I have been appointed as the Associate Editor of journal Proceedings of the ICE – Engineering History and Heritage. This journal welcomes all papers that relate to the History and Heritage of Civil Engineering, which includes infrastructure and buildings. It aims to reflect the full broad scope of Civil Engineering in papers that increase the knowledge and understanding of civil engineers when designing and constructing their works. Examples of topics can be found here.
I warmly welcome you to submit your work to our journal!
I am excited to share our latest publication, titled “Long-Term Loading Effect on Vibration Performance of CLT Floors: An 896-Day Monitoring Study,” in Engineering Structures. The tests were conducted over three years, from 2020 to 2023. I look forward to engaging in insightful discussions about our findings!
Abstract
Timber, a viscoelastic material, undergoes deformation over time when exposed to sustained loads, a process known as creep. Its rising popularity as a construction material, especially for timber floors, is notable. However, the influence of creep on the dynamic characteristics of timber floors, such as their natural frequency and vibration response, is not well studied. This research focused on how long-term loading (creep) affects the vibration behaviours of a cross-laminated timber (CLT) floor. A full-scale CLT floor was constructed in a lab and subjected to long-term loading using sandbags. Over 896 days, the centroid point deflection and environmental conditions (temperature and relative humidity) were monitored. Human-induced vibration tests were carried out at the beginning, throughout, and at the end of this period. The vibration response, measured in terms of the Vibration Dose Value (VDV), was assessed at various stages of long-term loading. The findings showed a moderate positive correlation between the creep deflection and environmental conditions. The fundamental frequency slightly increased over time due to creep, and a general decrease in VDV was observed as the creep advanced.
On 8-9 May 2024, Haoyu was invited to visit Qingdao University of Technology. During the visit, Haoyu was hosted by Associate Dean of the School of Civil Engineering, Prof. Junwei Liu, and Lecturer Dr. Xuhong Huang. Additionally, Haoyu met with the Vice President of the university, Prof. Jijun Miao. Haoyu presented research on “Bio-based Material Construction and its Vibration Control” and introduced Newcastle University and its Civil Engineering to the staff and students. Both parties expressed strong interest in pursuing teaching and research collaborations.
Qingdao University of Technology, located in Qingdao City, China, is renowned for its strength in engineering and science, particularly in Civil Engineering. The university boasts advanced facilities including a 4m x 4m shaking table, an oven for fire tests, and a well-established structural lab capable of conducting dynamic and static tests.
Haoyu was invited to deliver a keynote speech on ‘Seismic Control and Reduction of CLT Structures’ at The 2nd International Symposium on Bamboo and Timber Structures in Nanjing, China. He primarily presented his research findings on the application of SMA-based tuned mass dampers for controlling tall CLT structures, and his pioneering design of SMA-dowelled resilient timber connections. Below are the two papers the presentation was based:
Yan L, Li Y, Chang W-S, Huang H. Seismic control of cross laminated timber (CLT) structure with shape memory alloy-based semi-active tuned mass damper (SMA-STMD). Structures 2023, 57, 105093.
Huang H, Chang W-S. Enhancing resilience in timber connections with SMA dowel and DVW reinforcement. Proceedings of the Institution of Civil Engineers – Engineering History and Heritage 2023
Please feel free to contact me if you are interested in our research.
I am thrilled to announce that my research project in Reduction of Timber Floor Thickness and Construction Costs, has been awarded a grant of £10,000 by the Northern Accelerator. This prestigious funding is a testament to the potential impact and innovation of my work in the construction industry.
I look forward to sharing the progress and outcomes of this exciting venture. Stay tuned for updates on how this research is paving the way for a more sustainable and cost-efficient future in construction.
I am excited to share our latest publication titled ‘Enhancing Resilience in Timber Connections with SMA Dowel and DVW Reinforcement’ in the Proceedings of the Institution of Civil Engineers – Engineering History and Heritage. I’m looking forward to engaging in insightful discussions about our findings!
Paper Link: https://www.icevirtuallibrary.com/doi/abs/10.1680/jenhh.23.00009
Abstract: Dowel-type timber connections are commonly found in historic buildings and require reinforcement and repair to ensure their resilience against natural disasters is maintained. This study aims to enhance the resilience of dowel-type connections by equipping them with shape memory alloy (SMA) dowels and densified veneer wood (DVW) reinforcement. The research findings reveal that the performance of SMA bars under cyclic bending is superior to that of steel, in terms of self-centring effect and ductility. Dynamic testing of the SMA-dowelled timber connections shows that connections using SMA exhibit lower residual deformation and better self-centring than those using steel. Additionally, the DVW reinforcement not only improves the self-centring but also the resistance of the SMA-dowelled connection. The comparison between solid bars and tubes shows that the solid bars perform better in terms of damping, resistance, and self-centring. These results demonstrate the potential of developing resilient timber connections and improving the performance of SMA-dowelled timber connections.
Join the Cutting-Edge of Structural Engineering: PhD Opportunity with Dr. Haoyu Huang at Newcastle University
Are you passionate about sustainable structural engineering? Ready to contribute to groundbreaking research in timber structures and vibration control? Dr. Haoyu Huang invites applications for a PhD position in the School of Engineering at Newcastle University.
Dr. Haoyu Huang’s research directions: research site
What We Offer:
Innovative Research Environment: Work on pioneering projects at the forefront of structural engineering.
Mentorship: Benefit from Dr. Huang’s extensive expertise and global academic network.
Career Development: Gain valuable skills for a successful career in academia or industry.
Ideal Candidate:
Background: Academic record in Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics, Materials Science, or a related field.
Skills: Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and enthusiasm for research.
Degree: A 2:1 Honours degree, or international equivalent, in a relevant subject.
English: IELTS 6.5 overall (with a minimum of 5.5 in all sub-skills). If you have lower English Language scores, you may be accepted onto a Pre-sessional English course. Or graduate from a English-teaching university.
How to Apply: You can contact me viaemail (haoyu.huang@newcastle.ac.uk) with your CV first. Submit your application via NU website.
Transform Your Future. Build a Sustainable World. Apply Now!
I’m thrilled to announce that I have set up my own research site, a dedicated space where I’ll be sharing insights, findings, and updates about my ongoing research.
Research Overview: Get a glimpse of my current research projects, the methodologies I employ, and the objectives I’m aiming to achieve.
Publications: I’ll keep this section updated with my latest works.
Collaborations: Learn about the various academic and industry collaborations that are integral to my research. This section will highlight partnerships and co-authored projects.
Blog: Stay tuned for regular blog posts where I’ll delve deeper into specific aspects of my research, discuss emerging trends in the field, and share my thoughts on various topics.
Events and Conferences: Keep track of upcoming conferences, seminars, and workshops that I’ll be participating in or hosting.
Contact Information: Find out how to get in touch with me for academic inquiries, collaborative opportunities, or general questions.
This website serves as a bridge between my work and the broader academic community. It’s a platform for engagement, learning, and sharing knowledge. I’m excited about this new journey and look forward to your visit to the site.
Your support and interest mean a lot to me. Stay connected, and let’s explore the realms of knowledge together!
