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
Study on the Effect of Cracking Parameters on the Migration Characteristics of Chloride Ions in Cracked Concrete
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1738; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061738 (registering DOI) - 9 Jun 2024
Abstract
In engineering, concrete often develops cracks due to various reasons, which accelerate the erosion rate of chloride ions in concrete and consequently expedite the degradation of the mechanical properties of concrete structures. This study simplifies the four-phase model into a two-phase model using
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In engineering, concrete often develops cracks due to various reasons, which accelerate the erosion rate of chloride ions in concrete and consequently expedite the degradation of the mechanical properties of concrete structures. This study simplifies the four-phase model into a two-phase model using homogenization methods. Based on this, numerical simulations are employed to investigate the influences of dimensionless structural parameters and material parameters of cracks on the equivalent diffusion coefficient of cracked concrete, and a theoretical model for the equivalent diffusion coefficient of cracked concrete is established according to Fick’s diffusion law. The research findings indicate that when cracks are positioned in the middle of the boundary through which chloride ions enter and exit the concrete, and the direction of the cracks is parallel to the diffusion direction of chloride ions; this scenario is the most detrimental to the durability of concrete. For n cracks (n ≥ 2), when they are parallel to the x-axis and symmetrical about the x-axis, and the spacing between cracks equals 1/n times the width of the concrete, this scenario is the most detrimental to the durability of concrete containing multiple cracks. Whether for a single crack or multiple cracks, when they are in the most unfavorable condition, the “parallel-then-series” theoretical model can accurately predict the equivalent diffusion coefficient of cracked concrete.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Materials, and Repair & Renovation)
Open AccessArticle
Research on Tunnel Boring Machine Tunnel Water Disaster Detection and Radar Echo Signal Processing
by
Gaoming Lu, Yan Ma, Qian Zhang, Jianfei Wang, Lijie Du and Guoqing Hao
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1737; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061737 (registering DOI) - 9 Jun 2024
Abstract
This study focused on the detection of water inrush in tunnels excavated by full−section hard rock tunnel boring machines (TBMs) and employed ground penetrating radar methods for conducting research on radar signal processing algorithms. The research demonstrates that conventional techniques are inadequate for
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This study focused on the detection of water inrush in tunnels excavated by full−section hard rock tunnel boring machines (TBMs) and employed ground penetrating radar methods for conducting research on radar signal processing algorithms. The research demonstrates that conventional techniques are inadequate for eliminating the interference of TBM equipment on radar signal propagation. This study employs a radar antenna array method for signal transmission, utilizing a wavelet double−threshold filtering algorithm and wave propagation theory to suppress clutter. These methods exhibit strong signal reception capabilities and are effective in eliminating 13.1% of the direct wave components. The adoption of a novel, efficient radar signal imaging algorithm simplifies the imaging process. Results of verification indicate that the synthetic aperture algorithm, enhanced with cross−correlation calculation, yields the optimal imaging effect. This investigation, which was conducted in conjunction with the construction of a diversion tunnel in a specific region, has confirmed the applicability of the ground penetrating radar method for the detection of water inrush in TBM tunnels by conducting a comparative analysis of the direct wave removal algorithm and the integration of the optimal imaging algorithm. The innovative application of ground penetrating radar within TBM tunnels, along with a targeted technology to mitigate signal interference from metal equipment, has led to the selection of an appropriate algorithm for both signal processing and imaging. This approach offers a novel solution for the detection of water source disasters in TBM tunnels.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Structures)
Open AccessArticle
A Study on the Spatial Structures and Mechanisms of Intangible Cultural Heritage and Traditional Villages in the Dongting Lake Basin
by
Chuan He, You-Wang Liang and Shi-Yu Zhang
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1736; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061736 (registering DOI) - 9 Jun 2024
Abstract
This study focuses on 1209 national and provincial intangible cultural heritage items and 1234 traditional Chinese villages within the Dongting Lake Basin. Using kernel density analysis, centroid models, coupling models, and quantitative spatial–structural models, the present research analyzes the spatial–structural characteristics and formation
