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
Research on Optimization Strategy of Commercial Street Spatial Vitality Based on Pedestrian Trajectories
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1240; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051240 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Commercial pedestrian streets significantly enhance urban life. Previous research often depends on limited survey data or subjective evaluations, which fail to fully capture the impact of street elements on spatial vitality under diverse spatiotemporal conditions. This study, conducted in Beijing’s Sanlitun commercial district,
[...] Read more.
Commercial pedestrian streets significantly enhance urban life. Previous research often depends on limited survey data or subjective evaluations, which fail to fully capture the impact of street elements on spatial vitality under diverse spatiotemporal conditions. This study, conducted in Beijing’s Sanlitun commercial district, analyzes pedestrian data from six branch roads collected via WiFi detection to determine how various spatial elements influence the vibrancy of commercial pedestrian streets. The results show a positive correlation between street width, ranging from 5.88 to 10.83 m, and vitality. Furthermore, the influence of different street elements on vitality varies notably. During the daytime, street width is the most effective element for enhancing vitality, with a maximum standardized coefficient of 1.717. However, at night, the associations between advertising area, store type, and vitality diminish. The street recording the highest nighttime vitality peaked at a pedestrian count of 91.7831. The contribution of street width to enhancing nighttime vitality is 2.49 times greater than at noon on non-working days, 2.01 times more than on working days, and 2.92 times higher than the impact of tables and chairs. Therefore, street design should prioritize street width, ground floor interface permeability, number of tables and chairs, store density, advertising area, and store type.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Biophilic Cities and Communities: Towards Natural Resources, Environmental and Social Sustainability)
Open AccessArticle
Adaptive Vibration Monitoring of Railway Track Structures Using the UWFBG by the Identification of Train-Load Patterns
by
Jiahui Chen, Qiuyi Li, Shijie Zhang, Chao Lin and Shiyin Wei
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1239; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051239 - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Due to the capability of multiplexing thousands of sensors on a single optical cable, ultra-weak fiber Bragg grating (UWFBG) vibration sensing technology has been utilized in monitoring the vibration response of large-scale infrastructures, particularly urban railway tracks, and the volume of the collected
[...] Read more.
Due to the capability of multiplexing thousands of sensors on a single optical cable, ultra-weak fiber Bragg grating (UWFBG) vibration sensing technology has been utilized in monitoring the vibration response of large-scale infrastructures, particularly urban railway tracks, and the volume of the collected monitoring data can be huge with the great number of sensors. Even though the train-induced vibration responses of urban railway tracks constitute the most informative and crucial component, they comprised less than 7% of the total operational period. This is mainly attributed to the temporal sparsity of commuting trains. Consequently, the majority of the stored data consisted of low-informative environmental noise and interference excitation data, leading to an inefficient structural health monitoring (SHM) system. To address this issue, this paper introduced an adaptive monitoring strategy for railway track structures, which is capable of identifying train-load patterns by leveraging deep learning techniques. Inspired by image semantic segmentation, a U-net model with one-dimensional convolution layers (U-net-1D) was developed for the pointwise classification of vibration monitoring data. The proposed model was trained and validated using a dataset obtained from an actual urban railway track in China. Results indicated that the proposed method outperforms the traditional dual-threshold method, achieving an Intersection over Union (IoU) of 94.27% on the segmentation task of the test dataset.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Developments in Structural Health Monitoring)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
A Study on the Regional Evolution of the Hefei Political and Cultural New District Skyline Based on Exploratory Factor Analysis and Semantic Segmentation
by
Le Zhang, Mengru Zhang, Mingxia Yuan and Yanlong Guo
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1238; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051238 - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
The general population’s assessment and perception of a city can be influenced by its skyline, which is one of its representatives. This paper uses semantic segmentation and exploratory factor analysis to conduct a study from two different perspectives, aiming to analyse the development
[...] Read more.
