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From elegance to endurance: Enhancing resilience in long-span spatial structures in the age of intelligent maintenance

Lookup NU author(s): Dr Pooya SarehORCiD

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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License (CC BY-NC-ND).


Abstract

© 2026 The Author(s)Long-span spatial structures have been extensively utilized in the design of stadiums, transportation terminals, and various public infrastructure facilities. Such structures are widely recognized for their superior structural performance and remarkable architectural qualities. Nevertheless, the pursuit of lightweight designs and expansive spans frequently undermines structural redundancy, consequently increasing the risk of sudden collapse. A significant number of collapses of long-span spatial structures have been reported in recent years. These incidents have resulted in profound economic and social ramifications. Accordingly, this study presents a thorough review of the factors contributing to collapse and the associated mitigation strategies. It addresses both internal and external contributors to collapse and suggests corresponding preventive measures. Additionally, this review explores state-of-the-art technologies for intelligent maintenance. Finally, several critical research gaps are identified. These include, in particular, complex collapse mechanisms, multi-hazard interactions, and the practical implementation of intelligent technologies. On the basis of these findings, this study also outlines several key research avenues to advance the design and maintenance of long-span spatial structures.


Publication metadata

Author(s): Yang C, He R, Zhang J, Feng X, Chen Y, Feng J, Sareh P

Publication type: Review

Publication status: Published

Journal: Resilient Cities and Structures

Year: 2026

Volume: 5

Issue: 3

Pages: 33-47

Print publication date: 01/09/2026

Online publication date: 28/05/2026

Acceptance date: 06/05/2026

ISSN (electronic): 2772-7416

Publisher: Elsevier B.V.

URL: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rcns.2026.05.001

DOI: 10.1016/j.rcns.2026.05.001

Data Access Statement: The data that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request


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