The conference is also concerned with both theoretical, mathematical and scientific developments as well as applications of established technology to new domains. The word 'structures' is interpreted in its widest sense.
Previous venues for the conference have included: Edinburgh, Prague, Leuven, Lisbon, Gran Canaria, Athens, Valencia, Dubrovnik, Naples, Sitges, Montpelier and Prague.
The conference runs concurrently with the Thirteenth International Conference on Engineering Computational Technology (ECT 2026). Participants may attend sessions from either conference.
Papers presented at the CST 2024 Conference can be found here on: www.ctresources.info
- Computational Structures Technology
(where structures is interpreted in its widest sense.) - Computational Stochastic Mechanics
- Integration of Computational Structures Technology
and Computational Fluid Dynamics - Computational Nano-mechanics
- Computational and Nonlinear Dynamics
- Computational Geotechnics
- Computational Biomechanics
Stream 1: Developments in Methods and Techniques
- Finite and Boundary Element Analysis
- Discrete Element Methods
- Particle Methods
- Meshfree Methods
- eXtended Finite Element Method
- Adaptivity
- Isogeometric Analysis
- Eigensolvers
- Spectral and Wave Element Methods
- Differential Quadrature Methods
- Partial Differential Equations
- Peridynamics
- Fractional Methods
Stream 2: Problem and Application Analysis Domains
- Static and Dynamic Analysis
- Non-Linear Analysis
- Stochastic and Reliability Analysis
- Chaotic Phenomena
- Impact and Contact
Stream 3: Materials Modelling and Characterisation
- Material Models
- Functional Graded Materials
- Geomaterials
- Smart Materials
- Piezoelectric Materials
- Composite Materials
- Fracture and Fatigue
- Brittle Materials
- Materials Characterisation
- Poromechanics
- High Performance Fibre Reinforced Cementitious Composites
Stream 4: Pre and Post Processing
- Error Estimation, Verification and Validation
- Visualisation and Graphics
- Mesh and Grid Generation
- Tools for Post- and Pre- Processing
- Managing Large Data Sets including data compression
Stream 5: Optimisation and Design
- Computer Aided Design
- The Role of Finite Element Method in Design
- Structural and Multidisciplinary Optimisation
- Structural Re-analysis & Sensitivity Analysis
- Shape and Topology Optimisation
- Computational Tools for Integrated Design
- Reliability-based Optimal Design
- Stochastic Optimal Structural Control
- Stochastic Optimisation Methods
- Swarm Intelligence Techniques
- Machine Learning Algorithms
- Surrogate Modelling in Structural Optimisation
- Robust Design
- Additive Manufacturing (3D-Printing)
Stream 6: Software Development: Tools, Techniques and Issues
- Software Standards and Quality Control
- Verification and Validation
- Autonomic Computing
- Parallel, Distributed and Cloud Systems
- Use of High Performance Computer Architectures
- Supercomputing
- Domain Decomposition and Partitioning
- MIMD Architectures
- Distributed Computing and Networking
- Artificial Intelligence and Knowledge-Based Systems
- Novel Software Tools and Development Environments
- Virtual Reality and Immersive Systems
- Algorithms for Vectorisation and Parallelisation
- Genetic Algorithms and Evolutionary Processes
- Neural Networks
- Object Oriented Methods
- Data Mining
- Solution Procedures for Large Scale Problems
- Hardware and Software developments for HPC
- Grid and Cloud Computing
- WWW Applications
- Large Scale Systems
- Computational Steering
- Digital Twins in Structural Engineering
Stream 7: Areas of Application
- Numerical Modelling of Foundations
- Soil-Structure Interaction
- Structural Modelling
- Computational Methods for the Structural Assessment of Historical Structures
- Damage Identification
- Micro-Mechanics Model
- Dynamic Systems
- Smart Structures
- Building Information Modeling in Structural Engineering.
