Journal Description
Buildings
Buildings
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on building science, building engineering and architecture published monthly online by MDPI. The International Council for Research and Innovation in Building and Construction (CIB) is affiliated with Buildings and their members receive a discount on the article processing charges.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), Inspec, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Engineering, Civil) / CiteScore - Q1 (Architecture)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 14.6 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.6 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
- Companion Journal: Architecture.
Impact Factor:
3.8 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
3.8 (2022)
Latest Articles
Martian Regolith Simulant-Based Geopolymers with Lithium Hydroxide Alkaline Activator
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1365; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051365 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
As humanity envisions the possibility of inhabiting Mars in the future, the imperative for survival in the face of its challenging conditions necessitates the construction of protective shelters to mitigate the effects of radiation exposure and the absence of atmospheric pressure. The feasibility
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As humanity envisions the possibility of inhabiting Mars in the future, the imperative for survival in the face of its challenging conditions necessitates the construction of protective shelters to mitigate the effects of radiation exposure and the absence of atmospheric pressure. The feasibility of producing geopolymers using the Martian regolith simulant MGS-1 (as precursor) for potential building and infrastructure projects on Mars in the future is investigated in this paper. Various alkaline activators, such as sodium hydroxide (NaOH), lithium hydroxide (LiOH·H2O) and sodium silicate (Na2SiO3), are employed to investigate their efficiency in activating the precursor. The influence of alkali type and concentration on the mechanical performance of the synthesized geopolymers is examined. Geopolymer samples are oven-cured for 7 days at 70 °C before a compressive strength test. It is found that through the hybrid use of LiOH·H2O and NaOH with optimal concentrations, metakaolin and milled MGS-1 as precursors, geopolymer mixtures with a compressive strength of 30 ± 2 MPa can be developed. The present test results preliminarily demonstrate the potential of Martian regolith simulant-based geopolymers as suitable construction and building materials for use on Mars.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research on Construction Materials for Sustainable Built Environment)
Open AccessArticle
Assessment of Passive Solar Heating Systems’ Energy-Saving Potential across Varied Climatic Conditions: The Development of the Passive Solar Heating Indicator (PSHI)
by
Wensheng Mo, Gaochuan Zhang, Xingbo Yao, Qianyu Li and Bart Julien DeBacker
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1364; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051364 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
This study aims to evaluate the energy-saving potential of passive solar heating systems in diverse global climates and introduce a new indicator, the passive solar heating indicator (PSHI), to enhance the efficiency of building designs. By collecting climate data from 600 cities worldwide
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This study aims to evaluate the energy-saving potential of passive solar heating systems in diverse global climates and introduce a new indicator, the passive solar heating indicator (PSHI), to enhance the efficiency of building designs. By collecting climate data from 600 cities worldwide through a simulation model, the present study employs polynomial regression to analyze the impact of outdoor temperature and solar radiation intensity on building energy savings. It also uses K-means cluster analysis to scientifically categorize cities based on their energy-saving potential. The findings underscore the benefits of both direct and indirect solar heating strategies in different climates. Significantly, the PSHI shows superior predictive accuracy and applicability over traditional indices, such as the irradiation temperature difference ratio (ITR) and the irradiation degree hour ratio (C-IDHR), especially when outdoor temperatures are close to indoor design temperatures. Moreover, the application of a cluster analysis provides hierarchical guidance on passive heating designs globally, paving the way for more accurate and customized energy-efficient building strategies.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Building Performance Simulation and Building Energy Consumption Analysis)
Open AccessArticle
Stress Concentration Factors of Concrete-Filled Double-Skin Tubular K-Joints
by
Qian Xia, Ling Ma, Gang Li, Chao Hu, Lei Zhang, Fei Xu and Zhenhai Liu
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1363; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051363 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
Tubular joints are important connecting parts of a welded steel tube structure. The S-N curves based on the hot spot stress (HSS) method are often used to evaluate the fatigue life of tubular joints in practical engineering. The stress concentration factor (SCF) is
