Research

Published as Ioan Mărginean in scientific papers

Specializing in structural robustness, composite structures, and performance under extreme actions.

Recognition for Research Excellence

Romanian Academy – Anghel Saligny Award (2018)
For the article series “Robustness of Steel Building Structures” (co-authored with Florea Dinu in 2016)

Research Focus

  • Structural Robustness under accidental or extreme scenarios (e.g., column loss, explosions, seismic events)
  • Composite Steel–Concrete Structures: behavior, connections, and failure mechanisms
  • Advanced Numerical Modelling using FEM (finite element method) for structural response analysis
  • Experimental Validation: full-scale and component testing of steel and composite joints
  • Risk-informed structural design, supporting Eurocode evolution and resilience-based engineering

Ph.D. Thesis: Robustness of moment steel frames under column loss scenarios,
March 2017, coord. Acad. Dan Dubina;

Selected publications

 

These publications represent my main research line on structural robustness, progressive collapse, steel and composite frames, and experimental–numerical validation under extreme actions.

Experimental testing and numerical modelling of steel moment-frame connections under column loss

Engineering Structures, 2017

Combines experimental testing and calibrated numerical models to study how steel connections behave in column-loss scenarios.

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Experimental testing and numerical analysis of 3D steel frame system under column loss

Engineering Structures, 2016

Studies the system-level response of a 3D steel frame after column loss, showing how load redistribution and structural continuity contribute to progressive-collapse resistance.

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Improving the structural robustness of multi-story steel-frame buildings

Structure and Infrastructure Engineering, 2015

Examines design strategies for improving the robustness of multi-storey steel-frame buildings, with focus on alternative load paths, continuity, and progressive-collapse resistance.

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Experimental testing and numerical modeling of steel frames under close-in detonations

Procedia Engineering, 2017

Combines blast testing and numerical modelling to evaluate how steel frames respond to close-in detonations and other extreme loading scenarios.

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Impact modelling for progressive collapse assessment of selective rack systems

Thin-Walled Structures, 2019

Extends progressive-collapse assessment to selective rack systems, using impact modelling to study local damage, vulnerability, and structural response beyond conventional building frames.

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Where my work has been cited

Research Aims

Structural Engineering & Resilience

  • Advance the robustness and resilience of building structures, particularly steel and composite frames, under accidental and extreme actions (e.g. blast, column loss, seismic events).
  • Support performance-based and risk-informed design, contributing to safer, more adaptive structures and the development of Eurocode methodologies.

 Experiment + Simulation Synergy

  • Bridge experimental and numerical approaches, by designing and calibrating full-scale structural tests in tandem with advanced finite element modeling.
  • Translate test results into real design practices, enabling engineers to use validated, innovative structural solutions.

 Interdisciplinary and Societal Engineering

  • Make engineering relevant across disciplines by connecting it with urban narratives, civic needs, and cultural contexts.
  • Engage students and the public in structural thinking, turning resilience into a shared concept through immersive learning, design storytelling, and participatory tools.
For research collaboration, academic exchange, or structural engineering expertise, contact me.