Research advances in HSS structures at Tsinghua University and codification of the design specification

In Memoriam of Prof. Dr. Bernt Johansson
Owing to the advantages in economy, environmental protection and energy efficiency, high-strength steel (HSS) has represented an important trend in the development of steel structures and has been adopted in numerous building and bridge structures. This article summarizes engineering applications for HSS structures and comprehensively reviews the recent research advances in HSS structures at Tsinghua University. Investigations were conducted into the behaviour and performance of HSS materials, sections, members, connections and structural systems. Based on the research results, the mechanical behaviour of HSS structures could be improved compared with ordinary strength steel structures. In order to update the current design codes so that they are applicable for HSS structures, a new specification in China, the “Standard for Design of High-Strength Steel Structures”, is undergoing codification, with Tsinghua University as the chief editorial institute. The outline of the specification, as well as the new design methods included in it, is introduced in this paper.