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Tubular joints are important connecting parts of a welded steel tube structure. The S-N curves based on the hot spot stress (HSS) method are often used to evaluate the fatigue life of tubular joints in practical engineering. The stress concentration factor (SCF) is a key parameter to calculate HSS. In this paper, stress concentration tests of hollow-section and concrete-filled double-skin tubular (CFDST) K-joints were carried out, respectively, and then finite element models of K-joints considering the weld were established. The developed models were validated with the experimental results. The influence of key geometrical parameters, such as the diameter ratio of brace to chord β, the diameter to thickness ratio of chord γ, the wall thickness ratio of brace to chord τ, brace angle θ, and hollow section ratio ζ on the distribution and key position of SCFs along the weld toe, was discussed. Parametric studies were conducted to obtain the calculating equations for the SCF values of CFDST K-joints. The results demonstrate that infill concrete can effectively reduce SCFs along the weld on the chord. When the hollow section ratio was reduced to 0.317, the SCF was reduced by 77.2%. Notably, the SCF reduction rate was sensitive to γ and θ, with a decrease observed as γ increased. The hollow section ratio ζ had a less pronounced effect on SCF distribution patterns, but as ζ decreased, the chord’s stiffness improved, suggesting a potential approach to enhance joint performance. The distribution of SCFs is similar for joints of the same type but different geometric configurations. The innovatively integrated hollow section ratio in the CFDST design equation significantly simplifies and enhances the precision of SCF calculations for CFDST K-joints.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Structures)
Open AccessArticle
Trends and Future Directions in Research on the Protection of Traditional Village Cultural Heritage in Urban Renewal
by
Jun Xia, Xuefei Gu, Tianru Fu, Yangzhi Ren and Yazhen Sun
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1362; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051362 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
The process of urbanization has accelerated economic growth while also presenting social challenges. Urban renewal is crucial for achieving sustainable urban development, especially by preserving traditional villages as cultural heritage sites within cities. This study employs Python algorithm programming and visual analysis functions
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The process of urbanization has accelerated economic growth while also presenting social challenges. Urban renewal is crucial for achieving sustainable urban development, especially by preserving traditional villages as cultural heritage sites within cities. This study employs Python algorithm programming and visual analysis functions to conduct a bibliometric analysis of 408 research papers on the preservation of traditional village cultural heritage in urban renewal from 1999 to 2023 in the Web of Science core database. The objective is to examine the historical background, current status, and future trends in this area. The analysis explores cooperation networks, co-citation relationships, co-occurrence patterns, and emerging characteristics of research on traditional village cultural heritage protection in urban renewal. It focuses on various aspects, such as authors, institutions, countries, journals, documents, and keywords. The results indicate that the study of traditional village cultural heritage protection in urban renewal can be divided into three developmental stages. “Sustainable development”, “cultural heritage”, “historic urban landscapes”, and “rural revitalization” are the research hotspots and future trends in this field. The results of this study provide a comprehensive overview of the evolution of research hotspots in this field and can help researchers willing to work in this research area quickly understand the research frontiers and the general situation.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Architectural Design, Urban Science, and Real Estate)
Open AccessReview
Analysis of Digital Twins in the Construction Industry: Practical Applications, Purpose, and Parallel with other Industries
by
Vanessa Saback, Cosmin Popescu, Thomas Blanksvärd and Björn Täljsten
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1361; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051361 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
Digital twins (DTs) have become a widely discussed subject, believed to have the potential to solve various problems across different industries, including Engineering & Construction (E&C). However, there is still significant misconception concerning the definition of DTs and their purpose within E&C. This
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Digital twins (DTs) have become a widely discussed subject, believed to have the potential to solve various problems across different industries, including Engineering & Construction (E&C). However, there is still significant misconception concerning the definition of DTs and their purpose within E&C. This study dives deep into identifying DT applications within E&C and the other prominent industries, i.e., Aerospace & Aviation, Manufacturing, Energy & Utilities, Automotive, Healthcare, Smart Cities, Oil & Gas, and Retail. The main challenges to the evolution of DT practical applications are also analyzed. A combination of a literature review, multi-case study analysis, and comparative analysis compose the deployed methodology. Standardization and a maturity level classification are proposed to drive progress of the adoption of DTs. The distinct aspects of the different industries and their assets are evaluated to the conclusion that DTs are better employed for maintenance of structures within E&C. DTs have become a well-worn topic, but the abundance of complex theoretical frameworks is met with simple or inexistent practical applications. Therefore, the novelty of this study lays in its comprehensive analysis of DT applications and real-world implementations—a departure from the often-theoretical discussions surrounding DTs.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Digital Construction Management)
