CivilEng

Construction work and regular inspection work at nuclear power plants involve many special tasks, unlike general on-site work. In addition, the opportunity to transfer knowledge from skilled workers to unskilled workers is limited due to the inability to easily enter the plant and various security and radiation exposure issues. Therefore, in this study, we considered the application of virtual reality (VR) as a method to increase opportunities to learn anytime and anywhere and to transfer knowledge more effectively. In addition, as an interactive learning method to improve comprehension, we devised a system that uses hand tracking and eye tracking to allow participants to experience movements and postures that are closer to the real work in a virtual space. For hand-based work, three actions, “pinch”, “grab”, and “hold”, were reproduced depending on the sizes of the parts and tools, and visual confirmation work was reproduced by the movement of the gaze point of the eyes, faithfully reproducing the special actions of the inspection work. We confirmed that a hybrid learning process that appropriately combines the developed active learning method, using experiential VR, with conventional passive learning methods, using paper and video, can improve the comprehension and retention of special work at nuclear power plants. Full article

The realm of green energy is in constant flux, drawing considerable attention from stakeholders dedicated to minimizing environmental impact, reducing costs, and developing structures that align with stringent standards. This study introduces an innovative approach aimed at improving onshore wind tower foundation systems, emphasizing both engineering and financial feasibility. The approach involves a comprehensive analysis of design load cases, particularly emphasizing resistance against overturn, while ensuring compliance with Eurocode guidelines. The foundation system is conceptualized as a beam slab with voids filled by soil material. High reduction in concrete quantity is achieved by reaching 30%, while the steel reduction reaches 90%. It is worth mentioning that the total cost is reduced by up to 70%. Furthermore, as a future trend, this study aims to integrate the new foundation system with steel 3D printing technology in the manufacturing process of the wind tower’s structural elements. This integration is expected to enhance the precision and customization of the superstructure-foundation system, thereby improving overall performance and efficiency. The optimized design not only significantly reduces construction costs but also streamlines installation, saving time. Simultaneously, this study enhances the structural behavior of the wind tower foundation by focusing on elements crucial to its efficiency. Full article

This study investigated the geotechnical and geophysical properties of the soil layers at the Missan combined-cycle power plant in Iraq. The data from 69 boreholes, including physical and chemical soil properties, were analyzed. The soil is primarily classified as silty clay with moderate to high plasticity, with some sandy layers. Since the Missan governorate is located in a seismically active region represented by the Iraq–Iran border, a study on the seismic properties of the site is also performed. Seismic downhole tests were conducted to determine wave velocities and dynamic moduli. The site was classified as soft clay soil according to FEMA and Eurocode 8 standards. Correlations for the physical and dynamic soil properties were evaluated. The correlations were executed via regression statistical analysis via Microsoft Excel software (2013). The results of the correlation equations and the coefficient of correlation R² show that the physical correlations were considered medium to good correlations, whereas the dynamic soil correlations were perfectly correlated such that the R² values were close to 1. This paper provides comprehensive data and soil property correlations, which can be valuable for future construction projects in the Missan area and similar geological formations. Full article

The rise in early-age temperature concrete structures, driven by the exothermic reactions during cement hydration, significantly increases the risk of thermal cracking. To address this issue, the construction industry employs several strategies, including the partial substitution of cement with ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) due to its lower heat of hydration. Accurately predicting the hydration temperature of concrete is critical for preventing thermal cracking. This task becomes more complex, with fluctuating ambient temperatures influencing hydration kinetics and heat dissipation. Previous studies often assume adiabatic or isothermal conditions, thus overlooking the impact of ambient temperature variations. This paper presents an innovative finite element modelling (FEM) approach to simulate the hydration temperature progression in in situ concrete slabs, incorporating the effects of ambient temperature fluctuations. Isothermal calorimetry curves were adjusted using the Arrhenius-based approach to express the cement hydration rate as a function of ambient temperature. The FEM outcomes, validated with semi-adiabatic calorimetry tests, demonstrate the model’s capability to forecast temperature development in in situ concrete under varying ambient conditions. Additionally, the study examines the influence of partial cement replacement with GGBS on thermal behaviour, revealing that while GGBS effectively reduces thermal reactions at higher contents, its efficacy diminishes with rising ambient temperatures. Full article

