Beyond Repair: A Critical Review of Smart, Sustainable, and AI-Driven Strengthening Techniques for Aging Civil Infrastructure
Girmay Mengesha Azanaw
Girmay Mengesha Azanaw, Lecturer, Department of Civil Engineering, Institute of Technology, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia.
Manuscript received on 21 April 2025 | First Revised Manuscript received on 24 April 2025 | Second Revised Manuscript received on 01 May 2025 | Manuscript Accepted on 15 May 2025 | Manuscript published on 30 May 2025 | PP: 10-19 | Volume-13 Issue-6, May 2025 | Retrieval Number: 100.1/ijese.F260213060525 | DOI: 10.35940/ijese.F2602.13060525
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© The Authors. Blue Eyes Intelligence Engineering and Sciences Publication (BEIESP). This is an open access article under the CC-BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/)
Abstract: The durability and safety of civil infrastructure are progressively subjected to challenges posed by a range of factors, including aging, excessive utilization, environmental stressors, and natural disasters. Traditionally, efforts to strengthen structures have relied heavily on reactive and material-intensive solutions. However, recent developments signal a significant shift toward more intelligent, sustainable, and digitally informed approaches. This review offers a comprehensive examination of the evolving landscape of structural reinforcement techniques, tracing the movement from conventional methods to more advanced, adaptive systems. The analysis places strong emphasis on evaluating structural performance through innovative means, highlighting the growing use of smart materials and the transformative role of digital tools and artificial intelligence (AI) in optimizing design and intervention strategies. These technological advances are not only enhancing efficiency and precision but are also enabling more predictive and responsive maintenance practices. In parallel, the review considers the alignment of these emerging practices with broader sustainability and circular economy principles. It explores how strategies that prioritize material efficiency, reuse of existing components, and lifecycle-based planning contribute to reducing the environmental impact of structural interventions. By integrating these dimensions, the paper underscores the potential of modern reinforcement techniques to support global environmental objectives while maintaining structural integrity. What’s more, the review outlines prospective directions for innovation, such as AIassisted co-design processes, the use of 3D printing technologies for customized retrofitting, and the application of bio-inspired adaptive systems. These forward-thinking concepts are presented as key enablers of a new generation of reinforcement strategies— ones that are not only robust and responsive but also ecologically conscious. Through a synthesis of current research and emerging opportunities, this study aims to inform and inspire the advancement of structural strengthening methods that are equipped to meet the complex challenges of the future built environment.
Keywords: Structural Strengthening, Smart Infrastructure, Sustainable Retrofit, Artificial Intelligence in Civil Engineering, and Circular Economy in Construction.
Scope of the Article: Civil Engineering and Applications