study programme

Structural and Transport Engineering

Original title in Czech: Konstrukce a dopravní stavbyFaculty: FCEAbbreviation: DKC-KAcad. year: 2022/2023

Type of study programme: Doctoral

Study programme code: P0732D260022

Degree awarded: Ph.D.

Language of instruction: Czech

Accreditation: 8.10.2019 - 8.10.2029

Mode of study

Combined study

Standard study length

4 years

Programme supervisor

Doctoral Board

Fields of education

Area Topic Share [%]
Civil Engineering Building Construction 70
Civil Engineering Transportation Construction 30

Study aims

The aim of the doctoral study program Structures and Traffic Structures is to provide excellent graduates with a specialized university degree and scientific training in selected current fields of study, particularly in the field of mechanics of load-bearing building structures, concrete, masonry, composite, metal, wood, geotechnics, building testing and diagnostics of load-bearing building structures as well as in the areas of road construction and railway structures and constructions. The study is focused on complex scientific preparation, methodology of independent scientific work and on the development of knowledge in the field of the theory of load-bearing structures, engineering structures and transport structures, with the basic disciplines presented areas of mechanics of load-bearing structures of engineering and transport structures. . The scientific preparation in this study program is based on mastering the initial theoretical disciplines of the science-based basis and theoretical and scientific disciplines of the relevant focus.
The aim of the study is also the involvement of students in the preparation and solution of national and international scientific research projects, presentation of achieved results at national and international level and their publication in professional and scientific foreign and domestic journals as well as at scientific and professional conferences. During his / her studies, the student gains not only new theoretical knowledge, but also own experience from experimental activities and necessary practical knowledge also thanks to close cooperation with construction practice in the field of designing and designing and realization of load-bearing building structures as well as to a foreign university or research institution, or work placements at another professional workplace.

Graduate profile

Graduates of the doctoral study program Structural and Transport Engineering will be prepared for creative activities in the field of science, research, development and innovation, both individually and in teams at national and international level. During his / her doctoral program he / she acquires and acquires deep knowledge of theoretical and professional disciplines, acquires not only new theoretical knowledge but also new own experience and acquires the necessary habits for independent scientific research and creative activities in research and development. in addressing current scientific issues and issues arising from practice requirements. Upon successful completion of the highest level of university studies in the doctoral study program Construction and Traffic Structures, the graduate will be able to deepen the knowledge and level of knowledge in the field and successfully use knowledge and scientific approaches in solving theoretical and practical tasks.
Scientific preparation is focused on the following basic specializations: Mechanics of load-bearing structures; Concrete and masonry structures; Metal, wood and composite structures; Geotechnics; Experimental technology and testing; Roads; Railway structures and constructions. Graduates can be employed mainly in research and development workplaces, in designing organizations, in state administration bodies, and the experience gained during their teaching experience within the doctoral study program can be applied also in education in the academic sphere or in other educational or research institutions. Completion of the doctoral study program is also a necessary precondition for possible further career and professional academic growth of the graduate.

Profession characteristics

Doctoral degree programs are primarily aimed at graduate employment in science and research, which is, among other things, anchored in the objectives of study, learning outcomes and graduate profile. This implies the employment of graduates especially in organizations, institutions and companies that are engaged in research and development activities. These are mainly research organizations whose main activity is research and development, but also construction practice entities, ie companies, where research and development is one of the part of the whole spectrum of activities in addition to commonly realized activities such as production and implementation. A number of implementing companies are currently creating support for their own research and development as they can strengthen their position, competitiveness and marketability in a highly competitive environment. In this regard, there is a growing demand for younger generation professionals with independent creative scientific work, knowledge and insight into new modern trends not only in their expertise but also in related expertise and activities such as PC modeling, simulation, experimental methods and procedures. Last but not least, the graduate has the opportunity to work in the academic sphere, which involves combining scientific research and educational activities. Graduates can thus find employment especially in research organizations and construction practice companies in the context of related development and innovation activities, in educational institutions, especially in the university sphere, which provides them with the possibility of further personal and career development and professional academic growth. Moreover, experience shows that graduates of doctoral study programs are very successful in organizations of the mentioned types not only in the Czech Republic but also abroad, which is also true for graduates in the field of Construction and Transport Structures. Completion of the doctoral study program gives graduates very good prerequisites for employment in, for example, design organizations or state administration in higher professional and managerial positions.

Fulfilment criteria

Fulfillment of the subjects of the individual study plan, successful completion of the state doctoral examination, foreign experience, relevant creative activity and successful defense of the dissertation.

