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CivilEng, Volume 5, Issue 4 (December 2024) – 17 articles

Cover Story (view full-size image): High-Voltage Power Transmission Line (HVPTL) projects are essential for meeting energy needs but are often plagued by risks due to their linear construction nature, leading to project underperformance. However, the lack of attention to risk management often leads to project underperformance. This study aims to identify and rank critical risk factors in HVPTL construction to facilitate effective risk management. Through literature review and preliminary surveys, 63 risk elements were identified under 14 main categories. These risks were ranked using two rounds of Delphi surveys and the AHP. These results emphasize the necessity of adopting systematic risk management techniques in HVPTL projects to mitigate uncertainties and enhance project outcomes. View this paper
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14 pages, 1575 KiB  
Review
A Review of the Application of Artificial Intelligence in Climate Change-Induced Flooding—Susceptibility and Management Techniques
by Adekunle Olorunlowo David, Julius Musyoka Ndambuki, Mpho Muloiwa, Williams Kehinde Kupolati and Jacques Snyman
CivilEng 2024, 5(4), 1185-1198; https://doi.org/10.3390/civileng5040058 - 18 Dec 2024
Viewed by 879
Abstract
A fresh paradigm for classifying current studies on flood management systems is proposed in this review. The literature has examined methods for managing different flood management activities from a variety of fields, such as machine learning, image processing, data analysis, and remote sensing. [...] Read more.
A fresh paradigm for classifying current studies on flood management systems is proposed in this review. The literature has examined methods for managing different flood management activities from a variety of fields, such as machine learning, image processing, data analysis, and remote sensing. Prediction, detection, mapping, evacuation, and relief efforts are all part of flood management. This can be improved by adopting state-of-the-art tools and technology. Preventing floods and ensuring a prompt response after floods is crucial to ensuring the lowest number of fatalities as well as minimizing environmental and financial damages. The following noteworthy research questions are addressed by the framework: (1) What are the main methods used in flood control? (2) Which stages of flood management are the majority of research currently in existence focused on? (3) Which systems are being suggested to address issues with flood control? (4) In the literature, what are the research gaps regarding the use of technology for flood management? To classify the many technologies that have been studied, a framework for classification has been provided for flood management. It was found that there were few hybrid models for flood control that combined machine learning and image processing. Furthermore, it was discovered that there was little use of machine learning-based techniques in the aftermath of a disaster. To provide efficient and comprehensive disaster management, future efforts must concentrate on integrating image processing methods, machine learning technologies, and the understanding of disaster management across all phases. The study has proposed the use of Generative Artificial Intelligence. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Water Resources and Coastal Engineering)
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13 pages, 3003 KiB  
Article
Thermal and Mechanical Performances Optimization of Plaster–Polystyrene Bio-Composites for Building Applications
by Aicha Rabhi, Amine Ennawaoui, Hassan Radoine, Ismail Hammoumi, Safaa Assif, Younes Chhiti, Said Laasri and Chouaib Ennawaoui
CivilEng 2024, 5(4), 1172-1184; https://doi.org/10.3390/civileng5040057 - 17 Dec 2024
Viewed by 790
Abstract
Polystyrene is renowned for its excellent thermal insulation due to its closed-cell structure that traps air and reduces heat conduction. This study aims to develop sustainable, energy-efficient building materials by enhancing the thermal and mechanical properties of plaster–polystyrene bio-composites. By incorporating varying amounts [...] Read more.