The general population’s assessment and perception of a city can be influenced by its skyline, which is one of its representatives. This paper uses semantic segmentation and exploratory factor analysis to conduct a study from two different perspectives, aiming to analyse the development and current situation of the skyline of Hefei’s political and cultural new district. By collecting pictures of the skyline of the New Administrative and Cultural District, the New Administrative and Cultural District of Hefei’s skyline is being studied for overall changes using the semantic segmentation method, and to evaluate the quality of the skyline in various years, the entropy weight–TOPSIS is employed. Through the literature investigation and creation status of the new political and cultural district, the index system is scientifically formulated to conduct a questionnaire survey, and its reliability and validity are tested. This study is conducted with exploratory factor analysis of factors that are vital in the city skyline. The results of this study show that (1) after the semantic segmentation of the pictures, it is found that the proportion of buildings and the proportion of vegetation are both rising; the proportion of buildings tends to level off after 2018, and the proportion of vegetation shows a uniform increase. In the relative proximity ranking, the overall trend is increasing, and the skyline is ranked first in 2024. (2) Two variables were identified based on the findings of the exploratory factor analysis: ‘skyline value’ and ‘neighbourhood ecological quality’. The results of this study show that the skyline of Hefei’s New Administrative and Cultural District in 2024 is the best overall, and that the skyline of the New Administrative and Cultural District has developed into one of the city images of Hefei, and that its optimisation can be considered in terms of the “quality of the surrounding ecological environment”.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Wellbeing: The Impact of Spatial Parameters)
Open AccessReview
Examining the Challenges for Circular Economy Implementation in Construction and Demolition Waste Management: A Comprehensive Review Using Systematic Methods
by
Juan Antonio Ferriz-Papi, Angela Lee and Mahmoud Alhawamdeh
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1237; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051237 - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
The construction industry accounts for approximately one-third of the total waste generation globally. With the United Nations projecting a population increase of 2 billion within the next three decades, there is a heightened demand for building stock, generating unprecedented volumes of construction and
[...] Read more.
The construction industry accounts for approximately one-third of the total waste generation globally. With the United Nations projecting a population increase of 2 billion within the next three decades, there is a heightened demand for building stock, generating unprecedented volumes of construction and demolition waste (CDW). To combat this, circular economy strategies are purported to help alleviate the prevailing situation. But a number of challenges are jeopardizing their implementation in the construction industry and preventing from achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals, net zero carbon and zero avoidable waste targets. This paper systematically analyzes 54 research articles, published in the past decade within major peer-reviewed English-language scholarly publications in the form of a systematic research review. In doing so, it aims to identify and classify the challenges that prevent improved CDW management by assimilating previous research results in support of a circular economy. The classification and analysis using a PESTLE model offers insights into gaps and differences between categories, as well as regions and countries. This initial step could contribute to a better understanding of these barriers, along with associated solutions, which could result in a significant reduction on the impact of construction activities, therefore facilitating the development of an effective circular economy in the sector.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Solid Waste Management in the Construction Sector)
Open AccessArticle
Ground Deformation of Shield Tunneling through Composite Strata in Coastal Areas
by
Xiong Wu, Jiangbo Xu, Shaowei Wang, Peng Sha, Zemin Han, Xinyu Chen, Sheng Shu, Wei Qiao and Xianglong Zeng
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1236; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051236 - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
In order to mitigate ground deformation during shield construction in both upper soft and lower hard strata of coastal areas, a numerical simulation was executed. This simulation assessed surface deformation under varying stratum ratios, grouting pressures, and earth bin pressures. The evaluation was
[...] Read more.
In order to mitigate ground deformation during shield construction in both upper soft and lower hard strata of coastal areas, a numerical simulation was executed. This simulation assessed surface deformation under varying stratum ratios, grouting pressures, and earth bin pressures. The evaluation was primarily based on the amount of ground deformation, which revealed that hard rock strata offer superior settlement control compared to soft rock strata. The excavation of the right tunnel line increased disturbance to the left line at higher stratum ratios. Surface deformation demonstrated a linear correlation with earth pressure, with 130 kPa identified as the optimal point. Higher pressures resulted in extrusion deformation and ground uplift. Grouting pressure had a minimal impact on stratum deformation over time. The stratum ratio exerted the most significant influence on settlement, followed by earth pressure, with grouting pressure having the least impact. In the context of coastal tunnel construction, hard rock excavation is favored. Earth pressure must be balanced to prevent subsidence or uplift, while excessive grouting pressure does not significantly reduce subsidence. Grouting pressure should ensure the complete filling of voids.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Foundation Treatment and Building Structural Performance Enhancement)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Development of Worth Estimation and Key Target Selection Methods for Effective VE
by
Yeon-Goo Jeong, Hye-Min Jeong and Byung-Soo Kim
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1235; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051235 - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
VE is a powerful technique for analyzing a design with a focus on functionality, reducing costs, and increasing value. However, in order to proceed with the design of VE, the theoretical basis for the VE target selection process, which must be preceded in
[...] Read more.
