Overview

Mission

Research Areas

The Center for Repair of Buildings and Bridges with Composites (RB²C) is a National Science Foundation Industry/University Cooperative Research Center (I/UCRC) based at the University of Miami. RB²C focuses on conducting high-quality and industrially relevant engineering research in the areas of sustainable construction and of structural rehabilitation of buildings and bridges using the novel, untapped potential of advanced composite and high-performance materials and technologies.

RB²C started in 1998 at the University of Missouri-Rolla (now Missouri S&T), and was transferred in 2006 to UM. In 2002, RB²C became a multi-university center when North Carolina State University joined.

In 2007, RB²C became an active partner of Miami Wind™, a collaborative research center of RWDI and UM. Miami Wind™ is located in Miramar, FL, and is base to the largest boundary layer wind tunnel facility in the USA. The center is dedicated to the generation and dissemination of knowledge of wind effects on structures and sustainable design solutions and construction practices, based on a fundamental commitment to the environmental, social and economic consequences of storm and surge hazards.

RB²C has worked with several industry members, often in partnership with public agencies and other universities, on a wide range of research, development and technology transfer projects. Results and outcomes are shared by all members of RB²C, where each member has a seat on the Industry Advisory Board (IAB). The IAB meets twice a year to evaluate the proposed projects and select those to be funded, and to review the progress of each ongoing project. In addition to the competitive edge gained through RB²C, industry members benefit from access to creative university ideas, and interaction with potential future collaborators and employees.

The results of research conducted under the aegis of RB²C have led to the development and validation of successful advanced composite materials and systems for the construction industry. A significant body of knowledge has been gained, disseminated, and accepted. The role of cooperative research continues to be crucial in identifying and shedding light on existing gaps, in developing new solutions, and in guiding promising technologies towards full exploitation on the basis of scientific and technical rigor.

If you are interested in our activities and want to know more, or simply want to share some comments, do not hesitate to contact us!