Polystyrene is renowned for its excellent thermal insulation due to its closed-cell structure that traps air and reduces heat conduction. This study aims to develop sustainable, energy-efficient building materials by enhancing the thermal and mechanical properties of plaster–polystyrene bio-composites. By incorporating varying amounts of polystyrene (5% to 25%) into plaster, our research investigates changes in thermal conductivity, thermal resistance, and mechanical properties such as Young’s modulus and maximum stress. Meticulous preparation of composite samples ensures consistency, with thermal and mechanical properties assessed using a thermal chamber and four-point bending and tensile tests. The results show that increasing the polystyrene content significantly improved thermal insulation and stiffness, though maximum stress decreased, indicating a trade-off between insulation and mechanical strength. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Construction and Material Engineering)
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11 pages, 4752 KiB  
Article
Microscopic Interactions Between Different Block Ratios of Styrene–Butadiene–Styrene and Asphalt During Their Miscibility
by Jinyang Deng, Yu Chen, Ke Cheng, Ning Xu, Jiaxin Chang and Gang Duan
CivilEng 2024, 5(4), 1161-1171; https://doi.org/10.3390/civileng5040056 - 11 Dec 2024
Viewed by 619
Abstract
Styrene–butadiene–styrene (SBS)-modified asphalt is widely used in the field of road construction because it helps asphalt pavements achieve good road performance. However, SBS-modified asphalt has problems of poor compatibility, leading to insufficient thermal storage stability. As a block copolymer of styrene and butadiene, [...] Read more.
Styrene–butadiene–styrene (SBS)-modified asphalt is widely used in the field of road construction because it helps asphalt pavements achieve good road performance. However, SBS-modified asphalt has problems of poor compatibility, leading to insufficient thermal storage stability. As a block copolymer of styrene and butadiene, the compatibility of SBS with asphalt is also influenced by its styrene-to-butadiene (S/B) ratios. To reveal the compatibility mechanisms of different S/B ratios of SBS and asphalt during system stabilization, the interactions of SBS with asphalt at the molecular level were investigated in this study. Based on the molecular dynamics simulation method, interfacial models of SBS and asphalt were constructed; the miscible process of SBS in asphalt was simulated, with the characteristics of phase structure evolution and molecular distribution being analyzed; and the binding energy of the SBS/asphalt miscible systems was calculated. The results show that a higher butadiene content benefits the miscibility of SBS in asphalt and that the S/B ratios affect the interaction of SBS with asphalt and its components. SBS with a 3:7 ratio of styrene to butadiene exhibits stronger adsorption with the resin component and has the highest binding energy and best compatibility with asphalt. The findings contribute to the understanding of the miscibility and compatibility mechanisms between different S/B ratios of SBS and asphalt. Full article
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26 pages, 6744 KiB  
Article
Study on the Damage Behavior of Engineered Cementitious Composites: Experiment, Theory, and Numerical Implementation
by Tingting Ding, Zhuo Wang, Yang Liu, Xinlong Wang, Tingxin Sun and Shengyou Yang
CivilEng 2024, 5(4), 1135-1160; https://doi.org/10.3390/civileng5040055 - 3 Dec 2024
Viewed by 972
Abstract
The ever-increasing material performance requirements in modern engineering structures have thrust engineered cementitious composites (ECCs) into the limelight of civil engineering research. The exceptional tensile, bending, and crack-control abilities of ECCs have sparked significant interest. However, the current research on the mechanical behavior [...] Read more.
The ever-increasing material performance requirements in modern engineering structures have thrust engineered cementitious composites (ECCs) into the limelight of civil engineering research. The exceptional tensile, bending, and crack-control abilities of ECCs have sparked significant interest. However, the current research on the mechanical behavior of ECCs primarily focuses on uniaxial tensile and compressive constitutive relationships, leaving a gap in the form of a comprehensive multidimensional constitutive model that can fully describe its complex behavior at large strains. This study rigorously addresses this gap by initially investigating the uniaxial tensile and compressive behavior of ECCs through experiments and establishing a one-dimensional constitutive relationship of ECCs. It then introduces the concepts of damage energy release rate and energy equivalent strain, and constructs a three-dimensional constitutive model of ECCs by introducing the damage variable function. We write the numerical algorithm of our theoretical model in terms of the VUMAT subroutine and implement it into ABAQUS 2019 finite element software. We validate the accuracy and practicality of the multidimensional constitutive model by comparing the experimental data of uniaxial tension/compression and four-point bending. This paper enriches the theoretical system of ECCs and provides rigorous guidance for the performance optimization and practical application of such advanced engineering materials. Full article
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25 pages, 7513 KiB  
Article
Lateral–Torsional Buckling of Externally Prestressed I-Section Steel Beams Subjected to Fire
by Abdellah Mahieddine, Noureddine Ziane, Giuseppe Ruta, Rachid Zahi, Mohamed Zidi and Sid Ahmed Meftah
CivilEng 2024, 5(4), 1110-1134; https://doi.org/10.3390/civileng5040054 - 29 Nov 2024
Viewed by 557
Abstract
We develop a new analytical and numerical approach, based on existing models, to describe the onset of lateral–torsional buckling (LTB) for simply supported thin-walled steel members. The profiles have uniform I cross-sections with variable lengths of the flanges, to describe also H cross-sections, [...] Read more.