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This study focuses on 1209 national and provincial intangible cultural heritage items and 1234 traditional Chinese villages within the Dongting Lake Basin. Using kernel density analysis, centroid models, coupling models, and quantitative spatial–structural models, the present research analyzes the spatial–structural characteristics and formation mechanisms of intangible cultural heritage and traditional villages to provide scientific support for their preservation, inheritance, and effective utilization. The results revealed the following: (1) Intangible cultural heritage and traditional villages in the Dongting Lake Basin exhibit a very concentrated spatial distribution, with similar spatial–structural characteristics. (2) High spatial coupling of intangible cultural heritage and traditional villages is observable in the sub-basins of Dongting Lake, such as the Yuanjiang, Zishui, and Lishui basins, whereas the Xiangjiang Basin and Dongting Lake area present relatively lower levels of spatial coupling. In terms of the categories of intangible cultural heritage, four of them—cultural heritage, folk literature, traditional music, traditional dance, and traditional drama—have the smallest deviation distance and index values from traditional villages. The coupling degree was higher than 0.70, and there were some differences in the coupling degree between the other six categories of intangible cultural heritage and traditional villages. (3) The spatial–structural characteristics of intangible cultural heritage and traditional villages in the Dongting Lake Basin emerged from the combined effects of multiple factors, including internal connections between the two, as well as external factors such as the natural environment, socio-economic conditions, and cultural policies, all of which play crucial roles in the formation processes of these characteristics.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Architectural Design, Urban Science, and Real Estate)
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Open AccessArticle
Toward Cost-Effective Timber Shell Structures through the Integration of Computational Design, Digital Fabrication, and Mechanical Integral ‘Half-Lap’ Joints
by
Emerson Porras, Doris Esenarro, Lidia Chang, Walter Morales, Carlos Vargas and Joseph Sucasaca
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1735; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061735 (registering DOI) - 9 Jun 2024
Abstract
In a global context, where the construction industry is a major source of CO2 emissions and resource use, is dependent on concrete and its risks, and lags behind in digitalization, a clear need arises to direct architecture towards more practical, efficient, and
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In a global context, where the construction industry is a major source of CO2 emissions and resource use, is dependent on concrete and its risks, and lags behind in digitalization, a clear need arises to direct architecture towards more practical, efficient, and sustainable practices. This research introduces an alternative technique for building timber space structures, aiming to expand its applications in areas with limited access to advanced technologies such as CNCs with more than five axes and industrial robotic arms. This involves reconfiguring economic and ecological constraints to maximize the structural and architectural advantages of these systems. The method develops a parametric tool that integrates computational design and manufacturing based on two-axis laser cutting for shells with segmented hexagonal plywood plates. It uses a modified ‘half-lap joint’ mechanical joint, also made of plywood and without additional fasteners, ensuring a precise and robust connection. The results demonstrate the compatibility of the geometry with two-axis CNC machines, which simplifies manufacturing and reduces the cuts required, thus increasing economic efficiency. The prototype, with a span of 1.5 m and composed of 63 plywood panels and 163 connectors, each 6 mm thick, supported a point load of 0.8 kN with a maximum displacement of 5 mm, weighing 15.1 kg. Assembly and disassembly, carried out by two students, took 5 h and 1.45 h, respectively, highlighting the practicality and accessibility of the method. In conclusion, the technique for building timber shells based on two-axis CNC is feasible and effective, proven by practical experimentation and finite element analysis.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Adoption of Engineered Wood Products in Building Applications—2nd Edition)
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Open AccessReview
Correlation between Vegetation Landscape and Subjective Human Perception: A Systematic Review
by
Xiaohuan Xie, Jiang Qiao, Ruobing Wang and Zhonghua Gou
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1734; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061734 (registering DOI) - 9 Jun 2024
Abstract
Environmental perception is a key indicator for evaluating green space preference and satisfaction. The shift in urban green space research towards emphasizing human benefits over functionality has caused a gradual increase in the number of articles on green space perception in recent years.