Study plan creation

The rules and conditions for the creation of study plans of study programs carried out at the Faculty of Civil Engineering of the BUT define:
Rules of BUT study programs (www.vutbr.cz/uredni-deska/vnitrni-predpisy-a-dokumenty), which according to Article 1, paragraph 1, point:
c) defines the processes of creation, approval and changes of study program proposals before their submission for accreditation to the National Accreditation Office for Higher Education,
d) lays down the formal requirements for study programs and courses,
e) defines the obligations of study program and subject guarantors,
f) defines the standards of study programs at BUT,
g) defines the principles of quality assurance of study programs.
Study and Examination Regulations of the Brno University of Technology (www.vutbr.cz/uredni-deska/international-details-and-documents)
Details of the conditions for study at the Faculty of Civil Engineering of the BUT are governed by the Dean's Directive )
The PhD student studies according to an individual study plan, which is elaborated by the supervisor in cooperation with the PhD student. The individual study plan is binding for the doctoral student. It specifies all duties set in accordance with the BUT Study and Examination Regulations that a doctoral student must fulfill in order to successfully complete his / her studies.
During the first three semesters, the doctoral student consists of compulsory, compulsorily elective or at the same time, it is intensively engaged in its own study and analysis of knowledge in the field determined by the topic of the dissertation and continuous publication of the knowledge and results obtained in this way. In the following semesters, the doctoral student focuses more on research and development related to the topic of the dissertation, on the publication of the results of his / her creative work and on his / her own dissertation. By the end of the fifth semester, the doctoral student has passed the state doctoral examination. The doctoral student is also involved in pedagogical activities, which is a part of his scientific preparation.
The individual study plan includes scientific outputs in individual years:
- regular publishing activity (Juniorstav and similar),
- participation in scientific conferences at home and abroad,
- for defense of DZP it is necessary to publish - min. 2x Scopus or 1x WOS with impact factor.

Availability for the disabled

At the Faculty of Civil Engineering, BUT, barrier-free access to all teaching rooms is currently provided. However, students must be physically fit to be qualified as a civil engineer. In practically oriented laboratory teaching, they must be able to operate measuring instruments and similar laboratory equipment independently without endangering themselves or their surroundings.
BUT provides support to students with specific needs, for details see Guideline 11/2017 (www.vutbr.cz/uredni-deska/international-documents-and-documents/-d141841/uplne-zneni-smernice-c-11- 2017-p147550).
In order to promote equal access to higher education, BUT incorporates the Alfons Advisory Center, part of the BUT Institute of Lifelong Learning, to provide guidance and support services to applicants and students with specific educational needs. Specific educational needs include learning disabilities, physical and sensory disabilities, chronic somatic illness, autistic spectrum disorders, impaired communication skills and mental illness (alfons.vutbr.cz/o-nas).
Students are provided with information concerning the accessibility of study programs with respect to the specific needs of the applicant, information about the architectural accessibility of individual faculties and university parts, about accommodation at the BUT dormitory, about the possibilities of adapting the admission procedure and adapting the study itself. Other services of the Center for Students with Special Educational Needs also include interpreting and rewriting services, or assistance services - guiding, spatial orientation, in order to enable these students to demonstrate their skills and knowledge in the same way as other students. This is done through the so-called adaptation of study, ie by appropriate adjustment of the study regime, which cannot be understood as a simplification of the content of study or relief of study obligations.

What degree programme types may have preceded

The doctoral study program Construction and Traffic Structures is a follow-up to the follow-up Master's study program Civil Engineering, in particular the study field Construction and Traffic Structures, respectively. as well as other fields of study and nursing master's degree programs. After accreditation of the follow-up master's study program Civil Engineering - Structures and Traffic Constructions for this program.

Issued topics of Doctoral Study Program

  1. Analysis of measured data by traditional and non-traditioanal tools via Matlab or Excel

    The basic description of test material or construction is the measurement. The important part is the correct evaluation of the obtained data. When evaluating large volumes of data, it is also advisable to use less traditional methods. Measurements may contain long time data. The basic description takes place in the time domain of the band. Important information can also be obtained in the frequency or time-frequency domain. The aim is to process some procedures in Matlab and/or VBA Excel.

    Tutor: Pazdera Luboš, prof. Ing., CSc.

  2. Computational modelling of damage in quasi-brittle materials

    Mechanical, thermal, etc. loads cause irreversible damage in quasi-brittle composites in the form of a) a system of microcracks, visible as damage zones, and b) initiation and development of macrocracks, up to material destruction. The aim of study is the design of computational tools for evaluation a), b), including their formal verification and practical validation.

    Tutor: Vala Jiří, prof. Ing., CSc.

  3. Concrete and fatigue: Characterisation of damage and crack initiation induced by cyclic load

    Ph.D. student is going to take attention of the fundamental understanding of the fatigue phenomenon, which is less understood for cement composites than for the metallic materials. The Ph.D. topic deals with the numerical and experimental fracture and fatigue analysis of cement composites made from various types of aggregates. Moreover, the influence of the inner structure, meso-structure of the cement composite and its influence on the fatigue crack initiation will be analysed. The numerical simulations will be performed in the FEM software, taking into account a random meso-structure of the cement composite with implementation of cohesive elements and/or a non-linear material model. These simulations will consider both 2D and 3D models. Experimental testing will cover fatigue and fracture testing on a composite material made with various types of the aggregates (pebble or recycled shape)

    Tutor: Seitl Stanislav, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

  4. Continuous Welded Rail in Small Radius Curves

    The topic is focused on static stability analysis of continuous welded rail in small radius curves. The aim of the topic is to deepen the knowledge about the behaviour of continuous welded rai under thermal and traffic loads in curves with radius 250 m and smaller. The influence of non-linear characteristics of the track, especially lateral and longitudinal resistance, imperfections of geometrical parameters on the stability of continuous welded rai will be studied.