We develop a new analytical and numerical approach, based on existing models, to describe the onset of lateral–torsional buckling (LTB) for simply supported thin-walled steel members. The profiles have uniform I cross-sections with variable lengths of the flanges, to describe also H cross-sections, they are prestressed by external tendons, and they are subjected to fire and various loadings. Our approach manages to update the value of the prestressing force, accounting for thermal and loads; the critical multipliers result from an eigenvalue problem obtained applying Galërkin’s approach to a system of nonlinear equilibrium equations. Our results are compared to buckling, steady state, and transient state analyses of a Finite Element Method (FEM) simulation, in which an original expression for an equivalent thermal expansion coefficient for the beam–tendon system that accounts for both mechanical and thermal strains is introduced. Our aim is to find estimates for the critical conditions with no geometric imperfections and accounting for the decay of material properties due to fire, thus providing limit values useful for conservative design. This approach can surpass others in the literature and in the existing technical norms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue "Stability of Structures", in Memory of Prof. Marcello Pignataro)
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21 pages, 608 KiB  
Article
Additional Costs of Public Works Contracts in Portugal—Descriptive Statistical Analysis in Light of the Quality of Information
by Ygor Almeida and Rui Calejo
CivilEng 2024, 5(4), 1089-1109; https://doi.org/10.3390/civileng5040053 - 27 Nov 2024
Viewed by 691
Abstract
The aim of this work is to analyse the quality and transparency of data on the additional costs of public works. The problem identified is the lack of detailed and accessible information that allows for an adequate analysis of the performance and final [...] Read more.
The aim of this work is to analyse the quality and transparency of data on the additional costs of public works. The problem identified is the lack of detailed and accessible information that allows for an adequate analysis of the performance and final state of public works, especially in relation to prices and deadlines. This is a case study carried out in Portugal, in which information from public works contracts with a closing date in 2022 was analysed. The data were extracted from the public access portal, responsible for making available and publishing information on the execution of public works contracts. The information was subjected to a statistical treatment process seeking to identify answers to transparency issues. The originality of this study lies in the quantitative and statistical approach applied to the evaluation of the transparency of the data made available on the portal, contributing to the debate on improving public management. The results indicate the need to expand the content available on the portal since the information provided does not allow for an analysis of the final state and performance of the works carried out, especially those relating to price and deadline, which in turn limits the construction of forecasting models and performance indicators. Corrective measures are proposed that include information that allows for answering questions about transparency and that allows for the construction and analysis of statistics and indicators, contributing to identifying the need for improvements in legislation, and the adoption of mechanisms that can improve, correct and or reinforce actions with an impact on the management of public resources. Full article
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32 pages, 11868 KiB  
Article
Identifying and Prioritizing Critical Risk Factors in the Context of a High-Voltage Power Transmission Line Construction Project: A Case Study from Sri Lanka
by Waruna Weerakkody, Bawantha Rathnayaka and Chandana Siriwardana
CivilEng 2024, 5(4), 1057-1088; https://doi.org/10.3390/civileng5040052 - 14 Nov 2024
Viewed by 1069
Abstract
This study addresses critical risk factors in high-voltage power transmission line (HVPTL) construction projects, which are vital components of national energy infrastructure. HVPTL projects are essential for meeting energy needs but are often plagued by risks due to their linear construction nature, leading [...] Read more.
