Smart Material and Smart Construction Technologies for Urban Development

Journal Name	Impact Factor	CiteScore	Launched Year	First Decision (median)	APC
Buildings buildings	3.1	3.4	2011	17.2 Days	CHF 2600	Submit
Infrastructures infrastructures	2.7	5.2	2016	16.8 Days	CHF 1800	Submit
Materials materials	3.1	5.8	2008	15.5 Days	CHF 2600	Submit
Smart Cities smartcities	7.0	11.2	2018	25.8 Days	CHF 2000	Submit
Sustainability sustainability	3.3	6.8	2009	20 Days	CHF 2400	Submit

17 pages, 3414 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of PEG400–Zeolite Performance as a Material for Enhancing Strength of the Mechanical Properties of LECA/Foamed Lightweight Concrete

by Hebah Mohammad Al-Jabali, Walid Fouad Edris, Shady Khairy, Ghada N. Mohamed, Hebatallah A. Elsayed and Ahmed A. El-Latief

Infrastructures 2024, 9(9), 149; https://doi.org/10.3390/infrastructures9090149 - 2 Sep 2024

Viewed by 911

Abstract

A versatile building material, foamed concrete is made of cement, fine aggregate, and foam combined with coarse aggregate. This study provides a description of how constant coarse aggregate replacement (50%) of LECA and foamed concrete, which are lightweight concrete types, by zeolite as [...] Read more.

A versatile building material, foamed concrete is made of cement, fine aggregate, and foam combined with coarse aggregate. This study provides a description of how constant coarse aggregate replacement (50%) of LECA and foamed concrete, which are lightweight concrete types, by zeolite as a filler and PEG-400 as a plasticizer, water retention agent, and strength enhancer affect the mechanical properties of the cement. A study that examined the characteristics of cellular lightweight concrete in both its fresh and hardened forms was carried out for both foamed concrete and LECA concrete. In order to do this, a composite of zeolite and polyethylene glycol 400 was made using the direct absorption method, and no leakage was seen. Zeolite was loaded to a level of 10% and 20% of the total weight in cement, while 400 g/mol PEG was used at levels of 1%, 1.5%, and 2% of the cement’s weight. Various mixtures having a dry density of 1250 kg/m³ were produced. Properties like dry density, splitting tensile strength, and compressive strength were measured. An increase in the amount of PEG400–zeolite was seen to lower the workability, or slump, of both foamed and LECA concrete, while the replacement of aggregate by zeolite resulted in an exponential drop in both compressive and flexural strengths. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Smart Material and Smart Construction Technologies for Urban Development)

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15 pages, 6455 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Enhancing Tower Crane Safety: A UAV-Based Intelligent Inspection Approach

by Xin Jiao, Na Wu, Xin Zhang, Jian Fan, Zhenwei Cai, Ying Wang and Zhenglong Zhou

Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1420; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051420 - 15 May 2024

Viewed by 1588

Abstract

Tower cranes play a crucial role in the construction industry, facilitating the vertical and horizontal movement of materials and aiding in building construction, especially for high-rise structures. However, tower crane accidents can lead to severe consequences, highlighting the importance of effective safety management [...] Read more.

Tower cranes play a crucial role in the construction industry, facilitating the vertical and horizontal movement of materials and aiding in building construction, especially for high-rise structures. However, tower crane accidents can lead to severe consequences, highlighting the importance of effective safety management and inspection. This paper presents a novel approach to tower crane safety inspections using Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) equipped with high-definition cameras and an intelligent inspection APP system. The system utilizes real-time kinematic (RTK) positioning and digital image processing to perform efficient and comprehensive inspections, reducing the reliance on manual labor and associated risks. A case study demonstrated the method’s practicality and effectiveness, with the UAV inspections capable of identifying 76.3% of major hazards, 64.8% of significant hazards, and 76.2% of general hazards within a 30-minute timeframe. Preliminary identification rates were also promising. Despite the initial requirement for manual drone piloting and the current manual review of images, the approach shows significant potential for enhancing safety in the construction industry. Future work will focus on integrating AI for hazard recognition and automating the inspection process further. The proposed method marks a step forward in tower crane safety management, offering a more efficient and accurate alternative to traditional inspection methods. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Smart Material and Smart Construction Technologies for Urban Development)