    Tutor: Plášek Otto, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

  5. Deformation properties of the horizontally prestressed masonry

    Study and determination of the deformation properties in case of the horizontally prestressed masonry. The measuring of the real masonry structures using numerical modelling of the problem.

    Tutor: Klusáček Ladislav, doc. Ing., CSc.

  6. Design of Modern Railway Stations

    The topic is focused on designing of railway stations regarding current operating needs, including involvement in integrated transport systems and increased demands for safety, traffic and interoperability of the railway system.

    Tutor: Svoboda Richard, Ing., Ph.D.

  7. Discrete modeling of physical processes in heterogeneous materials

    The dissertation is focused on development of simulation techniques for representation of physical processes in heterogeneous materials. The models are to be focused preferably on materials with irregular inner structure and at the same time, those that are relevant for civil engineering (concrete and similar composites). The processes to be modeled are fracture, transport phenomena and fatigue.

    Tutor: Vořechovský Miroslav, prof. Ing., Ph.D.

  8. Fatigue Analysis of Thermoplastic Welded Joints

    Perform fatigue experiments on chosen thermoplastic welded joints. Create appropriate numerical models in the ANSYS software system. Create a methodology for designing and assessing thermoplastic welded joints.

    Tutor: Gratza Roman, Ing., Ph.D.

  9. Investigation of hydraulic and mechanical properties of clayey soils treated with lime binders

    In recent years, due to the lack of suitable soils for earth dams, their treatment with hydraulic binders has begun. In the case of this type of construction, it is important to know the hydraulic conductivity and mechanical properties of the soils built into the dam. The subject of the dissertation is to perform an extensive series of laboratory tests in order to determine the change in the coefficient of hydraulic conductivity, compressibility and shear strength of clayey soils over time for different levels of loading.

    Tutor: Miča Lumír, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

  10. Joint use of BIM and GIS tools for information modelling of transport structure

    The topic is devoted to the creation of data and information models of linear structures, including methodologies for filling these models with data and the compilation of analyses for the assessment of the state of the structure within the life cycle. At the same time, the topic is also devoted to the issue of interaction and integration of BIM models into GIS, including the management of models in a 3D spatial database and their visualization.

    Tutor: Smutný Jaroslav, prof. Ing., Dr.

  11. Life-time and reliability of concrete structures under combined mechanical and environmental load.

    Durability and reliability of structures are among the basic structure properties that can have significant economic consequences. This thesis is focused on a relatively new topic – the combination of mechanical and environmental load of reinforced concrete structures and its effect on durability and reliability. The issue of durability of concrete structures is gaining importance, especially in connection with sustainable construction, issues of construction life cycle costs and also with the so called performance-based construction design. Moreover, research and development of relevant models and design procedures is not yet complete. What needs to be more closely examined is, for instance, the combination of load effects and the process of carbonation or penetration of chloride ions, but also the combination of other degrading effects and mechanical loading and the simultaneous impact of several degradation processes.

    Tutor: Vymazal Tomáš, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

  12. Load-bearing wood-based structural members and parts

    The dissertation is focused on the issues of the real behaviour and the design methods of load-bearing wood-based structural members and parts.

    Tutor: Šmak Milan, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

  13. Modelling of the soil-rock massif and solution of interaction with the structure

    The aim of study is i) development and implementation of various options for modeling the soil-rock mass, ii) solution using the linearization of subsoil response to the interface with structure, or using volume elements modeling, iii) algorithmization and implementation of advanced material models of soil and rock.

    Tutor: Vala Jiří, prof. Ing., CSc.

  14. Modelling the failure of building fibre composites

    Building fibre compozites are modern materials whose extension is increasing. In the case of use for structures, it is necessary to solve and estimate the service life. Modern numerical methods, especially XFEM (eXtended Finite Element Method), appear to be a suitable tool. A critical moment is a realistic description of the stress distribution in the ahead the stress concentrator.

    Tutor: Vala Jiří, prof. Ing., CSc.

  15. Moninoring and Diagonostic of Railway Structures

    The theme is focused on the study of mechanical phenomena in the track structure, it includes static and dynamic analyses of the track structure with regard to digital diagnostics and monitoring of railway structures - superstructure and substructure. The topic is focused on deepening the knowledge of the behaviour of railway structures in service, the development of autonomous systems of sensing quantities and their evaluation using artificial intelligence technologies, in connection with the system of predictive maintenance.

    Tutor: Plášek Otto, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

  16. Numerical Methods in Uncertainty and Reliability Analyses

    Development of simulation and appximation methods for numerical analyses of problems featuring random variables. The bottom line is the development of advanced Monte Carlo strategies.

    Tutor: Vořechovský Miroslav, prof. Ing., Ph.D.

