(Past) Understanding the Behavior of Structures Exposed to Fire
Join us for the fall Engineering Seminar Series as Dr. Augusto Gil, assistant professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, presents Understanding the Behavior of Structures Exposed to Fire.
Fire remains one of the most critical hazards to the built environment, capable of compromising structural integrity within minutes. This talk explores how materials and structural systems respond under elevated temperatures, bridging scales from microstructural degradation to full-system performance. Dr. Gil will discuss ongoing research on the thermal and mechanical behavior of concrete, steel, and timber structures subjected to fire exposure, emphasizing how experimental testing and numerical modeling can be integrated to predict failure mechanisms and residual capacity. The presentation will also highlight the role of performance-based design in developing safer, more resilient structures and the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in advancing fire engineering practice. Through a combination of case studies and research insights, the talk aims to provide a holistic understanding of how fire affects our structures and how engineering innovation can mitigate these risks.
Presenter: Dr. Augusto Gil, assistant professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville
About the presenter
Dr. Augusto Gil is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, where he teaches courses in structural engineering. His research focuses on advancing the fire safety of structural systems, including concrete, steel, and timber buildings and bridges. His work combines experimental testing and numerical modeling to evaluate the degradation of material properties at elevated temperatures and its effects on structural performance.
About the university
The University of Wisconsin-Platteville is a public university located in southwest Wisconsin known for its strong programs in engineering, agriculture, business, and education, and for its emphasis on hands-on, applied learning. The College of Engineering, Mathematics and Science has a long tradition of preparing practice-ready engineers through project-based coursework and close collaboration with industry partners.
About the Engineering Seminar Series
The University of Wisconsin-Platteville Engineering Seminar Series is offered on campus and via zoom. Free and open to the public, these presentations showcase the plan, design, construction, and maintenance of real-world engineering projects and how they change our community. Attendees are eligible for one professional development hour.
For more information or to request disability accommodations, contact the UW-Platteville College of Engineering, Mathematics and Science Dean's Office at 608.342.1561 or emsdeansoffice@uwplatt.edu.