In the ever-evolving world of structural engineering, a recent bibliometric study has shed light on a critical area of research: the behavior of corroded reinforced concrete (RC) slab-column connections under seismic and cyclic loading. Led by Ahmed M. Ismail from the Department of Civil Engineering at Suez Canal University, this comprehensive analysis, published in ‘Discover Civil Engineering’ (which translates to ‘Exploring Civil Engineering’), offers a global perspective on the trends and advancements in this specialized field.
The study, which examined 1,021 English-language publications from the Scopus database between 2014 and June 2025, reveals a consistent growth in research output, particularly after 2020. This surge in interest is not surprising, given the significant implications for the energy sector, where the integrity of structures is paramount. “The energy sector relies heavily on robust infrastructure,” explains Ismail. “Understanding how corrosion affects the seismic performance of RC connections is crucial for ensuring the safety and longevity of these structures.”
The research identified China, the United States, and Italy as the global leaders in this area, with their institutions and authors contributing significantly to the body of knowledge. Keyword co-occurrence analysis classified research themes into corrosion mechanisms, seismic performance, experimental studies, retrofitting techniques, and numerical modeling. The journals Construction and Building Materials and Journal of Building Engineering were found to be the most active publication venues, indicating their relevance to the field.
One of the most compelling aspects of this study is its qualitative review, which highlights the detrimental effects of corrosion on bond degradation, punching shear resistance, and hysteretic energy dissipation. These findings have significant commercial implications for the energy sector, where the failure of such connections can lead to catastrophic consequences. “The energy sector relies heavily on robust infrastructure,” explains Ismail. “Understanding how corrosion affects the seismic performance of RC connections is crucial for ensuring the safety and longevity of these structures.”
Despite the advancements, the study also identifies gaps in the current research. These include the need for better modeling of non-uniform corrosion, understanding the biaxial cyclic response, and integrating artificial intelligence (AI) for predictive analysis. Addressing these gaps could pave the way for more resilient and efficient structures in the energy sector.
As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of climate change and aging infrastructure, this research offers valuable insights into the future of structural engineering. By understanding the trends and advancements in this field, professionals in the energy sector can make informed decisions that ensure the safety and longevity of their structures. “This study provides a roadmap for future research,” says Ismail. “It highlights the areas where more work is needed and offers a glimpse into the potential of AI and other advanced technologies in this field.”
In conclusion, this bibliometric study by Ahmed M. Ismail and his team is a significant contribution to the field of structural engineering. It not only highlights the current trends and advancements but also offers a glimpse into the future of this critical area of research. For the energy sector, this research is a valuable resource that can help ensure the safety and longevity of their infrastructure.