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Open AccessArticle
Variable Pressure Difference Control Method for Chilled Water System Based on the Identification of the Most Unfavorable Thermodynamic Loop
by
Tingting Chen and Yuhang Han
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1360; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051360 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
A variable pressure differential fuzzy control method is proposed based on the online identification method for key parameters and the fuzzy subset inference fuzzy control method of the chilled water system network model. Firstly, a phase plane fuzzy identification method is proposed for
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A variable pressure differential fuzzy control method is proposed based on the online identification method for key parameters and the fuzzy subset inference fuzzy control method of the chilled water system network model. Firstly, a phase plane fuzzy identification method is proposed for the most unfavorable thermal loop. The study focuses on analyzing the trend of room temperature deviation and deviation change in different quadrants in the phase plane. Furthermore, we establish a chilled water pipe network model that recalculates flow variation in both the main pipe and each branch pipe section to eliminate the most unfavorable thermal loop. Finally, the test platform for the fan coil variable flow air conditioning water system was designed and constructed to meet the requirements of energy-saving regulation. Additionally, the network monitoring system for the test platform was completed. The calibration and debugging results demonstrate that the monitoring error is within ±5.0%, ensuring precise control of room temperature at the end of the branch within ±0.5 °C. Results demonstrate that our novel method exhibits superior stability in room temperature control compared to traditional linear variable pressure differential set point controls while achieving energy saving ranging from 4.7% to 6.5%.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Energy, Physics, Environment, and Systems)
Open AccessArticle
Mix Design and Field Detection of Large-Particle-Size Graded Crushed Stone Mixtures for Pavement Reconstruction
by
Qigui Yi, Jie Xu, Haoyu Pan, Xinchao Lv, Kuiyuan Xiong and Xuelian Li
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1359; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051359 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
Large-particle-size graded crushed stone mixtures (LPS-GCSMs) can improve the shortcomings of conventional graded crushed stone, such as low strength, high deformation, and a low modulus of resilience. At present, there is no systematic research on the gradation design and field evaluation of the
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Large-particle-size graded crushed stone mixtures (LPS-GCSMs) can improve the shortcomings of conventional graded crushed stone, such as low strength, high deformation, and a low modulus of resilience. At present, there is no systematic research on the gradation design and field evaluation of the LPS-GCSMs. In this study, compaction and California bearing ratio (CBR) tests and field construction conditions were combined to design six kinds of gradation of LPS-GCSM, and the optimum gradation was revealed. In order to improve the mechanical properties of LPS-GCSM, 2.5% cement was added to the mixture to prepare a low-content cement-modified LPS-GCSM (LCC-LPS-GCSM) based on the suggested gradation. The mechanical properties of the LCC-LPS-GCSM were investigated through unconfined compression strength (UCS) and compression rebound modulus (CRM) tests. Moreover, the compaction and deflection properties of LPS-GCSM and LCC-LPS-GCSM were examined through the test battery. The results showed that the optimum gradation of LPS-GCSM can be achieved with a combination of aggregate sizes of 20–40 mm, 10–20 mm, 5–10 mm, and 0–5 mm at a ratio of 44:20:10:26. The passing rates of 19 mm and 4.75 mm should be approximately at the median value of the gradation in view of field construction uniformity and a coarse aggregate interlocking effect. The UCS and CRM values of LCC-LPS-GCSM increased rapidly from 0 day to 28 days while they slowed after 28 days, which was similar to those of cement-stabilized materials. The field detection suggested that LPS-GCSM exhibited favorable compaction and that the addition of cement improved the stability of the field compaction of the mixture. Adding a subbase course of LPS-GCSM between the old pavement and the LCC-LPS-GCSM base can lead to more uniform stress on the base. The results of this study provide a reference for the gradation design of LPS-GCSM and optimization of the design indicators.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Materials, and Repair & Renovation)
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Open AccessArticle
Research on the Energy Consumption Influence Mechanism and Prediction for the Early Design Stage of University Public Teaching Buildings in Beijing
by
Jing Wang, Zongzhou Zhu, Jiacheng Zhao, Xinqi Li, Jingyan Liu and Yujun Yang
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1358; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051358 (registering DOI) - 10 May 2024
Abstract
The public teaching buildings of universities have a large flow of people, high lighting requirements, and large energy consumption, which present significant potential for energy saving. The greatest opportunity for integrating “green” architectural design strategies lies in the design phase, especially the early