This study investigates the seismic behavior of moment-resistant composite frames with concrete-filled steel tube (CFT) columns and composite steel beams under multiple earthquakes, considering soil–structure interaction (SSI) effects. Nonlinear time history analyses were performed on 2-, 4-, and 6-storey frames under five real seismic sequences and various soil conditions. The key response parameters included interstorey drift ratios, floor displacements, accelerations, and residual deformations. The results indicate that consecutive ground motions generally increase displacement demands and residual deformations compared to single-event scenarios. Incorporating SSI typically reduces drift ratios and accelerations but increases periods and displacements. Contrary to conventional assumptions, taller buildings exhibited lower maximum interstorey drift ratios, with the second storey consistently experiencing the highest drift across all building heights. Peak floor accelerations varied with building height; low-rise structures showed higher accelerations from earthquake sequences, while mid-rise buildings experienced higher accelerations from single events. These findings challenge traditional assumptions in seismic engineering and underscore the importance of considering multiple earthquake scenarios, building-specific factors, and SSI effects in the seismic design of CFT–steel composite frames. The results suggest a need for revising current design approaches to better account for these complex interactions. Full article

This paper presents experimental investigations on buried Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) pipes with a diameter of 1400 mm. The tested pipes were buried in dense, gravelly sand and subjected to traffic loads to study the effects of backfill cover on pipe deflection. The experimental program included tests on three GRP pipes with backfill covers of 100 cm, 75 cm, and 50 cm. The maximum traffic loads applied to the pipe–soil system corresponded to Iraqi Truck Type 3 (AASHTO H type). Vertical deflections of the pipes were monitored during the application of these loads. The experimental results showed that, as the backfill cover increased, the maximum vertical deflection of the pipe decreased. Deflection reductions were 38.0% and 33.3% when the backfill increased from 50 cm to 100 cm and from 50 cm to 75 cm, respectively. A 500 mm compacted backfill cover was found to be sufficient to resist traffic loads, with the vertical deflection percentage remaining below the allowable limit. Additionally, the behavior of the GRP pipes under different traffic load configurations was analyzed using finite element (FE) analysis with Plaxis 3D. The model was validated using field data. The study investigated numerous variables impacting the behavior of embedded pipes, including pipe material, pipe thickness, backfill properties, backfill depth, and the properties of the soil beneath the GRP pipe. The deflections of the steel pipe were lower than those of the GRP pipe when using different thicknesses. Full article

Presently, the application of big data in the construction industry encounters numerous obstacles and involves diverse stakeholders, with the intricate network of relationships between these factors and stakeholders remaining unclear. Investigating stakeholders’ management priorities and collaborative patterns can facilitate the development of BDAC. Therefore, this study employs a two-mode social network analysis to explore stakeholders’ power and attitudes toward the factors of BDAC. Firstly, the initial list of stakeholders and factors is identified based on the literature and expert interviews, followed by a questionnaire to establish stakeholder–factor relationships and construct the network. Subsequently, the adjacency matrix, centrality, core–periphery structure, and hierarchical cluster are adopted to analyze the network. The results found that (1) technical factors need to be addressed by all stakeholders due to complexity; (2) due to the low resource similarity of factors and low power similarity of stakeholders, all stakeholders should be involved in the collaboration; and (3) government, developers, and consultants, as core stakeholders, exhibit a proactive inclination towards collaborative efforts in addressing central factors, and can coordinate with peripheral stakeholders. Consequently, this study establishes a stakeholder collaboration model centered on the government–developer–consultant trio, which provides clear responsibility allocation and strategic guidance for fostering long-term, effective collaboration in BDAC. Full article