VE is a powerful technique for analyzing a design with a focus on functionality, reducing costs, and increasing value. However, in order to proceed with the design of VE, the theoretical basis for the VE target selection process, which must be preceded in the preparation stage, is lacking, and as a result, it is difficult to verify the most effective target selection. Thus, a theoretical basis is needed. In this study, we intend to quantify the “Worth” value of the “Cost to Worth” technique and present an objective model of the target selection method using the derived value index (VI). For this purpose, cost worth (Worth C) was calculated based on the performance data of 1008 cases for 15 building types provided by the Domestic Public Procurement Service and the share of 83 detailed processes in seven fields. Then, a survey was conducted targeting the ordering companies, and the final worth (Worth F) was calculated by multiplying the derived customer value (Worth V) weight for each detailed work type. We calculated the value index (VI) by comparing “Cost” and “Worth F” for each detailed construction type of the VE project and developed a model to select construction types that exceed the VI standard value derived using the standard error of the population. Both cost experts and non-cost experts can use the developed model to specify the VE target selection criteria in order to easily select the key target, objectively sort the values that serve as the basis for calculating the value index, and make it possible to more easily select the VE target selection criteria based on theoretical evidence. Also, the model can be used to obtain effective detailed design VE results.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Construction Management, and Computers & Digitization)
Open AccessArticle
Influences of the Decomposition Atmosphere and Heating Rate on the Pyrolysis Behaviors of Resin Sand
by
Qingwei Xu, Yaping Zhu, Kaili Xu, Bingjun Li and Nan Su
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1234; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051234 - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
The pouring of sand casting is accompanied by severe heat conduction, and there is an urgent need to investigate the pyrolysis properties of foundry sand. The main purpose of this study was to investigate the pyrolysis behaviors of resin sand, including precoated sand
[...] Read more.
The pouring of sand casting is accompanied by severe heat conduction, and there is an urgent need to investigate the pyrolysis properties of foundry sand. The main purpose of this study was to investigate the pyrolysis behaviors of resin sand, including precoated sand (PCS), hot box sand (HBS), and warm box sand (WBS), at heating rates of 20 °C/min, 30 °C/min, and 40 °C/min in nitrogen and air atmospheres. The mass loss of the resin sand was monitored continuously with a simultaneous thermal analyzer, and the kinetic parameters of the resin sand were calculated based on the Coats–Redfern method and thermal data. The average mass loss of the resin sand during pyrolysis was 3.03%, which was much smaller than that of the other sands. The volatile release characteristic index of resin sand could not be calculated based on this concept. To solve this issue, the term Tstv/mloss was established, and its value was determined. With increasing heating rates from 20 °C/min to 30 °C/min and from 30 °C/min to 40 °C/min, the mass losses of the resin sand increased by 0.79% and 0.64%, respectively, and the volatile release characteristic indices of the resin sand increased by 3.8 × 10−10 and 1.06 × 10−9, respectively. In addition, the mass losses and volatile release characteristic indices of resin sand in an air atmosphere were greater than those in a nitrogen atmosphere. With increasing heating rate, the activation energy of the resin sand decreased in a nitrogen atmosphere. The findings concerning the thermal decomposition behaviors of resin sand provided a theoretical basis for the pouring step of the sand casting process.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Techniques in Concrete Materials and Structures: Experiments, Theories and Applications)
Open AccessArticle
Comparison of Performance Analysis Results with Developed Site-Specific Response Spectra and Turkish Seismic Design Code: A Case Study from the SW Türkiye Region
by
Mehmet Alpyürür and Hakan Ulutaş
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1233; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051233 - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
On 6 February 2023, the Kahramanmaraş earthquakes clearly showed that the elastic spectrum curves in TBEC-2018 are insufficient to represent earthquake behavior. In this study, the effect of using a site-specific spectrum curve instead of the elastic spectrum given in TBEC-2018 on the
[...] Read more.
On 6 February 2023, the Kahramanmaraş earthquakes clearly showed that the elastic spectrum curves in TBEC-2018 are insufficient to represent earthquake behavior. In this study, the effect of using a site-specific spectrum curve instead of the elastic spectrum given in TBEC-2018 on the earthquake safety of a building is investigated. For this purpose, the provinces in southwest Anatolia, Türkiye, which is one of the most tectonically complex regions with frequent seismic events, were selected. In the first stage of the study, spectrum curves were obtained for earthquakes with return periods of 2475, 475, and 72 years for each of the provinces in this region. These spectrum curves were obtained using probabilistic seismic hazard studies that take into account the active faults of the provinces and earthquake activity in both historical and instrumental periods. In the second stage of the study, analytical models of a selected model RC building were created according to each province, and static pushover analyses of these building models were performed both according to the elastic spectrum given in TBEC-2018 and according to the spectrum curve created specifically for the province. The results of the analyses show that the change in the spectrum changes the target displacement level of the buildings, and as a result, the cross-sectional damage zone of the structural elements under the earthquake effect is changed. So much so that using the site-specific instead of the elastic spectrum given in TBEC-2018 changed the damage zone of 43% of the beams and 26.4% of the columns in the İzmir model. The change in the section damage zones changed the performance level of some floors of the models and the performance level of the building. The study revealed the importance of using the most realistic elastic spectrum curves in order to determine the earthquake performance of buildings that is as close as possible to their behavior in a possible earthquake.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Buildings and Infrastructures Performance in Seismic Events: Understanding the Impact of Earthquakes)
Open AccessArticle
Replacing Fly Ash or Silica Fume with Tuff Powder for Concrete Engineering in Plateau Areas: Hydration Mechanism and Feasibility Study
by
Tianqi Li, Bixiong Li, Lianghui Li, Zhiwen Wang, Zhibo Zhang and Qingshun Nong
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1232; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051232 - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Abundant tuff mineral resources offer a promising solution to the shortage of fly ash (FA) and silica fume (SF) resources as emerging supplementary cementitious materials. However, a lack of clarity on its hydration mechanism has hindered its practical engineering application. In this study,
[...] Read more.