This study addresses critical risk factors in high-voltage power transmission line (HVPTL) construction projects, which are vital components of national energy infrastructure. HVPTL projects are essential for meeting energy needs but are often plagued by risks due to their linear construction nature, leading to project underperformance. However, the lack of attention to risk management often leads to project underperformance. This research aims to identify and rank these risks to facilitate effective risk management. Through literature review and preliminary surveys, 63 risk elements were identified under 14 main categories. These risks were ranked using two rounds of Delphi surveys and the analytical hierarchy process (AHP). The study focuses on a Sri Lankan HVPTL project. The most critical risk factors identified include “improper planning by the main contractor”, “delays in decision-making by the client/consultant”, “errors in initial costing”, and “inaccuracies in survey data”, with AHP analysis assigning significant weights of 43.9%, 18%, 16%, and 14.9% to these factors, respectively. Comparative analysis with similar studies reveals consistent findings, underscoring the importance of addressing delays in approvals, material unavailability, and construction-quality challenges. These results emphasize the necessity of adopting systematic risk-management techniques in HVPTL projects to mitigate uncertainties and enhance project outcomes. Full article
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15 pages, 785 KiB  
Article
Perceived Risk Assessment Criteria for Public–Private Partnership Projects in the Water and Sewage Sector: Comparison of Perspectives from Iranian Public and Private Sectors
by Leila Moradi Shahdadi, Babak Aminnejad and Hadi Sarvari
CivilEng 2024, 5(4), 1042-1056; https://doi.org/10.3390/civileng5040051 - 10 Nov 2024
Viewed by 763
Abstract
This research used the SWARA approach to analyze risk assessment criteria for public–private partnership (PPP) projects in Iran’s water and sewage sectors to identify and prioritize the most significant elements influencing project success from public and private viewpoints. Key results show that the [...] Read more.
This research used the SWARA approach to analyze risk assessment criteria for public–private partnership (PPP) projects in Iran’s water and sewage sectors to identify and prioritize the most significant elements influencing project success from public and private viewpoints. Key results show that the public sector considers “risk probability” to be the most important aspect, highlighting the requirement for stability and predictability in project outcomes. In contrast, the private sector prioritizes the “ability to predict and discover risk”, emphasizing efficiently anticipating and managing uncertainty. Furthermore, this study revealed five common major risk characteristics, including “risk manageability” and “uncertainty of risk”; however, their rankings differ per industry, demonstrating various risk prioritizing methodologies. This study is unique in that it focuses only on Iran’s water and sewage infrastructure, an area historically neglected in PPP research, providing a rare investigation of sector-specific hazards as well as the interaction between public and private interests in a developing country environment. The paper makes specific suggestions, calling for more openness, improved communication, and the use of sophisticated risk management techniques to bridge the gap across sectors. These findings not only add to the scholarly knowledge of PPP dynamics in emerging countries but also provide practical recommendations for governments and private investors navigating Iran’s infrastructure issues. Full article
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31 pages, 2939 KiB  
Systematic Review
Integrating Building- and Site-Specific and Generic Fragility Curves into Seismic Risk Assessment: A PRISMA-Based Analysis of Methodologies and Applications
by Jhon Philip Camayang, Orlean Dela Cruz and Rhommel Grutas
CivilEng 2024, 5(4), 1011-1041; https://doi.org/10.3390/civileng5040050 - 8 Nov 2024
Viewed by 1369
Abstract
Fragility curves are fundamental tools in seismic risk assessments, providing insights into the vulnerability of structures to earthquake-induced damages. These curves, which plot the probability of a structure reaching or exceeding various damage states against earthquake intensity, are critical for developing effective modification [...] Read more.