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The public teaching buildings of universities have a large flow of people, high lighting requirements, and large energy consumption, which present significant potential for energy saving. The greatest opportunity for integrating “green” architectural design strategies lies in the design phase, especially the early stage of architectural design. However, current designers often rely on experience or qualitative judgment for decision-making. Thus, there is a pressing need for rational and quantitative green architectural design theories and techniques to guide and support decision-making for the design parameters of teaching buildings. This study, based on field surveys of 40 teaching buildings, constructs building archetypes regarding energy consumption including 28 typical values. Based on the “Rectangle”, “L”, “U”, and “Courtyard” archetypes, through batch energy consumption simulation and multiple regression methods, the influence mechanisms of nine energy consumption influencing factors on four types of building energy consumptions were explored, and energy consumption prediction models were derived. The findings of this research can serve as factor evaluation and selection in the early stage of architectural design for public teaching buildings at universities, and the prediction model can assist in the early estimation of energy consumption. This aims to enrich and supplement green architectural design methods by supporting the design of green public teaching buildings and providing reference and application for relevant engineering practices.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Engineering Problems and Legal Challenges in Urban and Rural Low-Carbon Development)
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Open AccessArticle
Experimental and Finite Element Analyses of Adjustable Foundation Bolts in Transmission Towers
by
Huajie Yin, Xianzhi Xiao, Zhi Huang, Tengfei Zhao and Mojia Huang
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1357; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051357 - 10 May 2024
Abstract
Uneven settlement of transmission tower foundations can result in catastrophic events, such as tower collapse and line failures, disrupting power transmission operations. To address the challenging repairs caused by uneven foundation settlement of transmission towers, we propose an adjustable foundation bolt (AFB). This
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Uneven settlement of transmission tower foundations can result in catastrophic events, such as tower collapse and line failures, disrupting power transmission operations. To address the challenging repairs caused by uneven foundation settlement of transmission towers, we propose an adjustable foundation bolt (AFB). This paper provides a detailed theoretical analysis of the AFB’s stability and load-bearing capacity, including critical buckling force formulas and maximum normal stress expressions. Finite element simulations confirm the precision of our theoretical formulations. Additionally, we introduce a method using baffles to enhance its load-bearing capacity, analyzing the impact of different numbers of baffles through numerical simulations. The experimental results validate the effectiveness of baffles in enhancing structural load-bearing capacity. The device brings convenience and efficiency to the maintenance of transmission towers.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advance in Eco-Friendly Building Materials and Innovative Structures)
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Open AccessArticle
Progressive Failure Mechanism of Shield Tunnel Face in Complex Urban Geological Environment
by
Qingfei Huang and Kaihang Han
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1356; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051356 - 10 May 2024
Abstract
The construction of multiple tunnels across inland rivers has had a significant influence on the improvement of the transportation infrastructure. The technology for constructing tunnels is progressing towards the development of larger cross-sections, longer distances, and the ability to withstand high hydraulic pressure
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The construction of multiple tunnels across inland rivers has had a significant influence on the improvement of the transportation infrastructure. The technology for constructing tunnels is progressing towards the development of larger cross-sections, longer distances, and the ability to withstand high hydraulic pressure in complex hydrogeological conditions, including high-permeability strata. In order to ensure the face stability of shield tunnels under high hydraulic pressure that crosses a fault fracture zone, it is necessary to study the progressive failure mechanism of shield tunnel faces induced by high hydraulic pressure seepage. This paper employs finite element numerical simulation software to methodically examine the variation in the characteristics of the water seepage field, limiting support force, and face stability failure mode of shield tunnels passing through fault fracture zones with high hydraulic pressure under varying fault fracture width zones. The results show that the formation hydraulic gradient will progressively widen when the tunnel face is located within the undisturbed rock mass and is advanced towards the area of fault fracture. This will raise the likelihood of instability in the shield tunnel and progressively raise the limiting support force on the tunnel face. Moreover, as the tunnel face nears the region of fault fracture within the undisturbed rock mass, the damage range increases gradually. In addition, due to the increase in seepage force, the angle between the failure area and the horizontal plane becomes more and more gentle. On the contrary, as the tunnel’s face moves closer to the undisturbed rock mass from the region of the fault fracture, the damage range gradually decreases, and the dip angle between the damage area and the horizontal plane becomes steeper and steeper due to the decreasing seepage force in the process. The study findings presented in this work are highly significant, both theoretically and practically, for the design and management of safety.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Resilience of Urban Underground Space: Planning, Design, Assessment and Enhancement)