Abundant tuff mineral resources offer a promising solution to the shortage of fly ash (FA) and silica fume (SF) resources as emerging supplementary cementitious materials. However, a lack of clarity on its hydration mechanism has hindered its practical engineering application. In this study, high SiO2-content tuff powder (TP) was examined to assess the mechanical and workability performance of mortar specimens with varying particle sizes of the TP as complete replacements for FA or SF. Microscopic analysis techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), differential thermal analysis (DTG), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), were employed to elucidate the hydration mechanism of the TP and its feasibility as a substitute for SF or FA. Results indicated that TP primarily functions as nuclei and filler, promoting cement hydration, with smaller particle sizes amplifying the hydration ability and increasing Ca(OH)2 and C-S-H gel content. The specimens with TP (median particle size 7.58 μm) demonstrated 9.2% and 29.9% higher flexural and compressive strengths at 28 days, respectively, compared to the FA specimens of equal mass. However, fluidity decreased by 23.1% accordingly. Due to TP’s smaller specific surface area compared to SF, the TP specimens exhibited higher fluidity but with decreased strength relative to the SF specimens. Overall, TP shows potential as a replacement for FA with additional measures to ensure workability.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Low-Carbon Construction Materials and Advanced Manufacturing Technologies)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessReview
Lessons Learned from Information Sources on Building Defect Studies
by
Line Berg Oppedal and Tore Kvande
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1231; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051231 - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Building defects are very prevalent and contribute significantly to a building’s economic value. There are numerous information sources on building defects that have significant potential for learning more about building defects. This study aimed to identify the information sources used in previous building
[...] Read more.
Building defects are very prevalent and contribute significantly to a building’s economic value. There are numerous information sources on building defects that have significant potential for learning more about building defects. This study aimed to identify the information sources used in previous building defect studies and to identify the motivation for carrying out such studies. To fulfil this aim, a scoping study was carried out. The information sources identified included insurance companies, private databases, questionnaire surveys, lawsuits, building surveys, client complaint forms, and maintenance reports. This study found that insurance company and client complaint forms include the largest collection of real building defect cases, but such databases may lack detailed descriptions of the causes of the defects. The main purposes of building the defects studies identified here included design challenges, identification of defects, building maintenance management, quality management, systematization in data collection, providing an overview of typical defects, and classifying defects. Identification was found to be the most common purpose, indicating that the industry wants to learn more. This study identified research gaps in the climate perspective in relation to building defects. Most of the studies focused on the economical perspective, and none focused on the carbon footprint perspective. This study provides an overview of information sources, which can motivate stakeholders to collaborate in learning about the physical causes of building defects as well as about other key aspects such as fault, finances consequences, and procedural causes.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Construction Management, and Computers & Digitization)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Feasibility of Microbially Induced Carbonate Precipitation to Enhance the Internal Stability of Loess under Zn-Contaminated Seepage Conditions
by
Pengli He, Jinjun Guo and Shixu Zhang
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1230; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051230 - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Loess is widely distributed in Northwestern China and serves as the preferred engineering construction material for anti-fouling barriers. Heavy metal contamination in soil presents significant challenges to the engineering safety of vulnerable loess structures. Hence, there is an urgent need to investigate the
[...] Read more.
Loess is widely distributed in Northwestern China and serves as the preferred engineering construction material for anti-fouling barriers. Heavy metal contamination in soil presents significant challenges to the engineering safety of vulnerable loess structures. Hence, there is an urgent need to investigate the impact of heavy metal ions on their percolation performance. In order to investigate the effectiveness of microbially induced carbonate precipitation (MICP) using Sporosarcina pasturii (CGMCC1.3687) bacteria in reducing internal seepage erosion, a saturated permeability test was conducted on reshaped loess under constant water head saturation conditions. The response of loess to deionized water (DW) and ZnCl2 solution seepages was analyzed by monitoring changes in cation concentration over time, measuring Zeta potential, and using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results indicate that the hydrolysis of Zn2+ creates an acidic environment, leading to the dissolution of carbonate minerals in the loess, which enhances its permeability. The adsorption of Zn2+ ions and the resulting diffusion double-layer (DDL) effect reduce the thickness of the diffusion layer and increase the number of free water channels. Additionally, the permeability of loess exposed to ZnCl2 solution seepage significantly increased by 554.5% compared to loess exposed to deionized water (DW) seepage. Following the seepage of ZnCl2 solutions, changes in micropore area ratio were observed, decreasing by 48.80%, while mesopore areas increased by 23.9%. MICP treatment helps reduce erosion and volume shrinkage in contaminated loess. Carbonate precipitation enhances the erosion resistance of contaminated loess by absorbing or coating fine particles and creating bridging connections with coarse particles. These research results offer new perspectives on enhancing the seepage properties of saturated loess in the presence of heavy metal erosion and the geochemical mechanisms involved.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Materials and Novel Technique in Civil Engineering)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Architectural Analysis of the First Major Rehabilitation in the 21st Century of Olbrich’s Secession Building in Vienna
by
Biljana Arandelovic
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1229; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051229 - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
The recent rehabilitation, reconstruction and adaptive reuse of Joseph Maria Olbrich’s Vienna Secession Building, completed in 2018, has brought the building into a contemporary age. This research article analyzes the only extensive rehabilitation carried out on the Secession Building so far in the
[...] Read more.
