Applied Science International

Demolishing a building might look like a straightforward job from the outside—just knock it down and clear the debris, right? But there’s a lot more to it, especially when it comes to understanding how a structure might behave once you start breaking it apart. Structural weaknesses, if not identified properly, can lead to unpredictable collapses, safety hazards, and expensive delays. Let’s walk through some of the most common weak spots that professionals keep an eye on during a project. Weak Connections Between Materials Many buildings are made with a mix of steel, concrete, and brick. Where these materials meet, connections can become weak over time, especially in older buildings. During demolition, these areas might give way faster than expected, which can throw off the entire sequence. Planning around these joints helps control how and when parts of a building come down. Aging Structural Components Over the years, buildings are exposed to weather, moisture, corrosion, and...

Old buildings have a unique charm, but their age and wear can often lead to hidden structural issues. While we may not see any immediate problems, issues can arise over time, affecting the building's integrity and safety. Forensic Structural Engineering plays a key role in identifying these problems and finding solutions. Here's why this specialized branch of engineering is so important for older structures. What is Forensic Structural Engineering?  Forensic Structural Engineering focuses on investigating structural failures and the causes behind them. This branch of engineering applies its expertise to evaluate the condition of a building, especially older ones that may have endured years of wear and tear. The work involves inspecting structures to assess any damages and analyzing the reasons behind them. Whether it's a crack in the wall or a foundation issue, structural forensic engineers uncover the underlying causes, ensuring the building's long-term stability. Unde...

  Forensic Structural Engineering is a specialized branch of structural engineering focused on investigating and analyzing structural failures. Whether it’s a collapsed bridge, a cracked foundation, or a leaning retaining wall, forensic engineers are called in to determine the root cause of the problem. This discipline plays a crucial role in improving construction practices and ensuring public safety. The Role of a Forensic Structural Engineer A forensic structural engineer combines technical expertise with investigative skills. Their primary responsibility is to inspect damaged structures, analyze failure patterns, and identify the reasons behind structural issues. This may involve reviewing construction documents, performing load calculations, and even reconstructing incidents using advanced modeling software. In many cases, the findings from Forensic Structural Engineering investigations are used in legal proceedings, insurance claims, and to develop safer design standard...

  In today’s ever-evolving construction industry, the demand for safer, more efficient, and resilient structures is higher than ever. Traditional design methods often rely on prescriptive codes, which may not account for specific performance goals under extreme conditions. This is where Performance Based structural Design comes into play — a cutting-edge approach that ensures buildings meet defined performance objectives under various loads and hazards. What is Performance Based Structural Design? Performance Based structural Design (PBSD) is a methodology that focuses on achieving specific performance goals rather than strictly adhering to standardized code prescriptions. Instead of simply checking off code requirements, engineers use detailed analysis and modeling to ensure the structure performs reliably under anticipated conditions, such as earthquakes, wind, fire, or heavy usage. This approach is especially useful for high-rise buildings, bridges, hospitals, and other cri...