Building the SSC: a Texas-sized challenge

Article Abstract:

The designers of the Superconducting Super Collider (SSC) near Dallas are making use of novel construction techniques that incorporate underground experimental halls. Proton beams traveling at almost the speed of light would be collided by 10,000 superconducting magnets used by the SSC. Basic principles of matter can be understood by examining the resulting shower of subnuclear particles. Construction work includes the digging of 70 miles of tunnels, 54 mile main ring, 43 vertical shafts and 16 miles of injector and accelerator tunnels. It would be world's largest pure science project if the US government allows it to be completed.

Methods, Design and construction, Design, Superconducting Super Collider

---

Small systems struggle

Article Abstract:

Small communities face the task of maintaining their facilities but rising costs, new environmental concerns and lack of technology are hampering their efforts. Local officials have to deal with infrastructure problems which include orphan bridges, deteriorating roads and inadequate transport services. Environmental public works which incorporate treatment of wastewater and potable water also pose another concern. There is a need to develop more affordable technologies and generate state funds to enable small communities to address their needs and responsibilities.

Management, Economic aspects, Public works, Local government

---

Seismic scenarios

Article Abstract:

Two anticipatory studies on seismic activity in the Pacific Northwest are presented. The first one developed a model to calculate the economic impact on public utilities of various levels of earthquakes. A seismic-loss estimation model which incorporated the use of geographic information system (GIS) technology is the second study. The GIS model is useful in pre-earthquake planning as it identifies critical areas and sets the priorities for postearthquake damage applications.

Usage, Innovations, Earthquake engineering, Geographic information systems, Natural disasters, Pacific Northwest, Northwestern States

Similar abstracts:

• Abstracts: Tailoring the microstructure of a metal-reinforced ceramic matrix composite
• Abstracts: Pinning down inflation. The new challenges. After the inferno
• Abstracts: Paddling toward Paulatuk: the Hornaday River can turn even seasoned canoeists into greenhorns. In the hot seat
• Abstracts: Seattle swings again. The great Texas prison caper. Taming the Red River
• Abstracts: Design-build goes public. Seismic retrofitting: spending to save

This website is not affiliated with document authors or copyright owners. This page is provided for informational purposes only. Unintentional errors are possible.