Buildings

17 pages, 2500 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Operational Carbon Emission Prediction Model Based on Machine Learning Methods for Urban Residential Buildings in Guangzhou

by Lintao Zheng, Kang Luo and Lihua Zhao

Buildings 2024, 14(11), 3699; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14113699 - 20 Nov 2024

Viewed by 316

Abstract

The carbon emissions of urban residential buildings are substantial. However, the standard operating conditions specified in current energy-saving standards significantly differ from the actual energy consumption under real operating conditions. Therefore, it is essential to consider the impact of residents’ actual energy consumption [...] Read more.

The carbon emissions of urban residential buildings are substantial. However, the standard operating conditions specified in current energy-saving standards significantly differ from the actual energy consumption under real operating conditions. Therefore, it is essential to consider the impact of residents’ actual energy consumption behavior in carbon emission forecasts. To improve the accuracy of carbon emission predictions for urban residential buildings, this paper focuses on residential buildings in Guangzhou. Taking into account the energy consumption behavior of residents, parameterized modeling is carried out in the R language, and simulation is carried out using EnergyPlus software. Analysis revealed that the higher the comfort level of residential energy consumption behavior, the more it is necessary to encourage residents to adopt energy-saving behaviors. Combining carbon emission factors, air-conditioning energy efficiency, and the power consumption models of lighting and electrical equipment, a comprehensive operational carbon emission prediction model for urban residential operations in Guangzhou was developed. By comparing the prediction model with an actual case, it was found that the prediction deviation was only 4%, indicating high accuracy. The proposed operational carbon emission model can quickly assist designers in evaluating the carbon emissions of urban residential buildings in the early stages of design, providing an accurate basis for decision-making. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Climatic Suitability Design and Risk Management)

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19 pages, 10416 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Comparative Study of the Latest Editions of China–Japan–US Green Building Evaluation Standards

by Qiyuan Wang, Weijun Gao, Yuan Su and Yinqi Zhang

Buildings 2024, 14(11), 3698; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14113698 - 20 Nov 2024

Viewed by 260

Abstract

The Green Building Evaluation Standard (ESGB) has become an important support for China’s building sector in realizing the “double carbon” goal. However, there remains a lack of comprehensive research on the historical evolution and development status of the ESGB. This study firstly analyzes [...] Read more.

The Green Building Evaluation Standard (ESGB) has become an important support for China’s building sector in realizing the “double carbon” goal. However, there remains a lack of comprehensive research on the historical evolution and development status of the ESGB. This study firstly analyzes the updating logic and development strategy of the three versions of the ESGB, then compares the differences between ESGB 2019, CASBEE-NC 2014, and LEED O+M v4.1 from the perspective of the index system, and further examines the current international application status of the ESGB. The results show that LEED focuses on decarbonization and ecological protection, while CASEBB focuses on the concept of humanization and positively influences the local real estate market, and ESGB 2019 contains more health and comfort considerations than its previous version and is close to the internationally advanced level in terms of provision setting and international application. This study offers valuable insights into the potential for further refinement of green building standards in China and highlights areas for future research, including enhancing the ESGB’s adaptability and integration with emerging technologies to promote global sustainable development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Low-Carbon Urban Development and Building Design)

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35 pages, 95333 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effects of Modern Architecture on the Evolution of Mosques in Sulaymaniyah

by Ahmed Qadir Ahmed and Ihsan Fethi

Buildings 2024, 14(11), 3697; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14113697 - 20 Nov 2024

Viewed by 274

Abstract

Since the establishment of the Kurdistan Region Autonomy in 1991, extensive construction, including that of mosques, has reshaped the architectural environment. This phenomenon requires an examination of the evolved architectural features in new mosques and also raises questions about their alignment with the [...] Read more.

Since the establishment of the Kurdistan Region Autonomy in 1991, extensive construction, including that of mosques, has reshaped the architectural environment. This phenomenon requires an examination of the evolved architectural features in new mosques and also raises questions about their alignment with the religious and symbolic objectives of mosque designs. This study focuses on the transformative impact of modern architectural styles on mosque evolution in Sulaymaniyah and uses an in-depth case study approach to analyze 23 contemporary mosques built over the past three decades. They blend traditional architecture with modern design principles, producing evolved features. The evolution in mosque designs raises questions about the alignment of new architectural features with the religious and symbolic objectives of mosque designs. This study employs indicator-based impact assessments to examine how modern features affect mosque evolution in terms of religious needs and mosque symbolism. Based on the literature of modern architecture and Islamic legitimacy, indicators of modern architecture and mosque design objectives were determined for further analysis. Then, the collected data from the field survey were analyzed through developed formulas. The results were converted to numerical values for use with the Pearson correlation coefficient, which identifies the causal relationship between modern architecture and design objectives. The results revealed that the overall influence of modern architecture on mosque evolution tends to be negative. Modern architectural styles have impacted mosques by increasing structural obstructions in 14%, reducing symbolic elements in 23%, and simplifying designs with fewer embellishments in 43% of all the cases. This study can assist decision-makers and designers in revising mosque design regulations; the issue has recently been the subject of ongoing debate in architects’ society. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Architectural Design, Urban Science, and Real Estate)

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26 pages, 18161 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Novel Cement-Based Materials Using Seawater, Reused Construction Waste, and Alkali Agents

by Yang Bai, Yajun Wang, Tao Yang and Xiaoyang Chen

Buildings 2024, 14(11), 3696; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14113696 - 20 Nov 2024

Viewed by 250

Abstract

This study aimed to develop marine alkali paste (MAP) produced using seawater (SW), recyclable particle material from paste specimens (RPPs), and alkali agents including NaOH (NH) and Na₂O·3SiO₂ (NS). The physicochemical properties and strength of the MAP were investigated with [...] Read more.

This study aimed to develop marine alkali paste (MAP) produced using seawater (SW), recyclable particle material from paste specimens (RPPs), and alkali agents including NaOH (NH) and Na₂O·3SiO₂ (NS). The physicochemical properties and strength of the MAP were investigated with uniaxial compression tests (UCTs), an Energy-Dispersive Spectrometer (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and thermal-field emission scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The key information on the MAP preparation and experiments, including mix ratios, ages, curing, and sub-specimen locations, were recorded during the investigation. The results indicated that 8-day-old MAP prepared with NS reached a maximum compressive strength of 8.3 MPa, while 8-day-old NH-prepared specimens achieved up to 5.59 MPa. By 49 days, NS-prepared MAP had strengths between 5.46 MPa and 7.34 MPa, while the strength of NH-prepared MAP ranged from 3.59 MPa to 5.83 MPa. The key hydration products were Friedel’s salt (3CaO·Al₂O₃·CaCl₂·10H₂O, FS), xCaO·SiO₂·nH₂O (C-S-H), CaO·Al₂O₃·2SiO₂·4H₂O (C-A-S-H), and Na₂O·Al₂O₃·zSiO₂·2H₂O (N-A-S-H). C-S-H was generated under the critical curing and working conditions in SW. C-A-S-H development contributed to C-S-H network compaction. N-A-S-H development helped in resistance to SO₄²⁻ erosion, thereby cutting down ettringite (Ca₆Al₂(SO₄)₃(OH)₁₂·26H₂O) development. The active ion exchange between MAP and SW mainly involving SO₄²⁻ and Cl⁻ led to the significant formation of FS at the interface of C-A-S-H and xCaO·Al₂O₃·nH₂O (C-A-H). Therefore, FS generation inhibited SO₄²⁻ and Cl⁻ corrosion in the MAP and rebounded the interface cracks of the hydration products. Consequently, FS contributed to the protection and development of C-S-H in the MAP, which ensured the suitability and applicability of the MAP in marine environments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Building Materials, and Repair & Renovation)

