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
Analysis of Energy Consumption and Economy of Regional Gas Tri-Supply Composite System
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1390; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051390 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
With the development of Chinese society, there is an increasing demand for emissions reduction and the stable operation of the power grid. Regional comprehensive energy supply systems have entered the public’s view owing to their advantages of reducing capacity, unified dispatch, improving efficiency,
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With the development of Chinese society, there is an increasing demand for emissions reduction and the stable operation of the power grid. Regional comprehensive energy supply systems have entered the public’s view owing to their advantages of reducing capacity, unified dispatch, improving efficiency, and reducing energy consumption. This paper focuses on a system under construction in Chongqing, which adopts a combined gas tri-supply (combined cooling, heat, and power, CCHP) and dynamic ice storage cooling system as the research object. By establishing a mathematical model for the simulation research, this study examines the start–stop priority sequence of the gas tri-supply subsystem and the heat pump subsystem under the ice storage priority strategy in winter and summer and proposes corresponding optimization solutions. By comparing the annual operating energy consumption of the system, we conclude that the gas tri-supply composite system has good economic efficiency and peak-shaving capability, indicating that regional gas tri-supply composite systems have great application potential in the future. The proposed optimized operation strategy and simulated energy consumption calculation provide theoretical guidance for the construction and operation of both this project and similar projects.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Building Technology and High-Performance Building Engineering)
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Visual Perception of Regularity and the Composition Pattern Type of the Facade
by
Michał Malewczyk, Antoni Taraszkiewicz and Piotr Czyż
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1389; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051389 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
The present study investigates the degree of visual regularity perceived by viewers in architectural compositions, specifically concerning the type of pattern used. The research is grounded in psychological and neuropsychological universal determinants of visual perception, particularly the perception of visual regularity. The study
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The present study investigates the degree of visual regularity perceived by viewers in architectural compositions, specifically concerning the type of pattern used. The research is grounded in psychological and neuropsychological universal determinants of visual perception, particularly the perception of visual regularity. The study is based on an empirical survey that involved 48 participants who rated various compositions on a Likert scale. The stimuli presented consisted of a typology of compositional patterns of facades of Polish multifamily buildings developed by Malewczyk, Taraszkiewicz, and Czyż in 2022. The survey results were subjected to statistical analyses, which revealed a clear relationship between the type of composition and its perceived regularity. This implies that architects can predict the perceived regularity of a composition based on its type, which is crucial since visual regularity is closely linked to the sense of spatial order and aesthetic value. Both of these aspects are vital for perceiving architecture as a built environment. The study highlights the significance of visual perception in architectural design, particularly how the public perceives composition types.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Architectural Design, Urban Science, and Real Estate)
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Applicability of Vegetation to Reduce Traffic-Borne PM2.5 Concentration in Roadside User Zones in Hot Arid Climates: The Case of Central Doha, Qatar
by
Soujanya Mogra and Mohd Faris Khamidi
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1388; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051388 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
The ‘Beautification of Roads and Parks in Qatar’ is an urban development project that intends to provide space for exercising in roadside greenery in central Doha due to a lack of accessible open spaces. Considering the potential health risks associated with inhaling traffic-borne
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The ‘Beautification of Roads and Parks in Qatar’ is an urban development project that intends to provide space for exercising in roadside greenery in central Doha due to a lack of accessible open spaces. Considering the potential health risks associated with inhaling traffic-borne PM2.5, this study investigated the efficacy of four common road vegetation scenarios in reducing traffic-borne PM2.5 concentration in roadside user zones using ENVI-met. It examined Spearman’s rank correlation between air temperature, relative humidity, traffic emission rate, and PM2.5 concentration in roadside user zones. Based on the results, (1) hedgerows lower PM2.5 concentrations in roadside user zones, while trees significantly increase the concentration. (2) There is a strong association between air temperature and relative humidity and the PM2.5 concentration. The PM2.5 concentration decreases as air temperature increases but it increases as relative humidity increases. (3) There is a moderately negative association between the traffic emission rate and the PM2.5 concentration; however, this association is not found to be statistically significant. The ENVI-met simulation showed a slight overestimation of PM2.5 concentration compared to the wind tunnel simulation. These findings provide insight into planning road vegetation to reduce traffic-borne PM2.5 in roadside user zones in the local hot arid climate.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances of Healthy Environment Design in Urban Development)