The recent rehabilitation, reconstruction and adaptive reuse of Joseph Maria Olbrich’s Vienna Secession Building, completed in 2018, has brought the building into a contemporary age. This research article analyzes the only extensive rehabilitation carried out on the Secession Building so far in the 21st century. It studies what was accomplished during this specific rehabilitation process, and in particular emphasizes the reasons why such a process is crucial for culture heritage buildings in the city of Vienna. The purpose of this research is to evaluate the rehabilitation procedures used for the Secession Building and to identify any weaknesses to be resolved in the next rehabilitation. It provides an example of rehabilitation for any future similar initiatives, demonstrating both its positive and negative aspects.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Preservation of Buildings and Infrastructure)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Experimental Research on the Floating Amount of Shield Tunnel Based on the Innovative Cumulative Floating Amount Calculation Method
by
Jingrong Wu and Jing Chen
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1228; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051228 - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
The study of shield tunnel segment flotation is crucial for controlling the precision of underground excavation projects. Based on Winkler’s beam foundation theory, the load structure method, and the equivalent continuous beam model, and by considering the mechanical and spatial conditions that cause
[...] Read more.
The study of shield tunnel segment flotation is crucial for controlling the precision of underground excavation projects. Based on Winkler’s beam foundation theory, the load structure method, and the equivalent continuous beam model, and by considering the mechanical and spatial conditions that cause segment flotation, a novel theoretical calculation method for cumulative flotation is proposed using a simplified equivalent stiffness model of the tunnel. Additionally, a new concept of “equivalent flotation force” is introduced. The rationality and applicability of this theoretical calculation method are verified by comparing it with on-site construction data from the Yuanjiang River Crossing Tunnel Project in Changde, Hunan Province, China. The experimental results demonstrate that the theoretical calculation closely approximates the surface deformation monitoring data of the tunnel alignment in the eastern section of the project, and their deformation patterns are similar. Near the starting shaft, there is significant settlement influenced by stratum loss due to smaller tunnel flotation, with greater settlement occurring in the upper part. However, at approximately 45 m into both sections, they enter a deformation stability zone showing significant correlation in longitudinal deformation. Through comparison and verification of on-site experiments and theoretical model analysis, we preliminarily elucidate the feasibility of this innovative cumulative flotation theoretical calculation method which provides an important theoretical basis for assessing segment flotation issues in subsequent tunnel shield construction evaluations.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Structures)
Open AccessArticle
Morphological and Position Factors of Vertical Surface Light Source Affecting Discomfort Glare Perception
by
Guangyan Kong, Lixiong Wang, Peng Chen, Shuo Wang and Fengrui Ma
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1227; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051227 - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Distinguished from conventional lighting, the LED vertical surface light source (VSLS) is directly exposed to human view, and the effects of which form it takes on visual perception are non-negligible. In the current discomfort glare evaluation system, the solid angle and the position
[...] Read more.
