Research in Qatar is leading the way in developing the design of long lasting road infrastructure…..as was highlighted in a presentation by Dr Eyad Masad of the Texas A&M University in Qatar.

Dr Eyad MasadDr Masad, who is the Professor and Assistant Dean for Research and Graduate Studies was presenting to an evening meeting of the Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation on 22 January at the Renaissance Hotel in Doha.

AudienceThe audience of professional engineers listened to acaptivating presentation on recent developments in the characterization and modelling of asphalt pavements, and their contributions to design long lasting road infrastructure.  Dr Masad discussed novel test methods to better characterize the physical, physio-chemical and mechanical properties of materials and how these enhanced predictions of the performance of asphalt pavements.  He also outlined the development of a computational framework for the modelling and simulation of the response of asphalt pavements under various traffic loads and environmental conditions.  His presentation concluded with a summary of recent studies that were aimed at the development of specifications for asphalt pavement materials and a mechanistic-based analysis approach for pavements in Qatar.

There followed a lively interactive discussion with the audience where both practical experience and different design and construction methodologies were exchanged.

The Chartered Institution of Highways & Transportation (CIHT) organises technical and other events in Qatar to maintain and enrich the working knowledge of highways and transportation professionals.

CIHT Qatar Group holds monthly seminars which are kindly sponsored by Atkins, Parsons Brinkerhoff, Asset International, Fugro, AECOM and TraffiConsult.
The next seminar is scheduled for 25thFebruary 2014 at the City Centre Renaissance Hotel when there will be a talk about Intelligent Transport Systems.