- Fluid-Structure Interaction
- Large Scale Systems
- Earthquake and Structural Dynamics
- Active Control
- Damage Tolerant and Fail Safety Computer Design
- Uncertainty and Probabilistic Analysis
- Multi-Scale Modelling
- Multi-Body Dynamics
- Material Modelling and Characterisation
- Acoustics and Vibrations
- Damping
- Inverse Problems
- Human Induced Vibrations
- Multi-Hazard Applications
- Pipeline engineering
- Multiphase flow modelling
Stream 8: Structural Types and Studies
- Plate and Shell Structures
- Aerospace Structures
- Offshore Structures
- Lightweight, Membrane and Fabric Structures
- Retractable Roofs
- Composite and Concrete Structures
- Timber Structures
- Steel and Aluminium Structures
- Brick, Blockwork and Masonry
- Geotechnical Structures
- Smart Structures
- Structural Health Monitoring
- Computer Simulated Demolition
- Structures under Extreme Loading (e.g. Blast and Fire)
- Protective Structures
- Forming and Coupled Problems
- Heritage Structures
- Subsea structures and Pipeline Design
- Onshore pipelines
Stream 9: Computational Engineering: Education and Training
- Course Development
- On-line Training Systems
Participants may propose special sessions using the form here. Proposals should be emailed to Professor B.H.V. Topping using send special session proposal. Please ensure that you attach your fully completed form. The current list of special sessions includes:
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CST-S1: Advanced Analysis of Steel and Steel-Concrete Composite Structures
organised by: Professor J.G. Santos da Silva, Rio de Janeiro State University, UERJ, Brazil
Professor L.F. Costa Neves, University of Coimbra, UC, Portugal
The aim of this special session is to summarize the progress in theoretical, computational and experimental research in the field of structural analysis of steel and steel-concrete composite structures. Special emphasis is always given to new concepts and procedures concerning the computational modelling, structural analysis and design of steel and steel-concrete composite structures. Topics of interest include static and dynamic structural analysis, fatigue analysis, seismic analysis, vibration control, stability design, structural connections, cold-formed members, bridges and footbridges, fire engineering, trusses, tower and masts, linear and nonlinear structural dynamics and soil-structure interaction. Papers of all research areas related to theoretical, numerical and experimental aspects concerning the computational modelling, analysis and design of steel and steel-concrete composite structures are very welcome.
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CST-S2: Computational Methods for Biomechanics
organised by: Dr Hendrik Geisler, Leibniz University Hannover, Germany
Modern biomechanics is defined by a complex interplay of deformations, fluid-structure interactions as well as growth and remodeling processes. The inherent complexity of these biological systems often leads to computationally expensive nonlinear models which limit the practical applicability. In many applications, models must be evaluated repeatedly for a wide range of parameters, for instance, to find optimal therapeutical dosages and surgical timings timings or to quantify uncertainties inherent in biological data. In order to meet these demands, there is a growing need for innovative and computationally efficient modelling frameworks. Besides algorithmic improvements and novel modelling approaches, mitigation strategies, specifically reduced-order modelling, surrogate models and machine learning techniques, have emerged as possible solutions.
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CST-S3: Advances in Finite, Boundary and Discrete Element Methods
organised by: Professor Jaroslav Kruis, Czech Technical University in Prague, Czech Republic
With the increasing power of computers, more and more complex problems are emerging, especially in the case of coupled multiphysics problems. Their solution not only requires a large number of arithmetic operations, but the existing tools in the finite element method, boundary element method and discrete element method are not sufficient. It is necessary to construct new elements, improve numerical integration methods and solve problems related to complex material models. The growing number of degrees of freedom requires efficient tools for solving systems of linear or nonlinear algebraic equations and for calculating eigenvalues and eigenvectors.
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CST-S4: Analysis, Design and Modelling of Structures Using Unconventional Construction Materials
organised by: Professor Hexin Zhang, Edinburgh Napier University, School of Computing, Engineering and the Built Environment, Scotland, UK
The objective of this special section is focussed on the most recent developments in the numerical simulation, computational and experimental investigation in structures constructed by unconventional construction materials, such as fibre reinforced polymer (FRP), “green” concrete, glass, timber, bamboo, etc. This special emphasis is proposed to provide new concepts and procedures of simulation, analysis and design methods for the structures constructed by innovative construction materials. Topics of interest include static and dynamic analysis, numerical modelling, computer simulation, structural design, connections, off-site construction, composite structures, trusses, bridges and footbridges, fire engineering, floor vibration, house and sound insulation, and sustainable constructions.
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CST-S5: AI, Sustainable Design, Optimization, Structural Control and Monitoring, and Digital Twins for Next-Generation of Structures and Infrastructures
organised by:
Dr Raffaele Cucuzza, Bartlett UCL, United Kingdom
Professor Giuseppe Carlo Marano, Politecnico di Torino - DISEG, Italy
Professor Majid Movahedi Rad, Széchenyi István University, Hungary
Professor Valentina Villa, Politecnico di Torino - DISEG, Italy
Professor Marco Domaneschi, Politecnico di Torino - DISEG, Italy
The growing demand for resilient, sustainable, and high performance infrastructure is driving structural engineering toward intelligent and adaptive systems. Technologies such as AI, structural control, health monitoring, and Digital Twins are transforming structures from static entities into dynamic systems able to sense, learn, and respond over time. By integrating real time data, advanced control, AI driven models, and Digital Twins, predictive frameworks can continuously optimize safety, performance, and sustainability.This Special Issue highlights innovative approaches combining monitoring, control, AI, and Digital Twins to advance structural engineering as a predictive discipline. The aim is to promote next generation structures that are intelligent, adaptive, self aware, and resource efficient.