Distinguished from conventional lighting, the LED vertical surface light source (VSLS) is directly exposed to human view, and the effects of which form it takes on visual perception are non-negligible. In the current discomfort glare evaluation system, the solid angle and the position index, which represent the relative relation between the glaring light source and human visual field, are not completely applicable for large-area VSLS, and hence are awaiting supplementation and modification. In this study, a physical experimental setup was established to conduct an evaluation experiment on discomfort glare, employing an LED display and white translucent frosted film to simulate vertical surface light sources (VSLS). The experiments were arranged with 21 VSLS shapes (comprising 3 areas and 7 length-to-width ratios) and 11 mounting positions. Subjective ratings and four eye-movement data parameters—namely, the change rate of pupil diameter (CRPD), mean saccadic amplitude (SA), blinking frequency (BF), and saccadic speed (SS)—were collected from 24 participants under each working condition using the Boyce Evaluation Scale and eye tracking techniques. The main results of this study are the following: (a) CRPD is the most appropriate eye-movement index for characterizing VSLS glare perception; (b) The area of the VSLS is the primary shape element influencing discomfort glare. Furthermore, with the same surface area, the lateral view angle (LaVA) and the longitudinal view angle (LoVA) perceived by the human eye also impact glare perception; (c) A functional equation between the VSLS area, LaVA, and LoVA to the borderline luminance between comfort and discomfort (BCD luminance) is fitted; (d) Based on the eccentric angle and the azimuthal angle, a modified position index P’ is proposed to represent the relative position of the VSLS in the visual field, and the ratio function of BCD luminance of the VSLS at non-central positions and the central position is fitted.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Energy, Physics, Environment, and Systems)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Barriers to Older Adults Adapting Smart Homes: Perceived Risk Scale Development
by
Yuqi Liu, Ryoichi Tamura and Liang Xiao
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1226; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051226 - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
The 21st century has marked the dawn of an aging population. China’s aging process ranks first worldwide. The country has recognized the gravity of this demographic shift and implemented strategies to address it at the national level. A vast majority of elderly Chinese
[...] Read more.
The 21st century has marked the dawn of an aging population. China’s aging process ranks first worldwide. The country has recognized the gravity of this demographic shift and implemented strategies to address it at the national level. A vast majority of elderly Chinese individuals (approximately 90%) aspire to age in their own homes. Smart homes, endowed with cutting-edge digital technologies, such as AI, the Internet of Things, and big data, hold vast potential for enabling this vision. However, acceptance of smart home products and services among elderly individuals in China remains low. The main reason is that the related products and services fail to effectively alleviate the perceived risk of this population in the R&D process of related products and services, and there is a lack of effective measurement methods. To holistically assess the potential obstacles faced by elderly individuals using smart home products and services, this study targeted individuals aged 45–60 years in China. This study aimed to develop a comprehensive perceived risk scale specific to smart homes for this demographic. Initially, this study identified key risk dimensions and corresponding measurement items through a rigorous literature review, user interviews, and expert consultations. Subsequently, it ensured the reliability and validity of each dimension and its corresponding observation variables through preliminary research, exploratory factor analysis, and confirmatory factor analysis. This approach allowed for a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by future elderly individuals when utilizing smart home products and services, thus enabling the development of more effective solutions. The scale encompassed ten factors and seventy measurement items, including Privacy and Security Risk (seven items), Physical Risk (seven items), Technological Risk (nine items), Performance Risk (seven items), Service Risk (nine items), Financial Risk (five items), Psychological Risk (seven items), Industry and Market Risk (six items), Social Support Risk (six items), and Policy and Legal risk (seven items). The measurement scale developed in this study represents a groundbreaking first attempt to create a systematic scale for assessing the perceived risks associated with smart homes for the elderly in China. It not only enables professionals, businesses, and manufacturers to avoid or reduce barriers in the R&D process of related products and services, facilitating smart home industry growth and enhancing user adoption, but also serves as a universal reference for the potential obstacles that digital technology may encounter in addressing aging-related issues, which has significant theoretical value and practical importance.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Indoor Environment Quality: Smart Technology in Thermal Comfort, Ventilation, Humidity, Hygiene, Lighting, Acoustics and Water Supply)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Beyond Preservation: Heritage as an Educational Practice Process at 141 Neil Road, Singapore
by
Xintong Wei, Haoming Zhou, Nikhil Joshi and Muyuan Tang
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1225; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051225 - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Over the past two decades, the concept of heritage has been significantly broadened, with an increasing number of scholars viewing it not as a set of static objects with fixed meanings but as a social process consciously endowed with commemorative functions through human
[...] Read more.
Over the past two decades, the concept of heritage has been significantly broadened, with an increasing number of scholars viewing it not as a set of static objects with fixed meanings but as a social process consciously endowed with commemorative functions through human creation. This research illustrates and empirically supports this perspective through a case study. Initially, the paper reviews the development of the heritage concept through the literature review and elaborates on the idea of “heritage as process”. Subsequently, it examines Singapore’s enriching exploration and successful implementation of heritage conservation, particularly since 2000, when the local government shifted from preserving historical buildings to a comprehensive conservation strategy that embraces a sense of place, identity, and memory and encourages a bottom-up participatory approach. Finally, this paper takes the transformation of the century-old townhouse at 141 Neil Road in Singapore as its focus. After being renovated into an urban architectural heritage conservation laboratory, the house has gradually become a place of heritage on Neil Road by training professionals’ construction skills, transforming its function, introducing technological explorations, and enhancing public interaction. This process has developed the abilities of heritage conservation professionals in desktop research, reuse design, and practical construction skills while simultaneously promoting community participation and heightening awareness of heritage conservation among local residents. Through daily practices, this historical townhouse gradually became a place of heritage on Neil Road, exemplifying the research theme that “heritage is a comprehensive and dynamic practice encompassing social, cultural, and technological dimensions”. From being preserved for renovation in 2020 to being approved as a “Heritage Show House” by the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) in 2023, the case of 141 Neil Road offers a new perspective in the heritage conservation field that “heritage is always in the process of becoming, rather than a constant given”.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Industrial Heritage Protection and Sustainable Development in the Context of High-Density Urban Environment)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessEssay
A Numerical Simulation Study on the Out-of-Plane Performance of Timber Framework–Brick Wall Systems in Traditional Residential Buildings of Northern China
by
Ning Dai, Lanhao Cui, Yingpei Li, Liwei Fan and Jiakun Chen
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1224; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051224 - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
To improve the out-of-plane collaborative performance of timber frames and walls, a metal connector is proposed and designed. A finite element model of the wall is established, and the composite block damage criteria and surface contact behavior are validated. Additionally, one group without
[...] Read more.