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Study of Panel Zone Behavior in Interior Beam–Column Joints with Reduced Beam Section (RBS)
by
Ke-Jia Yang, Yang Yang, Heng Ye, Wei Li and Zhao-Yu Yang
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1386; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051386 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2024
Abstract
Based on the post-earthquake investigation of the Beiling and Hanshen earthquakes, many welded rigid beam–column joints were found to exhibit brittle failure. The failure modes of the joint region and the overall steel frame structure under the action of the earthquake need to
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Based on the post-earthquake investigation of the Beiling and Hanshen earthquakes, many welded rigid beam–column joints were found to exhibit brittle failure. The failure modes of the joint region and the overall steel frame structure under the action of the earthquake need to be studied. The seismic performance of different types of weakened beam-end interior joints was investigated. The finite element method was verified by high-strength steel beam–column joint tests conducted by our research team. Finite element modeling of weakened steel beam flanges and weakened steel beam web joints was carried out based on the validated finite element modeling method. The joints were studied and analyzed using seismic parameters such as joint stress clouds, equivalent story shear–inter-story displacement ratio curves, panel zone bending moment–shear ratio curves, ductility, stiffness, and energy dissipation. The results of this study showed that honeycomb open hole-type joints exhibit a better deformation and energy dissipation capacity compared to open circular web hole-type joints. However, their load carrying capacity is reduced, which is mainly due to the larger area of the web openings. Additionally, double reduced beam section (DRBS) joints exhibit superior seismic performance and plastic hinge outward movement characteristics compared to single reduced beam section (RBS) joints. It was also found that the deformation and energy dissipation of DRBS joints and steel beam honeycomb hole-type joints are mainly borne by the beams, with the panel zone’s participation in energy dissipation accounting for a smaller proportion of the energy.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Steel Structures Building: Mechanical Properties and Behavior Analysis—2nd Edition)
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Study on the Anti-Progressive Collapse Behavior of Steel Frame Structures under Close-Range Blast Loading
by
Changren Ke, Huihui Long and Junling Jiang
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1387; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051387 - 12 May 2024
Abstract
The steel frame structure plays an important role in strategic deployments and is widely used in heavy machinery, metallurgy, military, and other important industries. To study the impact of explosive loads on the anti-progressive collapse performance of steel structures, this paper proposes to
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The steel frame structure plays an important role in strategic deployments and is widely used in heavy machinery, metallurgy, military, and other important industries. To study the impact of explosive loads on the anti-progressive collapse performance of steel structures, this paper proposes to establish the vulnerability characteristics of steel frame structures and provides a method for calculating vulnerability characterization indicators. A finite element model is used to analyze the dynamic response of steel frame structures under the action of close-range explosive loads, and factors influencing the anti-progressive collapse of steel frame structures are proposed, including the number of stories and diagonal bracing. A comparison is made between the various column types of steel structures under explosive loads, such as corner columns, long-edge middle columns, short-edge middle columns, inner columns, also in various coupling conditions. The results show that the progressive collapse of steel frame structures is greatly influenced by the position of the explosion and less affected by the amount of explosive material. The simultaneous failure of corner columns and long-edge middle columns is more likely to cause overall structural failure. The addition of diagonal bracing significantly improves the anti-progressive collapse ability and prevents the lateral displacement of steel frame structures; increasing the number of stories provides more alternative load transfer paths for steel frame structures, thereby preventing their collapse.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Building Structural Design: Blast Analysis and Progressive Collapse Control)
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Light as a Form of Visual Language Supporting Daily Schedules in Educational Spaces: A Design Framework
by
Stavroula Angelaki and Georgios A. Triantafyllidis
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1385; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051385 - 12 May 2024
Abstract
This study explores how lighting can be employed as a visual language to enhance communication between the space and its users and develop a design framework for educational spaces. A primary school is used as a case study to apply the proposed design