We remember and comment on the research scenario of the theory of elastic stability that accompanied all the course of studies, carried out with enthusiasm and passion, of Prof. Marcello Pignataro, who we still miss and to whom our affectionate memory goes. Marcello was in continuous contact with Professor Koiter in Delft, to study, with a new approach, the many and still open problems of the nonlinear theory of elastic stability. In those times, the entire approach used in the study of the equilibrium stability of elastic structures was in question and its basis seemed to need to be reformulated. The central theme was the definition of the stability criterion of the second variation of the potential energy and how it being definite positive could effectively imply stability. Full article

This review explores the mechanical behavior of high-strength concrete-filled steel tubes (CFSTs), focusing on their structural integrity and failure mechanisms. This study highlights the crucial role of the steel tube in providing passive confinement, which limits crack progression and enhances the ductility of the concrete. The concept of concrete as a structural system composed of micro- and mini-pillars, derived from rock mechanics, can be a useful approach to understanding CFST behavior. The review identifies that the strength index (SI) can, in some cases, decrease with an increase in the confinement factor (ξ), particularly in high-strength and ultrahigh-strength concrete (HSC and UHSC), which seems to be different to the common understanding of confinement. The experimental results show that different crack patterns and concrete compositions significantly impact the CFST performance. For example, silica fume in concrete mixtures can reduce the strength enhancement despite increasing the unconfined compressive strength. This work advocates for a mechanistic approach to better comprehend the interaction between concrete and steel tubes, emphasizing the need for optimized concrete mixtures and improved mechanical interaction. Future research should focus on the potential of HSC and UHSC in CFST, addressing factors such as crack progression, confinement effects, and concrete–steel interaction. Full article

The study of blast loads on structures is important due to the potential of significant consequences in various scenarios. From terrorist attacks to industrial accidents, comprehending how structures respond to blast waves is critical for ensuring public safety and designing resilient structures. Studying these effects typically involves two main methods: free-field tests with live explosives and shock tube tests. Although shock tube testing offers certain advantages, both approaches are costly and demand significant space. This research aims to develop a cost-effective and straightforward technique for generating stress waves that closely replicate the progressive and spatial characteristics of free-field or shock tube blast waves. This method was designed to evaluate the dynamic response of laminated glass panels. The stress wave was generated by impacting a piston on the fluid inside a tube, which was connected to a fluid chamber. This setup produced impulsive loads that were distributed across a laminated glass test panel. Moreover, it was used to simulate the shock near filed explosions for a certain part of a structure. High-speed cameras were utilized to analyze the initial velocity of flying glass fragments. The apparatus successfully produced various blast waves and impulsive profiles for different drop weight heights. The initial velocities of randomly selected flying shards ranged from 3 m/s to 4 m/s. Full article

Structural health monitoring (SHM) is crucial for preventing and detecting corrosion, leaks, and other risks in reinforced concrete (RC) structures, ensuring environmental safety and structural integrity. Optical fiber sensors (OFS), particularly long-period fiber gratings (LPFG), have emerged as a promising method for SHM. Various LPFG sensors have been widely used in SHM due to their high sensitivity, durability, immunity to electromagnetic interference (EMI) and compact size. This review explores recent advancements in LPFG sensors and offers insights into their potential applications in SHM. Full article

The production of concrete and the manufacturing process of cement result in a significant carbon footprint, contributing to a large portion of global emissions in structures such as buildings, bridges, roads, and tunnels. Although concrete is an ideal building material that is durable and long-lasting, it can be susceptible to micro-cracks. These micro-cracks in concrete can allow water and chlorine ions to penetrate the structure, leading to the degradation of the concrete and corrosion of the reinforcement, posing an unacceptable level of structural risk. Self-healing concrete is not a new material in the construction industry but can be characterized by the capability of concrete to repair its cracks autogenously or autonomously. Recent advancements in concrete research and technology have given us a better understanding of concrete’s healing properties. Self-healing concrete combines durability with sustainability while offsetting the high carbon output of concrete manufacturing and production and associated life-cycle costs. Technologies such as microbially induced calcite (calcium carbonate) precipitation, shape-memory polymers, encapsulation methods, hydration, and swelling agents can potentially reduce carbon emissions while enhancing resilience and longevity. This paper examines these technologies and their applications in the construction industry by comprehensively reviewing the literature and available case studies. This study concluded that there are promising advancements and innovations in concrete, particularly when improving upon its autogenous healing properties. The recommendations for future research include exploring more ways to bring the concrete industry and cement manufacturing toward net-zero carbon emissions. Full article

