High-performance composite materials for earthquake-resistant structures in the U.S

The United States faces significant seismic vulnerability, particularly in regions such as California, the Pacific Northwest, and parts of the central and eastern U.S., where critical infrastructure remains at risk from moderate to severe earthquakes. Traditional construction materials often lack the ductility and energy dissipation capacity required to withstand such seismic loads, underscoring the urgent need for innovative structural solutions. This review critically examines the role of high-performance composite materials including fiber-reinforced polymers (FRP), engineered cementitious composites (ECC), ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC), and shape memory alloys (SMA) in enhancing the seismic performance of infrastructure across the U.S. The paper explores the mechanical behavior, energy absorption characteristics, and durability of these materials under dynamic loading conditions. It also reviews their application in structural retrofitting, new construction, and post-disaster resilience. Key findings reveal that these composites significantly improve crack control, energy dissipation, and resilience against progressive collapse. Their integration into structural systems can reduce downtime, repair costs, and overall life-cycle expenses. However, challenges remain regarding material cost, design standardization, scalability, and the availability of long-term performance data under varied seismic conditions. The review identifies these barriers and offers insights into overcoming them through collaborative research, updated design codes, and targeted policy support. Furthermore, the paper outlines future directions including hybrid systems, smart composites with sensing capabilities, and digital twin integration to advance earthquake resilience. The review also identifies critical barriers to widespread implementation, including cost, standardization challenges, and the need for long-term field data. Finally, the study outlines future research directions and policy recommendations for integrating these materials into national seismic resilience strategies.