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13 pages, 4315 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of Aggregate Distribution Heterogeneity in 3D Printed Concrete by Means of X-ray CT

by Rei Yoshihara, Kota Nakase, Katsufumi Hashimoto, Takafumi Sugiyama and Yoshiki Honda

Buildings 2024, 14(4), 1132; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14041132 - 17 Apr 2024

Viewed by 1312

Abstract

The mechanical performance of a printed object in 3D concrete printing is influenced by the interfacial bonding strength between the deposited filaments. Hence, the physical properties of the layer interface and the influential factors have been studied. This study aims to clarify the [...] Read more.

The mechanical performance of a printed object in 3D concrete printing is influenced by the interfacial bonding strength between the deposited filaments. Hence, the physical properties of the layer interface and the influential factors have been studied. This study aims to clarify the mechanism of aggregate distribution heterogeneity as well as the influence of printing material extrusion speed on the heterogeneity inside the filament. A laboratory-scale material extruder is developed and used in this study. The aggregate distribution is evaluated in a quantitative manner with the cross-sectional image obtained by X-ray computed tomography. The images were taken in the deposited filament and the material extrusion nozzle for printing. Results show that large aggregate moves from the outside of the printing nozzle toward the center with increasing extrusion speed from 1.8 to 7.1 mm/s. As extrusion speed increases, it is inferred that a lubrication layer forms on the inner surface of the nozzle, causing the transition of material extrusion behavior from laminate flow to plug flow. Thus, the aggregate distribution appears differently inside the filament. This finding indicates that the magnitude of friction against the nozzle wall alters the die swell during discharge as well as the aggregate distribution before and after extrusion. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Smart Material and Smart Construction Technologies for Urban Development)

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17 pages, 4485 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Performance Evaluation of Emerging Perovskite Photovoltaic Energy-Harvesting System for BIPV Applications

by Yerassyl Olzhabay, Muhammad N. Hamidi, Dahaman Ishak, Arjuna Marzuki, Annie Ng and Ikechi A. Ukaegbu

Smart Cities 2023, 6(5), 2430-2446; https://doi.org/10.3390/smartcities6050110 - 13 Sep 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1759

Abstract

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are emerging photovoltaics (PVs) with promising optoelectronic characteristics. PSCs can be semitransparent (ST), which is beneficial in many innovative applications, including building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPVs). While PSCs exhibit excellent performance potential, enhancements in their stability and scalable manufacturing are required [...] Read more.

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are emerging photovoltaics (PVs) with promising optoelectronic characteristics. PSCs can be semitransparent (ST), which is beneficial in many innovative applications, including building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPVs). While PSCs exhibit excellent performance potential, enhancements in their stability and scalable manufacturing are required before they can be widely deployed. This work evaluates the real-world effectiveness of using PSCs in BIPVs to accelerate the development progress toward practical implementation. Given the present constraints on PSC module size and efficiency, bus stop shelters are selected for investigation in this work, as they provide a suitably scaled application representing a realistic near-term test case for early-stage research and engineering. An energy-harvesting system for a bus stop shelter in Astana, Kazakhstan, demonstrates the potential performance evaluation platform that can be used for perovskite solar cell modules (PSCMs) in BIPVs. The system includes maximum power point tracking (MPPT) and charge controllers, which can supply PSCM energy to the electronic load. Based on our design, the bus stop shelter has non-transparent and ST PSCMs on the roof and sides, respectively. May (best-case) and December (worst-case) scenarios are considered. According to the results, the PSCMs-equipped bus stop shelter can generate sufficient daily energy for load even in a worst-case scenario. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Smart Material and Smart Construction Technologies for Urban Development)

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18 pages, 1560 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Review of the Effect of Nano-Silica on the Mechanical and Durability Properties of Cementitious Composites

by Haneen AlTawaiha, Fadi Alhomaidat and Tamer Eljufout

Infrastructures 2023, 8(9), 132; https://doi.org/10.3390/infrastructures8090132 - 4 Sep 2023

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 6500

Abstract

The incorporation of nanotechnology has led to significant strides in the concrete industry, ushering in innovative construction methodologies. Various nanomaterials, including nano-silica (NS), have undergone comprehensive scrutiny as potential partial substitutes for cement in concrete formulations. This article aims to provide a comprehensive [...] Read more.