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25 pages, 2762 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Construction and Demolition Waste Generation Prediction by Using Artificial Neural Networks and Metaheuristic Algorithms

by Ruba Awad, Cenk Budayan and Asli Pelin Gurgun

Buildings 2024, 14(11), 3695; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14113695 - 20 Nov 2024

Viewed by 286

Abstract

In the actual estimation of construction and demolition waste (C&DW), it is significantly relevant to effective management, design, and planning at project stages, but the lack of reliable estimation methods and historical data prevents the estimation of C&DW quantities for both short- and [...] Read more.

In the actual estimation of construction and demolition waste (C&DW), it is significantly relevant to effective management, design, and planning at project stages, but the lack of reliable estimation methods and historical data prevents the estimation of C&DW quantities for both short- and long-term planning. To address this gap, this study aims to predict C&DW quantities in construction projects more accurately by integrating the gray wolf optimization algorithm (GWO) and the Archimedes optimization algorithm (AOA) into an artificial neural network (ANN). This study uses data concerning the actual quantities of work in 200 real-life construction and demolition projects performed in the Gaza Strip. Different performance parameters, such as mean absolute error (MAE), mean square error (MSE), root mean squared error (RMSE), and the coefficient of determination (R²), are used to evaluate the effectiveness of the models developed. The results of this study have shown that the AOA-ANN model outperforms the other models in terms of accuracy (R² = 0.023728, MSE = 0.00056304, RMSE = 0.023728, MAE = 0.0086648). Moreover, this new hybrid model yields more accurate estimations of C&DW quantities with minimal input parameters, making the process of estimation more feasible. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainability in Buildings: New Trends in the Management of Construction and Demolition Waste, 2nd Volume)

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14 pages, 8514 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Improving the Thermochemical Heat Storage Performance of Calcium Hydroxide in a Fixed-Bed Reactor by Y-Shaped Fins

by Guangyao Zhao, Zhen Li, Jiakang Yao, Zhehui Zhao, Sixing Zhang, Na Cheng, Lei Jiang and Jun Yan

Buildings 2024, 14(11), 3694; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14113694 - 20 Nov 2024

Viewed by 176

Abstract

Thermochemical heat storage technology has great development prospects due to its high energy storage density and stable long-term storage capacity. The calcium hydroxide/calcium oxide reaction has been proven to be feasible for thermochemical heat storage. However, due to its low thermal conductivity, the [...] Read more.

Thermochemical heat storage technology has great development prospects due to its high energy storage density and stable long-term storage capacity. The calcium hydroxide/calcium oxide reaction has been proven to be feasible for thermochemical heat storage. However, due to its low thermal conductivity, the slow heat storage reaction in the fixed-bed reactor needs to be improved. In this work, the Y-shaped fin was used to improve the heat storage performance, and a multi-physics numerical model was established for its heat storage process in the fixed bed. The results show that the Y-shaped fin can accelerate the heat storage reaction due to the improved heat transfer inside the reactor. The heat storage time decreases by 45.59% compared to the reactor without a fin and it decreases by 4.31% compared to the reactor with the rectangular fin. The increase in the wall temperature of the heating tube and the thermal conductivity of the fin can improve the heat storage performance; moreover, the Y-shaped fin shows more performance improvement than the rectangular fin at high wall temperature or thermal conductivity. The increase in porosity of heat storage material can shorten heat storage time due to the reduction in reactant, and the Y-shaped fin can still give a better performance than the rectangular fin at different porosity levels. This work can provide a reference for improving the heat storage performance of fixed-bed reactors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Building Thermal and Energy Management: Novel Materials and Advanced Cooling Strategies)

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18 pages, 7247 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Intelligent Inspection Method for Rebar Installation Quality of Reinforced Concrete Slab Based on Point Cloud Processing and Semantic Segmentation

by Ruishi Wang, Jianxiong Zhang, Hongxing Qiu and Jian Sun

Buildings 2024, 14(11), 3693; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14113693 - 20 Nov 2024

Viewed by 269

Abstract

The rebar installation quality significantly impacts the safety and durability of reinforced concrete (RC) structures. Traditional manual inspection is time-consuming, inefficient, and highly subjective. In order to solve this problem, this study uses a depth camera and aims to develop an intelligent inspection [...] Read more.

The rebar installation quality significantly impacts the safety and durability of reinforced concrete (RC) structures. Traditional manual inspection is time-consuming, inefficient, and highly subjective. In order to solve this problem, this study uses a depth camera and aims to develop an intelligent inspection method for the rebar installation quality of an RC slab. The Random Sample Consensus (RANSAC) method is used to extract point cloud data for the bottom formwork, the upper and lower rebar lattices, and individual rebars. These data are utilized to measure the concrete cover thickness, the distance between the upper and lower rebar lattices, and the spacing between rebars in the RC slab. This paper introduces the concept of the “diameter calculation region” and combines point cloud semantic information with rebar segmentation mask information through the relationship between pixel coordinates and camera coordinates to measure the nominal diameter of the rebar. The verification results indicate that the maximum deviations for the concrete cover thickness, the distance between the upper and lower rebar lattices, and the spacing of the double-layer bidirectional rebar in the RC slab are 0.41 mm, 1.32 mm, and 5 mm, respectively. The accuracy of the nominal rebar diameter measurement reaches 98.4%, demonstrating high precision and applicability for quality inspection during the actual construction stage. Overall, this study integrates computer vision into traditional civil engineering research, utilizing depth cameras to acquire point cloud data and color results. It replaces inefficient manual inspection methods with an intelligent and efficient approach, addressing the challenge of detecting double-layer reinforcement. This has significant implications for practical engineering applications and the development of intelligent engineering monitoring systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Resilient Civil Infrastructure, 2nd Edition)

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13 pages, 3772 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Timber Façade Structures: Using Thermal Analysis to Prognosticate the Ignition Resistance of Flame-Retarded Timber

by Dmitrii A. Korolchenko, Nataliya I. Konstantinova and Olga N. Korolchenko

Buildings 2024, 14(11), 3692; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14113692 - 20 Nov 2024

Viewed by 244

Abstract

The development of a methodological approach to detecting the presence of flame retardants in building materials and products and finding their concentration is an essential part of the performance evaluation of flame retardants for timber. The above issue is a relevant constituent of [...] Read more.