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Environmental perception is a key indicator for evaluating green space preference and satisfaction. The shift in urban green space research towards emphasizing human benefits over functionality has caused a gradual increase in the number of articles on green space perception in recent years. Studying the relationship between the vegetation landscape (a fundamental aspect of urban green spaces) and subjective perceptual dimensions have become a pivotal research topic. This paper delves into the correlations and influencing relationships between these two dimensions with the main focus being on vegetation landscape indicators and subjective perception. The perceived green benefits were categorized into four main groups in the 80 articles reviewed: perceived safety, visual aesthetics, restoration benefits, and preferences. In this study, green indicators were also defined and categorized. The results indicated that the guiding indicators had a higher frequency and that species diversity improved the perceived benefits in all aspects. Among the control indicators, plant color, plant height, and the vegetation composition structure received the most attention. Plant color accounted for the largest proportion of studies on perceived visual aesthetics. Vegetation characteristics related to perceived safety had a shared trait, and there was a lack of correlation studies between safety and aesthetics in perceptual dimensions. In the common methods for assessing human perception, a shift from subjective measurements to mixed measurements using emerging technologies is underway. As a pioneering scope review of how vegetation landscapes influence subjective human perceptions, this study has not only provided evidence of the perceived benefits of urban green spaces but also offers valuable insights and tools for future research and policymaking.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Optimizing Living Environments for Mental Health)
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Open AccessArticle
Study on Dynamic Characteristics of Long-Span Highway-Rail Double-Tower Cable-Stayed Bridge
by
Shijie Guo, Yuhang Jiang, Wenli Zhang and Yong Zeng
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1733; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061733 (registering DOI) - 9 Jun 2024
Abstract
The long-span dual-purpose highway-rail double-tower cable-stayed bridge has the characteristics of a large span and large load-bearing capacity. Compared with the traditional cable-stayed bridge, its wind resistance and seismic resistance are weaker, and the dynamic characteristics of the bridge are closely related to
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The long-span dual-purpose highway-rail double-tower cable-stayed bridge has the characteristics of a large span and large load-bearing capacity. Compared with the traditional cable-stayed bridge, its wind resistance and seismic resistance are weaker, and the dynamic characteristics of the bridge are closely related to the wind resistance and seismic bearing capacity of the bridge. This study investigated the influence of the variations of bridge member parameters on the dynamic characteristics of the bridge and then improved the dynamic characteristics of the bridge. To provide the necessary experimental theory for the research work of the long-span dual-purpose highway-rail double-tower cable-stayed bridges, this paper takes the world’s longest span of the dual-purpose highway-rail double-tower cable-stayed bridge as the background, using the finite element analysis software Midas Civil 2022 v1.2 to establish a three-dimensional model of the whole bridge by changing the steel truss beam stiffness, cable stiffness, pylon stiffness, and auxiliary pier position, as well as study the influence of parameter changes on the dynamic characteristics of the bridge. The results show that the dynamic characteristics of the bridge can be enhanced by increasing the stiffness of the steel truss beam, the cable, and the tower. The stiffness of the steel truss beam mainly affects the transverse bending stiffness and flexural coupling stiffness of the bridge. The influence of cable stiffness is weak. The tower stiffness can comprehensively affect the flexural stiffness and torsional stiffness of the bridge. The position of auxiliary piers should be determined comprehensively according to the site conditions. In practical engineering, the stiffness of components can be enhanced according to the weak links of bridges to improve the dynamic characteristics of bridges and save costs.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Pathways to Sustainable Construction: Innovations in New Materials, Construction Techniques, and Management Practices)
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Open AccessArticle
Assessment of Glass-Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (GFRP)–Concrete Interface Durability Subjected to Simulated Seawater Environment
by
Deliang Ma, Jie Liu, Libin Wang and Qiudong Wang
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1732; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061732 (registering DOI) - 9 Jun 2024
Abstract
Fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP)-retrofitted concrete structures are extensively utilized, and they have attracted growing research interest due to their combined performance in marine environments. To investigate the effect of seawater exposure, a total of 20 single-shear GFRP (glass-FRP)-bonded concrete structures were tested. Three corrosion
