New generation design methods for stainless steel structures
Current structural steel design codes are based on traditional limit state criteria, in which uncertainties are accounted for through partial coefficients when checking members and connections. However, within the frame of resilient and sustainable cities, it is necessary to choose optimised and sustainable construction materials such as stainless steel, as well as to accurately predict the behaviour and failure of structures by means of system-based design approaches. One method that fits these criteria is the Direct Design Method (DDM). Its applications span from the optimized design of new structures to the safety assessment of existing ones (for reutilization or evaluation after possible damage due to time-degradation or intentioned harm). The DDM directly evaluates the system’s strength from finite element analysis without requiring member and connection checks, thus leading to the design of safer, lighter, more economic and potentially faster designs. More importantly, failure modes of the structure are apparent, making it possible to consider the consequences of failure in design and achieve a consistent system reliability. However, there is a need for research to develop system resistance factors based on rigorous system reliability considerations for the DDM, specially for stainless steel. This research project will develop the bases for the system-based New Generation Design Methods for stainless steel structures, and this fellowship will provide a most adequate training in structural reliability for the development of the pioneering DDM for stainless steel structures and the corresponding design recommendations for their inclusion in the Next Generation European Standards. It will be an international and inter-sectorial effort to provide designers with powerful tools that can encourage innovation in design, in addition to enhancing the transfer of knowledge and strengthen research ties not only between Australia and the EU, but also with the industry.