![](https://sites.northwestern.edu/m2im/files/2021/11/marscrete-550x310.jpg)
Our overarching research goal is to understand, simulate, and predict the mechanical behavior of quasi-brittle materials, which include, but are not limited to, concrete, timber, rocks, and composites. Such materials are characterized by multiple length and time scales which make their response under load difficult to describe through traditional mechanics theories. For this reason we are formulating and validating novel models and computational tools, which will allow the future generations of engineers to design more resilient and sustainable civil infrastructures.