Webinar details
Shape Memory Alloys for Civil Structures are gaining increasing attention as smart materials that can improve structural resilience, durability and performance under extreme loading. This webinar explores how shape memory alloys (SMAs) are being applied across civil and structural engineering, from seismic retrofitting and self-centering systems to vibration control, structural strengthening and rehabilitation.
This webinar provides an overview of shape memory alloys (SMAs) as smart materials for improving the resilience and performance of civil structures. It will introduce the fundamental behaviour of SMAs, including the shape memory effect and superelasticity, and explain how these unique material characteristics can be utilised in structural engineering. Key applications will include seismic retrofitting, self-centering structural systems, vibration control, energy dissipation, structural strengthening and rehabilitation, and the use of SMA-based components in bridges and buildings.
The webinar will also review recent innovations, practical implementation challenges, and current research trends associated with SMA applications in civil infrastructure. Particular attention will be given to their potential to reduce residual deformation, improve post-event functionality, and enhance structural durability and resilience under extreme loading. The session will conclude with a discussion of limitations, design considerations, and future opportunities for wider adoption of shape memory alloys in resilient and sustainable civil structures.
- The webinar will be recorded and will be sent out to registered attendees afterwards.
- A certificate of attendance will be provided to attendees who request one near the end of the live webinar session.
- Please note: the time stated on this event is in UTC. You will need to convert this to your own time zone.
Key takeaways from this webinar
- Understand the fundamental behaviour and key properties of shape memory alloys, including the shape memory effect and superelasticity, relevant to civil and structural engineering applications.
- Identify key applications of shape memory alloys in civil structures, including seismic retrofitting, self-centering systems, energy dissipation, vibration control, and structural rehabilitation.
- Evaluate the benefits, current limitations, design considerations, and future opportunities associated with using shape memory alloys to improve the resilience and performance of civil infrastructure.
About the presenter
Dr. Ben Bright – EIT Lecturer
Ben Bright is a Chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng), Registered Professional Engineer of Victoria (RPEV) and member of the National Engineering Register (NER), with extensive experience in structural engineering, engineering education and professional practice. He holds a PhD in Structural Engineering and has worked across engineering design, assessment, construction and building inspection, bringing strong industry experience into his teaching and academic activities.
At the Engineering Institute of Technology (EIT), Ben is a Unit Coordinator and lecturer in structural and civil engineering, where he teaches and develops postgraduate engineering subjects, supervises student projects, and contributes to academic quality and curriculum development. Alongside his academic role, he operates his own building inspection practice, providing professional building and structural assessment services. His approach to engineering education focuses on connecting theoretical principles with practical, real-world engineering applications.