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Fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP)-retrofitted concrete structures are extensively utilized, and they have attracted growing research interest due to their combined performance in marine environments. To investigate the effect of seawater exposure, a total of 20 single-shear GFRP (glass-FRP)-bonded concrete structures were tested. Three corrosion conditions, i.e., exposure to single-salinity and triple-salinity seawater through wet–dry cycles as well as continuous immersion in triple-salinity seawater, were simulated and tested. The minimum shear strength (13,006 N) was tested using specimen B150-T-DW-90, which was cured in triple-salinity seawater with wet–dry cyclic exposure. The results of the shear strengths, load–displacement curves, interfacial shear stresses, and fracture energies indicated that seawater exposure degraded the bonding strength of the GFRP–concrete interface. Notably, the wet–dry cycles in triple-salinity seawater resulted in the most significant interface degradation, which could exacerbate with prolonged exposure. By introducing a parameter, the residual coefficient α, a new strength calculation model for GFRP–concrete exposed to a seawater environment was proposed and discussed.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Steel/FRP–Concrete Composite Structures: Analysis, Design and Application)
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Open AccessArticle
Finite-Element Analysis of Temperature Field and Effect on Steel-Concrete Composite Pylon of Cable-Stayed Bridge without Backstays
by
Boxu Gong, Lianjun Feng, Jiang Liu, Shiming Liu, Zhuang Wang and Yongjian Liu
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1731; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061731 (registering DOI) - 9 Jun 2024
Abstract
The backless cable-stayed bridge has the advantages of beautiful shape and reasonable force, but due to the low overall stiffness of the bridge pylon during cantilever construction, it is susceptible to the effect of solar temperature. To reveal the temperature deformation laws and
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The backless cable-stayed bridge has the advantages of beautiful shape and reasonable force, but due to the low overall stiffness of the bridge pylon during cantilever construction, it is susceptible to the effect of solar temperature. To reveal the temperature deformation laws and achieve accurate alignment prediction during the installation process of steel–concrete composite pylons in complex environments, a refined numerical simulation model for the 3D bridge temperature field was established based on the proposed automatic sunshine-shadow recognition method. Subsequently, the optimal time periods for construction control are provided. The results of the study show that, during the cantilever construction of the bridge pylon, one pylon column will shade the other pylon column, resulting in asynchronous deformation that can reach 7.6 mm. The effect of solar temperature on the displacement of the bridge pylon is significant, where the maximum daily change in transverse displacement in the cantilevered state of the pylon can reach 33.6 mm, and the maximum change in cable force value can reach 52 kN. In order to mitigate the effect of solar radiation, the best construction time for the bridge pylon is 19:30~9:30, while the tensioning and measurement of the cable should be avoided from 6:00~18:00. This strategy ensures that the control of the pylon top displacement is maintained within 1/4000 of the pylon height, and the error in cable force is kept within 5%.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Steel–Concrete Composite Structures)
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Open AccessArticle
Assessing the Impact of Street Visual Environment on the Emotional Well-Being of Young Adults through Physiological Feedback and Deep Learning Technologies
by
Wei Zhao, Liang Tan, Shaofei Niu and Linbo Qing
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1730; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061730 (registering DOI) - 9 Jun 2024
Abstract
Investigating the impact of street visual environments on young adults’ emotions is crucial for the promotion of walkable and healthy streets. However, the applicability and accuracy of existing studies are limited by a lack of large-scale sample validation. Moreover, many studies have determined
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Investigating the impact of street visual environments on young adults’ emotions is crucial for the promotion of walkable and healthy streets. However, the applicability and accuracy of existing studies are limited by a lack of large-scale sample validation. Moreover, many studies have determined emotions through subjective evaluation methods or relied solely on a single physiological indicator to assess levels of emotional arousal, neglecting the significance of emotional valence. In response, this study aims to enhance our understanding of the emotional impact of street visual environments by employing a method that integrates physiological feedback technology and deep learning. We collected videos of 100 streets from five districts in Chengdu to serve as experimental stimuli, and utilizing physiological feedback technology, we gathered data on electrocardiograms (ECG), electrodermal activity (EDA), and respiratory responses (RESP) from 50 participants as they observed these street environments. Subsequently, we applied deep learning techniques to process the video and physiological data, ultimately obtaining 500 data entries on street visual environment elements and 25,000 data entries on emotional arousal and valence. Additionally, we established multiple linear regression and multinomial logistic regression models to explore the relationship between visual street environments and emotions. The results reveal that elements such as green view factor (GVF), sky view factor (Sky VF), and sidewalk view factor (SVF) not only reduce emotional arousal levels but also facilitate the shift from negative to positive emotions, positively affecting emotional regulation. In contrast, visual enclosure (VE), vehicle view factor (VVF), and person view factor (PVF) are associated with negative emotional arousal, adversely affecting emotional valence. Moreover, the impact of specific visual environmental elements on different emotional states may vary. This study introduces a novel, multidisciplinary approach to accurately quantify the relationship between the environment and emotions, providing significant theoretical and practical insights for the development of healthier cities.
