UNDER CONSTRUCTION
Dr. Mtenga and his students are interested in a wide variety of problems in the general
area of structural analysis and design, and construction materials. In the recent past,
they have focused their research on the following issues:
1. Structural system reliability and performance, in which Dr. Mtenga and his team of
students are studying the system influence on the classic design of individual components
(members), structural stability and lateral bracing requirements.
2. Biocomposites, in which they are studying the physical and mechanical characteristics
of building materials made from natural fibers bonded with either inorganic binders or
polymers (synthetic and natural). These natural fibers include both virgin fibers and
recycled ("waste") fibers (office paper, newsprint, chemically treated
demolition products, agricultural residues, etc.). The research is aimed at the
minimization of solid waste going to landfills, as well as the development of more
efficient use natural resources, thus reducing deforestation and associated green house
effect.
3. Performance of highway safety structures, in which Dr. Mtenga, Dr. Spainhour and their
team of students are using forensic engineering techniques to determine the influence of
various parameters on the field performance of these highway safety structures. In this
study, they expect to develop a database that can be used by designers and owners to
determine which type of highway safety structure is most effective in a given environment.