The incorporation of nanotechnology has led to significant strides in the concrete industry, ushering in innovative construction methodologies. Various nanomaterials, including nano-silica (NS), have undergone comprehensive scrutiny as potential partial substitutes for cement in concrete formulations. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the impacts of NS on several mechanical properties of concrete, encompassing compressive, split tensile, and flexural strengths. Additionally, the review delves into the influence of NS on the concrete’s durability, including microstructural characterization and the eradication of structural micropores. NS has demonstrated the capacity to bolster both strength and durability while concurrently diminishing structural micropores. Moreover, this review explores the contemporary status of NS application in cement concrete and presents avenues for prospective research. The assessment of engineering attributes becomes imperative for concrete infused with nano-silica. This encompasses aspects like bond strength, creep, shrinkage, and more. A rigorous evaluation of fresh and hardened properties is necessary to discern the material’s thermal and acoustical characteristics. Such a comprehensive understanding contributes to a holistic evaluation of the material’s adaptability across diverse applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Smart Material and Smart Construction Technologies for Urban Development)

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18 pages, 3142 KiB

Open AccessReview

Review on the Application of Organic Fibers as Substitutes for Asbestos in Thin Fiber Cement Sheets from a Sri Lankan Perspective

by Isuru Deegoda, Samith Buddika, Hiran Yapa, Satheeskumar Navaratnam and Guomin Zhang

Sustainability 2023, 15(13), 10235; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151310235 - 28 Jun 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2590

Abstract

In the past, asbestos siding, roofing, and ceiling sheets became more popular than conventional materials due to their high strength-to-weight ratio, durability, and low cost. However, it was later identified that most types of asbestos are carcinogenic and are responsible for major lethal [...] Read more.

In the past, asbestos siding, roofing, and ceiling sheets became more popular than conventional materials due to their high strength-to-weight ratio, durability, and low cost. However, it was later identified that most types of asbestos are carcinogenic and are responsible for major lethal diseases. In terms of developing a substitute for asbestos, different alternative organic fibers have been investigated as sustainable solutions. Therefore, this article reviewed the usability of organic fibers from wood, banana, bamboo, and coconut coir, which are locally available and abundant in the region, as a substitute for asbestos in the fiber cement industry in Sri Lanka. The quantitative physicomechanical properties of organic fiber and fiber cement composites were evaluated, and the effect of treatment methods on durability was discussed. The previous literature revealed that organic fiber cement thin sheets have comparable mechanical properties in comparison to composites reinforced with asbestos. Furthermore, this study found that these organic-fiber-based composites are energy-efficient and have improved fire resistance. However, the long-term performance is questionable. Hence, further studies on fiber treatment methods and composite durability are needed. Additionally, a comprehensive cost analysis of organic fiber cement composite is recommended to introduce organic fibers into commercial products. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Smart Material and Smart Construction Technologies for Urban Development)

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23 pages, 3808 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Reliability-Based Framework for Damage Accumulation Due to Multiple Earthquakes: A Case Study on Bridges

by Nilupa Herath, Lihai Zhang, Priyan Mendis, Satheeskumar Navaratnam, Weena Lokuge and Sujeeva Setunge

Infrastructures 2023, 8(6), 106; https://doi.org/10.3390/infrastructures8060106 - 20 Jun 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1726

Abstract

Damage accumulation due to multiple seismic impacts over time has a significant effect on the residual service life of the bridge. A reliability-based framework was developed to make decisions in bridge maintenance activities. The feature of the framework enables quantifying the time-dependent probability [...] Read more.