To improve the out-of-plane collaborative performance of timber frames and walls, a metal connector is proposed and designed. A finite element model of the wall is established, and the composite block damage criteria and surface contact behavior are validated. Additionally, one group without metal connectors and three groups with different numbers of metal connectors placed at various positions in traditional residential wall models are established. Using static loading simulation, the influence of different numbers of metal connectors on the out-of-plane damage patterns, deformation characteristics, and shear force distribution is analyzed. The study reveals that top metal connectors significantly reduce the out-of-plane displacement of the top wall by up to 84.6%. Metal connectors have a significant impact on the deformation capacity of brick walls, with a maximum enhancement of 65.3%. The metal connectors in the middle and lower parts transfer the wall loads to the columns, increasing the horizontal shear at the column head by approximately 7%. The connectors in the middle and lower parts effectively improve the collaborative performance of brick walls and wooden frames.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Structures)
Open AccessArticle
Accurate Prediction of Punching Shear Strength of Steel Fiber-Reinforced Concrete Slabs: A Machine Learning Approach with Data Augmentation and Explainability
by
Cheng Cheng, Woubishet Zewdu Taffese and Tianyu Hu
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1223; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051223 - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Reinforced concrete slabs are widely used in building structures due to their economic, durable, and aesthetic advantages. The determination of their ultimate strength often hinges on punching shear strength. Presently, methods such as closed hoops, steel bending, and fiber reinforcement are employed to
[...] Read more.
Reinforced concrete slabs are widely used in building structures due to their economic, durable, and aesthetic advantages. The determination of their ultimate strength often hinges on punching shear strength. Presently, methods such as closed hoops, steel bending, and fiber reinforcement are employed to enhance punching shear strength, with fiber reinforcement gaining popularity due to its ease of implementation and efficacy in improving concrete durability. This study introduces a novel approach employing six machine learning algorithms rooted in decision trees and decision tree-based ensemble learning to predict punching shear strength in steel fiber-reinforced concrete slabs. To overcome experimental data limitations, a data augmentation approach based on the Gaussian mixture model is employed. The validation of the data augmentation is conducted through “synthetic training—real testing” and “real training—real testing”. Additionally, the best machine learning model is analyzed for explainability using Shapley Additive exPlanation (SHAP). Results demonstrate that the proposed data augmentation method effectively captures the original data distribution, enhancing the robustness and accuracy of the machine learning model. Moreover, SHAP provides better insights into the features influencing punching shear strength. Thus, the proposed data enhancement model offers a reliable approach for modeling small experimental datasets in structural engineering.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Structures)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Research on the Crushing of Reinforced Concrete Two-Way Slabs by Pulse Power Discharge Technology
by
Xinxin Lin, Fei Yang, Youwei Liu and Yang Yang
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1222; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051222 - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
The application of pulse power discharge (PPD) technology in the crushing and dismantling of concrete structures has characteristics related to both green and environmental protection, as well as safety and reliability, with broad application prospects in the construction and municipal engineering fields in
[...] Read more.
The application of pulse power discharge (PPD) technology in the crushing and dismantling of concrete structures has characteristics related to both green and environmental protection, as well as safety and reliability, with broad application prospects in the construction and municipal engineering fields in dense urban areas. Nevertheless, the research into using this technology to break reinforced concrete (RC) slabs is very limited, while the influence of key parameters on the crushing effect of reinforced concrete slabs is not clear. To solve this problem, a finite element model of an RC slab was established by ABAQUS. The effect of a shock wave generated by PPD on the surrounding concrete was simulated by an explosion-load equivalent, and the development process of concrete crack was simulated by a cohesive force model. Based on the results of the model analysis, the effects of reinforcement spacing, as well as diameter and concrete strength on the crushing effect of RC slabs were investigated. The results show that the increase in reinforcement diameter and the decrease in reinforcement spacing have a significant effect on limiting the development of cracks. According to the development of cracks, they can be divided into three types: edge cracks, cracks between central holes, and cracks between edge holes. The influence of reinforcement spacing and diameter on the first two crack widths is the most obvious. The increase in concrete strength also reduces the width of cracks. Based on the analysis results, the calculation expressions of the crushing effect of the PPD technique on RC slabs were established, which provides theoretical support for the popularization and application of this technique.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dynamic Response of Structures)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Research on Lightweight Method of Segment Beam Point Cloud Based on Edge Detection Optimization
by
Yan Dong, Haotian Yang, Mingjun Yin, Menghui Li, Yuanhai Qu and Xingli Jia
Buildings 2024, 14(5), 1221; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14051221 - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
In order to reduce the loss of laser point cloud appearance contours by point cloud lightweighting, this paper takes the laser point cloud data of the segment beam of the expressway viaduct as a sample. After comparing the downsampling algorithm from many aspects
[...] Read more.
