Department of Civil Engineering

The University of Ottawa has a strong research program on earthquake engineering that involves experimental and analytical research, as well as reconnaissance missions and field investigations after major earthquakes. Experimental research includes tests of large-scale and full-size building and bridge components in the Structures Laboratory under simulated seismic loading. Analytical research includes dynamic inelastic response history analysis of structures and development of mathematical models for hysteretic behaviour of structural elements.

The main thrust of current research is on the development of innovative seismic retrofit methodologies for concrete columns, structural walls, masonry infill panels, and reinforced concrete frame systems. The examined techniques include external prestressing, steel bracing, and the use of fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) sheets.

Another area of research concentration involves the investigation of seismic performance of normal‐strength and high‐strength concrete structures reinforced with FRP bars, shape memory alloys, steel and FRP grids, as well as stay‐in‐place FRP formwork. A new program has also been implemented on seismic resistance of timber structures. Projects geared towards new construction involve the development of design procedures and design provisions for use in practice.

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Environmental engineering research encompasses water treatment, wastewater treatment, solid waste management, landfill design, biosolids treatment and biofilm treatment system design.

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The Geotechnical Engineering Group specializes in mining geotechnique, saturated and unsaturated soil mechanics, underground disposal of nuclear waste, advanced modelling techniques, and rock mechanics. Using advanced knowledge in these areas, the group takes on challenging civil engineering projects related to mining activities, foundation design, natural disasters, and other geotechnical problems.

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The main thrust of research in structural engineering involves the investigation of analysis, design and construction methods for buildings, bridges and other infrastructure. At the Department of Civil Engineering, areas of expertise include reinforced concrete structures, fibre reinforced concrete, steel structures, oil and gas pipelines, wood structures, wind effects on structures, and seismic, blast and tsunami effects on structures.

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The Water Resources Engineering Group specializes in morphodynamics of rivers and coastlines, mixing processes, hydraulic structures, stochastic hydrology, and climate change.  Solutions combine leading-edge research in high-resolution field measurements, detailed laboratory physical models, and advanced numerical modelling techniques.

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Wind storms are one of the greatest natural causes of damage and loss of structures. Major events, like Hurricanes Katrina and Andrew, have caused tens of billions of dollars’ worth of damage in a single event. Also, much damage and suffering is caused every year by local extreme winds, such as tornadoes, downbursts, and gusty winds. Although there have been significant advances in the understanding of wind effect on structures, new approaches in theoretical and experimental techniques are always being developed.

The Wind Research Group is currently involved in research projects concerning estimation of aerodynamic vibration of tall buildings and suspension bridges, as well as assessment of wind-induced pressure on a vast majority of structures and clean energy systems (such as solar panels and wind turbines).

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Civil infrastructure is critical to society, providing housing, mobility, and a platform for business development. Yet infrastructure development, operation, and maintenance accounts for a significant share of energy and natural resources consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, and waste generation.

The Sustainable Materials and Construction group in the Department of Civil Engineering at uOttawa is aligned with the current Canadian infrastructure needs and aims to conduct research (among others) on 1) low-carbon, renewable and bio-sourced building materials, 2) energy-efficient and green building systems, 3) bioclimatic and net-positive buildings, 4) indoor environmental quality; 5) condition assessment (diagnosis and prognosis) and management protocols of critical infrastructure.

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