The development of a methodological approach to detecting the presence of flame retardants in building materials and products and finding their concentration is an essential part of the performance evaluation of flame retardants for timber. The above issue is a relevant constituent of supervision over fire safety compliance at construction facilities. Thermal analysis was used in this research project to (1) detect the presence of flame retardants in timber, and (2) identify methods of their application. Comparative experiments were conducted to detect the presence and effectiveness of flame retardants applied to the surface and inner layers of specimens of timber planken (façade board) at a construction facility. Relevant values, characterizing the thermal decomposition of timber specimens, enable predicting the heat flux rate that triggers ignition. A quick test, conducted to check the flammability of specimens, confirmed the authors’ hypothesis. The study revealed principal (relevant) thermo-analytical criteria for the fire resistance of timber impregnated with combustion retardants using different methods of impregnation. A methodological approach to studying relevant thermo-analytical characteristics was developed to evaluate the efficiency of (1) fire resistance of timber products and (2) fireproofing techniques. Flammability and combustibility of timber impregnated with fire retardants was prognosticated. It was revealed that the proposed methodology can monitor the efficiency of fireproofing applied to façade structures made of pine timber. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Buildings and Fire Safety)

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44 pages, 45485 KiB

Open AccessReview

A Critical Review of the Technical Characteristics of Recycled Brick Powder and Its Influence on Concrete Properties

by Jinkang Hu, Wisal Ahmed and Dengwu Jiao

Buildings 2024, 14(11), 3691; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14113691 - 20 Nov 2024

Viewed by 530

Abstract

This paper presents a systematic overview of the applications of RBP as a substitute for cement. Initially, the fundamental properties of RBP, including physical properties, chemical compositions, and morphology, are discussed. Subsequently, the effects of RBP on various aspects of cement-based materials, such [...] Read more.

This paper presents a systematic overview of the applications of RBP as a substitute for cement. Initially, the fundamental properties of RBP, including physical properties, chemical compositions, and morphology, are discussed. Subsequently, the effects of RBP on various aspects of cement-based materials, such as fresh properties, shrinkage behavior, hydration, microstructure, strength development, and durability, are thoroughly reviewed. The findings of this study reveal that waste brick powder exhibits pozzolanic activity and can be used to partially replace cement in concrete formulations. However, its relatively high water absorption and irregular shape increase the water demand and, thus, reduce the rheological properties. The incorporation of RBP with 10–20% or finer particle sizes can refine the pore structure and promote the formation of hydration products. However, replacements of RBP greater than 25% can lead to adverse effects on the mechanical properties, frost resistance, and carbonation resistance of cementitious composites. Therefore, to enhance the effectiveness of RBP, measures such as improving fineness, incorporating mineral admixtures, adjusting curing conditions, and applying nano- or chemical modifications are necessary. This study provides valuable technical support for promoting the sustainable preparation of construction materials, which holds important environmental and economic implications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Low-Carbon Concrete Structures Incorporating Sustainable Pozzolan and Recycled Materials)

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20 pages, 305 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Short-Term Rentals on Long-Term Rentals and the Housing Market in Riyadh

by Tahar Ledraa and Sameeh Alarabi

Buildings 2024, 14(11), 3690; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14113690 - 20 Nov 2024

Viewed by 280

Abstract

Riyadh has recently witnessed rapid growth in the use of short-term rentals. Their impact on the city’s housing market and long-term rentals has been critical. The emergence of recreational festivals such as the Riyadh and Diriyah Seasons, with their accompanying events, as well [...] Read more.

Riyadh has recently witnessed rapid growth in the use of short-term rentals. Their impact on the city’s housing market and long-term rentals has been critical. The emergence of recreational festivals such as the Riyadh and Diriyah Seasons, with their accompanying events, as well as the widespread use of daily rental platforms such as Airbnb, have created a new market for short-term rentals that has changed the city’s rental landscape. This study compared data on the number of units geared toward daily rent and their average daily rates (ADRs), obtained from the Airbnb platform, with data on long-term rental units and their revenue, extracted from the Ejar platform. The data cover the five sectors of Riyadh city. Sample neighborhoods were selected from each sector. The results show that after a period of stagnation due to the precautionary measures taken during the COVID-19 pandemic, the short-term rental market saw a significant recovery once these measures were lifted. The emergence of the short-term rental market has negatively affected the long-term rental market by drying up its stock and raising rent prices, thus leading to tourism-induced displacement of low-income residents and further exacerbating the housing problem in the city. Therefore, there is an urgent need to regulate this new rental market to maintain a balance between short- and long-term markets in Riyadh. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Architectural Design, Urban Science, and Real Estate)

14 pages, 3737 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Investigation of the Effect of Compression Force on the Tensile Strength and Infiltration Rate of Pervious Concrete Blocks

by Ahmet Akkaya and İsmail Hakkı Çağatay

Buildings 2024, 14(11), 3689; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14113689 - 19 Nov 2024

Viewed by 313

Abstract

Pervious concrete is widely used as a paving material. Pervious pavement is generally constructed by pouring fresh pervious concrete and compacting. However, it has some difficulties such as finishing and curing. In addition, the road has to be closed, until the pervious concrete [...] Read more.

Pervious concrete is widely used as a paving material. Pervious pavement is generally constructed by pouring fresh pervious concrete and compacting. However, it has some difficulties such as finishing and curing. In addition, the road has to be closed, until the pervious concrete gains enough strength. Pervious concrete block is a new material that can overcome these difficulties. In this study, the effect of compression force on the strength and infiltration rate of pervious concrete blocks has been investigated. The compaction process was different from traditional methods in this study, and was applied according to predesignated compression forces on fresh pervious concrete mixtures sensitively. Within the scope of the study, 36 different mixtures were produced by applying four different compression forces (25, 50, 75, and 100 kN) in three different sample thicknesses (60, 80, and 100 mm) with three different aggregate sizes (2–4, 4–8, and 8–16 mm). As a result, it was found that while the increase in the compression force increases the splitting tensile strength of pervious concrete blocks with 2–4 and 4–8 mm aggregate, it causes a decrease in the strength due to the aggregate crushing phenomenon in mixtures with 8–16 mm aggregate, 6 cm thick samples. In this study, it was seen that the expectation that the increase in compaction would always cause an increase in strength is not valid, contrary to the literature. The infiltration rate decreased as the compression force increased, as expected. It was determined that the new infiltration rate measurement method has been found effective. Considering the strength requirement in the TS 2824 EN 1338 standard, pervious concrete blocks produced with 4–8 mm aggregate, compressed with 75 kN force and having 80 mm thickness have been determined as the optimum block type. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Building Materials, and Repair & Renovation)

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19 pages, 2710 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Optimal Cost Design of RC T-Shaped Combined Footings

by Victor Manuel Moreno-Landeros, Arnulfo Luévanos-Rojas, Griselda Santiago-Hurtado, Luis Daimir López-León, Francisco Javier Olguin-Coca, Abraham Leonel López-León and Aldo Emelio Landa-Gómez

Buildings 2024, 14(11), 3688; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14113688 - 19 Nov 2024

Viewed by 279

Abstract

This paper shows the optimal cost design for T-shaped combined footings of reinforced concrete (RC), which are subjected to biaxial bending in each column to determine the steel areas and the thickness of the footings assuming a linear distribution of soil pressure. The [...] Read more.