  17. Optimalization technique in Geotechnics

    Predicting of soil stress - strain behaviour is a complex and demanding task. New and more sophisticated material models are being developed and applied in design practice. The disadvantage of this trend is, in some cases, an increase in the number of input parameters and also requirements for laboratory tests. Calibrations of input parameters values therefore present a time-consuming task. The efficiency of this process can be increased by using optimization techniques. Application of such methods is however still rare in geotechnical engineering. Complex analysis and comparisons of individual methods are not available. Each technique also requires individual settings of parameters governing optimization process which is problem dependent. The need for application research in this area is therefore justified. Theoretical analysis and comparisons of methods will be performed in the first part of the thesis. Chosen methods will be then automatized and connected with finite element models. Efficiency of each technique, its initial settings and sensitivity will be examined in series of numerical back analysis (simulated experiments, laboratory tests, instrumented constructions) and by applying various material models.

    Tutor: Chalmovský Juraj, Ing., Ph.D.

  18. Optimization of parameters for the design of directional curves on roads

    The aim of the dissertation is to optimize the parameters that affect the design of directional curves on roads. This is mainly the relationship between the design speed and the actual travel speed depending on the structural elements of the arc, such as the radius, slope or center angle of the directional arc. Furthermore, it is necessary to examine the relationship of these elements to the actual accidents and, based on the findings, to propose changes with an emphasis on increasing safety. The acquired knowledge will be the basis for changing technical standards.

    Tutor: Radimský Michal, Ing., Ph.D.

  19. Optimization of parameters for the design of directional curves on roads

    The aim of the dissertation is to optimize the parameters that affect the design of directional curves on roads. This is mainly the relationship between the design speed and the actual travel speed depending on the structural elements of the arc, such as the radius, slope or center angle of the directional arc. Furthermore, it is necessary to examine the relationship of these elements to the actual accidents and, based on the findings, to propose changes with an emphasis on increasing safety. The acquired knowledge will be the basis for changing technical standards.

    Tutor: Radimský Michal, Ing., Ph.D.

  20. Optimization of parameters for the design of directional curves on roads

    The aim of the dissertation is to optimize the parameters that affect the design of directional curves on roads. This is mainly the relationship between the design speed and the actual travel speed depending on the structural elements of the arc, such as the radius, slope or center angle of the directional arc. Furthermore, it is necessary to examine the relationship of these elements to the actual accidents and, based on the findings, to propose changes with an emphasis on increasing safety. The acquired knowledge will be the basis for changing technical standards.

    Tutor: Radimský Michal, Ing., Ph.D.

  21. Physico-mechanical and durability characteristics of construction concrete elements with alternative adition of fibres with waste sources.

    Both organic and anorganic fibres from waste raw materials can be used purposefully in construction fibre concretes with extracted aggregate and concrete recyclate. The comparison of physical - mechanical and durability characteristics of fibre concretes with and without loading can contribute to estimating lifetime and ductility behaviour of fibre concretes of different formulations.

    Tutor: Stehlík Michal, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

  22. Rail wear on railway lines in small radius curves

    The topic is focused on the development of rail wear on railway lines in small radius curves in relation to other parameters of the track design and geometric layout. The influence of parameters affecting the dynamic properties of the track structure, in particular bridges, tunnels and level crossings, will also be investigated.

    Tutor: Plášek Otto, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

  23. Reliability nonlinear analysis of concrete structures

    Topic is focused on nonlinear modelling of concrete structures (e.g. bridges) taking into account uncertainties in material, load and environment, including time-depandent degradation.

    Tutor: Novák Drahomír, prof. Ing., DrSc.

  24. Reliable and economic steel-concrete/timber-concrete structural members/parts/systems using advanced materials

    Theoretical and experimental analysis of the resistance of steel-concrete/timber-concrete structural members/parts/systems using advanced materials with qualitatively better utility properties (load-carrying capacity, stiffness, fire resistance) and applying advanced technologies will mainly direct towards increasing their reliability and efficiency. Theoretical solutions will be arised from the analytical methods and numerical modelling, which will be verified by the experimental analysis.

    Tutor: Karmazínová Marcela, prof. Ing., CSc.

  25. Reliable and economic steel-concrete/timber-concrete structural members/parts/systems using advanced materials

    Theoretical and experimental analysis of the resistance of steel-concrete/timber-concrete structural members/parts/systems using advanced materials with qualitatively better utility properties (load-carrying capacity, stiffness, fire resistance) and applying advanced technologies will mainly direct towards increasing their reliability and efficiency. Theoretical solutions will be arised from the analytical methods and numerical modelling, which will be verified by the experimental analysis.

    Tutor: Karmazínová Marcela, prof. Ing., CSc.

  26. Stability and strength of steel structural members in natural environmental conditions

    Stainless and high strength steels are new types of building materials that lacks long-term observations of structural degradation. Testing of steel materials under different environmental conditions (temperatures) is key to reliable predictions of the behaviour of structural elements, such as bridges, in real operating conditions. With the advanced integrated computational-experimental research program, we aim to build on our experience in modelling steel structures and contribute to a better and deeper understanding of the reliability of steel structures.

