Intelligent Civil Engineering Materials and Structures

Traditional civil engineering tools are not sufficient for building and maintenance of the infrastructure system of the 21st century. Revitalization of infrastructure requires different kinds of technologically innovative products, processes and systems for improving the future performance of public facilities. Interdisciplinary research is necessary to deal with the consequences of forthcoming shifts in technologies and future systems. The topics included in this book reflect the multiplicity of infrastructure-related research activities. For instance, some new infrastructure technologies are emerging from other disciplines involving the development of fiber optic sensors, algorithms for neural computing, or design of shape memory alloys for structural applications. These are not areas of research traditionally included in the infrastructure category. However, the design of today's facilities must take into consideration the impact of these new evolving technologies. Adaptation of new technologies to traditional infrastructures result in better, stronger, and more durable facilities at lower life cycle costs.