Project Impact

Real-World Case Studies: Bridging Theory and Practice

The RECONSTRUCT Project integrates documented structural failures into interactive learning modules, providing students with practical forensic analysis experience. These case studies allow learners to investigate damage causes, structural vulnerabilities, and failure mechanisms, reinforcing problem-solving skills in forensic engineering.

Key Case Studies

• Historical Masonry Building Failure (Croatia) – Assessing foundation subsidence & structural instability.
• Bridge Collapse in Italy – Investigating material deterioration, overloading, and failure mechanisms.
• Storm-Damaged Warehouse in Germany – Evaluating wind-induced damage & structural vulnerabilities.
• Hotel Fire in Portugal – Examining fire resistance & construction material failures.
• Earthquake-Induced Structural Failures (North Macedonia) – Studying seismic damage & building vulnerabilities.

These case studies will be transformed into interactive training modules, allowing students to analyze failures, assess damage, and develop forensic reports using engineering methodologies and digital tools.

Expected Impact & Long-Term Benefits

For Students & Researchers

• Gain expertise in forensic failure investigation and damage assessment techniques.
• Develop problem-solving skills through hands-on case studies.
• Access cutting-edge digital learning tools for forensic engineering education.

For Universities & Educators

• Integrate forensic engineering modules into existing civil engineering programs.
• Access open-source educational resources for enhanced teaching.
• Improve teaching methodologies using interactive & gamified learning approaches.

For Industry Professionals

• Enhance forensic expertise in failure analysis and forensic assessment.
• Collaborate with universities and research institutions to stay at the forefront of forensic engineering.
• Access innovative training programs for continuous professional development.

For Regulatory Bodies & Policy Makers

• Strengthen forensic engineering guidelines & disaster response frameworks.
• Support safer, more resilient infrastructure through evidence-based engineering insights.
• Improve cross-sector collaboration between academia, industry, and public authorities.

RECONSTRUCT is designed to extend beyond the project's duration, ensuring:

• The creation of an international forensic engineering education framework.
• Open-access materials for universities, professionals, and policymakers.
• A strong network of forensic engineering professionals across Europe.
• Scalability & Transferability – Universities can adopt and customize the program for future engineering curricula.

By bridging the gap between academia and industry, RECONSTRUCT sets a new standard for forensic structural engineering education, ensuring that future engineers are well-equipped to analyze and prevent failures.