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CST-S6: Novel Numerical Methods for Structural Modelling and Analysis
organised by:
Professor Hugo A. F. A. Santos, Instituto Superior de Engenharia de Lisboa, Portugal
Professor Thomas J.R. Hughes, Oden Institute for Computational Engineering and Sciences, USA
This special session highlights recent advances in numerical methods for structural modelling and analysis, with a focus on the development of novel computational methods and algorithmic strategies. Contributions are invited on innovative numerical formulations, enhanced solution procedures for complex structural behaviour, and new computational approaches for modelling and analysis. The session welcomes work addressing the fundamental properties of numerical techniques, as well as new conceptual and computational frameworks for structural modelling. Research that introduces innovative techniques, examines their performance, or explores the potential of emerging numerical approaches is highly encouraged. The session aims to foster discussion on key challenges, evolving trends, and future directions in computational structural mechanics.
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CST-S7: Developments in the Design Optimisation of Engineering Structures
organised by:
Professor Alberto Martins, University of Coimbra, Portugal
Professor Luís Simões, University of Coimbra, Portugal
Professor János Lógó, Budapest University of Technology and Economics, Hungary
Professor Matteo Bruggi, Politecnico di Milano, Italy
This session focuses on developments in optimisation-based approaches for the design of civil engineering structures. These methods enable the integration of multiple structural and constructional requirements to meet several performance criteria. Therefore, they are well-suited to today’s holistic design approach, aiming for structural efficiency, robustness, resilience, economy, and sustainability. However, such approaches are still not widely used in practice. With increasing computational resources, it is relevant to promote their development and integration into design practice to support conceptual, preliminary, and detailed design stages, automating the design process to obtain improved designs. This session aims to gather international experts on the topic, to exchange knowledge, identify current trends, and discuss expected developments. Contributions on optimisation for structural health monitoring, assessment and retrofitting of existing structures are also welcome.
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CST-S8: Nonlinear and Linear Dynamics: Analytical and Numerical Approaches
organised by:
Professor Jiří Náprstek, Institute of Theoretical and Applied Mechanics, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Prague, Czech Republic
Professor Ranjan Banerjee, City St Georges, University of London, United Kingdom
The core of the special session will constitute problems of Dynamics of Nonlinear and complex Linear MDOF systems as well as of reduced order systems with distributed parameter investigated on an analytical or numerical basis in deterministic, stochastic and combined formulations. Dynamic Stiffness Matrix (DSM) method and related topics of large linear systems will be discussed including extended Wittrick-Williams algorithm. Papers dealing with eigen-value-mode searching methods and analysis concerning non-symmetric, non-proportional and various types of perturbed problems, problems of large and sparse matrices, lambda matrices, Z-matrices are welcome. Moreo-ver, papers about multiple eigen-value problems and Jordan structures as well as problems of numer-ical integration of large evolution differential systems and similar topics are invited. Studies concerning Nonlinear Dynamics of MDOF and distributed mass systems, local and global stability problems, post-critical response processes, bifurcation effects, tunnelling effects, limit cy-cles, stability basins in both Hamiltonian and non-Hamiltonian mechanics are expected. Determinis-tic as well as random formulations including additive/multiplicative excitation and related self-exciting processes will be given due recognition. Markov processes and FP equation basic/generalized. First excursion problems, related Privalov equation will be discussed. Emerging areas of Linear and Nonlinear Dynamics will be fully addressed. (i) Artificial Intelligence as a new tool of computer assisted investigation of analytical models; (ii) Non-holonomic systems with higher order constraints, controlled trajectories; (iii) Interdisciplinary investigations interacting with other areas of mechanics and physics; (iv) Nano and quantum scale systems; (v) Stochastic resonance – energy harvesting; (vi) On-going research and pilot studies with preliminary results. Experimental investigations representing either independent research or those being conducted as verification of theoretical studies are encouraged. Papers reporting interesting practical applications in physics and engineering including case studies, are also expected.
