Riyad S. Aboutaha

Dr. Riyad S. Aboutaha is an Associate Professor of Structural Engineering in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Syracuse University. With over 40 years of experience, he specializes in forensic engineering, structural failures, and infrastructure rehabilitation using advanced materials like CFRP composites. His research emphasizes preventive maintenance economics and bridge renewal strategies.

Education:

• Ph.D., Civil Engineering, 1994, University of Texas at Austin, USA
• M.S., Civil Engineering, 1990, University of Texas at Austin, USA
• B.E., Civil Engineering, 1981, Beirut Arab University, Lebanon

Research Interests

• CFRP composites for bridge rehabilitation
• Economic analysis of preventive maintenance
• Structural failure investigation
• Material durability in existing structures
• Fire-damaged concrete strengthening

His work includes major projects for U.S. FHWA, NYSDOT, and Shandong DOT (China), focusing on composite materials and infrastructure renewal. He is a Fellow of the American Concrete Institute (ACI) and has delivered international seminars on bridge rehabilitation techniques.

Grants and Collaborations

• Completed research for Schöck Bauteile GmbH (Germany) on GFRP ComBAR durability
• NYSDOT-funded studies on FRP bridge deck surfaces
• Shandong DOT project on CFRP-based bridge widening

Key labs/teams: Involved in Syracuse University's Civil Engineering labs focused on structural testing and composite material applications.