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(This article belongs to the Section Architectural Design, Urban Science, and Real Estate)
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Open AccessArticle
A Low-Carbon Composite Cementitious Material Manufactured by a Combined Process of Red Mud
by
Zhenhua Zhao, Fufei Wu, Shuangkuai Dong, Qiuyue Zhang, Chuanteng Huang and Liangliang Chen
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1729; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061729 (registering DOI) - 8 Jun 2024
Abstract
In present study, the effects of varying dosages of combined red mud on the microstructure and hydration process of low-carbon composite cementitious material. The findings indicated a gradual decrease in the reactivity of RM, following a linear trend. The non-evaporable water content of
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In present study, the effects of varying dosages of combined red mud on the microstructure and hydration process of low-carbon composite cementitious material. The findings indicated a gradual decrease in the reactivity of RM, following a linear trend. The non-evaporable water content of the composite binder exhibited an initial increase followed by a subsequent decrease, with the optimal content identified at 10%, for RM content ranging from 10% to 90%, non-evaporable water decreases linearly. Optimal bending strength and compressive strength were achieved in the mortar when incorporating 10% of RM, reaching 8.56 MPa and 51.2 MPa at 28 days, respectively. The porosity was at its lowest when the RM content was added at 10%, but further increasing RM dosage was reversed. The pore size distribution aligned with the experimental findings on porosity. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed the involvement of RM in the secondary hydration reaction, thereby enhancing the mechanical properties of low-carbon composite cementitious material. The optimal content of RM is suggested to be 10%, with a maximum recommended limit of 30%. The analysis has shown that red mud particles serve a dual purpose in low-carbon composite cementitious material. They enhance compactness by acting as fillers and promote cement hydration through surface activity, thereby enhancing mechanical properties, durability, and pore size distribution.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Materials, and Repair & Renovation)
Open AccessArticle
Two-Stage Optimal Design Method for Asymmetric Base-Isolated Structures Subject to Pulse-Type Earthquakes
by
Jiayu Zhang, Ai Qi and Mianyue Yang
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1728; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061728 (registering DOI) - 8 Jun 2024
Abstract
Asymmetric base-isolated structures subjected to severe torsion may suffer further aggravation of their torsional and translational responses under pulse-type earthquakes. To counteract these detrimental impacts, this study introduces a two-stage optimal design method. The first stage involved the application of the NSGA-II algorithm
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Asymmetric base-isolated structures subjected to severe torsion may suffer further aggravation of their torsional and translational responses under pulse-type earthquakes. To counteract these detrimental impacts, this study introduces a two-stage optimal design method. The first stage involved the application of the NSGA-II algorithm for determining an optimal isolator arrangement—namely, position and category—with the objective of reducing both the maximum interstory rotation of the superstructure and the isolation layer. In the second stage, the inclusion of viscous dampers served to minimize the excessive translational response triggered by pulse-type earthquakes. The influence of these dampers’ positions on the structural response was carefully evaluated. The final application of this optimal design method was demonstrated on an asymmetric base-isolated structure. The results indicated a significant reduction in the translational and torsional responses of the asymmetric base-isolated structure when the two-stage optimal design method was utilized, compared to those of structures designed using traditional conceptual methods. It was found that by installing viscous dampers in the isolation layer along both the x and the y directions—specifically, underneath the mass center of the superstructure (CMS)—the effectiveness of the torsional resistance from the first stage could be effectively maintained.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Seismic Analysis and Design of Building Structures)
Open AccessArticle
DfMA Integrated Assessment Model for Selecting Optimal Design Alternatives in OSC Projects
by
Seoyoung Jung, Seulki Lee and Jungho Yu
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1727; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061727 (registering DOI) - 8 Jun 2024
Abstract
To select the optimal design alternative in off-site construction (OSC) projects, the building industry has turned to design for manufacturing and assembly (DfMA). However, most DfMA developments in the OSC field until now have been on improving the production process in OSC projects
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To select the optimal design alternative in off-site construction (OSC) projects, the building industry has turned to design for manufacturing and assembly (DfMA). However, most DfMA developments in the OSC field until now have been on improving the production process in OSC projects and guideline strategies on how to apply them. The application of DfMA guidelines only provides background knowledge to designers on how to design. However, it cannot inspect whether the DfMA concept is fully reflected in a design draft to examine the suitability to the OSC production environment, and it cannot determine the optimal alternative from among multiple design alternatives. Thus, this study developed an integrated assessment model of OSC-DfMA consisting of the OSC-DfMA production suitability assessment model and the OSC-DfMA production efficiency assessment model to support decision-making for selecting the optimal design alternative of an OSC project. In this study, the scope of the main research was limited to precast concrete (PC)-based OSC projects. Firstly, we developed an OSC-DfMA production suitability assessment model to review whether design drafts are suitable in the OSC production environment by applying checklist and matrix techniques. Secondly, we developed an OSC-DfMA production efficiency assessment model to select an optimal alternative in terms of production efficiency among multiple design drafts. Thirdly, we conducted a case study to validate the usefulness of the OSC-DfMA assessment model developed in this study. Finally, we discuss the possibility of using AI technology to consider the facility capacity and resource constraints during the production of OSC building components. The study results are of practical value in providing the basis for expanding the applicability of DfMA by proposing a DfMA assessment model suitable for OSC contexts.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Deep Learning Models in Buildings)
