Multi-Hazard Lifecycle Reliability Assessment of Bridge Networks Considering Climate Change

• Applicant: Meng-Ze Lyu, Ph.D.
• Subject Area: Structural Engineering, Building Informatics and Construction Operation
• Term: since 2025
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 562994444

The proposal seeks to tackle the complex challenges arising from climate change-induced material degradation and structural performance deterioration in bridge structures. With a focus on ensuring structural safety and reliability throughout the service lifecycle, the project integrates observational data on strong winds and floods with advanced modeling techniques and analysis methodologies. At its core, the research hypothesis posits that by combining observational data with multivariate stochastic field models and nonlinear finite element method (FEM) analysis technologies, it is possible to predict the lifecycle multi-hazard reliability of bridge structures under the influence of climate change. This integrated approach is expected to provide a robust framework for understanding and mitigating the risks associated with climate change-induced hazards. Key technical developments within the proposal include the development of stochastic predictive models for uncertain parameters related to multi-hazard actions, establishment of correlation function models for key hazard parameters, development of embedded FEM for detailed modeling and time-dependent analysis, formulation of uncertainty propagation methods, and integration of load coincidence principles and physical synthesis methods. Through these developments, the proposal aims to achieve a comprehensive understanding of the influence of climate change on structural safety and reliability. By leveraging advanced modeling and analysis techniques, the project seeks to provide valuable insights into the performance of bridge structures under multi-hazard scenarios. In summary, the proposed research paradigm represents a significant advancement in the field of structural engineering, offering both theoretical insights and practical methodologies for addressing the complex challenges posed by climate change. Through interdisciplinary collaboration and innovative research methodologies, the project aims to contribute towards the development of infrastructure systems capable of withstanding the impacts of climate change.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• International Connection: China
• Cooperation Partners: Professor Jianbing Chen, Ph.D.; Professor De-Cheng Feng, Ph.D.