Damage accumulation due to multiple seismic impacts over time has a significant effect on the residual service life of the bridge. A reliability-based framework was developed to make decisions in bridge maintenance activities. The feature of the framework enables quantifying the time-dependent probability of failure of bridges due to the impact of multiple earthquakes and progressive deterioration. To estimate the reliability of the bridge systems, the probability of failure of the bridge was used. Two case studies were utilised to demonstrate how the method can be applied to the real world. Results show that the accumulated damage caused by multiple earthquakes and progressive deterioration significantly impact the remaining useful life of the bridge. Furthermore, the soil conditions predominantly influence the progressive deterioration and reduce the service life of the bridge. Overall, the proposed framework enables the sustainable decision-making process for bridge maintenance activities. The results reveal the necessity of including the combined impact in the bridge maintenance system and that there is a more than 40% increase in the probability of failure, due to the combined effect of progressive deterioration and earthquake impacts, compared to the impact only due to seismic loads for the considered case study bridge. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Smart Material and Smart Construction Technologies for Urban Development)

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17 pages, 919 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of Provincial Policies on the Development of Prefabricated Construction in China

by Kangkang Yan, Huer Shuang, Yongtao Tan, Shuang Xiang and Xiaolong Gan

Infrastructures 2023, 8(5), 87; https://doi.org/10.3390/infrastructures8050087 - 5 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2076

Abstract

Currently, China has launched an ambitious governmental initiative to promote the development of prefabricated construction (PC). As the target of PC development has been allocated to lower-level government, the responsibility for PC development rests at the provincial level. Therefore, provincial policies are extremely [...] Read more.

Currently, China has launched an ambitious governmental initiative to promote the development of prefabricated construction (PC). As the target of PC development has been allocated to lower-level government, the responsibility for PC development rests at the provincial level. Therefore, provincial policies are extremely crucial for the development of PC. Despite this, few studies have been conducted to examine the role of provincial policies in promoting the development of PC. With the aim of filling this knowledge gap, a comprehensive analysis of provincial policies on the development of PC was conducted in this study. Firstly, 443 provincial policies for PC development issued by 31 regions were collected and divided into different types according to the policy instrument framework, including environment instruments, demand instruments and supply instruments. By using the approach of content analysis, the spatial and temporal distribution of provincial policies was explored, as well as the similarities and differences in different regions. The results indicate that China initially developed a policy system for PC development with the characteristics of multiple levels, multiple stakeholders and multiple instruments; meanwhile, provincial policy relies heavily on environmental instruments, and the use of supply and demand instruments is grossly inadequate. The existing problems of each policy instrument for PC development have been discussed, and corresponding countermeasures have been put forward. The research findings provide valuable information for policy adjustments in the future and shed light on the effective delivery of policies to promote the development of PC in developing countries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Smart Material and Smart Construction Technologies for Urban Development)

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31 pages, 3466 KiB

Open AccessReview

Ultra-High-Performance Fibre-Reinforced Concrete for Rehabilitation and Strengthening of Concrete Structures: A Suitability Assessment

by Sahan Bandara, Kushan Wijesundara and Pat Rajeev

Buildings 2023, 13(3), 614; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings13030614 - 25 Feb 2023

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 4468

Abstract

Ultra-high-performance fibre-reinforced concrete (UHPFRC) is a cementitious composite which contains fibres. UHPFRC has emerged as an effective structural retrofitting material due to its superior mechanical properties. In addition, UHPFRC has outstanding durability, ductility and workability; a low permeability; and a high abrasion and [...] Read more.

Ultra-high-performance fibre-reinforced concrete (UHPFRC) is a cementitious composite which contains fibres. UHPFRC has emerged as an effective structural retrofitting material due to its superior mechanical properties. In addition, UHPFRC has outstanding durability, ductility and workability; a low permeability; and a high abrasion and fire resistance. These improved characteristics of UHPFRC are obtained by reducing the content of free water in the concrete matrix (leading to less air voids), introducing high strength ductile steel fibres, replacing coarse aggregates with well graded fine aggregates and introducing highly active pozzolanic materials. UHPFRC has excellent bonding with normal strength concrete and it eliminates the issue of debonding which is common in other retrofitting techniques employing fibre-reinforced polymers or externally bonded steel plates. Therefore, considering various aspects, UHPFRC-based structural retrofitting possesses a number of advantages. This paper presents a review of previous studies employing UHPFRC for structural retrofitting applications, highlighting its advantages, limitations and challenges. Aspects of flexural strengthening, combined axial and flexural strengthening, shear strengthening, impact resistance and torsional strengthening are considered for this review. Altogether, the paper aims to enhance the awareness of UHPFRC for structural retrofitting as a step forward towards effective field applications and to outline the potential future directions of research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Smart Material and Smart Construction Technologies for Urban Development)