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Open AccessArticle
The Main Barriers Limiting the Development of Smart Buildings
by
Estefany O. T. Affonso, Robson R. Branco, Osvaldo V. C. Menezes, André L. A. Guedes, Christine K. Chinelli, Assed N. Haddad and Carlos A. P. Soares
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1726; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061726 (registering DOI) - 8 Jun 2024
Abstract
Smart buildings play a key role in the complex ecosystem of cities and are often subject to barriers that limit their development. Although identifying these barriers is fundamental to creating an enabling environment for this segment’s expansion, few works aim to identify these
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Smart buildings play a key role in the complex ecosystem of cities and are often subject to barriers that limit their development. Although identifying these barriers is fundamental to creating an enabling environment for this segment’s expansion, few works aim to identify these challenges. This work has two main objectives: (1) to research the main barriers limiting the development of new smart building projects and (2) to prioritize these barriers from the perspective of professionals with experience in the field. We adopted an exploratory approach common in research that focuses on identifying and prioritizing variables related to a phenomenon, which is based on two main actions: obtaining information through a careful literature review and consulting professionals who work in the concerned field. The results showed that professionals assessed the 23 barriers identified through bibliographic research as important, with the most important being related to lack of qualified professionals, shortage of government policies, higher initial and construction costs, macroeconomic barriers and access to financing, high cost of intelligent systems and technologies, regulatory barriers, lack of knowledge about the current and potential benefits of smart buildings, and more complex design and construction.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Construction Management, and Computers & Digitization)
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Open AccessArticle
Optimization of Shear Resistance in Precast Concrete Sandwich Wall Panels Using an S-Type Shear Connector
by
Herman Tawil, Chee Ghuan Tan, Nor Hafizah Ramli Sulong, Fadzli Mohamed Nazri, Mohd Fazaulnizam Shamsudin and Norazura Muhamad Bunnori
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1725; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061725 (registering DOI) - 8 Jun 2024
Abstract
Precast concrete sandwich wall panels (PCSPs) are popular for building exteriors due to their high thermal efficiency, composite performance, and low manufacturing and maintenance costs. Researchers have investigated the possibility of reducing the panel thickness while maintaining the cladding components’ thermal efficiency and
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Precast concrete sandwich wall panels (PCSPs) are popular for building exteriors due to their high thermal efficiency, composite performance, and low manufacturing and maintenance costs. Researchers have investigated the possibility of reducing the panel thickness while maintaining the cladding components’ thermal efficiency and strength to further improve efficiency and to reduce material consumption. However, limited research has been conducted on the shear bonding of steel plates, which is critical to ensuring durability and energy efficiency. This study investigated the shear behaviour of PCSPs with an S-type shear connector (SSC) through nine push-off tests and non-linear finite element modelling using Abaqus. Parametric studies were carried out to investigate the influence of the geometric properties of the SSC, the yield strength of the steel and the insulation thickness. The results suggest that the maximum secant stiffness for SSCs was achieved at a width of 101.4 mm and a thickness of 2 mm. Therefore, it is recommended that the width of the SSCs be limited to this value or less. Furthermore, the study found that increasing the yield strength of the steel beyond a thickness of 2 mm and a width of 101.4 mm did not improve the results and had a negative impact on the secant stiffness of the SSCs.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Numerical and Experimental Research on Steel-Concrete Composite Structural Systems)
Open AccessArticle
Cost-Effective Control of Hybrid Ground Source Heat Pump (GSHP) System Coupled with District Heating
by
Tianchen Xue, Juha Jokisalo and Risto Kosonen
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1724; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061724 (registering DOI) - 8 Jun 2024
Abstract
Hybrid ground source heat pump systems (GSHP) offer energy flexibility in operation. For hybrid GSHP systems coupled with district heating, limited studies investigated control strategies for reducing system energy costs from the perspective of building owners. This study proposed a cost-effective control strategy
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Hybrid ground source heat pump systems (GSHP) offer energy flexibility in operation. For hybrid GSHP systems coupled with district heating, limited studies investigated control strategies for reducing system energy costs from the perspective of building owners. This study proposed a cost-effective control strategy for a hybrid GSHP system integrated with district heating, investigating how power limits of district heating/GSHP, COP value for control (COPctrl), and control time horizon impact the system annual energy cost, CO2 emissions, and long-term borehole heat exchanger system performance. The simulations were performed using the dynamic building simulation tool IDA ICE 4.8. The results indicate that to realize both the energy cost savings and the long-term operation safety, it is essential to limit the heating power of district heating/GSHP and select an appropriate COPctrl. The control time horizon insignificantly affected the annual energy cost and long-term borehole heat exchanger system performance. The recommended COPctrl was 3.6, which is near the GSHP seasonal performance factor. Eventually, the cost-effective control reduced the system’s annual energy cost by 2.2% compared to the GSHP-prioritized control. However, the proposed control increased the CO2 emissions of the hybrid GSHP system due to the higher CO2 emissions from district heating.