Geopolymer materials, alternatives to cement that are synthesized using industrial byproducts, have emerged as some of the leading champion materials due to their environmentally friendly attributes. They can significantly reduce pollution by utilizing a plethora of waste products and conserving natural resources that would otherwise be used in the production of conventional cement. Much work is being carried out to study geopolymers’ characteristics under different conditions. Here, a geopolymer derived from fly ash (FA) was synthesized using a combination of sodium silicate and potassium hydroxide (KOH) (2.5:1 ratio) as an alkali activator (AA) liquid. The FA/AA ratios were optimized, resulting in distinct geopolymer samples with ratios of 1.00, 1.25, 1.50, and 1.75. By adjusting the contribution of alkaline liquid, we investigated the impacts of subtle changes in the FA/AA ratio on the morphology and microstructure using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) techniques. The FESEM analysis illustrated a mixed matrix and morphology, with the sample with a ratio of 1.00 displaying consistently fused and homogenous morphology. The XRD results revealed the prevalent amorphous nature of geopolymer with a few crystalline phases of quartz, sodalite, hematite, and mullite. An electrical study confirmed the insulating nature of the geopolymer samples. Insulating geopolymers can provide energy-efficient buildings and resistance to fire, hurricanes, and tornadoes. Additionally, using KOH as a part of the alkali activator introduced a less-explored aspect compared to conventional sodium hydroxide-based activators, highlighting the novelty in the synthesis process. Full article

The current investigation delved into the seismic analysis, design intricacies, and assessment of the response of elevated steel containment tanks when supported by concentrically braced frames. The primary focus was placed on comprehending the behavior of the supporting structure, recognizing its heightened vulnerability to damage under horizontal excitation—insights gleaned from reconnaissance teams studying earthquake aftermaths worldwide. A specific case study unfolded featuring a steel concentrically braced frame as the supporting structure, aligning with prevalent industry norms. Throughout the entire process, spanning design phases, seismic vulnerability assessments, and response evaluations, special emphasis was placed on the internal fluid sloshing phenomena. This nuanced consideration plays a pivotal role in shaping the dynamic response of the system. The study introduces two distinct design methods: the first method aligns with relevant international codes, while the second method innovatively incorporates the compressive strength of the braces into its approach. To evaluate the dynamic response of the elevated tank, both linear and nonlinear advanced analyses were employed. The comparative analysis of various strategies underscores the impact of the chosen design methodology on the overall system response. This multifaceted exploration aims to contribute valuable insights to the seismic resilience and design optimization of elevated steel containment tanks, furthering the understanding of their performance under seismic forces. Full article

Monolithic reinforced concrete floor slabs are one of the most common types of building structures, and their optimization is an urgent task. The article presents the methodology for finding the optimal position of point supports under a reinforced concrete floor slab of arbitrary configuration at arbitrary load. The slab is considered thin, elastic and isotropic, with constant over-the-area stiffness, that is, the reinforcement is not taken into account or is constant. The solution is performed using the finite element method in combination with the nonlinear optimization methods. Finite element analysis is implemented by authors in MATLAB (R2024a) environment in such a way that the location of the columns may not coincide with the nodes of the finite element mesh of the slab. This allows to significantly increase the efficiency of solving the optimization problem compared to previously used algorithms, including the Monte Carlo method. Boundary conditions are taken into account using the Lagrange multiplier method. As an optimization criterion, the maximum deflection value is used, as well as the value of the potential strain energy. The effectiveness of six nonlinear optimization methods is compared in the example of a square slab under the action of a uniformly distributed load. For solutions obtained using the pattern search, simulated annealing and internal point methods, the maximum deflections are at least 1.2 times higher than for solutions obtained using the particle swarm method and genetic algorithm. An example of real object optimization is also presented. By changing the position of seven columns, it was possible to reduce the maximum deflection of the floor slab by 1.6 times. Full article