    Tutor: Seitl Stanislav, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

  27. Stability problems of thin-walled, cold-formed steel Sigma profiles

    The topic of the dissertation thesis is focused on the stability problems of thin-walled, cold-formed steel Sigma profiles. Sigma-shaped profiles have certain specificities in their behavior during distortional buckling, which are not included in all their aspects in the design procedures listed in valid European standards. This is mainly the interaction of the behavior of the edge stiffeners of the flanges and the internal stiffeners of the web (which are typical for profiles of the Sigma shape), which can potentially lead to lower load-bearing capacities during distortional buckling compared to the load-bearing capacities determined according to the procedures specified in the relevant European standards, which are primarily intended for profiles shape C and Z. The aim of the dissertation thesis is a detailed investigation of the behavior of these specific stability problems of thin-walled Sigma profiles in order to verify or specify the design procedures for this specific cross-sectional shape of thin-walled profiles.

    Tutor: Horáček Martin, Ing., Ph.D.

  28. Stochastic Finite Element Method

    Random spatial fluctuation of material and geometrical parameters of structures modeled by random fields in computational models.

    Tutor: Vořechovský Miroslav, prof. Ing., Ph.D.

  29. Technology of Constructuion and Maintenance of Railway Structures

    The topic is focused on research of technology procedures and corrective maintenance that lead to minimization of the traffic restriction, energy consumption, environmental impact and life cycle costs.

    Tutor: Svoboda Richard, Ing., Ph.D.

  30. The autonomous diagnosis of transport structures including related processes

    The topic includes the development and application of new procedures in the field of data collection on transport structures and buildings, including their transport characteristics. The topic is focused on different modes of transport, road, rail, air, water, special or more modes at the same time. Orientation to transport relations, to the capacity and occupancy of specific transport routes, to the speed of transport or speed of travel or delay, to the occupancy of means of transport or to parking and parking of means of transport, or to tariff policy and other motivating factors is assumed. The topic assumes an orientation both on the methods of automatic data collection using detectors and on the use of advanced methods of mathematical analysis, including methods of machine learning and artificial intelligence.

    Tutor: Smutný Jaroslav, prof. Ing., Dr.

  31. The development and application of new methods for experimental static and dynamic analysis of railway construction

    The topic includes the development and application of new procedures in the field of experimental analysis of building (railway) structures. Orientation to modern mathematical procedures in the field of time and frequency analysis in conjunction with artificial intelligence methods is assumed. Part of the topic is the implementation of these procedures in the process of verification of new railway structures, including structures designed for higher operating speeds.

    Tutor: Smutný Jaroslav, prof. Ing., Dr.

  32. The intelligent monitoring system for identifying the condition of railway lines

    The essence of the topic is the design and development of a modern monitoring system for measuring the dynamic effects on the railway superstructure during the passage of trains, evaluation of its current state and for evaluating the effectiveness of maintenance work during its life cycle. The topic includes the creation of a "smart" modular system of basic data collection and a set of appropriate algorithms that allow to obtain information about the state of railway lines and their components in real time, transfer and store them in the created information system for subsequent use for manufacturers, government, projection, research, etc. The work will be carried out on the current platform at the institute of existing measuring technology.

    Tutor: Smutný Jaroslav, prof. Ing., Dr.

  33. The intelligent monitoring system for identifying the condition of railway lines

    The essence of the topic is the design and development of a modern monitoring system for measuring the dynamic effects on the railway superstructure during the passage of trains, evaluation of its current state and for evaluating the effectiveness of maintenance work during its life cycle. The topic includes the creation of a "smart" modular system of basic data collection and a set of appropriate algorithms that allow to obtain information about the state of railway lines and their components in real time, transfer and store them in the created information system for subsequent use for manufacturers, government, projection, research, etc. The work will be carried out on the current platform at the institute of existing measuring technology.

    Tutor: Smutný Jaroslav, prof. Ing., Dr.

  34. The research of dynamic behaviour of railway lines

    The theme is focused on study of dynamic behaviour of railway lines. The theme includes railway superstructure and railway subbase. The topic involves experiment and simulation techniques. Within the simulations, an orientation to the Finite Element Method is assumed, and within the experiment to diagnostics with the use of stationary stations and measuring train sets. The theme also includes application of a suitable modern mathematical apparatus for the evaluation of the railway lines parameters including of artificial intelligence methods use.

    Tutor: Smutný Jaroslav, prof. Ing., Dr.

  35. Thermo-mechanical behaviour of soil

    The topic of the thesis is the investigation of the mechanical behavior of soils loaded not only mechanically, but also thermally. The content of the thesis will analyze the effect of temperature on the strength and compressibility of a selected group of soils. Laboratory tests and their evaluation will be carried out.

    Tutor: Miča Lumír, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

  36. Train speed for track geometry parameters design

    The work will be focused on measuring real train speed in trask section where track speed or signaled speed is changed and comparing measured speed with the outputs of simulation programs. The data obtained in this way will be used to recommend to the design of track geometry parameters.

    Tutor: Svoboda Richard, Ing., Ph.D.

  37. Use of pulse echo method for inspection and diagnostics of reinforced concrete structures

    For the inspection and diagnosis of reinforced concrete structures it is very important to objectively determine their condition. This is where non-destructive methods are primarily used, which can be used to detect critical areas and hidden defects and faults without damaging the structure. The pulse-echo method (ultrasonic reflection method) appears to be highly promising for the inspection of massive structures, which are usually accessible from only one side. This topic focuses on the theoretical aspects of the pulse-echo method and the development of a methodology for measuring and assessing reinforced concrete structures using this method.