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This study explores how lighting can be employed as a visual language to enhance communication between the space and its users and develop a design framework for educational spaces. A primary school is used as a case study to apply the proposed design framework. The study focuses on lighting interventions in existing educational spaces to support daily schedules and transitions between activities. In this context, electric light is used as an indicator, highlighting the daily schedule and activities in the space. A theoretical approach is used as a foundation for establishing the design framework that leads to lighting proposals based on the specific spatial characteristics of each study. The outcome is a design solution based on the dominant spatial elements that define the space’s identity and function. The study focuses on educational spaces and lighting for peripheral vision while considering pupils’ visual and spatial development. The proposal has the role of an additional light layer that signals transitions in terms of activities or spatial mobility.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Lighting in Buildings—2nd Edition)
Open AccessArticle
A Bibliometric Analysis of the Outdoor Thermal Environment Based on CiteSpace
by
Chao Xie, Tangjun Feng and Li Hu
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1384; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051384 - 12 May 2024
Abstract
The outdoor thermal environment (OTE) is closely related to sustainable urban development and human living, and related research has attracted widespread attention. The research hotspots and research frontiers were obtained using CiteSpace to analyze 4473 relevant studies published in English from the Web
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The outdoor thermal environment (OTE) is closely related to sustainable urban development and human living, and related research has attracted widespread attention. The research hotspots and research frontiers were obtained using CiteSpace to analyze 4473 relevant studies published in English from the Web of Science (WOS) core database from 1998 to 2023. The results show that (1) Hong Kong Polytechnic University, National University of Singapore, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tsinghua University, and Harbin Institute of Technology are important in OTE research. China has the largest number of publications in the field of OTE, but the United States has the greatest centrality and significant influence. (2) The focus of OTE keyword clustering research is divided into four main categories: thermal environment perception, the thermal environment index, thermal environment quality, and thermal environment optimization. (3) The frontiers of OTE research have changed from focusing on environmental quality, thermal perception, numerical simulation, urban space, and thermal adaptation to thermal mitigation, energy conservation, energy consumption, and optimization strategies. Visualization research in the field of OTE helps to provide references for the direction of future research on improving climate change, human thermal comfort, urban planning, and pre-planning.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Energy, Physics, Environment, and Systems)
Open AccessArticle
Microstructure and Phase Characterization of Alkali-Activated Slag–Fly Ash Materials with Tetrasodium of 1-Hydroxy Ethylidene-1, 1-Diphosphonic Acid (HEDP·4Na)
by
Bo Zhou, Mingyang Zhang, Jiaqing Zhang and Jingjie Wei
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1383; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051383 - 12 May 2024
Abstract
The effect of tetrasodium of 1-hydroxy ethylidene-1, 1-diphosphonic acid (HEDP·4Na) on the microstructure and phase characterization of alkali-activated fly ash–slag (AAFS) materials is not clear or well documented. In this study, XRD, DTG, TAM-air, and SEM analyses of AAFS were used to identify
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The effect of tetrasodium of 1-hydroxy ethylidene-1, 1-diphosphonic acid (HEDP·4Na) on the microstructure and phase characterization of alkali-activated fly ash–slag (AAFS) materials is not clear or well documented. In this study, XRD, DTG, TAM-air, and SEM analyses of AAFS were used to identify the microstructural changes in AAFS made with HEDP·4Na. Meanwhile, the workability and compressive strength of AAFS were evaluated. The results demonstrated that the early-age alkaline-activated reactions were retarded due to the addition of HEDP·4Na in the AAFS mixture. However, the degree of gel formation was relatively increased at a later age in the AAFS made with HEDP·4Na compared to the plain AAFS mixture. Additionally, in comparison to the control group, the incorporation of HEDP·4Na in AAFS specimens resulted in improved flowability, with increments of 5%, 15%, and 24% for concentrations of 0.1%, 0.2%, and 0.3%, respectively. The initial and final setting times were prolonged by 5% to 50%, indicating a beneficial impact on the rheological properties of the AAFS fresh mixture. Furthermore, the addition of HEDP·4Na led to an improvement in compressive strength in the AAFS mixtures, with enhancements ranging from 13% to 16% at 28 days compared to the control group. With the presence of HEDP·4Na, the increase in the degree of reactions shifted to the formation of gel phases, like C-S-H, through the combined measurement of TGA, XRD, and SEM, resulting in a denser microstructure in the AAFS matrix. This study presents novel insights into the intricate compatibility between the properties of AAFS mixtures and HEDP·4Na, facilitating a more profound comprehension of the potential improvements in the sustainable development of AAFS systems.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 3D Printing and Low-Carbon Technologies in Cementitious Composites)
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Analyses of Pile-Supported Structures with Base Isolation Systems by Shaking Table Tests
by
Sumin Song and Sangseom Jeong
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1382; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051382 - 12 May 2024
Abstract
The dynamic behavior of a pile-supported structure with a base isolator was investigated by using 1 g shaking table model tests considering soil–structure interaction (SSI). The emphasis was placed on evaluating the effect of the with/without developed base isolator on the dynamic behavior
