The human spine has inspired chairs, trainers and flexible batteries, and now it’s the muse of civil engineers designing an innovative bridge pier.…
Infrastructure
Europe’s second-largest rail tunnel is a lesson in how to future proof infrastructure
As Australian cities brace for a population boom, it’s a good time to start thinking about what we can do now to future-proof our infrastructure. A project out of Europe has some useful lessons.…
This landmark’s revamp makes a strong case for heritage engineering
Rather than tear down a historically significant landmark, New Zealand engineers got creative to make a 100-year-old bridge fit for the modern age.…
This smart structures test could make buildings immune to disasters
An innovative testing system that helps develop and maintain smart structures that can withstand catastrophic events has netted a team of structural engineers national kudos.…
Why 2017 was a great year for infrastructure and construction
As Australia’s mining boom wanes, a new industry is rising to fill the gap: infrastructure. But growing demand for skilled engineers is highlighting some pressing skills shortages. …
Queensland floods: Dam engineers are in the hot seat, but is the scrutiny fair?
Almost seven years after the Queensland floods, a class action lawsuit is underway to determine if Wivenhoe dam engineers and operators acted negligently.…
Future Mars explorers might live in these tree-inspired dwellings one day
A team from MIT has created what they think will be the dwellings that keep future Mars colonisers alive.…
Potholes could be a thing of the past thanks to this secret ingredient
Wherever there are roads, there are potholes – we’ve come to accept it as a given. But a recent discovery out of the UK might make it possible to have the former without the latter. …
Infrastructure reform is past due, says one industry expert
The Australian Infrastructure Plan emphasises the need to pursue infrastructure reform that would see more services delivered through well-regulated markets.…
Do underground cities offer a solution to the world’s urban boom?
Humans have moved from cave dwellings to skyscrapers. But we’re reaching a point where we can’t cram more buildings and people into cities as they stand. Maybe it’s time to head back into our ‘caves’ …