Fragility curves are fundamental tools in seismic risk assessments, providing insights into the vulnerability of structures to earthquake-induced damages. These curves, which plot the probability of a structure reaching or exceeding various damage states against earthquake intensity, are critical for developing effective modification strategies. This review aims to present the characteristics between building- and site-specific fragility curves, which incorporate detailed local characteristics, and generic fragility curves that apply broader, more generalized parameters. We utilize the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) methodology to systematically review the literature to address key research questions about the methodological differences, applications, and implications of these curve types in assessing seismic risks. The methods involved a comprehensive search and combination of existing studies on the topic, focusing on how these curves are developed and applied in real-world scenarios. The results from this review show that building- and site-specific curves, while more precise, require extensive data and are therefore more complex and costly to develop. In contrast, generic curves, though less accurate, offer a cost-effective solution for preliminary risk assessments over large areas. The conclusions drawn from this review suggest that while each type has its merits, the choice between building- and site-specific and generic fragility curves should be guided by the specific requirements of the seismic risk assessment task, including available resources and the need for precision in the vulnerability estimations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Structural and Earthquake Engineering)
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40 pages, 18760 KiB  
Article
Optimizing the Utilization of Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the AEC Industry: ChatGPT Prompt Engineering and Design
by Reihaneh Samsami
CivilEng 2024, 5(4), 971-1010; https://doi.org/10.3390/civileng5040049 - 28 Oct 2024
Viewed by 2107
Abstract
Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) holds significant potential for revolutionizing the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry by automating complex tasks such as construction scheduling, hazard recognition, resource leveling, information retrieval from BIM, etc. However, realizing this potential requires a strategic approach to ensure [...] Read more.
Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) holds significant potential for revolutionizing the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry by automating complex tasks such as construction scheduling, hazard recognition, resource leveling, information retrieval from BIM, etc. However, realizing this potential requires a strategic approach to ensure effective utilization and maximum benefit. This paper presents guidelines for prompt design and engineering to elicit desired responses from ChatGPT, a Generative AI tool, in AEC applications. Key steps include understanding user intent, leveraging model capabilities, and optimizing prompt structures. By following these guidelines, stakeholders in the AEC industry can harness the power of Generative AI to improve construction scheduling processes, increase project efficiency, and ultimately drive innovation and growth in the industry. Several illustrative examples on construction scheduling and hazard recognition are provided to demonstrate the methodology proposed in this research. It is concluded that Generative AI, when effectively utilized, significantly enhances project scheduling and hazard recognition capability in the AEC industry with minimal error. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Recent Advances and Development in Civil Engineering)
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22 pages, 4224 KiB  
Article
Weighting Variables for Transportation Assets Condition Indices Using Subjective Data Framework
by Abdallah B. Al-Hamdan, Yazan Ibrahim Alatoom, Inya Nlenanya and Omar Smadi
CivilEng 2024, 5(4), 949-970; https://doi.org/10.3390/civileng5040048 - 17 Oct 2024
Viewed by 1561
Abstract
This study proposes a novel framework for determining variables’ weights in transportation assets condition indices calculations using statistical and machine learning techniques. The methodology leverages subjective ratings alongside objective measurements to derive data-driven weights. The motivation for this study lies in addressing the [...] Read more.
This study proposes a novel framework for determining variables’ weights in transportation assets condition indices calculations using statistical and machine learning techniques. The methodology leverages subjective ratings alongside objective measurements to derive data-driven weights. The motivation for this study lies in addressing the limitations of existing expert-based weighting methods for condition indices, which often lack transparency and consistency; this research aims to provide a data-driven framework that enhances accuracy and reliability in infrastructure asset management. A case study was performed as a proof of concept of the proposed framework by applying the framework to obtain data-driven weights for pavement condition index (PCI) calculations using data for the city of West Des Moines, Iowa. Random forest models performed effectively in modeling the relationship between the overall condition index (OCI) and the objective measures and provided feature importance scores that were converted into weights. The data-driven weights showed strong correlation with existing expert-based weights, validating their accuracy while capturing contextual variations between pavement types. The results indicate that the proposed framework achieved high model accuracy, demonstrated by R-squared values of 0.83 and 0.91 for rigid and composite pavements, respectively. Additionally, the data-driven weights showed strong correlations (R-squared values of 0.85 and 0.98) with existing expert-based weights, validating their effectiveness. This advanceIRIment offers transportation agencies an enhanced tool for prioritizing maintenance and resource allocation, ultimately leading to improved infrastructure longevity. Additionally, this approach shows promise for application across various transportation assets based on the yielded results. Full article
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21 pages, 8890 KiB  
Article
Structural Performance of a Hollow-Core Square Concrete Column Longitudinally Reinforced with GFRP Bars under Concentric Load
by AbdulMuttalib I. Said, Hussein A. Hilfi, Abbas A. Allawi and George Wardeh
CivilEng 2024, 5(4), 928-948; https://doi.org/10.3390/civileng5040047 - 15 Oct 2024
Viewed by 1272
Abstract
Concrete columns with hollow-core sections find widespread application owing to their excellent structural efficiency and efficient material utilization. However, corrosion poses a challenge in concrete buildings with steel reinforcement. This paper explores the possibility of using glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) reinforcement as a [...] Read more.