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The dynamic behavior of a pile-supported structure with a base isolator was investigated by using 1 g shaking table model tests considering soil–structure interaction (SSI). The emphasis was placed on evaluating the effect of the with/without developed base isolator on the dynamic behavior of end-bearing piles and structures. The experiment was performed through sweep tests and sinusoidal wave tests. As a result of the tests, the developed base isolator was found to effectively reduce the structure’s resonant frequencies and damped the response acceleration under resonance frequencies. According to sweep tests, the base shear force of the pile-supported structure system tends to decrease as the relative density of the soil increases during resonance. It showed that the base isolator tends to reduce significantly the response acceleration of not only the rigid-based structure but also the pile-supported structure. It was shown that although the isolated superstructure recorded large horizontal displacements, piles experienced reduced horizontal displacement and bending moments, regardless of soil conditions.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Foundation Engineering for Building Structures)
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Exploring the Impact of Urban Morphology on Building Energy Consumption and Outdoor Comfort: A Comparative Study in Hot-Humid Climates
by
Shuyan Zhu, Chenlong Ma, Zhongping Wu, Yuqing Huang and Xiao Liu
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1381; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051381 - 11 May 2024
Abstract
Research simultaneously examining building energy consumption and outdoor thermal comfort within urban environments remains limited. Few studies have delved into the sensitivity of design parameters based on building energy consumption and outdoor thermal comfort. The purpose of this study is to investigate the
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Research simultaneously examining building energy consumption and outdoor thermal comfort within urban environments remains limited. Few studies have delved into the sensitivity of design parameters based on building energy consumption and outdoor thermal comfort. The purpose of this study is to investigate the correlations between urban morphological design parameters and performance indicators, focusing on building energy consumption and outdoor thermal comfort (UTCI), across different urban block layouts in hot-humid regions, like Guangzhou. By establishing six fundamental morphological models—three individual unit layouts and three group layouts—the research explores both control and descriptive parameters through extensive simulation studies. Scatter plot visualizations provide insights into the impacts of various design parameters on energy consumption and UTCI, facilitating a comprehensive analysis of trends and quantitative relationships. Additionally, the study conducts sensitivity analyses on design parameters under different layout conditions to highlight their influences on target performance indicators. The findings reveal common trends, such as the significant impacts of plan dimensions and the Floor Area Ratio (FAR) on energy efficiency and outdoor comfort, as well as differential patterns, such as the varying sensitivities of the Shape Factor (S/V) and the Sky View Factor (SVF), across individual and collective layouts. Ultimately, this study offers a nuanced understanding of urban block morphology’s role in creating sustainable, comfortable, and energy-efficient urban environments, providing valuable guidelines for urban form design in hot-humid climates.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Building Performance Simulation and Building Energy Consumption Analysis)
Open AccessTechnical Note
Innovative Approaches and Challenges in the Demolition of Large-Span Post-Tensioned Beams: Insights from a Case Study
by
Mohammad Jonaidi, Adam Kaplan and Ali Keyvanfar
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1380; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051380 - 11 May 2024
Abstract
Large-span, post-tensioned (PT) beams play a crucial role in maximizing the benefits of post-tensioning techniques. Bonded and unbonded systems are prevalent, with the latter being more widespread in the United States. While bonded systems are advantageous for creating long spans when multiple tendons
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Large-span, post-tensioned (PT) beams play a crucial role in maximizing the benefits of post-tensioning techniques. Bonded and unbonded systems are prevalent, with the latter being more widespread in the United States. While bonded systems are advantageous for creating long spans when multiple tendons are grouped in ducts, limited studies in the literature exist on their demolition. With a case study, this paper addresses the unique challenge of demolishing large-span-bonded, post-tensioned beams that occurs due to a building’s functional change. Emphasizing insights for engineers, it explores the use of cutting and dismantling methods, thereby considering the presence of prestressed cables. The demolition process is distinctive due to the presence of numerous prestressed cables along the beams, necessitating a specialized and cautious cutting approach. This is accomplished through the use of a drilling technique that selectively distresses the tendons, ensuring they are not all affected simultaneously. An intriguing observation discussed in this paper pertains to the occurrence of horizontal cracks accompanied by loud sounds following the drilling process, thereby offering insights from the design perspective of PT systems. This paper details an innovative method for safely demolishing large-span, bonded PT beams using ground-penetrating radar and computer models to navigate structural complexities and ensure nearby structures’ safety.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on the Construction Mechanical Behavior and Deformation Characteristics of Lining Structure—2nd Edition)
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Can Architectural Identity Be Measured?
