Fabian and Jaakko Ahvenainen Foundation grants awarded for 2023

The behavior of a massive concrete slab cast in two parts as a composite structure

The thesis aimed to find out the implications of a horizontal construction joint on the composite behavior of a massive concrete slab. The research was conducted by analyzing the effects of heat release due to cement hydration, stresses caused by non-uniform shrinkage and creep, as well as the transfer of post-tensioning force. The thesis brought out results to be directly utilized in design and construction of massive concrete slabs.

Condition assessment of reusable structural materials and components

My master's thesis studies the condition assessment of reusable load-bearing concrete structures, with the main focus on the technical properties to be known to assure the suitability for reuse and to verify the compliance. It presents the needed properties and suggests methods to achieve those during condition assessment and presents the suggested framework for the assessment process in general.

Algorithmic Advancements in Drive-by Inspection Methods Towards Intelligent Bridge Monitoring

Traditional methods necessitate many sensors installed on the bridge, which results in high costs and maintenance requirements; they are no longer the optimal choice for bridge health monitoring. This work delves into the drive-by bridge inspection method that utilizes vehicles equipped with sensors as an alternative approach. The purpose is to develop algorithmic solutions for vehicle-based bridge health monitoring, extracting key bridge modal parameters and precisely identifying bridge damage. It addresses prevalent challenges and provides innovative algorithms that propel the drive-by bridge inspection method closer to real-world application, paving the way for a practical and economical bridge health monitoring system. 

Hygrothermal performance of wood-framed, mineral-wool-insulated walls and roofs with low thermal transmittance

The thesis utilizes both extensive experiments and numerical simulations to address the moisture safety of well insulated building envelopes in Nordic climate conditions. The study focuses on the drying performance of external walls as well as on the hygrothermal conditions in the ventilation cavities of walls and roofs.