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UK–China Science Bridge – Sustainable solutions for the built environment

Magee, B.J. / Basheer, P.A.M. / Bai, Y. / Long, A.E. / McCarter, W.J. / Jin, W.L. / Zhao, Y.X.

Highlights • Significant research synergy exists between UK and China in the field of sustainable solutions for the built environment. • Considerable opportunity exists to deploy UK-based knowledge to leading Chinese universities and research institutions. • Proof-of-concept studies in China confirmed the applicability of UK-based tests for structural durability assessment. • The reported work is aimed at enhancing the structural health performance of concrete bridges in marine environments. • The international collaborative programme described is of interest and benefit to other organisations active in this field.

Abstract The remit of the UK–China Science Bridge is to accelerate deployment of research knowledge in sustainable solutions for the built environment developed at Queen’s University Belfast, to high-ranking partner universities and research institutions in China. To achieve this, proof of concept studies are being undertaken at key Chinese universities and research centres to assess the relevance and transferability of Queen’s University-developed technologies. Particular attention is given to non-destructive testing and sensors for monitoring the durability of structures as well as a novel form of construction called ‘flexible arch’. Chinese counterparts aim to set up monitoring systems in concrete bridges using sensor systems from Queen’s. Data from these monitoring stations will be used to predict the service life and structural health performance of concrete bridges in marine environments. The aim of this paper is to introduce this international collaborative programme and research, allowing other organisations to benefit from the outcomes.