Education

Research Description

Dr. Ziccarelli's research is part of the Structural Engineering and Mechanics group within CCEE. His primary research area is in the area of nonlinear structural analysis of structural components at extreme limit states, including large-scale yielding, fracture and buckling. His previous work focused on developing finite element techniques to simulate ductile crack propagation in steel structures under the effects of seismic loading. He is currently engaged in projects studying the propagation of fatigue cracks in marine hydrokinetic devices, and the transition from ductile to brittle fracture in steel structures under seismic loading. His projects generally involve both computational and experimental components.

Publications

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Grants

Finite Element Study to Support Revised AISC 341 Local Buckling Limits

American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC)(6/30/23 - 6/01/24)

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Finite Element Study to Support Revised AISC 341 Local Buckling Limits

Sponsor: American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC)

Start Date: 6/30/23

End Date: 6/01/24

Abstract

Local buckling under seismic loading conditions is addressed in the AISC Seismic Provisions for Structural Steel Buildings (AISC 341) through limitations on element slenderness given in Table D1.1. The origins of the limits provided in Table D1.1 are unclear in some cases, and there are questions as to whether the current limits provide consistent, acceptable levels of performance across members and systems. In this project, a detailed finite element study is proposed which will provide further insight into the phenomenon of local buckling under seismic loading. First, continuum finite element models of selected experimental specimens will be built and analyzed. This will provide detailed stress-strain data for these previously-tested experimental specimens, while also allowing for the validation of modeling assumptions for component-level specimens. Then, a parametric finite element study will be performed on component specimens, where specimen parameters will be varied, which will expand the scope of the experiments and provide additional insight into the factors which impact local buckling behavior. This additional data may be taken into consideration in the development of revised slenderness limitations in Table D1.1.

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