Bridges, buildings, and critical infrastructure are designed to last—but over time, hidden weaknesses can develop long before they are visible.
We are thrilled to spotlight the incredible work being done by Facundo Nicolas Airaudo, supported by an IDIA Lab Pre-Doctoral Fellowship. Facundo is developing new computational tools that help engineers detect structural weaknesses and better understand how complex systems behave in the real world.
The Mission
Using advanced computational modeling and data from sensors—such as forces, displacements, and strains—Facundo’s research works to infer the true material properties of structures.
By combining physical simulations with measured data, this approach can reveal where a structure may deviate from its intended design or where damage may be developing. Instead of relying only on visible inspections, engineers can use these methods to identify problems hidden inside the structure.
Real-World Impact
This research has the potential to:
- Improve structural health monitoring for bridges, buildings, and other infrastructure.
- Enable more accurate digital twins—virtual models that mirror the real behavior of structures.
- Help engineers detect damage earlier and make safer, data-driven decisions about maintenance and repair.
This work is a great example of how computational science and engineering can strengthen the safety and resilience of the infrastructure we rely on every day.
Congratulations, Facundo, on driving this impactful research forward!