This paper shows the optimal cost design for T-shaped combined footings of reinforced concrete (RC), which are subjected to biaxial bending in each column to determine the steel areas and the thickness of the footings assuming a linear distribution of soil pressure. The methodology used in this paper is as follows: First, the minimum contact surface between the footing and the ground is investigated. The design equations for the combined footing are then used to determine the objective function and its constraints to obtain the lowest cost, taking into account the ACI code requirements. Flowcharts are shown for the lowest cost and the use of Maple 15 software. The current model for design is developed as follows: A footing thickness is proposed, and then it is verified that the thickness complies with the effects produced by moments, bending shears, and punching shears. Furthermore, four numerical examples are presented under the same loads and moments applied to each column, with different conditions applied to obtain the optimal contact surface and then the minimum cost design. The results show that the optimal cost design (lowest cost) is more economical and more accurate than any other model, and there is no direct proportion between the minimum contact surface and lowest cost for the design of T-shaped combined footings. In this way, the minimum cost model shown in this work can be applied to the design of rectangular and T-shaped combined footings using optimization techniques. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Building Structures)

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22 pages, 14659 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Relative Density on the Lateral Response of Piled Raft Foundation: An Experimental Study

by Mohammad Ilyas Siddiqi, Hamza Ahmad Qureshi, Irfan Jamil and Fahad Alshawmar

Buildings 2024, 14(11), 3687; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14113687 - 19 Nov 2024

Viewed by 355

Abstract

The population surge has led to a corresponding increase in the demand for high-rise buildings, bridges, and other heavy structures. In addition to gravity loads, these structures must withstand lateral loads from earthquakes, wind, ships, vehicles, etc. A piled raft foundation (PRF) has [...] Read more.

The population surge has led to a corresponding increase in the demand for high-rise buildings, bridges, and other heavy structures. In addition to gravity loads, these structures must withstand lateral loads from earthquakes, wind, ships, vehicles, etc. A piled raft foundation (PRF) has emerged as the most favored system for high-rise buildings due to its ability to resist lateral loads. An experimental study was conducted on three different piled raft model configurations with three different relative densities (D_r) to determine the effect of D_r on the lateral response of a PRF. A model raft was constructed using a 25 mm thick aluminum plate with dimensions of 304.8 mm × 304.8 mm, and galvanized iron (GI) pipes, each 457.2 mm in length, were used to represent the piles. The lateral and vertical load cells were connected to measure the applied loads. It was found that an increase in D_r increased the soil stiffness and led to a decrease in the lateral displacement for all three PRF models. Additionally, the contribution of the piles in resisting the lateral load decreased, whereas the contribution of the raft portion in resisting the lateral load increased. With an increase in D_r from 30% to 90%, the percentage contribution of the raft increased from 42% to 66% for 2PRF, 38% to 61% for 4PRF, and 46% to 70% for 6PRF. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Foundation Engineering for Building Structures)

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18 pages, 8607 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Numerical Study on Welding Residual Stress and Microstructure in Gas Metal Arc Welding Square Tube–Plate Y-Shaped Joints

by Zhaoru Yan and Jinsan Ju

Buildings 2024, 14(11), 3686; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14113686 - 19 Nov 2024

Viewed by 296

Abstract

Welding residual stresses significantly influence the mechanical behavior of hollow section joints, especially in the pivotal connection zones of steel structures employed in construction. The research object of this study is the Q355 steel square tube–plate Y-joint welded using Gas Metal Arc Welding [...] Read more.

Welding residual stresses significantly influence the mechanical behavior of hollow section joints, especially in the pivotal connection zones of steel structures employed in construction. The research object of this study is the Q355 steel square tube–plate Y-joint welded using Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) with CO₂ Shielding. The thermodynamic sequence coupling method was employed to simulate the temperature field, microstructure distribution, and welding residual stresses in square tube–plate Y-joints. Based on the monitored temperature field data and the cross-sectional dimensions of the weld pool, this study calibrated the finite element model. Subsequently, the calibrated finite element model was employed to analyze the influence of microstructural phase transformations and welding sequences on the welding residual stresses in square tube–plate Y-joints. The research findings indicate that the peak transverse welding residual stresses in the branch pipes of the four joint zones were lower when considering the phase transformation effect than when not accounting for it in the calculations. There was no significant difference in the transverse and longitudinal welding residual stresses on the surface of branch pipes under the three welding sequences. However, there were certain differences in the microstructural content of the weld zones under the three welding sequences, with the martensite content in the third welding sequence being significantly lower than that in the other two sequences. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mechanical Properties of Advanced Metal Structures in Civil Infrastructure)

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19 pages, 7926 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Preparation and Electromagnetic-Wave-Absorption Properties of Cement-Based Materials with Graphite Tailings and Steel Fiber

by Qian Wang, Taibing Wei, Rong Wang, Deliang Zhu, Feiyu Liu and Huawei Li

Buildings 2024, 14(11), 3685; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14113685 - 19 Nov 2024

Viewed by 317

Abstract

The development of functional building materials that can absorb electromagnetic radiation is important for preventing and controlling electromagnetic pollution in urban areas. In this study, cement-based electromagnetic wave (EMW)-absorbing materials were created using graphite tailings (GTs) as a conductive admixture and steel fiber [...] Read more.