    Tutor: Cikrle Petr, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

1. round (applications submitted from 08.06.2022 to 31.07.2022)

  1. Analysis of measured data by traditional and non-traditioanal tools via Matlab or Excel

    The basic description of test material or construction is the measurement. The important part is the correct evaluation of the obtained data. When evaluating large volumes of data, it is also advisable to use less traditional methods. Measurements may contain long time data. The basic description takes place in the time domain of the band. Important information can also be obtained in the frequency or time-frequency domain. The aim is to process some procedures in Matlab and/or VBA Excel.

    Tutor: Pazdera Luboš, prof. Ing., CSc.

  2. Automation of traffic surveys

    The topic includes the development and application of new procedures in the field of data collection on transport structures and buildings, including their transport characteristics. The topic is focused on different modes of transport, road, rail, air, water, special or more modes at the same time. Orientation to transport relations, to the capacity and occupancy of specific transport routes, to the speed of transport or speed of travel or delay, to the occupancy of means of transport or to parking and parking of means of transport, or to tariff policy and other motivating factors is assumed. The topic assumes an orientation both on the methods of automatic data collection using detectors and on the use of advanced methods of mathematical analysis, including methods of machine learning and artificial intelligence.

    Tutor: Smutný Jaroslav, prof. Ing., Dr.

  3. BIM Model for Facility Management of Railway Structures

    The topic is focused on determining the structure of the BIM model, determining the procedures for fulfilling the BIM model with data and analysis of this data.

    Tutor: Svoboda Richard, Ing., Ph.D.

  4. Continuous Welded Rail in Small Radius Curves

    The topic is focused on static stability analysis of continuous welded rail in small radius curves. The aim of the topic is to deepen the knowledge about the behaviour of continuous welded rai under thermal and traffic loads in curves with radius 250 m and smaller. The influence of non-linear characteristics of the track, especially lateral and longitudinal resistance, imperfections of geometrical parameters on the stability of continuous welded rai will be studied.

    Tutor: Plášek Otto, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

  5. Deformation properties of the horizontally prestressed masonry

    Study and determination of the deformation properties in case of the horizontally prestressed masonry. The measuring on the real masonry structures with numerical modelling of the problem.

    Tutor: Klusáček Ladislav, doc. Ing., CSc.

  6. Design of durable concrete structures with FRP reinforcement

    masonry, reinforced an prestressed concrete structures, FRP reinfocement, connected to current solved research projects at dept of Masonry and concrete structures

    Tutor: Štěpánek Petr, prof. RNDr. Ing., CSc., dr. h. c.

  7. Design of Modern Railway Stations

    The topic is focused on designing of railway stations regarding current operating needs, including involvement in integrated transport systems and increased demands for safety, traffic and interoperability of the railway system.

    Tutor: Svoboda Richard, Ing., Ph.D.

  8. Design of new or strengthening of existing concrete strucztures

    masonry, reinforced an prestressed concretet structures, connected to current solved research projects at dept of Masonry and concrete structures

    Tutor: Štěpánek Petr, prof. RNDr. Ing., CSc., dr. h. c.

  9. Efficient probabilistic design and assessment of concrete structures based on safety formats and response surface methods

    The topic is focused on probabilistic and semi-probabilistic approaches for design of concrete structures using nonlinear computational methods based on finite element method. It includes also development and application of response surface methods and sensitivity analysis methods.

    Tutor: Novák Drahomír, prof. Ing., DrSc.

  10. Load-bearing wood-based structural members and parts

    The dissertation is focused on the issues of the real behaviour and the design methods of load-bearing wood-based structural members and parts.

    Tutor: Šmak Milan, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

  11. Modelling of rheological processes in asphalt binder

    A number of standard tests are used to describe the properties of the asphalt binder to determine the functional properties (creep and recovery, percent recovery, non-recoverable creep compliance, flexural creep stiffness, m-value). At the meantime, there are physical models in which standard physical parameters are used to describe the properties of visco-elastic materials. The functional properties are directly related to practical construction needs. Physical models allow the understanding of processes and the prediction of material behaviour. It is desirable to look for links between standards-based approaches and physical models. Parameters for physical models can be derived from standard functional tests and functional properties can be estimated from physical models.

    Tutor: Holcner Petr, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

  12. Moninoring and Diagonostic of Railway Structures

    The theme is focused on the study of mechanical phenomena in the track structure, it includes static and dynamic analyses of the track structure with regard to digital diagnostics and monitoring of railway structures - superstructure and substructure. The topic is focused on deepening the knowledge of the behaviour of railway structures in service, the development of autonomous systems of sensing quantities and their evaluation using artificial intelligence technologies, in connection with the system of predictive maintenance.

    Tutor: Plášek Otto, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

  13. Physico-mechanical and durability characteristics of construction concrete elements with alternative addition of fibres from waste raw materials.

    Both organic and anorganic fibres from waste raw materials can be used purposefully in construction fibre concretes with extracted aggreate and concrete recyclate. The comparison of physical-mechanical and durability characteristics of fibre concretes with and without loading can contribute to estimating lifetime and ductility behaviour of fibre concretes of different formulations.