by
Salahaddin Yasin Baper
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1379; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051379 - 11 May 2024
Abstract
The sustainable breadth of architectural identity is a remarkable phenomenon with many dimensions. These dimensions are melded together to produce an architectural form. Form as the final architectural product is shaped by the visual cues that produce symbols as a powerful tool in
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The sustainable breadth of architectural identity is a remarkable phenomenon with many dimensions. These dimensions are melded together to produce an architectural form. Form as the final architectural product is shaped by the visual cues that produce symbols as a powerful tool in identifying a specific architectural trend. This study aims to construct a theoretical framework for the permanence of local identities to answer the main assumption, which is the following: Can identity be measured? It endeavors to clarify the main effective parameters that affect the permanency of architectural identity. It assesses the measurement variables of architectural identity based on multiple architectural perspectives and different points of view. The methodology of this study contains two broad approaches: a checklist and a questionnaire. The results provide a new model that includes three significant poles of architectural identity (mental images, originality, and building regulation). The findings enhanced the sustainability concept of architectural identity, which forecasts the permanency of architectural identity.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Architectural Design, Urban Science, and Real Estate)
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Adaptability and Interconnectedness in Latin American Innerburbs: An Assessment of the Public/Private Interface in Informal Settlements
by
Carlos Augusto Martínez Muñoz and Francisco Javier Maroto Ramos
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1378; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051378 - 11 May 2024
Abstract
An “Innerburb” is an urban structure that emerged between the 1950s and 1980s, settled in rural areas, and is considered the first periphery of the Latin American city. This structure results from socio-spatial and territorial evolutionary processes, constituting the pinnacle of informal evolution.
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An “Innerburb” is an urban structure that emerged between the 1950s and 1980s, settled in rural areas, and is considered the first periphery of the Latin American city. This structure results from socio-spatial and territorial evolutionary processes, constituting the pinnacle of informal evolution. However, despite offering a comprehensive perspective on the informal problem, innerburbs have been scarcely reviewed in the literature. This article explores the Latin American innerburb by adopting as a method a comparative study of the public/private interface in the cases of San Cosme in Lima, Villa Rodolfo Ricciardelli in Buenos Aires and Vila Heliopolis in São Paulo, evaluating their adaptation and interconnection with the city through morphological indicators, using morphological mapping through satellite images as an analytical tool, and using Space Syntax as a topological approach in the analysis of connectivity and visibility indicators. The objective of the research is the detection of morphological patterns that alter the functioning of the public/private interface in innerburbs. The results show that the existence of impermeable facades, the lack of public spaces and the illegal appropriation in the development of informal practices are transgressive adaptability patterns at the micro-scale that affect the interface, drastically limiting the interconnection between the innerburb and the formal fabric, restricting its morphological openness and affecting the development of socioeconomic activities. As a discussion and conclusion, corrective measures for progressive improvement in innerburbs are established, focusing on the adaptability of housing and road space as a means of interconnection between the innerburb and the city.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Studies in Urban and Regional Planning)
Open AccessArticle
Assessing Traffic Noise and Its Impact on High-Rise Apartment Buildings Adjacent to an Urban Expressway: A Case Study in Chengdu, China
by
Heng Yu and Ailing Li
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1377; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051377 - 11 May 2024
Abstract
With rapid urbanization, traffic growth has accelerated in some cities in China. Due to strict urban construction land utilization policies, many high-rise apartment buildings have been constructed adjacent to expressways. To better understand the impact of urban traffic noise on the residents of
