Hailong Cao is a PhD Researcher at the University of Southampton specializing in advanced materials and earthquake-resilient bridge systems. Building on his master’s research into the structural applications of aluminium alloys and finite-element modelling, his current doctoral work focuses on developing energy-dissipating elastomeric interlayers for segmental bridge piers. Inspired by the human intervertebral disc, he pairs highly corrosion-resistant aluminium components with elastomeric damping layers to create modular, bio-inspired segmental piers.
His research aims to mitigate interface damage, limit pier displacement, and significantly enhance structural self-centring capacity under seismic loading. By combining experimental mechanics with advanced numerical modelling in Abaqus and OpenSees, he aims to translate these innovative material configurations into sustainable, code-compliant design recommendations for both new construction and retrofitting projects.