    Tutor: Stehlík Michal, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

  14. Physico-mechanical and durability characteristics of construction concrete elements with alternative addition of glass recyclate.

    In the Czech Republic is recycled annually 100 000 tons of glass waste. By crushing and cleaning of waste is created glass recyclate in a different fractions. One of the potencial application is the substitution of the coarse aggregate of concrete by glass recyclate. The results of a number of mechanical and physico-chemical tests without and after applicatio of load shall decide on the use of concretes with the glass recyclate and shall help with the assessment of efficiency of production.

    Tutor: Stehlík Michal, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

  15. Reliable and economic steel-concrete/timber-concrete structural members/parts/systems using advanced materials

    Theoretical and experimental analysis of the resistance of steel-concrete/timber-concrete structural members/parts/systems using advanced materials with qualitatively better utility properties (load-carrying capacity, stiffness, fire resistance) and applying advanced technologies will mainly direct towards increasing their reliability and efficiency. Theoretical solutions will be arised from the analytical methods and numerical modelling, which will be verified by the experimental analysis.

    Tutor: Karmazínová Marcela, prof. Ing., CSc.

  16. Selected problems in traffic acoustics

    The topic includes the solution of a group of selected problems in the field of acoustics in the environment of rail transport. The first includes the application of the CNOSSOS-EU methodology and the validation of noise from rail transport in the development of mathematical models in solving the reduction of harmful noise. The second includes methods and procedures for reducing environmental noise in urban agglomerations from tram traffic. The third is focused on the influence of weather conditions on the propagation of sound waves from traffic in the outdoor environment. The fourth is focused on the composing and application of a comprehensive methodology suitable for the evaluation of anti-noise and anti-vibration measures in transport.

    Tutor: Smutný Jaroslav, prof. Ing., Dr.

  17. Strengthening of concrete and/or masonry structures

    strenthening of masonry, or reinforced, or prestressed concrete structures with external reinforcement (prestressed, or non prestressed), connected to current solved research projects at dept of Masonry and concrete structures

    Tutor: Štěpánek Petr, prof. RNDr. Ing., CSc., dr. h. c.

  18. Technology of Constructuion and Maintenance of Railway Structures

    The topic is focused on research of technology procedures and corrective maintenance that lead to minimization of the traffic restriction, energy consumption, environmental impact and life cycle costs.

    Tutor: Svoboda Richard, Ing., Ph.D.

  19. The development and application of new methods for experimental static and dynamic analysis of railway construction

    The topic includes the development and application of new procedures in the field of experimental analysis of building (railway) structures. Orientation to modern mathematical procedures in the field of time and frequency analysis in conjunction with artificial intelligence methods is assumed. Part of the topic is the implementation of these procedures in the process of verification of new railway structures, including structures designed for higher operating speeds.

    Tutor: Smutný Jaroslav, prof. Ing., Dr.

  20. The influence of properties of recycled-aggregate-concrete on the sustainability of concrete structures

    Currently, the environmental approach is emphasized in the field of civil engineering. The decreasing amount of natural resources brings demand for finding sustainable resources for concrete production. Over the last few decades, a lot of researches has been done on the use of recycled aggregates for concrete production. Recent research focused on the reduction of CO2 emissions shows that the use of recycled aggregates is one of the ways how to increase the sustainability of concrete structures.

    Tutor: Kocáb Dalibor, Ing., Ph.D.

  21. The influence of type of cement on the durability of concrete and the sustainability of structures

    In order to reduce CO2 emissions and increase the sustainability of concrete, it is necessary to increase the use of low clinker cement. However, the use of these types of cement can have a negative impact on the quality of the concrete and especially on its durability. The purpose of concrete design is to optimise the input components with an emphasis on reducing CO2 emissions in order to achieve a balance between durability, service life, and sustainability of concrete structures

    Tutor: Kocáb Dalibor, Ing., Ph.D.

  22. The intelligent monitoring system for identifying the condition of railway lines

    The essence of the topic is the design and development of a modern monitoring system for measuring the dynamic effects on the railway superstructure during the passage of trains, evaluation of its current state and for evaluating the effectiveness of maintenance work during its life cycle. The topic includes the creation of a "smart" modular system of basic data collection and a set of appropriate algorithms that allow to obtain information about the state of railway lines and their components in real time, transfer and store them in the created information system for subsequent use for manufacturers, government, projection, research, etc. The work will be carried out on the current platform at the institute of existing measuring technology.

    Tutor: Smutný Jaroslav, prof. Ing., Dr.

  23. The research of dynamic behaviour of railway lines

    The theme is focused on study of dynamic behaviour of railway lines. The theme includes railway superstructure and railway subbase. The topic involves experiment and simulation techniques. Within the simulations, an orientation to the Finite Element Method is assumed, and within the experiment to diagnostics with the use of stationary stations and measuring train sets. The theme also includes application of a suitable modern mathematical apparatus for the evaluation of the railway lines parameters including of artificial intelligence methods use.

    Tutor: Smutný Jaroslav, prof. Ing., Dr.

