The Center for Infrastructure, Energy and Space Testing offers testing capabilities for quasi-static and dynamic testing of small- and large-scale structural components and systems (e.g., large-scale concrete columns and frames) under various loading conditions as well as shake table testing of structural systems of small and moderate scale. CIEST also allows for the study of mechanical and durability properties of structural and construction materials under various loading and environmental conditions. CIEST also offers unique capabilities for real-time hybrid simulations, where a portion of the structure is physically tested in the lab (physical substructure), while the remaining structure (computational substructure) is computationally coupled with the physical specimen. Hybrid simulation can be used as a cost-effective alternative to shake table tests.
In terms of equipment, CIEST includes several actuators of high force capacity and stroke, four uniaxial loading frames, equipment for concrete preparation, machine shop, and various equipment for mechanical and durability testing of materials. In addition to 12 MTS actuators and a small shake table, unique features of the lab include three high-speed dynamic actuators, a real time STS controller, fiber optic communication, and a strong floor and horizontal modular reaction wall. The materials testing facility includes an environmental chamber capable of reaching RH between 10% and 95% and temperature between -40°C and 177°C with a control accuracy of ±1°C. A recently renovated fog room allows the storage of concrete specimens at temperatures as high as 120 deg. F.
This lab is used by graduate student researchers and is also available for outside testing. For more information, please contact laboratory director Brad Wham.