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Open AccessArticle
Thermal Environment Analysis and Optimization for Large Space Buildings with Radiant Cooling Floors: A Case Study of Xianyang International Airport
by
Rong Hu, Haolin Wang, Junqi Liang, Xiaoping Li, Wenheng Zheng and Gang Liu
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1355; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051355 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Radiant cooling floors combined with ventilation systems have been widely applied in large space buildings. However, there has been a lack of research on system control strategies for their adaptation to weather changes. This study aimed to find control strategies for radiant cooling
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Radiant cooling floors combined with ventilation systems have been widely applied in large space buildings. However, there has been a lack of research on system control strategies for their adaptation to weather changes. This study aimed to find control strategies for radiant cooling floors combined with displacement ventilation systems used in large space buildings in order to achieve energy conservation and environmental improvement. Supply air temperature and cooling surface temperature were determined to be the control variables. It was found that cooling capacity of the combined system and the comfort index, PMV (predicted mean vote), were linear in relation to the supply air temperature and cooling surface temperature. The linear equations regarding cooling capacity and PMV were established separately using environment data, and then the optimal region was determined. A case study on Terminal 3 of Xi’an Xianyang International Airport was conducted. The thermal environment was investigated through on-site measurements, questionnaires, and numerical simulations with CFD (computational fluid dynamics). It was found that supply air temperature and cooling surface temperature had a significant impact on PMV, and less impact on the cooling capacity. Therefore, it was determined that the supply air temperature should be altered first when the indoor temperature exceeds the upper limit, and then the cooling surface temperature should be changed if the indoor environment continues to overheat with the supply air temperature set to 18 °C. Thus, the supply air temperature was kept at 18 °C, and the floor surface temperature was set to be 22 °C on a high-temperature day. The average PMV was 0.87, and the cooling capacity of the combined system was 200 W/(m2·K), according to the CFD simulation. In addition, the surface heat transfer coefficient of the cooling floor was found to be 10.26 W/(m2·K). This research provides important references for the design and operational management of radiant cooling floors in large space buildings.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Energy Performance in Buildings)
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Shaking Table Tests and Numerical Analysis Conducted on an Aluminum Alloy Single-Layer Spherical Reticulated Shell with Fully Welded Connections
by
Jiawei Lu, Qiujun Ning, Xiaosong Lu, Fan Yang and Yuanshun Wang
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1354; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051354 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Aluminum alloy offers the advantages of being lightweight, high in strength, corrosion-resistant, and easy to process. It has a promising application prospect in large-span space structures, with its primary application form being single-layer reticulated shells. In this study, shaking table tests were conducted
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Aluminum alloy offers the advantages of being lightweight, high in strength, corrosion-resistant, and easy to process. It has a promising application prospect in large-span space structures, with its primary application form being single-layer reticulated shells. In this study, shaking table tests were conducted on a 1/25 scale aluminum alloy single-layer spherical reticulated shell structure. A finite element (FE) model of the reticulated shell structure was established in Ansys. Compared with the experimental results, the deviation in natural frequency, acceleration amplitude, and displacement amplitude was less than 20%, confirming the validity of the model. An extensive analysis of the various rise–span ratios and connection constraints of a single-layer spherical reticulated shell structure was carried out using the proposed FE model. The experimental and simulation results showed that as the rise–span ratio of the aluminum alloy reticulated shell increases, the natural frequency of the reticulated shell structure also increases while the dynamic performance decreases. The connection of the circumferential members changes from a rigid connection to a hinged connection. The natural frequency of the reticulated shell structure is reduced by about 40% while the acceleration and displacement response values are decreased by approximately 15%.