  24. Use of pulse echo method for inspection and diagnostics of reinforced concrete structures

    For the inspection and diagnosis of reinforced concrete structures it is very important to objectively determine their condition. This is where non-destructive methods are primarily used, which can be used to detect critical areas and hidden defects and faults without damaging the structure. The pulse-echo method (ultrasonic reflection method) appears to be highly promising for the inspection of massive structures, which are usually accessible from only one side. This topic focuses on the theoretical aspects of the pulse-echo method and the development of a methodology for measuring and assessing reinforced concrete structures using this method.

    Tutor: Cikrle Petr, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

  25. Vehicle trajectory algorithmisation

    The vehicle trajectory depends on the geometric parameters of intersections, roundabouts, speed bumps and other objects with a large degree of freedom for the driver. In the development of autonomous vehicles, it is desirable to deal with trajectory optimization techniques. On the other hand, the geometric parameters of roads should match the desired or expected trajectories of real vehicles.

    Tutor: Holcner Petr, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

Course structure diagram with ECTS credits

1. year of study, summer semester
AbbreviationTitleL.Cr.Com.Compl.Hr. rangeGr.Op.
DOA036Doctoral Seminar 1 (KDS)cs4CompulsoryCrS - 39yes
DYA004English Language Tutorial for PhD Studentscs1CompulsoryCrC1 - 26yes
DIB023Diagnostic methods in civil engineeringcs8Compulsory-optionalExP - 395972yes
DFB022Soil and Structure Interactioncs8Compulsory-optionalExP - 395972yes
DMB019Reliability of Road Structurescs8Compulsory-optionalExP - 395972yes
DLB040Theory of Concrete and Masonry Structurescs8Compulsory-optionalExP - 395972yes
DNB018Permanent Way Theorycs8Compulsory-optionalExP - 395972yes
DOB037Theory of Metal and Timber Structurescs8Compulsory-optionalExP - 395972yes
DDB034Theory of elasticity, plasticity and failurecs8Compulsory-optionalExP - 395972yes
DDB033Structural mechanicscs8Compulsory-optionalExP - 395973yes
DMB020Traffic Structures Theorycs8Compulsory-optionalExP - 395973yes
DAB029Discrete Methods in Civil Engineering 1cs4Compulsory-optionalCrP - 395974yes
DAB030Numerical methods 1cs4Compulsory-optionalCrP - 395974yes
DAB031Probability and mathematical statisticscs4Compulsory-optionalCrP - 395974yes
2. year of study, winter semester
AbbreviationTitleL.Cr.Com.Compl.Hr. rangeGr.Op.
DOA038Doctoral Seminar 2 (KDS)cs8CompulsoryCrS - 78yes
DAB032Time series analysiscs10Compulsory-optionalExP - 395977yes
DAB033Applications of mathematical methods in economicscs10Compulsory-optionalExP - 395977yes
DAB034Discrete Methods in Civil Engineering 2cs10Compulsory-optionalExP - 395977yes
DAB035Numerical methods 2cs10Compulsory-optionalExP - 395977yes
DAB036Numerical methods for the variational problemscs10Compulsory-optionalExP - 395977yes
DAB037Models of regressioncs10Compulsory-optionalExP - 395977yes
DLB041Modelling of Structurescs8Compulsory-optionalExP - 395978yes
DFB023Underground Engineeringcs8Compulsory-optionalExP - 395978yes
DIB024Radiation methods in civil engineeringcs8Compulsory-optionalExP - 395978yes
DDB035Dynamics of structurescs8Compulsory-optionalExP - 395978yes
DNB019Railway Substructure Theorycs8Compulsory-optionalExP - 395978yes
DOB039Theory of Composite Steel-Concrete Structurescs8Compulsory-optionalExP - 395978yes
DMB021Environment and road designcs8Compulsory-optionalExP - 395978yes
2. year of study, summer semester
AbbreviationTitleL.Cr.Com.Compl.Hr. rangeGr.Op.
DYA005English for PhD studentscs8CompulsoryExyes
DOA040Doctoral Seminar 3 (KDS)cs8CompulsoryCrS - 78yes
3. year of study, both semester
AbbreviationTitleL.Cr.Com.Compl.Hr. rangeGr.Op.
DOA041Doctoral Seminar 4 (KDS)cs8CompulsoryCrS - 78yes
DOA042Doctoral Seminar 5 (KDS)cs14CompulsoryCrS - 78yes
4. year of study, winter semester
AbbreviationTitleL.Cr.Com.Compl.Hr. rangeGr.Op.
DOA043Doctoral Seminar 6 (KDS)cs14CompulsoryCrS - 78yes
4. year of study, summer semester
AbbreviationTitleL.Cr.Com.Compl.Hr. rangeGr.Op.
DOA044Doctoral Seminar 7 (KDS)cs20CompulsoryCrS - 78yes
All the groups of optional courses
Gr. Number of courses Courses
5972 1 DIB023, DFB022, DMB019, DLB040, DNB018, DOB037, DDB034
5973 1 DDB033, DMB020
5974 1 DAB029, DAB030, DAB031
5977 1 DAB032, DAB033, DAB034, DAB035, DAB036, DAB037
5978 1 DLB041, DFB023, DIB024, DDB035, DNB019, DOB039, DMB021