On the morning of May 14, the 640th "Hong" Academic Lecture, organized by the Graduate School and the Graduate Work Department, hosted by the Highway College, and co-organized by the University Graduate Science and Technology Association, was successfully held at the Academic Exchange Center of the North Campus of the South Campus. Associate Professor Yang Cancan from the Department of Civil Engineering at McMaster University, Canada, and Director of the Applied Dynamics Laboratory, delivered a report titled "Towards Disaster-Proofed, Adaptable, and Efficient Bridge Infrastructure." The lecture was chaired by Teacher Hao Jianming from the Highway College, with a total of 210 faculty members and students from related colleges in attendance.
Associate Professor Yang Cancan's report primarily focused on three aspects: the threats of climate change to bridge infrastructure, response strategies, and long-term assessment models. First, Professor Yang Cancan pointed out that global warming has led to an increase in extreme weather events, exposing bridges to multiple threats such as higher scour rates, more frequent and intense floods, accelerated corrosion, and increased thermal stress. These factors not only shorten the lifespan of bridges but also pose significant risks to public safety. Subsequently, she proposed various response methods, including installing protective measures and optimizing bridge design. For example, the use of modular SCWG column connections can reduce damage and enhance reusability, thereby improving the adaptability and sustainability of bridges. Finally, Professor Yang Cancan explored a time-dependent assessment model for corrosion damage risk in bridges under climate change, providing a scientific basis for the long-term maintenance and management of bridges.