Research in this thrust develops predictive technologies and improved detection methods to identify deterioration before it becomes severe, replacing standard models that often underestimate coastal wear. This earlier insight allows agencies to restore or maintain existing assets instead of replacing them, extending the service life of in-service structures safely and reliably. The result is significant cost savings and a reduced backlog of projected replacements.
Coastal Transportation Infrastructure Evaluation, Prediction, and Degradation Prevention
Coastal transportation infrastructure faces conditions inland assets rarely encounter: constant saltwater exposure, cyclical wetting and drying, wave action, and storm surge. These accelerate corrosion, erode supporting soils, and cause structures to deteriorate faster and less predictably than standard models assume. Traditional inspections often catch this damage too late, when repair is far costlier than early intervention.
Projects In This Thrust
Active Projects
- Coastal Pavement Maintenance and Rehabilitation Decision Making Based on Both Surface and Subsurface Conditions
- Data-Driven Assessment of Rigid Pavement Vulnerability in Texas Coastal Regions
- Efficient System Reliability Assessment of Shoreline Seawalls: Applications to SEAHIVE
- Mixed Metal Oxide-Coated Titanium Alloy Reinforcement for Ultra-Durable Coastal Transportation Infrastructure: Bridging Toward Infinity
- Quantifying Erosion and Load Transfer Mechanisms of Geosynthetic-Reinforced Coastal Pavement Subgrades and Embankments During Inundation Events
- Risk-Based Assessment of Ports and Interconnected Networks Subjected to Coastal Hazards
- Role of Emerging Transportation Technologies and Safety Initiatives in Mitigating Crashes in Coastal Communities
- Strengthening and Corrosion Protection of Coastal Transportation Infrastructure with Titanium Alloy Bars