CEE Seminar: Role of Nonlinear Analysis and Damage Mechanics in the Seismic Design of Steel Structures

Abstract:

Finite Element (FE) simulation, in conjunction with nonlinear structural analysis is increasingly used by structural engineers to characterize the performance of structural components and systems. However, interpreting the results (i.e., limiting values of stress and strain demands) of these FE simulations is not straightforward, especially when they are used to assess fracture safety. This is even more challenging for seismic design of structures where traditional fracture mechanics is unreliable where components are designed to undergo large-scale yielding. The talk will summarize recent developments in applications of nonlinear analysis to seismic design and research on continuum-based fracture mechanics, which can reliably assess fracture under these conditions. Applications of these approaches to recent engineering applications and research projects will be presented, along with a discussion of their limitations.

Speaker Bio:

Kanvinde is interested in the seismic response and design of steel structures, with an emphasis on understanding and simulating extreme limit states, such as fracture, fatigue and collapse. His research combines large- and small-scale experiments with model-based simulation to develop a more fundamental understanding of the response of structural systems. His ongoing projects include the seismic performance of steel column connections, fracture and fatigue in aging cast iron pipes and the development of continuum models for low-triaxiality fracture and fatigue in steel. Some of Kanvinde’s recent projects have addressed ultra-low cycle fatigue in steel structures, inelastic buckling and fracture of cyclically loaded steel braces and strength and ductility/earthquake-induced fracture in the connections of eccentrically braced frames. Kanvinde received the 2008 Norman Medal presented by the American Society of Civil Engineers.