Concrete columns with hollow-core sections find widespread application owing to their excellent structural efficiency and efficient material utilization. However, corrosion poses a challenge in concrete buildings with steel reinforcement. This paper explores the possibility of using glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) reinforcement as a non-corrosive and economically viable substitute for steel reinforcement in short square hollow concrete columns. Twelve hollow short columns were meticulously prepared in the laboratory experiments and subjected to pure axial compressive loads until failure. All columns featured a hollow square section with exterior dimensions of (180 × 180) mm and 900 mm height. The columns were categorized into four separate groups with different variables: steel and GFRP longitudinal reinforcement ratio, hollow ratio, spacing between ties, and reinforcement type. The experimental findings point to the compressive participation of longitudinal GFRP bars, estimated to be approximately 35% of the tensile strength of GFRP bars. Notably, increasing GFRP longitudinal reinforcement significantly improved the ultimate load capability of hollow square GFRP column specimens. Specifically, elevating the ratio of GFRP reinforcement from 1.46% to 2.9%, 3.29%, 4.9%, and 5.85% resulted in axial load capacity improvements of 32.3%, 43.9%, 60.5%, and 71.7%, respectively. Specifically, the GFRP specimens showed a decrease in capacity of 13.1%, 9.2%, and 9.4%, respectively. Notably, the load contribution of steel reinforcement to GFRP reinforcement (with similar sectional areas) was from approximately three to four times the axial peak load, highlighting the greater load participation of steel reinforcement due to its higher elastic modulus. In addition, the numerical modeling and analysis conducted using ABAQUS/CAE 2019 software exhibited strong concordance with experimental findings concerning failure modes and capacity to carry axial loads. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Recent Advances and Development in Civil Engineering)
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36 pages, 5134 KiB  
Review
A Bibliometric Review of Lightweight Aggregate Geopolymer Concrete
by Shea Qin Tan, Nor Hasanah Abdul Shukor Lim, Ali Taha Saleh, Kenneth Ee Li Wei, Mostafa Samadi and Ghasan Fahim Huseien
CivilEng 2024, 5(4), 892-927; https://doi.org/10.3390/civileng5040046 - 9 Oct 2024
Viewed by 1998
Abstract
The increase in cement production has had a noteworthy impact on the emission of greenhouse gases. As a result, it is essential to develop geopolymer concrete innovations to mitigate the environmental consequences. However, conventional geopolymer concrete not only requires heavy machinery and an [...] Read more.