The development of functional building materials that can absorb electromagnetic radiation is important for preventing and controlling electromagnetic pollution in urban areas. In this study, cement-based electromagnetic wave (EMW)-absorbing materials were created using graphite tailings (GTs) as a conductive admixture and steel fiber (SF) as an EMW absorber, which resulted in materials with a wide effective bandwidth and high reflection loss (RL). In particular, a GT–cement matrix with excellent mechanical and electrical properties was obtained. This study explored the influence mechanism of the SF content on the mechanical, electrical, and EMW-absorption properties of cement-based materials under the synergistic effect of GTs and SF. Findings demonstrate that the combination of GTs and SF notably improved the electrical and EMW-absorption characteristics of the cement-based materials. Optimal EMW-absorption properties were observed for a combination of 30% GTs and 6% SF. A developed cement-based EMW-absorbing material with a thickness of 20 mm displayed a minimum RL of −25.78 dB in the frequency range of 0.1–5 GHz, with an effective bandwidth of 0.953 GHz. Thus, the cement-based composite materials developed in this study have excellent EMW-absorption performance, which provides an effective strategy for preventing and controlling electromagnetic pollution in urban spaces. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Building Materials, and Repair & Renovation)

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22 pages, 12506 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Shear Bond Performance of UHPC-to-NC Interfaces with Varying Sizes: Experimental and Numerical Evaluations

by Shaohua He, Xu Huang, Jiale Huang, Youyou Zhang, Zhiyong Wan and Zhitao Yu

Buildings 2024, 14(11), 3684; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14113684 - 19 Nov 2024

Viewed by 279

Abstract

This paper explores the effect of bonding size on the shear performance of ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) and normal concrete (NC). The study includes two sets of direct shear tests on a total of 16 Z-shaped UHPC-NC bonded specimens. The first set consists of [...] Read more.

This paper explores the effect of bonding size on the shear performance of ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) and normal concrete (NC). The study includes two sets of direct shear tests on a total of 16 Z-shaped UHPC-NC bonded specimens. The first set consists of eight direct shear tests on the chiseled UHPC-NC interface with an average roughness of 4 mm (referred to as series C), from the authors’ previous study. The second set involves eight direct shear tests on the chiseled UHPC-NC interface with additional short shear steel rebars (referred to as series CS) that possess identical roughness to the first set of tests. The study discusses the failure modes, shear stress–slip behavior, and strain histories of the UHPC-NC interfaces with varying bonding sizes and shear mechanisms. A finite element model incorporating the cohesive zone model for the UHPC-NC interface was developed to gain insights into the shear bond evolutions. Our experimental results show that the two sets of direct shear specimens exhibit similar size effects in the shear stiffness, bonding strength, and interfacial slippage of the UHPC-NC interface. The use of shear steel rebars mitigated the impact of interfacial size on the bond shear behavior, thereby enhancing shear stiffness and reducing susceptibility to brittle damage. Numerical simulations indicate that the shear stress inhomogeneity coefficients for the CS specimens with bonding heights of 100 mm, 200 mm, 330 mm, and 440 mm were 1.2%, 1.8%, 11.9%, and 17.4%, respectively. The findings of this study provide valuable insights for optimizing UHPC applications in the repair and strengthening of concrete structures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mechanical Performance of Ultra-High-Performance Concrete (UHPC) and Its Composite Structures)

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17 pages, 3327 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Moderate Temperature Rise on Emitted Chemicals from Modern Building Materials

by Patrick S. Chepaitis, Qian Zhang, David Kalafut, Taryn Waddey, Mark J. Wilson and Marilyn Black

Buildings 2024, 14(11), 3683; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14113683 - 19 Nov 2024

Viewed by 382

Abstract

Chemical emissions from building materials may significantly impact indoor air quality and potentially human health, since individuals spend most of their time indoors. With rising global temperatures and more frequent heatwaves, building materials’ resilience becomes more crucial for indoor air quality and structural [...] Read more.

Chemical emissions from building materials may significantly impact indoor air quality and potentially human health, since individuals spend most of their time indoors. With rising global temperatures and more frequent heatwaves, building materials’ resilience becomes more crucial for indoor air quality and structural integrity. However, the effects of temperature rise on building material emissions are not systematically studied. This study investigates the effect of a moderate temperature rise on the volatile organic compound (VOC) and aldehyde emissions of eighteen commonly used building materials, such as engineered hardwood, nylon carpet, terrazzo flooring, and acoustic tile, at two elevated yet realistic temperature points. The chemical emissions were collected using a micro-chamber setup and analyzed using thermal desorption/gas chromatography/mass spectrometry and high-performance liquid chromatography. The results showed that 78% of the materials tested demonstrated increased chemical emissions at higher temperatures. Wood-flooring materials showed statistically significant increases in formaldehyde at elevated temperatures, which could be associated with health risks. Eight of the tested materials, particularly those used in large surface area applications, showed significant increases in emissions at increased temperatures, and half of these were labeled as “low-VOC”. These findings may inform the updating of building standards and third-party certification with respect to temperature variation when assessing building material emissions. This research aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of VOC and aldehyde emissions at emerging indoor environmental conditions due to extreme heat climate scenarios. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ))

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15 pages, 3509 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Damage Characteristics of Blasting Surrounding Rock in Mountain Tunnel in Fault Fracture Zones Based on the Johnson–Holmquist-2 Model

by Lizhi Cheng, Zhiquan Yang, Ping Zhao and Fengting Li

Buildings 2024, 14(11), 3682; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14113682 - 19 Nov 2024

Viewed by 296

Abstract

Blasting is a widely employed technique for tunnel construction in mountainous regions; however, it often causes damage to the surrounding rock mass, particularly in fault fracture zones, which can lead to hazards such as rockfalls and collapses. This study examines the characteristics of [...] Read more.

Blasting is a widely employed technique for tunnel construction in mountainous regions; however, it often causes damage to the surrounding rock mass, particularly in fault fracture zones, which can lead to hazards such as rockfalls and collapses. This study examines the characteristics of damage to surrounding rock due to tunnel blasting through fault fracture zones. Based on an actual tunnel blasting construction project, we conducted a finite element analysis using the JH-2 material model, taking into account the width of the fault fracture zone. Results indicate that as the width of the fault fracture zone increases, the disturbance effect of tunnel blasting on the surrounding rock becomes more pronounced. Compared to the arch bottom and arch waist of the tunnel, the tunnel vault primarily absorbs the slip deformation and compressive forces resulting from blasting disturbances in the fault fracture zone. The findings of this paper contribute a valuable methodology for analyzing the mechanical mechanisms in mountain tunnel blasting and provide essential theoretical parameters to inform the design and construction of tunnel blasting projects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Structural Safety and Stability of Buildings: Novel Methods, Materials and Measurements)

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22 pages, 7749 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Energy-Efficiency-Oriented Spatial Configuration of VRV Outdoor Units in an Equipment Layer Under Background Wind Conditions

by Lin Liu, Haoran Huang and Xiaoyu Tian

Buildings 2024, 14(11), 3681; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14113681 - 19 Nov 2024

Viewed by 241

Abstract

This study provides a spatial configuration method to improve the cooling efficiency of multiple VRV outdoor units placed on equipment layers with high floors. Relevant factors include wind parameters, the placement of multiple outdoor units, and louver. A total of 96 cases were [...] Read more.