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(This article belongs to the Section Building Materials, and Repair & Renovation)
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Open AccessArticle
Effect of Micro-Cracks on Chloride Ion Diffusion in Concrete Based on Stochastic Aggregate Approach
by
Qianfan Yang, Yuching Wu, Peng Zhi and Peng Zhu
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1353; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051353 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
For concrete structures in offshore areas, chloride ion erosion is one of the main factors affecting durability. It is crucial to evaluate the chloride ion permeability resistance of concrete structures. In this paper, a finite element simulation of the chloride ion diffusion process
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For concrete structures in offshore areas, chloride ion erosion is one of the main factors affecting durability. It is crucial to evaluate the chloride ion permeability resistance of concrete structures. In this paper, a finite element simulation of the chloride ion diffusion process in concrete is conducted. A mass diffusion finite element model based on a random aggregate approach is established to investigate the influences of an aggregate, the interface transition zone, and micro-cracks on the chloride ion diffusion coefficients in concrete. The results show that the mass diffusion finite element analysis based on the exponential function model and the power function model can effectively simulate the chloride ion diffusion process in concrete. In addition, the data reveal that volume fraction and distribution aggregates considerably affect chloride ion diffusivity in concrete. Also, the interface transition zone significantly accelerates chloride ion diffusion in concrete. Moreover, this acceleration effect exceeds the barrier effect of an aggregate.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Low-Carbon Concrete with Different Sources of Solid Waste)
Open AccessArticle
Investigation of Surface Modification of Bagasse Fibers: Performance of Asphalt Binders/Mixtures with Bagasse Fibers
by
Haiwei Xie, Yixuan Jia, Chunsheng Zhu, Weidong Liu, Zuzhong Li and Zhipeng Huang
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1352; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051352 - 9 May 2024
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The influence of surface modification on the properties of bagasse fibers and asphalt binders/mixtures was investigated. Bagasse fibers were modified by single, binary, and ternary methods with hydrochloric acid, sodium hydroxide, and sodium chlorite, respectively. The physical and chemical properties of bagasse fibers
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The influence of surface modification on the properties of bagasse fibers and asphalt binders/mixtures was investigated. Bagasse fibers were modified by single, binary, and ternary methods with hydrochloric acid, sodium hydroxide, and sodium chlorite, respectively. The physical and chemical properties of bagasse fibers were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and an adsorption test, respectively. The rheological properties of asphalt binders with bagasse fibers or lignin fibers were analyzed by the dynamic shear rheometer test and bending beam rheometer test. In addition, the performance of asphalt mixtures with bagasse fibers or lignin fibers were evaluated by a wheel rutting test, bending test at a low temperature, and water stability test, respectively. In conclusion, the hydrophilic functional groups on the fiber surface were partially eliminated by modification, facilitating the degradation of different fiber components. Furthermore, the degree of fibrillation was improved, and more interfaces with asphalt components were formed, thus enhancing the high-temperature deformation resistance of asphalt binders, but slightly impairing its low-temperature performance. Among all modification methods, the ternary composite modification exerted important influences on fiber structure, oil absorption, and rheological properties of asphalt binders, significantly enhancing the performance of asphalt mixtures. Combined with surface modification methods, bagasse fibers would be promising reinforced pavement materials.
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Open AccessReview
Code Requirements for the Seismic Design of Irregular Elevation RC Structures
by
Davi Santos, José Melo and Humberto Varum
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1351; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051351 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
The recent seismic activity highlights the crucial need to enhance seismic design and safety assessment methods, particularly for irregular structures, in both new and existing constructions. The present study focuses on structural irregularities in elevation for buildings, as the design of structural systems
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The recent seismic activity highlights the crucial need to enhance seismic design and safety assessment methods, particularly for irregular structures, in both new and existing constructions. The present study focuses on structural irregularities in elevation for buildings, as the design of structural systems involves multiple variables that often result in irregularities in many buildings. This work aims to perform a comparative assessment of the criteria adopted for the evaluation of the structural irregularities in elevation present in European and international seismic codes. This paper is structured as follows: Firtsly, it discusses structural irregularities and more specifically the most common types of structural damage due to seismic events. Then, it shows the documented experiences of structural damages in seismic events associated with structural irregularities in China, Italy, Spain, Nepal and Mexico. Additionaly, it discusses the requirements of the standards on irregularities and their limitation in that matter. At the end of this section, the different approaches of each code in irregularities in elevation are compared. All assessed seismic codes addresses the structural irregularity issue, attributing the desired characteristics of a seismic-resistant structure. However, there are considerable development differences between norms, demonstrated on ambiguity of few codes on criteria of vertical irregularies.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Seismic Design of Building Structures)
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Digitization of AEC Industries Based on BIM and 4.0 Technologies
by
Karol Zawada, Kinga Rybak-Niedziółka, Mikołaj Donderewicz and Agnieszka Starzyk
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1350; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051350 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