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18 pages, 3199 KiB

Open AccessReview

Circular-Economy-Based Approach to Utilizing Cardboard in Sustainable Building Construction

by Srikanth Venkatesan, Mahzabin Afroz, Satheeskumar Navaratnam and Rebecca Gravina

Buildings 2023, 13(1), 181; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings13010181 - 10 Jan 2023

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 8787

Abstract

Circular-economy-based sustainability approaches in construction are gaining wide acceptance due to the volume of waste generation and increasing demand for natural materials. Propelled by the recent timber shortage in Australia and the issues of waste management of cardboard, this study aims to analyse [...] Read more.

Circular-economy-based sustainability approaches in construction are gaining wide acceptance due to the volume of waste generation and increasing demand for natural materials. Propelled by the recent timber shortage in Australia and the issues of waste management of cardboard, this study aims to analyse the possibilities of using cardboard as a construction material, based on its initial strength and multiple recycling options. A systematic review of research papers published in the last 40 years has been undertaken using a single keyword search to select the database. The review is presented in terms of the characteristics of the cardboard, dimensional stability, durability, structural strength, design, and analysis of cardboard. Recurring themes are evaluated using a latent Dirichlet allocation approach to identify the factors that ascertain the suitability of cardboard. Analysis reveals that despite certain constraints, such as water absorption and fire resistance, cardboard can be used as a replacement for timber by overcoming such limitations. This observation has benefits for the construction industry and the recycling industry. This study found that cardboard adheres to the circular economy principles, which should inspire policymakers. The paper concludes by highlighting the current circumstances and scientific challenges that impede the usage of cardboard in construction and recommends potential works needed to address these challenges for the benefit of practitioners and researchers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Smart Material and Smart Construction Technologies for Urban Development)

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22 pages, 1973 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Retrofit of Building Façade Using Precast Sandwich Panel: An Integrated Thermal and Environmental Assessment on BIM-Based LCA

by Quddus Tushar, Guomin Zhang, Muhammed A. Bhuiyan, Satheeskumar Navaratnam, Filippo Giustozzi and Lei Hou

Buildings 2022, 12(12), 2098; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings12122098 - 30 Nov 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 5216

Abstract

The study conducts a comprehensive life cycle assessment (LCA) of precast sandwich panels by integrating operational and embodied phases detailing thermal efficiency and environmental impacts. The analytical regression model is developed for climatic diversity and design variables using the energy rating tool FirstRate5 [...] Read more.

The study conducts a comprehensive life cycle assessment (LCA) of precast sandwich panels by integrating operational and embodied phases detailing thermal efficiency and environmental impacts. The analytical regression model is developed for climatic diversity and design variables using the energy rating tool FirstRate5 to compare with a conventional brick veneer construction. LCA is performed on the building information modeling (BIM) platform to connect operational energy and express the relative embodied impacts of insulation constituents, compressive strength, reinforcement, and mix design. Monte Carlo simulation shows significant advantages of concrete sandwich panels in reducing operational H/C loads over building service life. LCA reveals a 100 mm thick external precast concrete wall with 50% fly ash reduces CO₂ emission and energy demand by 54.7% and 75.9% consecutively against the benchmark. Moreover, it comprises 84.31% of the total building mass, accountable for only 53.27% of total CO₂ emission and 27.25% of energy demand, which is comparatively lower than other materials. In the case of selecting lining insulation, a broader benefit is identified for extruded polystyrene (XPS) and expanded polystyrene (EPS) boards due to their relative weight, thickness, and environmental impacts. Representative equations of energy efficiency and impact assessment will assist in adopting sandwich panels for new construction and refurbishment with relative dimensions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Smart Material and Smart Construction Technologies for Urban Development)

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19 pages, 3778 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Developing A Rule-Based Dynamic Safety Checking Method for Enhancing Construction Safety

by Quanxi Bao, Jianliang Zhou, Yueqin Zhao, Xinyao Li, Shiwei Tao and Pinsheng Duan

Sustainability 2022, 14(21), 14130; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142114130 - 29 Oct 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1790

Abstract

Safety code compliance checking before construction is a key step in risk control. However, the conventional safety compliance checking methods are static model-oriented, which can lead to both the low adaptability of the model to the dynamic construction process, and low checking efficiency. [...] Read more.