In order to reduce the loss of laser point cloud appearance contours by point cloud lightweighting, this paper takes the laser point cloud data of the segment beam of the expressway viaduct as a sample. After comparing the downsampling algorithm from many aspects and angles, the voxel grid method is selected as the basic theory of the research. By combining the characteristics of the normal vector data of the laser point cloud, the top surface point cloud edge data are extracted and the voxel grid method is fused to establish an optimized point cloud lightweighting algorithm. The research in this paper shows that the voxel grid method performs better than the furthest point sampling method and the curvature downsampling method in retaining the top surface data, reducing the calculation time and optimizing the edge contour. Moreover, the average offset of the geometric contour is reduced from 2.235 mm to 0.664 mm by the edge-optimized voxel grid method, which has a higher retention. In summary, the edge-optimized voxel grid method has a better effect than the existing methods in point cloud lightweighting.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Structures)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Journal Menu
► ▼ Journal Menu-
- Buildings Home
- Aims & Scope
- Editorial Board
- Reviewer Board
- Topical Advisory Panel
- Instructions for Authors
- Special Issues
- Topics
- Sections & Collections
- Article Processing Charge
- Indexing & Archiving
- Editor’s Choice Articles
- Most Cited & Viewed
- Journal Statistics
- Journal History
- Journal Awards
- Society Collaborations
- Conferences
- Editorial Office
Journal Browser
► ▼ Journal BrowserHighly Accessed Articles
Latest Books
E-Mail Alert
News
Topics
Topic in
Buildings, Forests, Land, Remote Sensing, Smart Cities, Sustainability
Biophilic Cities and Communities: Towards Natural Resources, Environmental and Social Sustainability
Topic Editors: Xin-Chen Hong, Baojie He, Jiang Liu, Jinda Qi, Guangyu Wang, Shi ChengDeadline: 30 April 2024
Topic in
Buildings, Infrastructures, Materials, Smart Cities, Sustainability
Smart Material and Smart Construction Technologies for Urban Development
Topic Editors: Sathees Nava, Kate NguyenDeadline: 14 May 2024
Topic in
Buildings, Energies, Smart Cities, Sustainability, Urban Science
Trends and Prospects for Energy Communities in Europe
Topic Editors: Francesco Reda, Rosaria VolpeDeadline: 31 May 2024
Topic in
Applied Sciences, Buildings, Energies, Sustainability, Urban Science
Integrated Modeling and Analytics for Sustainable Urban Energy Systems
Topic Editors: Zheng Yang, Lingqi Su, Yilong HanDeadline: 30 June 2024
Conferences
Special Issues
Special Issue in
Buildings
Characterization and Structural Rehabilitation of Ancient Masonry Buildings
Guest Editors: Fernando F. S. Pinho, Humberto VarumDeadline: 30 April 2024
Special Issue in
Buildings
Advanced Technologies for Building Pathology Inspection
Guest Editors: Iván Garrido, Eva Barreira, Ricardo M. S. F. AlmeidaDeadline: 20 May 2024
Special Issue in
Buildings
Cold-Formed Steel Structures
Guest Editor: Krishanu RoyDeadline: 31 May 2024
Special Issue in
Buildings
Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) Composites for Construction
Guest Editors: Rui Guo, Bo Wang, Muye Yang, Weidong He, Chuntao ZhangDeadline: 10 June 2024
Topical Collections
Topical Collection in
Buildings
Strategies for Sustainable Urban Development
Collection Editors: Liyin Shen, Jorge Ochoa, Haijun Bao
Topical Collection in
Buildings
Green and Sustainable Building Materials
Collection Editors: João Gomes Ferreira, Ana Isabel Marques
Topical Collection in
Buildings
Seismic Safety Assessment and Strengthening of Existing Constructions
Collection Editor: Xavier Romão
Topical Collection in
Buildings
Innovation of Materials and Technologies in Civil Construction
Collection Editors: Bingxiang Yuan, Yong Liu, Xudong Zhang, Yonghong Wang