Waste ceramic is produced from different sources and, if not reused, is often disposed of in landfills, contributing to the pressure on landfill capacity and potentially releasing toxins into the surrounding environment as ceramics break down over time. The waste can easily be crushed to the required sizes, which has interested many researchers. It has been used as a replacement for concrete constituents, including cement and aggregates. This offers a promising avenue for reducing the environmental impact and promoting sustainable construction practices by reducing the amount of energy consumed and resources required for concrete production, as well as the amount of waste being sent to landfills. This paper aims to provide a review of the use of waste ceramic in concrete. In essence, the paper is divided into several sections. The first section highlights the current environmental issues associated with concrete production and waste disposal. The second section deals with ceramics, its raw materials, production steps, and the different types of waste ceramic used in concrete. A literature review of the use of waste ceramic in concrete was included in the third section. The study reports different research on the use of waste ceramic and its impacts on the mechanical and durability properties of concrete. Full article

This research investigates the potential of utilizing recycled concrete aggregate (RCA) and recycled sand (RS), derived from crushed concrete cubes, as sustainable alternatives in construction materials. The study comprehensively evaluates the properties of RCA and RS, focusing on workability, impact resistance, abrasion resistance, and compressive strength to determine their viability as substitute construction materials. A notable finding is RS’s enhanced fire and heat resistance when used as a fine aggregate in mortar blends, mixed with cement and Sinicon PP in a 3:1 ratio. The experimental analysis included thorough assessments of uniformity, durability, and curing time, alongside Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) for structural examination. Results show that RCA has an Aggregate Impact Value (AIV) of 5.76% and a Los Angeles Abrasion Value (LAA) of 21.78%, demonstrating excellent strength of the recycled aggregates. The mortar mix was also prepared using recycled sand, cement, and Sinicon PP, and its stability was confirmed through soundness tests, which resulted in a 0.53 mm expansion and a satisfactory consistency level of 44%. Ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV) tests also indicated high-quality concrete formation using RCA and RS. SEM imaging corroborated this by revealing a bond between the cement paste and the aggregates. Incorporating RS and RCA in concrete mixtures impressively yielded a compressive strength of 26.22 N/mm² in M20-grade concrete. The study concludes that using RCA and RS waste materials in the construction sector underlines that sustainable practices can be integrated without compromising material quality. This approach aligns with sustainable development goals and fosters a more environmentally friendly construction industry. Full article

South Africa is endowed with a wealth of coal-fired power stations that can produce extremely high volumes of fly ash per year exceeding 34 million tonnes. The use of high-volume fly ash (HVFA) binders in the construction sector has the capacity to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with traditional cement production and offset the carbon footprint of Eskom. The excessive production of fly ash by Eskom warrants the need for developing ultra-high-volume fly ash binders (UHVFA, fly ash/binder > 60 wt%). Nonetheless, fly ash (FA) replacement of cement is still largely limited to 35% regardless of more ambitious research indicating the potential to surpass 60%. In view of the urgent need for South Africa to offset and reduce its carbon footprint, this work reviews and summarises the literature on the performance of HVFA binders with a focus on two specific areas: (i) strength and (ii) durability. On HVFA binder strength, the focus is drawn on work that analysed the compressive strength, flexural strength, and split tensile strength. This review focuses on the extant literature analysing the durability of HVFA binders using various tests, including sorptivity, resistivity, permeability, tortuosity, rapid chloride penetration tests, resistance to sulphate attack, and microstructural analysis. As the FA content increases towards optima, i.e., 50–80%, the most indicative composite characteristics of the strength and durability properties are UCS (30–90 MPa) and permeability (low). This review reveals the leading methodologies, instrumentation, findings, challenges, and contradictions. Full article