Safety code compliance checking before construction is a key step in risk control. However, the conventional safety compliance checking methods are static model-oriented, which can lead to both the low adaptability of the model to the dynamic construction process, and low checking efficiency. This paper develops a dynamic safety checking method based on BIM and topology for enhancing construction safety management, by incorporating actual construction processes. Firstly, based on the four stages of automatic safety checking, a comprehensive dynamic safety checking framework is proposed. Secondly, the object attributes and spatial location in the BIM model are extracted to form a dynamic topological relationship database. Following this, the dynamic safety checking method is designed, and the checking results are intuitively reported to users based on BIM software. An actual construction scenery is taken as an example to verify the feasibility of the method in the final stage. The results showed that the dynamic safety checking method, based on topology and rules, can help to accurately identify safety risks in the pre-construction stage and reduce the safety risks due to poor design considerations or construction process modification. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Smart Material and Smart Construction Technologies for Urban Development)

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24 pages, 1742 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Star Rating Improvement of Residential Buildings on Life Cycle Environmental Impacts and Costs

by Hamidul Islam, Muhammed Bhuiyan, Quddus Tushar, Satheeskumar Navaratnam and Guomin Zhang

Buildings 2022, 12(10), 1605; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings12101605 - 4 Oct 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2030

Abstract

A diagnostic framework is proposed to assess the influence of star rating improvement for residential buildings on life cycle environmental impacts and life cycle costs (LCEI and LCC) using life cycle assessment (LCA) and life cycle costing methods, respectively, on all life cycle [...] Read more.

A diagnostic framework is proposed to assess the influence of star rating improvement for residential buildings on life cycle environmental impacts and life cycle costs (LCEI and LCC) using life cycle assessment (LCA) and life cycle costing methods, respectively, on all life cycle phases (i.e., construction, operation, maintenance, and disposal). A reference house was modified on the basis of six alternative designs to deliver a particular star rating in order to demonstrate the analysis framework. Two LCIA methods (i.e., material flows/add masses and eco-indicator 99 Australian substances) were used to estimate ten LCEI indicators under two categories: seven from problem-oriented (i.e., raw material, air emission, water emission, eco-toxicity, acidification/eutrophication potential, ozone depletion, and climate change) and three from damage-oriented (i.e., resource depletion, ecosystem quality, and effect on human health) categories. The three damage-oriented indicators were combined to evaluate environmental and economic wellbeing on a single eco-point basis. All these combinations of impact indicators can offer three lines of analytical options along with star rating: problem-oriented, damage-oriented, and a variety of problem and damage-oriented LCEIs with LCCs. Hence, the optimum house selection is-based not only on cost or star rating, but also on LCEIs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Smart Material and Smart Construction Technologies for Urban Development)

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20 pages, 2635 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Experts’ Perceptions of the Management and Minimisation of Waste in the Australian Construction Industry

by Israt Jahan, Guomin Zhang, Muhammed Bhuiyan, Satheeskumar Navaratnam and Long Shi

Sustainability 2022, 14(18), 11319; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141811319 - 9 Sep 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3051

Abstract

Effective waste management has become a crucial factor in Australia because, from 1996 to 2015, the population increased by 28%, while Australia’s annual waste increased by 170%. In the period 2018–2019, Australia generated 27 Mt of construction demolition waste (44% of all waste). [...] Read more.

Effective waste management has become a crucial factor in Australia because, from 1996 to 2015, the population increased by 28%, while Australia’s annual waste increased by 170%. In the period 2018–2019, Australia generated 27 Mt of construction demolition waste (44% of all waste). Although 76% of this waste is recycled, there has been a 61% increase in the rate of waste since 2006–2007. Therefore, minimising waste and prioritising waste management are necessary to build a circular economy. This study aims to identify the current waste minimisation perceptions in the Australian construction industry. A semi-structured interview was conducted with 50 industry experts focusing on four sectors (design/planning, building information modelling (BIM), material logistics, and prefabrication). The data were analysed qualitatively and quantitatively (Severity index). The result disclosed that the designers are the first contributor to waste minimisation, followed by the material suppliers/manufacturers. It is revealed that subjective attitude and the personal reluctance to exercise waste mitigation strategies are crucial. The outcome also indicated that BIM has the potential to minimise waste significantly. Overall, 15 key points were highlighted to consider for waste minimisation, and a conceptual framework was proposed. Therefore, identifying waste management’s current practices and the responsibility of industry personnel will help minimise waste and bring sustainable development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Smart Material and Smart Construction Technologies for Urban Development)