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With rapid urbanization, traffic growth has accelerated in some cities in China. Due to strict urban construction land utilization policies, many high-rise apartment buildings have been constructed adjacent to expressways. To better understand the impact of urban traffic noise on the residents of high residential buildings adjacent to expressways and the differences in noise impacts on different floors, on-site noise monitoring and questionnaires for building residents have been conducted. The characteristics of traffic noise were analyzed based on the measured data, and factors, including time periods and building floors, were considered. According to the results of the questionnaire survey, 56.06% of the male respondents and 54.55% of the female respondents think that the impact of traffic noise on high-rise buildings is “high” or “very high”; 50.53% of the respondents who were in “good” or “very good” condition thought that the traffic noise has a “significant impact” or “very significant impact” on their sleep and daily life. In addition, 25% of respondents living on floors 4–10 and 62.5% of respondents living on floors 11–20 considered the traffic noise to have a “significant impact” or “very significant impact” on their sleep and daily life. The on-site noise monitoring results show that the noise levels (LAeq) outside the windows of the studied buildings remain significantly elevated, with daytime noise on working days ranging from 56 to 70 dB(A), and on weekends ranging from 50 to 65 dB(A). During the four time periods on weekdays from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m., 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., and 10 p.m. to 12 a.m., the average LAeq levels on floors 11–20 are higher than those on floors 4–10 by 4.04 dB(A), 4.92 dB(A), 4.06 dB(A), and 2.67 dB(A), respectively. Similarly, during these time periods on weekends, the levels on floors 11–20 are higher than those on floors 4–10 by 4.96 dB(A), 6.32 dB(A), 5.28 dB(A), and 5.24 dB(A), respectively. This indicates that floors 4–10 of the building experience relatively lower noise levels, while floors 11–20 are subjected to comparatively higher levels of noise disturbance.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Energy, Physics, Environment, and Systems)
Open AccessArticle
Evaluation of Rotation Capacity and Bauschinger Effect Coefficient of I-Shaped Beams Considering Loading Protocol Influences
by
Yoshihiro Kimura
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1376; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051376 - 11 May 2024
Abstract
Recent catastrophic earthquake events have reinforced the necessity of evaluating the seismic performance of buildings. Notably, the buildings can go into the plastic phase during a striking earthquake disaster. Under this condition, the current design codes assume seismic response reduction by virtue of
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Recent catastrophic earthquake events have reinforced the necessity of evaluating the seismic performance of buildings. Notably, the buildings can go into the plastic phase during a striking earthquake disaster. Under this condition, the current design codes assume seismic response reduction by virtue of the energy dissipation capacity of the structural members. In the strong-column–weak-beam design, which involves I-shaped beams and boxed columns, the mechanism is defined as a standard design scheme to prevent the building from collapsing. Therefore, energy dissipation relies highly on the I-shaped beam performance. However, the I-shaped beam performance can differ depending on the loading history experienced, whereas this effect is untouched in the prevailing evaluation equation. Hence, this study first performs cyclic loading tests of 11 specimens using different loading protocols. The experimental results clarify the fluctuation in the structural performance of I-shaped beams depending on the applied loading hysteresis, proving the necessity of considering the stress history for proper assessment. Furthermore, the database of experimental results is constructed based on the previous experimental studies. Ultimately, the novel evaluation equation is proposed to reflect the influences of the loading protocol. This equation is demonstrated to effectively assess the member performance retrieved from the experiment of 65 specimens, comprising 11 specimens from this investigation and 54 specimens from the database. The width–thickness ratio, shear span-to-depth ratio, and loading protocols are utilized as the evaluation parameters. Moreover, the prediction equation of the Bauschinger effect coefficient is newly established to convert the energy dissipation capacity under monotonically applied force into hysteretic energy dissipation under the cyclic forces.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Structural and Mechanical Performances of Structures and Materials)
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Open AccessArticle
Effect of Moisture Content and Wet–Dry Cycles on the Strength Properties of Unsaturated Clayey Sand
by
Chuan Wang, Weimin Yang, Ning Zhang, Senwei Wang, Chuanyi Ma, Meixia Wang and Zhiyuan Zhang
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1375; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051375 - 11 May 2024
Abstract
Based on the actual situation of the project on the Weihai–Yanhai Expressway section of Rongwu Expressway, the effects of water content change and the dry–wet cycle on the mechanical behavior of unsaturated clayey sandy soil were analyzed in this study. In this study,