This study provides a spatial configuration method to improve the cooling efficiency of multiple VRV outdoor units placed on equipment layers with high floors. Relevant factors include wind parameters, the placement of multiple outdoor units, and louver. A total of 96 cases were designed. CFD simulations were used to obtain the inlet air temperature distributions of multiple outdoor units and then calculate their cooling efficiency. The results found that these factors have effects on the average cooling efficiency of outdoor units in a single row to a certain extent. The influencing degrees of these factors, from large to small, were the louver angle, wind parameters, and the placement of multiple outdoor units. When the cooling efficiency of outdoor units was maximum and the louver angle was 15°, the louvers could be oriented perpendicular to the dominant wind direction (90°) when wind speed was ≥6 m/s, and the unit spacing was 600 mm. Based on this, when the number of outdoor units was expanded in the limited space, staggered arrangements with different directions of heat exchange surfaces were a recommended optimization layout. This study provides technical support for improving the working efficiency of VRV outdoor units in an equipment layer. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Climatic Suitability Design and Risk Management)

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18 pages, 7142 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Experimental and Numerical Investigation of Shear Strengthening of Simply Supported Deep Beams Incorporating Stainless Steel Plates

by Ahmed Hamoda, Saad A. Yehia, Mizan Ahmed, Khaled Sennah, Aref A. Abadel and Ramy I. Shahin

Buildings 2024, 14(11), 3680; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14113680 - 19 Nov 2024

Viewed by 238

Abstract

In this study, the effectiveness was investigated of shear strengthening techniques in reinforced concrete (RC) deep beams incorporating stainless steel plates (SSPs). Four RC deep beams were tested under incremental static loading until failure to examine the proposed strengthening techniques. The key parameters [...] Read more.

In this study, the effectiveness was investigated of shear strengthening techniques in reinforced concrete (RC) deep beams incorporating stainless steel plates (SSPs). Four RC deep beams were tested under incremental static loading until failure to examine the proposed strengthening techniques. The key parameters considered in this study included the arrangement of the externally bonded SSPs. The experimental findings demonstrated that strengthening using SSPs led to substantial improvements in their performance compared to the unstrengthened control beam. The use of SSPs increased the ultimate shear capacity by 129 to 175% over the control specimen. Finite element models (FEMs) were developed to simulate the responses of the tested beams strengthened using SSPs. Parametric studies were then conducted using the validated FEM to investigate to identify the effects of the area of SSPs on the shear capacity of the beams. The parametric studies concluded that increasing the plate thickness resulted in the enhanced shear capacity of the deep beam specimens up to a critical point upon which the increases in the thickness have insignificant effects on the shear strength. The accuracy of the design equations given by European and American codes in predicting the shear strength of the deep beams is examined. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative and Sustainable Materials for Strengthening and Rehabilitation of Building Structures)

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18 pages, 6721 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Workability and Mechanical Properties of PVA Fiber-Limestone Fine Cementitious Composite

by Weiliang Xie, Jiajian Chen, Tianxiang Chen and Garfield Xianzhang Guan

Buildings 2024, 14(11), 3679; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14113679 - 19 Nov 2024

Viewed by 264

Abstract

Cement-based materials are the most widely used building materials and have two main problems: low flexural/tensile strength and low sustainability. To solve these two problems at the same time, the strategy of the utilization of fillers as cement paste replacement and utilization of [...] Read more.

Cement-based materials are the most widely used building materials and have two main problems: low flexural/tensile strength and low sustainability. To solve these two problems at the same time, the strategy of the utilization of fillers as cement paste replacement and utilization of fiber was proposed. Mixes with varying PVA fiber and LF were produced for workability and mechanical properties measurement and analysis. The results showed that the addition of PVA fibers reduced the flowability and bonding, while the addition of LF similarly reduced the flowability but enhanced its bonding. Both effects on strength showed an increase and then a decrease. An analysis of microstructure and chemical composition demonstrated that the addition of PVA fiber and/or LF first decreased the porosity, and a further addition increased the porosity. The mixes with 0.2% fiber content showed fracture failure mode, while the mixes with 0.4–0.6% fiber content showed the pulling out of failure mode. A mix with 0.2% fiber content and 10% LF content exhibited concurrently good workability and mechanical properties. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Building Materials, and Repair & Renovation)

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18 pages, 5884 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Bending Test of Rectangular High-Strength Steel Fiber-Reinforced Concrete-Filled Steel Tubular Beams with Stiffeners

by Shiming Liu, Zhaoyang Ji, Shangyu Li, Xiaoke Li, Yongjian Liu and Shunbo Zhao

Buildings 2024, 14(11), 3678; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14113678 - 19 Nov 2024

Viewed by 271

Abstract

To better understand the bending performance of rectangular high-strength steel fiber-reinforced concrete (HSFRC)-filled steel tubular (HSFRCFST) beams with internal stiffeners, ten beams were subjected to a four-point bending test. The primary considerations were the strength grade of the HSFRC, the steel fiber content, [...] Read more.

To better understand the bending performance of rectangular high-strength steel fiber-reinforced concrete (HSFRC)-filled steel tubular (HSFRCFST) beams with internal stiffeners, ten beams were subjected to a four-point bending test. The primary considerations were the strength grade of the HSFRC, the steel fiber content, the internal stiffener type, and the circular hole spacing of the perfobond stiffener. The moment–curvature and flexural load–deflection curves were calculated. The mode of failure and the distribution of cracks of the infill HSFRC were observed. The presence of steel fibers greatly improved the bending stiffness and moment capacity of HSFRCFST beams, with the optimal effect happening at a steel fiber content of 1.2% by volume, according to the experimental findings. The type of stiffener influenced the failure modes of the exterior rectangular steel tube, which were unaffected by the compressive strength of the infill HSFRC. On the tension surface of HSFRCFST beams, the crack spacing of the infill HSFRC was virtually identical to the circular hole spacing of perfobond stiffeners. When the circular hole spacing was between two and three times the diameter, the perfobond stiffener worked best with the infill HSFRC. The test beams’ ductility index was greater than 1.16, indicating good ductility. The test beams’ rotational capacities ranged from 6.26 to 13.20, which were greater than 3.0 and met the requirements of the specification. The experimental results demonstrate that a reasonable design of the steel fiber content and the spacing between circular holes of perfobond stiffeners can significantly improve the bending resistance of rectangular HSFRCFST beams. This provides relevant parameter design suggestions for improving the ductility and bearing capacity of steel fiber-reinforced concrete beams in practical construction. Finally, a design formula for the moment capacity of rectangular HSFRCFST beams with stiffeners is presented, which corresponds well with the experimental findings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Experimental and Theoretical Studies on Steel and Concrete Structures)

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9 pages, 8456 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Study on the Stability Evolution Mechanism of a Red Mud Dam During Construction and Safety Under Earthquake During Operation

by Sitong Long, Shaokun Ma and Pengtao An

Buildings 2024, 14(11), 3677; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14113677 - 19 Nov 2024

Viewed by 362

Abstract

Instability in red mud dam bodies is not uncommon. In order to study the stability evolution mechanism during the process of red mud landfill and the deformation characteristics under earthquake action when the landfill site is closed, the deformation law and potential sliding [...] Read more.