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CST-S9: Computational Modeling of Coupled Multi-Physics Processes in Building Materials: From FEM to AI-Enhanced Approaches
organised by:
Assoc Professor Beatrice Pomaro, Department of Civil, Environmental and Architectural Engineering, University of Padova, Italy
Assoc Professor Gianluca Mazzucco, Department of Civil, Environmental and Architectural Engineering, University of Padova, Italy
Dr Zhenhua Wei, Department of Ocean Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, P.R. ChinaThis special session aims to bring together researchers in computational mechanics focusing on the modeling of building materials under coupled multi-physics conditions. Modern construction materials exhibit complex behaviors governed by the interaction of mechanical, thermal, hygric, and chemical processes, requiring advanced numerical and data-driven approaches for accurate prediction.
The session will highlight recent advances in the development and application of coupled models for materials such as concrete, masonry, composites, and emerging sustainable materials. Particular emphasis will be placed on multi-scale modeling, nonlinear phenomena, and the integration of experimental data into computational frameworks.
In addition, the role of artificial intelligence and machine learning in enhancing modeling capabilities will be explored, including surrogate modeling, hybrid physics-informed approaches, parameter identification, and data-driven discovery of constitutive laws.
Topics of interest include, but are not limited to, thermo-mechanical coupling, moisture transport and durability, chemo-mechanical degradation, fracture and damage in multi-physics settings, advanced finite element formulations, and AI-assisted simulation techniques. Contributions addressing verification, validation, uncertainty quantification, and real-world engineering applications are especially encouraged.
The mini-symposium aims to foster interdisciplinary exchange between computational mechanics, materials science, and data science, promoting innovative approaches for predictive modeling of building materials.
The Conference Editorial Board is:
- Professor J.R. Banerjee
U.K. - Professor Evgeny Barkanov
Latvia - Professor Arpad Barsi
Hungary - Professor Michael Beer
Germany - Professor Bruno Briseghella
China - Professor Matteo Broggi
Italy - Dr Matteo Bruggi
Italy - Professor Pierfrancesco Cacciola
China - Dr Dimos C Charmpis
Cyprus - Professor Eleni N. Chatzi
Switzerland - Professor Cosmin G Chiorean
Romania - Dr Corrado Chisari
Italy - Professor Luis F. Costa Neves
Portugal - Dr Fabio Credali
Saudi Arabia - Dr Raphael Cucuzza
Italy - Professor E. Cueto
Spain - Professor Marco Domaneschi
Italy - Professor N. Fantuzzi
Italy - Professor Michalis Fragiadakis
Greece - Professor M.I. Friswell
U.K. - Dr Hendrik Geisler
Germany - Professor S. Gholizadeh
Iran - Professor Thomas Gratsch
Germany - Professor George A. Gravvanis
Greece - Professor Jung-Wuk Hong
Republic of Korea - Professor Thomas J.R. Hughes
U.S.A. - Dr Peter Ivanyi
Hungary - Professor B.A. Izzuddin
UK - Dr Danko J. Jerez
Chile - Professor Marcin Kaminski
Poland - Dr K.K. Kapasakalis
Greece - Professor Ali Kaveh
Iran - Professor J. Kruis
Czech Republic - Professor Janos Logo
Hungary - Professor Paulo B. Lourenco
Portugal - Professor G.C. Marano
Italy - Professor Stefano Mariani
Italy - Professor Jesus Martinez-Frutos
Spain - Professor Alberto Martins
Portugal - Assoc Professor Gianluca Mazzucco
Italy - Professor G. Milani
Italy - Professor Ioannis Mitseas
United Kingdom - Professor Giuseppe Muscolino
Italy - Professor Andrzej Myslinski
Poland - Professor Hosein Naderpour
Canada and Iran - Professor Jiri Naprstek
Czech Republic - Professor Alfonso Pagani
Italy - Professor Antonina Pirrotta
Italy - Professor Beatrice Pomaro
Italy - Professor Joao Pombo
UK - Dr Majid Movahedi Rad
Hungary - Dr Diogo Ribeiro
Portugal - Dr E. Rohan
Czech Republic - Professor M P Saka
Turkey - Professor Hugo A.F.A. Santos
Portugal - Professor Jose G.S. Santos da Silva
Brazil - Professor Evangelos J. Sapountzakis
Greece - Dr Mohammad Sharghi
China - Professor L.M. da Cruz Simoes
- Professor L.A. Simoes da Silva
Portugal - Professor Barry Topping
UK - Professor Valentina Villa
Italy - Dr Cao Wang
Australia - Dr Zhenhua Wei
China - Professor Yong Yuan
China - Professor Hexin Zhang
United Kingdom - Professor Alphose Zingoni
South Africa