BIM and 4.0 technologies are currently the leading branches of digitization in construction. The aim of this article is to confront theses on building information modeling (BIM) and coexisting technologies, and to present an analysis along with conclusions regarding the digitization process of
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BIM and 4.0 technologies are currently the leading branches of digitization in construction. The aim of this article is to confront theses on building information modeling (BIM) and coexisting technologies, and to present an analysis along with conclusions regarding the digitization process of AEC industries using BIM methodology and advanced digital technologies within the scope of 4.0 technologies. Key aspects of BIM and 4.0 technology integration were discussed, including artificial intelligence (AI) or big data and data science analytics. The impact of these fields on design processes, as well as on data management, monitoring of design and construction progress, and overall efficiency of AEC industries, was analyzed. The article pays particular attention to the synergy between BIM and 4.0 technology, identifying benefits, challenges, and development perspectives. Conclusions indicate the growing importance of interdisciplinarity for improving AEC industry processes and the need to adapt to the changing digital landscape in the field of design and construction. A survey was conducted, where respondents’ answers were presented in the form of charts. Questions focused on the issue of the use of BIM methodology along with coexisting technologies in the design process by the Polish engineering staff. The research results indicate that the use of the latest technological solutions in Poland is still rare, and the digital potential of these solutions is not fully utilized. The article can make a significant contribution to the discussion on technological evolution in AEC industries, identifying development directions in the context of digitization and the use of the latest achievements of 4.0 technology. Previous research has not included such a wide spectrum of BIM use in Poland. An analysis was conducted comparing Poland in a global context with other countries in BIM adoption.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue BIM-Based Construction Management: Trends and Prospects)
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Open AccessArticle
A Calculation Method for Reliability Index of a Deep–Bedded Karst Tunnel Construction with Cavity Located Ahead of Tunnel Working Face
by
Bo Wu, Wentao Sun and Guowang Meng
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1349; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051349 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
For the purpose of reliability quantitative assessment of the surrounding rock of the deeply embedded karst tunnel and the geological body around the cavern in the case of the cavern in the forepart of the tunnel face, on the basis of the upper
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For the purpose of reliability quantitative assessment of the surrounding rock of the deeply embedded karst tunnel and the geological body around the cavern in the case of the cavern in the forepart of the tunnel face, on the basis of the upper bound limit analysis method, the energy dissipation theory, as well as the reliability theory, the dimensionless performance function of each damage area of the deeply buried karst tunnels could be established in the case of the cavern in the front of the tunnel face. Subsequently, the probability of failure and the reliability index of each damage region of the deep–bedded karst tunnel in the case of the cavern in the front of this tunnel face should be calculated through the Monte Carlo simulation sampling approach. The investigation has demonstrated that the larger the cohesion of the geotechnical body and the larger the internal friction angle within the geotechnical body, the larger the reliability indexes of the geotechnical bodies around the tunnel. The larger the diameter of the cavern and the larger the tunnel burial depth, the greater the probability of failure in the left part of the geotechnical body around this cavern, and the smaller the reliability indexes of these damage areas.
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(This article belongs to the Section Construction Management, and Computers & Digitization)
Open AccessArticle
Analysis of Microwave-Induced Damage in Granite Aggregates Influenced by Mineral Texture
by
Yuan Yuan and Shuang Zhao
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1348; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051348 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
The use of microwave energy to recycle high-quality coarse aggregates from waste concrete or assist hard rock breakage in underground building engineering is promising. Controlling or promoting the damage of coarse aggregates, i.e., hard rocks, under microwave irradiation is a crucial issue faced
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The use of microwave energy to recycle high-quality coarse aggregates from waste concrete or assist hard rock breakage in underground building engineering is promising. Controlling or promoting the damage of coarse aggregates, i.e., hard rocks, under microwave irradiation is a crucial issue faced by these techniques. Understanding the damage mechanisms of hard rocks exposed to microwaves is thus urgent. Fracture toughness is a significant mechanical parameter of rocks that reflects their ability to resist crack propagation and damage evolution. In this study, the fracture toughness degradation of microwave-heated granite was investigated by combining experimental investigations and numerical simulations. A three-point-bending (TPB) experiment was conducted on granite specimens after microwave irradiation. A coupled electromagnetic–thermal–mechanical model considering the actual mineral texture of the granite specimen was established. The evolution of the temperature gradient and stress field near the initial notch tip were investigated. The results suggest that the microwave-induced maximum temperature gradient and stress in granite are at the plagioclase–quartz (Pl–Qtz) interfaces or inside the Pl near the boundary. The region of cracking initiation was defined as the damage zone, which could be obtained by comparing the microwave-induced thermal stress with the critical value. The fracture toughness degradation, which corresponds to the evolution of the damage zones, can be divided into two stages. A relatively rapid decrease in fracture toughness in the first stage is primarily caused by the spread of the scattered damage zones along the Pl–Qtz interfaces; subsequently, a gentler fracture toughness degradation results mainly from the extension of the previous damage zones.