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Based on the actual situation of the project on the Weihai–Yanhai Expressway section of Rongwu Expressway, the effects of water content change and the dry–wet cycle on the mechanical behavior of unsaturated clayey sandy soil were analyzed in this study. In this study, ventilated undrained triaxial shear tests were carried out on unsaturated clayey sandy soils with different water contents (6%, 8%, 10%, 12%, 14% and 16%). Concurrently, the soil samples were subjected to three distinct wet and dry cycle pathways (2~22%, 2~12%, and 12~22%) to gain an understanding of how the mechanical features of the soil changed under the different conditions. The test findings demonstrate that when the water content increases, the unsaturated clayey sandy soil’s cohesiveness and shear strength diminish. The strength of shear decline exhibits a pattern of first being quick, followed by sluggish. The strength of shear and cohesiveness of clayey sandy soil declined under the influence of the dry and wet cycles, with the first cycle primarily affecting variations in cohesiveness and strength of shear. Furthermore, the strength of shear and cohesiveness of clayey sandy soil diminish more with increasing wet and dry cycle amplitude and upper water content limits. Lastly, the drying shrinkage and hygroscopic expansion of clay particles in clayey sandy soils during wet and dry cycles are not significant, resulting in less structural damage and deterioration of the mechanical properties of the soils. The study’s findings have a significant impact on the durability of roadbeds made of unsaturated clayey sandy soil in both wet and dry situations.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Intelligence Techniques Applied in Infrastructure, Engineering and Construction)
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Experimental Investigation on Shear Behavior of Non-Stirrup UHPC Beams under Larger Shear Span–Depth Ratios
by
Lifeng Zhang, Bowen Deng, Beini He, Haibo Jiang, Jie Xiao, Yueqiang Tian and Junfa Fang
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1374; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051374 - 11 May 2024
Abstract
Due to the extraordinary mechanical properties of ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC), the shear stirrups in UHPC beams could potentially be eliminated. This study aimed to determine the effect of beam height and steel fiber volume content on the shear behavior of non-stirrup UHPC beams
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Due to the extraordinary mechanical properties of ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC), the shear stirrups in UHPC beams could potentially be eliminated. This study aimed to determine the effect of beam height and steel fiber volume content on the shear behavior of non-stirrup UHPC beams under a larger shear span–depth ratio (up to 2.8). Eight beams were designed and fabricated including six non-stirrup UHPC beams and two comparing stirrup-reinforced normal concrete (NC) beams. The experimental results demonstrated that the steel fiber volume content could be a crucial factor affecting the ductility, cracking strength, and shear capacity of non-stirrup UHPC beams and altering their failure modes. Additionally, the height of the beam had a considerable effect on its shear resistance. French standard formulae were more accurate for the UHPC beams with larger shear span–depth ratios, PCI-2021 formulae greatly overestimated the shear capacity of UHPC beams with larger shear span–depth ratios, and Xu’s formulae were more accurate for the steel fiber-reinforced UHPC beams with larger shear span–depth ratios. In summary, French standard formulae were the most suitable formulae for predicting the shear capacity of UHPC beams in this paper.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Concrete Structures: Structural Behaviors and Design Methods—2nd Edition)
Open AccessArticle
Assessing the Impact of Ground Motion Duration on Losses in Typical Modern Steel Moment Frames
by
Amir Safiey, Sereen Majdalaweyh and Weichiang Pang
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1373; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051373 - 11 May 2024
Abstract
This research was undertaken to study the duration effects on the seismic economic risk of steel moment frame (SMF) buildings, a prominent class of buildings in commercial stock. Firstly, a modified version of FEMA P-695 ground motion scaling, tailored for seismic loss estimation