Instability in red mud dam bodies is not uncommon. In order to study the stability evolution mechanism during the process of red mud landfill and the deformation characteristics under earthquake action when the landfill site is closed, the deformation law and potential sliding surface motion characteristics of the landfill site were explored based on the finite difference method, revealing the influence of peak ground acceleration (PGA) on red mud deformation. The results showed that: (1) As the height of the red mud landfill increases, the shear force of the red mud landfill gradually increases. Meanwhile, the maximum shear force always occurs near the initial dam, indicating that under the action of gravity, the possibility of shear slip occurring near the initial dam is the highest. (2) The distribution pattern of the plastic zone in the red mud pile during the filling process is relatively complex, and continuous monitoring of the filling process should be carried out to ensure the safety of the filling project. (3) With the increase in earthquake acceleration, the shear force of red mud piles gradually increases. Meanwhile, as the acceleration increases, the maximum shear stress always occurs at the bottom of the initial dam body. Under the action of power, special attention should be paid to the stability of the pile near the initial dam. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Numerical Modeling in Mechanical Behavior and Structural Analysis)

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19 pages, 6264 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Study on the Vibration Comfort of a High-Rise Industrial Building

by Xinxin Zhang, Ruoyang Zhou, Xiaoxiong Zha and Yong Liao

Buildings 2024, 14(11), 3676; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14113676 - 19 Nov 2024

Viewed by 247

Abstract

This study assesses the vibration comfort of a steel–concrete composite floor system in a high-rise industrial building under construction in Shenzhen. The assessment focuses on human-induced vibrations. Acceleration time histories were recorded, and spectral analysis was conducted to identify the fundamental frequencies and [...] Read more.

This study assesses the vibration comfort of a steel–concrete composite floor system in a high-rise industrial building under construction in Shenzhen. The assessment focuses on human-induced vibrations. Acceleration time histories were recorded, and spectral analysis was conducted to identify the fundamental frequencies and damping ratios. A finite element model of the industrial building was developed to simulate the vibrational response under identical conditions. Additionally, vibration response calculations were carried out using standard methodologies. The performance of a Tuned Mass Damper (TMD) system was analyzed by comparing experimental, theoretical, and simulated results with standard thresholds. Prior to TMD installation, certain locations did not meet vibration comfort standards, but, following installation, all points were within acceptable limits. These findings demonstrate the TMD’s effectiveness in enhancing vibration comfort. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on the Performance of Traditional, New and Potential Building Materials: 2nd Edition)

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21 pages, 5545 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Novel Long Short-Term Memory Seq2Seq Model with Chaos-Based Optimization and Attention Mechanism for Enhanced Dam Deformation Prediction

by Lei Wang, Jiajun Wang, Dawei Tong and Xiaoling Wang

Buildings 2024, 14(11), 3675; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14113675 - 19 Nov 2024

Viewed by 281

Abstract

The accurate prediction of dam deformation is essential for ensuring safe and efficient dam operation and risk management. However, the nonlinear relationships between deformation and time-varying environmental factors pose significant challenges, often limiting the accuracy of conventional and deep learning models. To address [...] Read more.

The accurate prediction of dam deformation is essential for ensuring safe and efficient dam operation and risk management. However, the nonlinear relationships between deformation and time-varying environmental factors pose significant challenges, often limiting the accuracy of conventional and deep learning models. To address these issues, this study aimed to improve the predictive accuracy and interpretability in dam deformation modeling by proposing a novel LSTM seq2seq model that integrates a chaos-based arithmetic optimization algorithm (AOA) and an attention mechanism. The AOA optimizes the model’s learnable parameters by utilizing the distribution patterns of four mathematical operators, further enhanced by logistic and cubic mappings, to avoid local optima. The attention mechanism, placed between the encoder and decoder networks, dynamically quantifies the impact of influencing factors on deformation, enabling the model to focus on the most relevant information. This approach was applied to an earth-rock dam, achieving superior predictive performance with RMSE, MAE, and MAPE values of 0.695 mm, 0.301 mm, and 0.156%, respectively, outperforming conventional machine learning and deep learning models. The attention weights provide insights into the contributions of each factor, enhancing interpretability. This model holds potential for real-time deformation monitoring and predictive maintenance, contributing to the safety and resilience of dam infrastructure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Developments in Structural Health Monitoring)

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17 pages, 1909 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Innovative Sports Venue Colors and Consumers’ Satisfaction Based on Multilevel Data: The Mediating Effect of Athletes’ Perceived Emotional Value

by Yuyang Hou, Boze Gou, Jiaping Liao, Yujie Zhang, Qian Huang and Bei Sun

Buildings 2024, 14(11), 3674; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14113674 - 18 Nov 2024

Viewed by 316

Abstract

Currently, sports venues are endowed with the important functions of providing sports venues and facilities to the urban public, watching sports events, publicizing the mass sports culture, etc. An in-depth study of how to enhance the attractiveness of sports venue buildings and the [...] Read more.

Currently, sports venues are endowed with the important functions of providing sports venues and facilities to the urban public, watching sports events, publicizing the mass sports culture, etc. An in-depth study of how to enhance the attractiveness of sports venue buildings and the competitiveness of the industry to stimulate the public’s potential for sports consumption is necessary. Based on the perspective of color psychology, this study constructs a three-level structural equation model based on the nested data obtained from the questionnaire survey to explore the relationship between managers’ innovative sports venue colors, athletes’ perceived emotional value, and consumers’ sports venue satisfaction. The results show that innovative sports venue colors have a significant positive effect on consumers’ satisfaction with sports venues, and the perceived emotional value has a positive mediating role in the effect of innovative sports venue colors on consumers’ satisfaction with sports venues. This study aims to provide a basis for sports venue managers or event organizers to improve athlete satisfaction, optimize consumer experience, stimulate residents’ motivation to attend games, and strengthen the profitability of the venues. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effect of Indoor Environment Quality on Human Comfort)

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19 pages, 2483 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Environmental Assessment of Calcium Sulfoaluminate Cement: A Monte Carlo Simulation in an Industrial Symbiosis Framework

by Meltem Tanguler-Bayramtan, Can B. Aktas and Ismail Ozgur Yaman

Buildings 2024, 14(11), 3673; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14113673 - 18 Nov 2024

Viewed by 456

Abstract

Calcium sulfoaluminate (CSA) cement is recognized as an environmentally friendly alternative to Portland cement (PC) due to its lower carbon footprint and energy requirements. However, traditional CSA cement production faces significant obstacles, including the high cost and regionally constrained availability of bauxite, a [...] Read more.

