With recent focus on our country’s aging infrastructure, CAIT’s Structures and Advanced Materials ( SAM ) program has never been more important. CAIT research examines every aspect of transportation infrastructure: health, security, construction, materials, and maintenance. These factors are as strongly linked as the bridges, tunnels, and roadways of infrastructure itself.

• Research and develop enhanced structural materials including composites, coatings, and high-performance and self-compacting concretes

• Test and monitor bridge loads, stress, wear, and other impacts using advanced technologies such as nondestructive evaluation ( NDE ) including ground-penetrating radar (GPR), ultrasonic, electromagnetic, and other methods

• Formulate new protocols and procedures for bridge condition testing and monitoring, management, security, and safety

• Work closely with government agencies and bridge owners to update and improve design codes, specifications, and practices

• Examine ways to increase seismic- and blast-resistance of bridges, embankments, and retaining walls

• Research and improve performance of bridge components such as isolation bearings and joints