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24 pages, 1199 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Current State of Using Prefabricated Construction in Australia

by Zhiming Zhang, Yongtao Tan, Long Shi, Lei Hou and Guomin Zhang

Buildings 2022, 12(9), 1355; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings12091355 - 1 Sep 2022

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 9837

Abstract

The Australian prefabricated construction market has been developing rapidly in recent years. New prefabrication-related technologies, materials, systems and services are also emerging in the current Australian market. Although some studies have been undertaken to explore the benefits and challenges of implementing prefabrication in [...] Read more.

The Australian prefabricated construction market has been developing rapidly in recent years. New prefabrication-related technologies, materials, systems and services are also emerging in the current Australian market. Although some studies have been undertaken to explore the benefits and challenges of implementing prefabrication in Australia over the past 15 years, they do not reflect the recent changes in the industry. Therefore, this study aims to fill this gap and identify the major changes in the current Australian prefabricated construction industry from industrial perceptions. Through literature reviews and industry interviews, factors reflecting major changes in the current Australian prefabricated construction, including prefabrication industry development, emerging benefits and challenges, were identified and discussed in this study. The challenges identified from interviews were classified into eight aspects related to feasibility, design, manufacturing, transportation, on-site construction, standardisation, skills and knowledge, finance and market. Furthermore, 21 recommendations and related key responsible parties were identified to tackle these challenges. The findings will provide useful references for various stakeholders to have a better understanding of the current prefabrication industry development in the Australian context and re-think how to adapt to future changes for the uptake of prefabricated construction in Australia. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Smart Material and Smart Construction Technologies for Urban Development)

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46 pages, 8189 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceReview

Rheometry for Concrete 3D Printing: A Review and an Experimental Comparison

by Roshan Jayathilakage, Pathmanathan Rajeev and Jay Sanjayan

Buildings 2022, 12(8), 1190; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings12081190 - 8 Aug 2022

Cited by 33 | Viewed by 6321

Abstract

The rapid advancement of 3D concrete printing (3DCP) and the development of relevant cementitious material compositions can be seen in the last few decades. The commonly used 3DCP method is to build the structure layer by layer after extruding the material through a [...] Read more.

The rapid advancement of 3D concrete printing (3DCP) and the development of relevant cementitious material compositions can be seen in the last few decades. The commonly used 3DCP method is to build the structure layer by layer after extruding the material through a nozzle. Initially, the pumping and extrusion of the material should be done with considerable fluidity and workability. The extruded layers should retain their shape immediately after extruding and depositing. While constructing the structure in a layerwise manner, the bottom layers should have enough early age strength to support the layers at the top. Therefore, at different processes in 3DCP, the rheological requirement is contradictory. As the rheology of the material is the deterministic factor which decides the fluidity or workability of the mix, proper rheological characterization should be completed accurately. In some instances, due to the higher stiffness, and higher time and rate-dependent material behavior (thixotropic behavior) compared to the conventional concrete, standard rheology measurement techniques have many limitations when used for 3DCP material. Therefore, non-conventional and novel techniques can be implemented with suitable material models to characterize the rheology of 3DCP material. In this study, a comprehensive review was conducted on conventional and non-conventional methods used for characterizing the rheological parameters for 3DCP material. The previously conducted studies were highlighted with the targeted 3DCP processes in the study (if applicable), and rheological parameters achieved from the test (i.e., yield stress, viscosity, and thixotropy). In addition, some experimental studies were conducted to compare several selected testing methods. The rheological parameters achieved from different test methods were compared to identify the similarities, dissimilarities, pros, and cons between the test methods. Furthermore, the extrudability and buildability studies were conducted for the mixes to demonstrate the usage of the mixes in 3DCP applications and to correlate the achieved rheological parameters with these processes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Smart Material and Smart Construction Technologies for Urban Development)

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