UA engineers work on building stronger structures | News

Hidden in some of Tuscaloosa's worst tornado damage are clues to building safer homes. That's according to members of a 12 person engineering team based at the University of Alabama.

Prof. John van de Lindt, a civil engineer, says they're using a National Science Foundation Grant to fund a study to gather information on tornado damage to, and performance of, wood framed structures in affected areas due to strong winds. Dr. van de Lindt says, "What can we do to create a safe place in these buildings? Is it the geometry, is it the connectors?"

The team is also made up of engineers from several universities around the country. They began working soon after the tornadoes passed. Engineers hope to come up with recommedations that improve design codes and safety guidelines. Results from the study should be available in 60 days.