Fabrication and mechanical property of carbon nanotube/metal composites

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are known to exhibit extraordinary mechanical properties such as high tensile strength, the highest Young modulus etc. These, combining with their large aspect ratio, make CNTs an excellent additive candidate to complement or substitute traditional carbon black or glass fiber fillers for the development of nano-reinforced composites. CNTs have thus far been used as additives in polymers, ceramics and metals to be pursued on practical applications of their composites. © 2010 IEEE.

Comprehensive Property Retrieval and Measurement of Concrete Spalling Using Machine Vision for Post-Earthquake Safety Assessments

Active vibration control (AVC) is a relatively new technology for the mitigation of annoying human-induced vibrations in floors. However, recent technological developments have demonstrated its great potential application in this field. Despite this, when a floor is found to have problematic floor vibrations after construction the unfamiliar technology of AVC is usually avoided in favour of more common techniques, such as Tuned Mass Dampers (TMDs) which have a proven track record of successful application, particularly for footbridges and staircases. This study aims to investigate the advantages and disadvantages that AVC has, when compared with TMDs, for the application of mitigation of pedestrian-induced floor vibrations in offices. Simulations are performed using the results from a finite element model of a typical office layout that has a high vibration response level. The vibration problems on this floor are then alleviated through the use of both AVC and TMDs and the results of each mitigation configuration compared. The results of this study will enable a more informed decision to be made by building owners and structural engineers regarding suitable technologies for reducing floor vibrations.