The increase in cement production has had a noteworthy impact on the emission of greenhouse gases. As a result, it is essential to develop geopolymer concrete innovations to mitigate the environmental consequences. However, conventional geopolymer concrete not only requires heavy machinery and an increase in the cross-sectional area of structural supports, but it also endangers the operating safety of workers. Therefore, in recent times, lightweight concrete has gained significant attention due to its many advantages and benefits to the structure and construction sectors. Thus, the aim of this study is to carry out a bibliometric analysis of the lightweight geopolymer concrete and assess its fundamental characteristics to determine the research gap in this area. This review paper will benefit researchers in identifying the ongoing trend in lightweight aggregate geopolymer concrete, identifying more areas for additional study. It will also act as a knowledge source for policymakers, journal editors, professionals, and research organizations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Construction and Material Engineering)
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26 pages, 9795 KiB  
Article
Three-Dimensional Site Response Analysis of Clay Soil Considering the Effects of Soil Behavior and Type
by Rania Al-Ahmar, Mayada Al Ahmad Al Kousa, Amjad Al-Helwani and George Wardeh
CivilEng 2024, 5(4), 866-891; https://doi.org/10.3390/civileng5040045 - 8 Oct 2024
Viewed by 1120
Abstract
To understand changes in bedrock motion at the ground surface, frequency effects, and spatial distribution within the soil, it is important to look at how a site responds to earthquakes. This is important for soil–structure interaction in structural and geotechnical earthquake engineering. This [...] Read more.
To understand changes in bedrock motion at the ground surface, frequency effects, and spatial distribution within the soil, it is important to look at how a site responds to earthquakes. This is important for soil–structure interaction in structural and geotechnical earthquake engineering. This study deals with the effect of classifying clays according to shear wave velocity (stiff/medium/soft) and nonlinearity in behavior (linear/nonlinear) on the analysis of the site response. A 3D soil model with a combination of free fields and quiet boundaries and advanced constitutive models for soil to obtain accurate results was used to conduct this study. A strong TABAS earthquake was used to excite the compliant base of the model after converting the velocity record of TABAS to an equivalent surface traction force using a horizontal force–time history proportional to the velocity–time history. This study reveals that the site response analysis is affected by the type of clay soil and the soil material behavior, with soft clay soil causing higher PGV and PGV values in the linear case and lower values in the nonlinear case due to soil yielding, which causes soil response attenuation. This results in extremely conservative and expensive building designs when linear soil behavior is adopted. On the other hand, the applied earthquake exhibits greater attenuation at longer frequencies and greater amplification at mid and short frequencies. However, at frequencies near the applied earthquake frequency, neither attenuation nor amplification occurs. Furthermore, nonlinear soil behavior is crucial for soil evaluation and foundation design due to higher octahedral shear strain and settlement values, especially in softer soils, resulting from extensive plastic deformation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Recent Advances and Development in Civil Engineering)
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14 pages, 4596 KiB  
Article
Study of Dynamic Modulus of Asphalt Mix after Reinforcement of Sandstone
by Bowen Zhang, Shuangquan Jiang, Nanxiang Zheng, Jinduo Liu and Yuxing Wang
CivilEng 2024, 5(4), 852-865; https://doi.org/10.3390/civileng5040044 - 30 Sep 2024
Viewed by 1048
Abstract
Sandstone has poor mechanical properties. To facilitate the application of sandstone into asphalt mixtures, sandstone was treated by immersion in sodium silicate solution, and the dynamic modulus after reinforcement was used as a criterion. The results showed that the mechanical properties of the [...] Read more.
Sandstone has poor mechanical properties. To facilitate the application of sandstone into asphalt mixtures, sandstone was treated by immersion in sodium silicate solution, and the dynamic modulus after reinforcement was used as a criterion. The results showed that the mechanical properties of the sandstone aggregate treated with sodium silicate were improved, and the dynamic modulus was increased by 18.2%, which will help to reduce rutting. The dynamic modulus and phase angle can be effectively predicted over a wide frequency range using the sigma function and the Kramers–Kronig relationship. Sandstone asphalt mixtures basically conform to linear viscoelasticity, but the phase angle changes are more complicated at high temperatures and do not vary monotonically with frequency. By calculating the rutting coefficient, fatigue coefficient, and DSRFn parameters for performance prediction, it was found that an increase in dynamic modulus resulted in a significant increase in the rutting coefficient but a decrease in the cracking resistance. Full article
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25 pages, 9387 KiB  
Article
Neural Network Prediction and Enhanced Strength Properties of Natural Fibre-Reinforced Quaternary-Blended Composites
by Pavithra Chandramouli, Mohamed Riyaaz Nayum Akthar, Veerappan Sathish Kumar, Revathy Jayaseelan and Gajalakshmi Pandulu
CivilEng 2024, 5(4), 827-851; https://doi.org/10.3390/civileng5040043 - 26 Sep 2024
Viewed by 1246
Abstract
This research, with its potential to revolutionise the construction industry, aims to develop quaternary-blended composites (QBC) by replacing 80% of ordinary Portland cement (OPC) with metakaolin, rice husk ash, and wood ash combined with discrete hybrid natural fibres at a volume fraction of [...] Read more.