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This research was undertaken to study the duration effects on the seismic economic risk of steel moment frame (SMF) buildings, a prominent class of buildings in commercial stock. Firstly, a modified version of FEMA P-695 ground motion scaling, tailored for seismic loss estimation purposes and incorporating two sets of spectrally matched bi-directional short- and long-duration ground motions, is proposed to study code-compliant plan-symmetrical SMFs with different heights (i.e., two to 20 stories). It is shown that long-duration ground motions increase the collapse risk of SMFs, on average, by 28.0% at the MCE level. Next, a component-based loss estimation methodology was adopted for evaluating the seismic losses under each set of ground motions. These losses are studied separately for building components (i.e., structural and nonstructural) and contents. Moreover, we propose an approach for calculating average annualized loss (AAL) as a prominent risk meter that segregates contributions of short- and long-duration ground motions to attain hazard consistency. Loss analyses showed the minimal impact of building height on the contribution of these two types of earthquakes. The seismic risk analysis of buildings also revealed that collapse risk is influenced mainly by duration effects followed by building and content losses.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Achieving Resilience and Other Challenges in Earthquake Engineering)
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Open AccessArticle
Experimental Study on Mechanical Properties of Reinforced Soil and Frame Beam Anchor Combination System
by
Jiangfei He and Leihua Yao
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1372; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051372 - 10 May 2024
Abstract
To address issues with excessive displacement, deformation, and insufficient load bearing capacity in high-fill-reinforced soil-retaining walls, a novel reinforced soil–frame anchor combination system was developed. Despite the limited existing research on its mechanical properties and synergy, a physical model test was conducted to
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To address issues with excessive displacement, deformation, and insufficient load bearing capacity in high-fill-reinforced soil-retaining walls, a novel reinforced soil–frame anchor combination system was developed. Despite the limited existing research on its mechanical properties and synergy, a physical model test was conducted to investigate the system’s behavior. The test focused on the horizontal displacement of the frame beam wall, grid strain, wall back earth pressure, and anchor strain. Results indicated that anchor prestress effectively controlled horizontal deformation, limiting it to 65% of the original displacement value. Additionally, as the top load increased, strain in the bottom bars showed minor changes, while strain in the middle and upper bars exhibited significant sensitivity to load variations. The application of anchor prestress reduced strain in each reinforcement layer, enhancing the geogrid’s load bearing capacity. Furthermore, anchor prestress altered the distribution of earth pressure within the system, establishing a synergistic relationship between reinforced soil and frame beam anchors. This stress transfer mechanism improved overall system performance, as demonstrated in the test. Overall, the study confirmed the benefits and superior performance of the combined system.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances and Applications in Geotechnical and Structural Engineering)
Open AccessArticle
Research on Double-Layer Support Control for Large Deformation of Weak Surrounding Rock in Xiejiapo Tunnel
by
Changhai Sun, Zhuang Li, Jin Wu, Rui Wang, Xin Yang and Yiyuan Liu
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1371; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051371 - 10 May 2024
Abstract
Double-layer primary support is proposed to control the deformation of surrounding rock in tunnels within weak geological conditions, where engineering challenges such as large deformations, tunnel faces, and arch collapse are encountered. This approach is based on the principle of combined resistance and
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Double-layer primary support is proposed to control the deformation of surrounding rock in tunnels within weak geological conditions, where engineering challenges such as large deformations, tunnel faces, and arch collapse are encountered. This approach is based on the principle of combined resistance and release. A combined approach of numerical modeling and on-site surveillance was utilized to analyze the displacement and stress state of the tunnel support structure at different construction stages of primary support for the second layer, using Xiejiapo Tunnel as an engineering case. The findings indicate that the implementation of two-layer primary support can mitigate the progression of large deformations effectively in weak surrounding rock; the sooner the primary support for the second layer is applied, the better the deformation control, and the later the application takes place, the more effectively the tension in the surrounding rock is diminished, whereby the self-supporting capacity of surrounding rock comes into its own. The force of the shotcrete is reduced. Considering the structural deformation and stress state, as well as combination of resistance and release, it is best to implement the primary support for the second layer 10 feet behind the primary support for the first layer.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Design, Construction and Maintenance of Underground Structures)
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