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(This article belongs to the Section Construction Management, and Computers & Digitization)
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Open AccessArticle
Evolutionary Algorithms for Strength Prediction of Geopolymer Concrete
by
Bingzhang Huang, Alireza Bahrami, Muhammad Faisal Javed, Iftikhar Azim and Muhammad Ayyan Iqbal
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1347; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051347 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Geopolymer concrete (GPC) serves as a sustainable substitute for conventional concrete by employing alternative cementitious materials such as fly ash (FA) instead of ordinary Portland cement (OPC), contributing to environmental and durability benefits. To increase the rate of utilization of FA in the
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Geopolymer concrete (GPC) serves as a sustainable substitute for conventional concrete by employing alternative cementitious materials such as fly ash (FA) instead of ordinary Portland cement (OPC), contributing to environmental and durability benefits. To increase the rate of utilization of FA in the construction industry, distinctive characteristics of two machine learning (ML) methods, namely, gene expression programming (GEP) and multi-expression programming (MEP), were utilized in this study to propose precise prediction models for the compressive strength and split tensile strength of GPC comprising FA as a binder. A comprehensive database was collated, which comprised 301 compressive strength and 96 split tensile strength results. Seven distinct input variables were employed for the modeling purpose, i.e., FA, sodium hydroxide, sodium silicate, water, superplasticizer, and fine and coarse aggregates contents. The performance of the developed models was assessed via numerous statistical metrics and absolute error plots. In addition, a parametric analysis of the finalized models was performed to validate the prediction ability and accuracy of the finalized models. The GEP-based prediction models exhibited better performance, accuracy, and generalization capability compared with the MEP-based models in this study. The GEP-based models demonstrated higher correlation coefficients (R) for predicting the compressive and split tensile strengths, with the values of 0.89 and 0.87, respectively, compared with the MEP-based models, which yielded the R values of 0.76 and 0.73, respectively. The mean absolute errors for the GEP- and MEP-based models for predicting the compressive strength were 5.09 MPa and 6.78 MPa, respectively, while those for the split tensile strengths were 0.42 MPa and 0.51 MPa, respectively. The finalized models offered simple mathematical formulations using the GEP and Python code-based formulations from MEP for predicting the compressive and tensile strengths of GPC. The developed models indicated practical application potential in optimizing geopolymer mix designs. This research work contributes to the ongoing efforts in advancing ML applications in the construction industry, highlighting the importance of sustainable materials for the future.
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(This article belongs to the Section Building Materials, and Repair & Renovation)
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Open AccessArticle
Development of a Systematic Approach for the Assessment of Adhesive Tape Suitability to Ensure Airtightness
by
Milda Jucienė, Vaida Dobilaitė, Jurga Kumžienė, Karolis Banionis, Valdas Paukštys and Aurelija Stonkuvienė
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1346; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051346 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Ensuring the tightness of buildings using self-adhesive tapes is one of the cost-effective, efficient, and reliable solutions. There is a lack of research, standards, and methodologies for construction adhesive tape, especially for assessing the functional properties of the tape after ageing. The aim
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Ensuring the tightness of buildings using self-adhesive tapes is one of the cost-effective, efficient, and reliable solutions. There is a lack of research, standards, and methodologies for construction adhesive tape, especially for assessing the functional properties of the tape after ageing. The aim of this work is to evaluate the tightness of different building surfaces and adhesive tape systems by conducting artificial ageing. It was found that adhesive tapes with an acrylic adhesive base ensured a fully sealed system. In all cases, tapes applied to surfaces such as plywood, gypsum plasterboard, cement-bonded particle board, plastered cement-bonded particle board, and plastic board provided sufficient sealing. The air permeability of the tapes on the OSB was two to seven times higher than that of the defined sealed system with other surfaces. In most cases, air permeability increased on OSB, gypsum plasterboard, and plastered cement-bonded particle board after ageing. The least problematic surface is the plastic board. In all tested cases, adequate sealing was observed after ageing, with only three of all tested tapes not providing sufficient bonding strength.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Materials, and Repair & Renovation)
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