This research, with its potential to revolutionise the construction industry, aims to develop quaternary-blended composites (QBC) by replacing 80% of ordinary Portland cement (OPC) with metakaolin, rice husk ash, and wood ash combined with discrete hybrid natural fibres at a volume fraction of 0.5%. This study investigates the mechanical properties, including compressive strength, split tensile strength, and impact strength of the QBC at various curing ages of 7, 28, and 56 days. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis was performed to assess the microstructural characteristics. This research aimed to formulate a novel quaternary binder that may minimise our reliance on cement. The experimental results indicate that the mix labelled M4L2 exhibited superior compressive and split tensile strength performance, with percentage increases of approximately 51.03% and 29.19%, respectively. Meanwhile, the M5L1 mix demonstrated enhanced impact energy, with a percentage increase of about 36.40% in 56 days. SEM observations revealed that the MC4 mix contained unhydrated portions and larger cracks. In contrast, the presence of fibres in the M4L2 mix contributed to crack resistance, resulting in a denser matrix and improved microstructural properties. This study also employed an artificial neural network (ANN) model to predict the compressive, tensile, and impact strength characteristics of the QBC, with the predictions aligning closely with the experimental results. An investigation was conducted to determine the ideal number of hidden layers and neurons in each layer. The model’s effectiveness was evaluated using statistical metrics such as correlation coefficient (R), coefficient of determination (R2), root mean square error (RMSE), mean absolute error (MEA), and mean absolute percentage error (MAPE). The findings suggest that the developed QBCs can effectively reduce reliance on conventional cement while offering improved mechanical properties suitable for sustainable construction practices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Construction and Material Engineering)
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26 pages, 5108 KiB  
Review
The Use of Waste Fillers in Asphalt Mixtures: A Comprehensive Review
by Zahraa Jwaida, Qassim Ali Al Quraishy, Raid R. A. Almuhanna, Anmar Dulaimi, Luís Filipe Almeida Bernardo and Jorge Miguel de Almeida Andrade
CivilEng 2024, 5(4), 801-826; https://doi.org/10.3390/civileng5040042 - 24 Sep 2024
Viewed by 2477
Abstract
The asphalt industry has long been challenged with finding sustainable solutions to enhance the performance of asphalt mixtures while mitigating their environmental impact. One promising avenue is the incorporation of waste filler materials into asphalt mixtures. This review explores the feasibility and effectiveness [...] Read more.
The asphalt industry has long been challenged with finding sustainable solutions to enhance the performance of asphalt mixtures while mitigating their environmental impact. One promising avenue is the incorporation of waste filler materials into asphalt mixtures. This review explores the feasibility and effectiveness of utilizing waste filler in asphalt mixtures, focusing on its effects on the mechanical characteristics, durability, and sustainability of asphalt pavements. Various waste filler materials, such as rice husk ash, fly ash, and construction and demolition wastes, have been examined in terms of their potential as substitutes for traditional filler materials such as limestone and mineral powders. This review synthesizes literature to assess the impact of waste fillers on the performance of asphalt mixtures, including rutting resistance, fatigue behavior, moisture susceptibility, and aging characteristics. This work begins by examining the interaction of the asphalt fillers to provide clarification. The usage of various waste fillers is then examined. With fewer harmful environmental consequences than traditional cement manufacturing has, waste filler materials improve the strength and durability of asphalt mixtures. This research underscores the promising future of waste filler materials as environmentally friendly and innovative materials. To fully capitalize on their benefits, further research, standardization, and widespread use of waste filler-based products are necessary. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Construction and Material Engineering)
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