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(This article belongs to the Section Building Energy, Physics, Environment, and Systems)
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Research on Cable Tension Prediction Based on Neural Network
by
Hongbin Zhang and Weihao Hu
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1723; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061723 (registering DOI) - 8 Jun 2024
Abstract
Conventional methods for calculating tension currently suffer from an excessive simplification of boundary conditions and a vague definition of effective cable length, both of which cause inaccurate cable tension calculations. Therefore, this study utilizes bridge field data to establish a BP neural network
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Conventional methods for calculating tension currently suffer from an excessive simplification of boundary conditions and a vague definition of effective cable length, both of which cause inaccurate cable tension calculations. Therefore, this study utilizes bridge field data to establish a BP neural network for tension prediction, with design cable length, line density, and frequency as the input parameters and with cable tension as the output parameter. After disregarding the selection of effective cable length and innovatively integrating the particle swarm optimization–back propagation (PSO-BP) neural network for tension prediction, it is found that the MAPE between the predicted results of the BP neural network and the actual tension values is 7.93%. After optimization using the particle swarm optimization algorithm, the mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) of the neural network prediction is reduced to 2.78%. Both of these values significantly outperform those obtained from the theoretical equations of string vibration. Moreover, the MAPE of PSO-BP also surpasses that of the optimized calculation formulas in the literature. Utilizing the PSO-BP neural network for tension prediction avoids inaccuracies in tension calculation caused by an excessive simplification of boundary conditions and a vague definition of effective cable length; thus, it possesses certain engineering practical value.
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(This article belongs to the Section Building Structures)
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Open AccessArticle
Effects of Aging on Rheological Properties and Microstructural Evolution of SBS Modified Asphalt and Crumb Rubber Modified Asphalt Binders
by
Honggang Zhang, Songtao Lv, Jinsong Pang, Jie Chen and Wei’an Xuan
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1722; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061722 (registering DOI) - 8 Jun 2024
Abstract
Focusing on the comparison of aging resistance between styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) modified asphalt (SBSMA) and crumb rubber modified asphalt binders (CRMA), the influences of aging on rheological properties and microstructural characteristics of different modified asphalts were investigated in this work. Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR)
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Focusing on the comparison of aging resistance between styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) modified asphalt (SBSMA) and crumb rubber modified asphalt binders (CRMA), the influences of aging on rheological properties and microstructural characteristics of different modified asphalts were investigated in this work. Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR) and Bending Beam Rheometer (BBR) tests were carried out, and the variations in rheological properties for different modified asphalts after the rotating thin film oven test (RTFOT) were analyzed with the rutting factor aging index (RAI) and creep rate aging index (CAI). By using Fluorescence microscopy (FM) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, the evolutions of microstructure and chemical composition for two modified asphalts were analyzed with carbonyl index growth rate (CIR) and sulfoxide index growth rate (SIR). Then, The relationships between CIR/SIR and RAI/CAI were established to show the correlation between the deterioration of macroscopic performance and the evolution of micro-structure. The results indicated that the aging degree of asphalt increases with elevated temperatures, leading to decreasing low-temperature performance while improving high-temperature performance. Nevertheless, SBSMA exhibited strong sensitivity to aging temperature. Under thermo-oxidative aging, the RAI and CAI of SBSMA were lower than those of CRMA, whereas the regularities of CIR and SIR were opposite, indicating that CRMA was superior to SBSMA in terms of anti-aging properties due to the rupture of the cross-linked network structure of SBSMA. However, CRMA experienced aging accompanied by full swelling, and thus, relatively minor performance declined. The CIR and SIR exhibited a better correlation with the RAI and CAI, illustrating that both CIR and SIR could characterize the aging degree of modified asphalts well.
