policy, Economics and Infrastructure

UT’s Approach

UT researchers develop novel materials and technologies to help states build durable infrastructure such as bridges and roads and maintain them efficiently and effectively. In one long-term project, researchers developed and installed a next-generation polymer composite for bridge decks and are using smart sensing technologies to monitor its real-world performance and durability. Other faculty and students are exploring how to use ground-penetrating radar or underwater robots to inspect bridges and other structures. 

Faculty also investigate infrastructure components that support emerging mobility solutions. One UT team, for example, is focused on developing infrastructure and control methods for autonomous air travel. 

Other UT faculty and students are developing economic and policy structures that promise to enable future mobility. They are working to analyze and interpret the effects of vehicle scrappage trends, passenger vehicle demand, and federal fuel economy standards, and their work has significant implications for regulations and investments related to emission reductions, adoption of electric and other alternative fuel vehicles, and electric charging infrastructure.

UT researchers advise national and state government entities, too. One team from Knoxville and Chattanooga developed research to support the development of Tennessee Department of Transportation strategies enabling smart mobility and infrastructure. Members of the Transportation and Logistics Collaborative have advised the Tennessee Governor’s Office on infrastructure improvements.

UT partnered with TVA to launch the Valley Pathways Study, which evaluates opportunities to pursue economic growth while accelerating decarbonization. The findings provide insights for transportation policy and EV charging infrastructure.