From July 15 to 19, 2025, the 9th International Conference on Life-Cycle Civil Engineering (IALCCE 2025) was successfully held in Melbourne, Australia. Hosted by the International Association for Life-Cycle Civil Engineering and organized by RMIT University, the conference attracted over 200 participants from 31 countries to discuss cutting-edge research on the assessment, design, monitoring, and maintenance of civil engineering structures throughout their life cycles.

Professor Wang Chunsheng and Associate Professor Duan Lan from the Bridge Engineering Department of the Highway College, along with doctoral student Li Xi, attended the conference. During the event, Professor Wang’s team engaged in academic discussions with renowned experts, including IALCCE Chair Professor Dan Frangopol (Academician of Lehigh University, USA), President Teng Jin-Guang of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, and Professor Chunqing Li of RMIT University, further expanding opportunities for international academic exchange and collaboration.

In the academic session, Professor Wang Chunsheng chaired the sub-forum on "Lifecycle Design for Structures and Infrastructure" and delivered two presentations: "Study of Thermal Gradient Fatigue Load Model for Flat Steel Box Girder Bridge" and "Mechanical Performance Simulation of Steel-Concrete Connection Section of Composite Bridge Tower." Associate Professor Duan Lan presented her research titled "Hybrid Connecting Interface Optimization for UHPFRC Composite Steel Bridge Deck," while doctoral student Li Xi shared findings on "Bending Performance of Composite Steel Plate Girders with Corrugated Webs." These four presentations systematically introduced the team’s latest advancements in the field of long-life bridge design, attracting significant attention from conference experts.

During the visit, Professor Wang Chunsheng led the delegation to Monash University, inspected the remnants of steel box girder damage during the construction phase of the West Gate Bridge, and conducted an on-site evaluation of the bridge’s operational performance. These activities further deepened exchanges and cooperation with international peers.

Professor Wang Chunsheng delivering a presentation.

Associate Professor Duan Lan delivering a presentation.

Doctoral student Li Xi delivering a presentation