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(This article belongs to the Section Building Materials, and Repair & Renovation)
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Open AccessArticle
Effects of Prolonged Leaching on the Acute Ecotoxicity of Spruce-Pine Oriented Strand Board for Plants
by
Klára Kobetičová, Hana Sedláčková, Martin Böhm, Jiří Brich, Jana Nábělková and Robert Černý
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1721; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061721 (registering DOI) - 8 Jun 2024
Abstract
In this study, the ecotoxicological effects of a selected OSB material on three model plants (green freshwater algae Desmodesmus subspicatus, duckweed Lemna minor, and seeds of lettuce Lactuca sativa) were tested. A 24 h and 168 h leachate of the
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In this study, the ecotoxicological effects of a selected OSB material on three model plants (green freshwater algae Desmodesmus subspicatus, duckweed Lemna minor, and seeds of lettuce Lactuca sativa) were tested. A 24 h and 168 h leachate of the same OSB material was prepared. Mg, Si, Ca, K, Fe, Zn, Mn, and Na were found in the samples. Their higher residues were measured in the 168 h leachate. Biogenic elements (N, P, C) were not detected. The acute effect was relatively slow (for algae up to 26%, for duckweed up to 20%, and for lettuce seeds with stimulation up to 37%). Prolongation of the leaching time did not show any effect on the results of the plant tests. Acute toxicity for the three plant species used was slow.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Wood and Composite Wood in Sustainable Construction)
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Open AccessArticle
Assessment of Elaboration and Performance of Rice Husk-Based Thermal Insulation Material for Building Applications
by
Karin Rodríguez Neira, Juan Pablo Cárdenas-Ramírez, Carlos Javier Rojas-Herrera, Laia Haurie, Ana María Lacasta, Joaquín Torres Ramo and Ana Sánchez-Ostiz
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1720; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061720 (registering DOI) - 8 Jun 2024
Abstract
Developing environmentally friendly building materials with low environmental impacts is receiving more attention nowadays to face the global challenges of climate change; building insulation materials made from agricultural waste can be used for their low environmental impact and to generate responsible supplies that
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Developing environmentally friendly building materials with low environmental impacts is receiving more attention nowadays to face the global challenges of climate change; building insulation materials made from agricultural waste can be used for their low environmental impact and to generate responsible supplies that utilize natural resources adequately. The study aims to assess a panel made from rice husk using the pulping method. An experimental design established the proportion of rice husk, the percentage of additive (NaOH concentration), boiling time and blending time. Taguchi’s method was applied to investigate the effect on density and thermal conductivity; the final panel with optimum conditions was morphologically analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM); the thermal behavior was studied by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA); fire reaction and smoldering behavior were analyzed; and characterization in water absorption and acoustic absorption performances were established. The results show thermal conductivity values between 0.037 and 0.042 W/mK, a smoldering velocity of 3.40 mm/min, and a good acoustic absorption coefficient in octave frequency bands between 125 Hz and 4 kHz greater than 0.7. These characteristics are competitive with other insulating bio-based materials available on the market. This study employed chemicals utilized by other biomaterials for the pulping process and in flame retardants. However, it is important to investigate natural treatments or those with a diminished environmental impact.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Eco-Friendly Building Materials: Recycled Waste and Sustainable Design)
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Research on the Propagation Model of Unsafe Behaviors among Construction Workers Based on a Two-Layer NAN-SIRS Network
by
Yunfei Hou and Qi Zhao
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1719; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061719 (registering DOI) - 8 Jun 2024
Abstract
Unsafe behaviors among construction workers are a leading cause of safety accidents in the construction industry, and studying the mechanism of unsafe behavior propagation among construction workers is essential for reducing the occurrence of safety accidents. Safety attitude plays a pivotal role in
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Unsafe behaviors among construction workers are a leading cause of safety accidents in the construction industry, and studying the mechanism of unsafe behavior propagation among construction workers is essential for reducing the occurrence of safety accidents. Safety attitude plays a pivotal role in predicting workers’ behavioral intentions. We propose a propagation model of unsafe behaviors based on a two-layer complex network, in which the upper layer depicts the change in construction workers’ safety attitudes, and the lower layer represents the propagation of unsafe behaviors. In this model, we consider the impact of individual heterogeneity and herd mentality on the transmission rate, establishing a partial mapping relationship based on behavioral feedback. After that, by building a probability transition tree, we establish the risk state transition equation in detail using the microscopic Markov chain approach (MMCA) and analyze the established equations to deduce the propagation threshold of unsafe behaviors analytically. The results show that enhancing the influence of individual heterogeneity and behavioral feedback increases the threshold for the spread of unsafe behaviors, thereby reducing its scale, while herd mentality amplifies the spread. Furthermore, the coexistence of safety education and behavioral feedback may lead to one of the mechanisms fails. This research enhances understanding of the propagation mechanism of unsafe behaviors and provides a foundation for managers to implement effective measures to suppress the propagation of unsafe behaviors among construction workers.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smart and Proactive Construction Safety Combined with AI, IoT, and Big Data)
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