Dr. Barbato is interested in the modeling, analysis, and design of structures subject to single and multiple hazards. Dr. Barbato’s research group focuses on the interface between high-fidelity finite element modeling and advanced probabilistic methods to develop novel design approaches and structural solutions based on innovative, sustainable materials and construction techniques. These efforts lead to new designs and structures that (1) are sustainable, economic, and safe; (2) increase community resilience to single and multiple hazards; and (3) support societal efforts in climate change mitigation and adaptation. Dr. Barbato’s research also comprises hazard and risk analyses, and assessment and mitigation of hazards affected by climate change (e.g., hurricanes, wind, wildfires). In particular, Dr. Barbato’s wildfire-related research focuses on wildfire risk assessment and mitigation, electric grid hardening, and fireproof construction materials.

Current Projects:

Assessment and mitigation of wildfire-induced air pollution

News:

Performance Based Hurricane Engineering (PBHE) framework: Formulation and application to single-family housing and tall buildings

Hurricane Loss Analysis for Single-Family Houses Considering Current and Changing Climate Conditions

How to predict and manage California's fire risk in a changing climate

Related Published Research:

Performance-Based Hurricane Engineering (PBHE) framework 

Barbato M, Petrini, Unnikrishnan VU and Ciampoli M (2013). “Performance-Based Hurricane Engineering (PBHE) framework.” Structural Safety, 45:24-35. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.strusafe.2013.07.002

Performance-based comparison of different storm mitigation techniques for residential buildings

Unnikrishnan VU and Barbato M (2016). “Performance-based comparison of different storm mitigation techniques for residential buildings.” Journal of Structural Engineering (ASCE), 04016011, 142(6), June 2016. https://doi/10.1061/(ASCE)ST.1943-541X.0001797

A predictive model for hurricane wind hazard under changing climate conditions

Esmaeili M, Barbato M (2021). A predictive model for hurricane wind hazard under changing climate conditions. Natural Hazards Review (ASCE), 22(3): 04021011. https://ascelibrary.org/doi/10.1061/%28ASCE%29NH.1527-6996.0000458