In the ever-evolving landscape of civil engineering, a groundbreaking study published by Nuno Guerra from the Universidade Nova de Lisboa’s Department of Civil Engineering has the potential to revolutionize how we design and build support structures, particularly in the energy sector. The research, published in Geotecnia, tackles a longstanding challenge in geotechnical engineering: calculating static and seismic impulses on support structures with steep inclinations.
Traditionally, engineers have relied on classical theories to calculate active impulses on support structures. However, when the upper face of these structures exceeds a critical inclination, these classical methods fall short. Guerra’s research introduces a novel approach that involves summing two forces—a soil weight and an active impulse, both modified by seismic coefficients when seismic action is considered. This method promises to provide a more accurate and direct calculation of impulses on steeply inclined structures.
“The current methods are not always reliable for structures with steep inclinations,” Guerra explains. “Our approach offers a more precise way to calculate these impulses, which is crucial for ensuring the stability and safety of support structures, especially in seismic zones.”
The implications for the energy sector are significant. Support structures, such as those used in hydroelectric dams, offshore wind farms, and other energy infrastructure, often face steep inclinations and seismic activity. Accurate calculation of impulses is vital for designing structures that can withstand these forces, ensuring long-term stability and reducing the risk of catastrophic failures.
Guerra’s method involves adapting the current procedures used for structures with inclinations below the critical value. This adaptation allows for the direct calculation of impulses on the face of the structures, making the process more efficient and reliable. The research also provides a framework for programming these calculations, which could lead to the development of new software tools for engineers.
“This research opens up new possibilities for designing more robust and resilient support structures,” says Guerra. “By providing a direct and accurate method for calculating impulses, we can enhance the safety and longevity of these structures, which is particularly important in the energy sector.”
The study, published in Geotecnia, which translates to Geotechnics, is a significant step forward in geotechnical engineering. It offers a practical solution to a complex problem, with the potential to shape future developments in the field. As the energy sector continues to expand and face new challenges, accurate and reliable methods for designing support structures will be more important than ever. Guerra’s research provides a valuable tool for engineers, helping them to build safer, more resilient structures that can withstand the forces of nature.
