering program at UND.

Embarking on this educational journey is a step toward not only shaping your professional future but also contributing to the enduring legacy of engineering innovation and societal progress.

Do mechanical engineers and civil engineers work together on projects? ( Open this section)

Yes, mechanical and civil engineers often collaborate on projects, especially those involving infrastructure development or building construction. Their combined expertise ensures comprehensive solutions that meet both structural and mechanical requirements.

Which field offers more opportunities for fieldwork? ( Open this section)

Civil engineering typically offers more opportunities for fieldwork, as they frequently visit construction sites to oversee projects, conduct inspections and ensure compliance with design specifications and safety standards.

Do mechanical engineers and civil engineers need to be licensed? ( Open this section)

Yes, both mechanical engineers and civil engineers typically need to be licensed to practice professionally. Licensure requirements vary by location but generally involve completing an accredited engineering program, gaining relevant work experience and passing the licensure exam.

By clicking any link on this page you are giving your consent for us to set cookies, Privacy Information .

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    AI in Civil Engineering (AICE) is the first international and prominent journal to publish original research papers, reviews, comments, and perspectives on AI applications in civil engineering.. Advancing the frontiers of AI-enabled knowledge discovery and technology innovation in civil engineering. Providing state-of-the-art research to researchers, scientists and engineers from an ...

  19. Civil Engineering Research Journal (CERJ)

    DOI: 10.19080/CERJ.2023.14.555883. PDF. FullText. e-Pub. Civil Engineering Research Journal is an open access, international online publishing engineering journal. This journal publishes top-level work on Civil Engineering. CERJ is intended to bring together information in different areas civil engineering around the world.

  20. How to Write Clear Civil Engineering Papers

    Research in civil engineering informs professionals in several engineering fields and even policymakers. Therefore, it is important that the content of a civil engineering paper, including technical information, is made accessible to readers. ... All civil engineering papers are either application-based or meant to aid the implementation of ...

  21. Journal of Engineering Research

    Journal of Engineering Research (JER) is an international, peer reviewed journal which publishes full length original research papers, reviews and case studies related to all areas of Engineering such as: Civil, Mechanical, Industrial, Electrical, Computer, Chemical, Petroleum, Aerospace, Architectural, etc. JER is intended to serve a wide range of educationists, scientists, specialists ...

  22. Engineering

    Sage publishes over 50 engineering journals. The collection includes the 18 journals of the Institution for Mechanical Engineers as well other research in robotics, computing and textiles. The collection also features the leading open access journal in its field, Advances in Mechanical Engineering. Download new special issues, collections, and ...

  23. Catherine French, NAE

    She was the first female professor in civil engineering.Since 2019, she has been a member of the University of Minnesota Academy of Distinguished Teachers. She has mentored more than 85 graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and visiting scholars. She also has published and edited more than 175 research papers and discussions.

  24. Civil Engineering Entering 'Renaissance' with Shift to Sustainable

    As Bridges put it, sustainable infrastructure largely revolves around "not engineering on nature, but engineering with it." March 22 Workshop: Infrastructure Sustainability Learning Initiative The symposium's closing event brought together three dozen Duke faculty and research staff and invited experts to develop networks for the ...

  25. Mechanical Engineering vs. Civil Engineering: What's the Difference

    These advanced degrees provide research opportunities and equip graduates for leadership roles across various sectors, enhancing their impact and influence in engineering. Similarly, civil engineers typically begin their careers with a bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or a related field. These programs include coursework in mathematics ...