Calcium sulfoaluminate (CSA) cement is recognized as an environmentally friendly alternative to Portland cement (PC) due to its lower carbon footprint and energy requirements. However, traditional CSA cement production faces significant obstacles, including the high cost and regionally constrained availability of bauxite, a key raw material. Utilizing alternative materials in the production process offers a viable approach to address these limitations. This study evaluated the environmental performance of three laboratory-synthesized CSA cements using alternative raw materials sourced through an industrial symbiosis framework. A comparative assessment with PC was conducted, focusing on energy consumption and CO₂ emissions as key environmental performance indicators. The environmental impact of the CSA cements was analyzed using Monte Carlo simulations, a robust statistical approach based on data for the constituent raw materials. This method provides a practical alternative to a full life cycle assessment (LCA) when comprehensive data are not available. The results demonstrate that the CSA cements have significantly lower environmental impacts compared to PC, achieving energy savings of 13–16% and CO₂ emission reductions of 35–48%. These results emphasize the potential of industrial symbiosis to enable more sustainable CSA cement production while addressing raw material constraints. In addition, this approach highlights the wider applicability of industrial symbiosis frameworks in the construction industry, contributing to a zero-waste future and supporting global climate goals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Transformation in the Building Design and Construction Industry: Smart Technologies, Sustainable Practices, and Artificial Intelligence Applications)

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13 pages, 5326 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Numerical Methods for Topological Optimization of Wooden Structural Elements

by Daniela Țăpuși, Andrei-Dan Sabău, Adrian-Alexandru Savu, Ruxandra-Irina Erbașu and Ioana Teodorescu

Buildings 2024, 14(11), 3672; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14113672 - 18 Nov 2024

Viewed by 441

Abstract

Timber represents a building material that aligns with the environmental demands on the impact of the construction sector on climate change. The most common engineering solution for modern timber buildings with large spans is glued laminate timber (glulam). This project proposes a tool [...] Read more.

Timber represents a building material that aligns with the environmental demands on the impact of the construction sector on climate change. The most common engineering solution for modern timber buildings with large spans is glued laminate timber (glulam). This project proposes a tool for a topological optimized geometry generator of structural elements made of glulam that can be used for building a database of topologically optimized glulam beams. In turn, this can be further used to train machine learning models that can embed the topologically optimized geometry and structural behavior information. Topological optimization tasks usually require a large number of iterations in order to reach the design goals. Therefore, embedding this information into machine learning models for structural elements belonging to the same topological groups will result in a faster design process since certain aspects regarding structural behavior such as strength and stiffness can be quickly estimated using Artificial Intelligence techniques. Topologically optimized geometry propositions could be obtained by employing generative machine learning model techniques which can propose geometries that are closer to the topologically optimized results using FEM and as such present a starting point for the design analysis in a reduced amount of time. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Structural and Mechanical Performances of Structures and Materials)

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23 pages, 70804 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Architectural Design Studio Works Exploring Archetype Based on Ecological Sensibilities from Experiencing Najdi Architecture of At-Turaif Town and Modern Riyadh

by Suk Hee Yun and Tae Yeual Yi

Buildings 2024, 14(11), 3671; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14113671 - 18 Nov 2024

Viewed by 417

Abstract

The numbness to human loss becomes ordinary. Indifference to human affairs seems normal after experiencing the global lockdown. Bringing up empathy becomes the most challenging task in architectural design studios after the COVID-19 pandemic. Examining otherness solidified after a global pandemic would be [...] Read more.

The numbness to human loss becomes ordinary. Indifference to human affairs seems normal after experiencing the global lockdown. Bringing up empathy becomes the most challenging task in architectural design studios after the COVID-19 pandemic. Examining otherness solidified after a global pandemic would be a way to revive empathy and to engage more in architectural design studios. The physiological disparity between the modern and the vernacular environments narrows down with the revival of Najdi architecture, the Salmani architecture style, and the Diriyah Gate Project in Riyadh, KSA. The disparity is caused by intangible factors such as speed, density, and tension but the revival focuses heavily on the tangible, formal expression. The architectural elements in the vernacular Najdi architecture have different meanings and roles beyond being a decorative motif. The feeble values of the vernacular undermined by touristic images are challenged by a series of radical design projects not to be generalized again by picturesque replicas of the past. Seeing the lost, the ecological sensibility of a community or collective that embraced the harshest land with full respect, might not be visual but is instead radically experiential, like a serendipitous breeze in Riyadh. This paper introduces a series of studio works that challenge how to bring back the living structure, in the harshest environment, to daily life through experimental and speculative design processes. It proposes how a community is called on to guard the environmental landscape, again defying the visual interpretation of Najdi architecture in a political landscape dominated by high fence walls. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Creativity in Architecture)

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17 pages, 4110 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Optimization Design of Cotton-Straw-Fiber-Modified Asphalt Mixture Performance Based on Response Surface Methodology

by Guihua Hu, Xiaowei Chen, Zhonglu Cao and Lvzhen Yang

Buildings 2024, 14(11), 3670; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14113670 - 18 Nov 2024

Viewed by 347

Abstract

This research explored the application of cotton straw fiber in asphalt mixtures, aiming to optimize the asphalt mixtures’ performance. Firstly, 17 experiments were designed using Response Surface Methodology (RSM). Subsequently, the Box–Behnken Design (BBD) was used to examine how the asphalt content, fiber [...] Read more.

This research explored the application of cotton straw fiber in asphalt mixtures, aiming to optimize the asphalt mixtures’ performance. Firstly, 17 experiments were designed using Response Surface Methodology (RSM). Subsequently, the Box–Behnken Design (BBD) was used to examine how the asphalt content, fiber length, and cotton straw fiber content interacted to affect the modified asphalt mixes’ pavement performance. Based on the experimental findings, performance prediction models were created to direct optimization. The optimized design was then validated through pavement performance tests and bending fatigue tests. The findings revealed that cotton straw fiber content, length, and asphalt content significantly influence the performance of modified asphalt mixtures. The inclusion of cotton straw fibers enhanced various properties of the mixtures. When the fiber content was set at 0.3%, fiber length at 6 mm, and asphalt content at 5.3%, the response indicators, including Marshall stability, dynamic stability, flexural strength, and freeze–thaw strength ratio, were measured at 12.246 kN, 2452.396 times/mm, 12.30 MPa, and 92.76%, respectively. These results indicate that the cotton-straw-fiber-modified asphalt mixture achieved optimal performance while meeting regulatory requirements. Additionally, fatigue tests showed that the cotton-straw-fiber-modified asphalt mixture exhibited superior fatigue resistance compared with the SBS-modified asphalt mixture. The maximum error between the RSM predictions and the experimental measurements was within 10%, demonstrating the accuracy of the predictive models in estimating the impact of different factors on asphalt mixture performance. The application of RSM in designing and optimizing cotton-straw-fiber-modified asphalt mixtures proved to be highly effective, offering valuable insights for utilizing cotton straw fibers in road construction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Techniques in Smart Road Construction and Maintenance: Multi-Scale Characterization and Real-Time Performance Evaluation)

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