Intelligent Infrastructure and Construction: A New Transdisciplinary Journal Focusing on the Use of Information Technologies in Civil Engineering

The field of infrastructure and construction engineering is evolving to address economic, social, and environmental resilience, facing numerous challenges along the way. Key issues include improving human conditions, reducing natural resource consumption, increasing structural safety against natural hazards, and balancing costs and benefits in project management [1]. These challenges can be met by leveraging advancements in information technology to enhance sustainability, improve efficiency, and reduce risks. One notable example is the application of artificial intelligence (AI) techniques [2].

AI, encompassing machine learning, image processing (e.g., Yolo), and natural language processing (e.g., ChatGPT), shows great promise in civil engineering. It analyzes massive amounts of structured and unstructured data from our built assets, which is essential for decision-making as well as preventative and predictive maintenance. For example, AI-based geotechnical applications provide accurate predictions of soil behavior, geological hazard forecasts, and foundation settlement estimations, significantly enhancing the reliability and safety of geotechnical projects [3]. In pavement engineering, AI-based techniques provide opportunities for accurately predicting asphalt performance characteristics and optimizing production processes, contributing to the durability and reliability of road pavements [4].

Beyond AI, various other information technologies are unlocking new possibilities for greater efficiency, economy, adaptability, and sustainability in infrastructure construction and operation. Building Information Modeling (BIM) and digital twin techniques offer a comprehensive view of both the physical and digital aspects of infrastructure systems, ensuring seamless integration of design, construction, and operational data [5]. Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) provide detailed 3D structural information on-site, aiding in discrepancy checking, collaborative communication, and safety checks [6].

The Internet of Things (IoT) and smart sensors enable real-time monitoring and early detection of structural defects, leading to smarter, more efficient infrastructures capable of self-monitoring and self-repair under changing conditions [7]. From material handling and bridge inspection to facade cleaning and 3D printing, robotics is paving the way for a more efficient, safer, and sustainable future in construction. Despite significant progress, challenges remain for the widespread adoption of information technologies in infrastructure systems and construction processes [8].

Intelligent Infrastructure and Construction publishes innovative solutions and cutting-edge information technologies that tackle traditionally difficult problems in infrastructure and construction engineering. Our journal aims to develop a professional community of academics and practitioners who can apply and adopt these technologies. We encourage authors to share raw or processed data, software, or algorithm codes as Supplementary Materials that can be accessed and reused by others.

The journal’s scope is broad, covering all topics related to applying information technologies such as BIM, digital twin, AI, robotics, big data, blockchain, IoT, AR and VR, additive manufacturing, smart and advanced materials, and more. We aim to address issues in all fields of civil engineering, including structural engineering, geotechnical engineering, transportation engineering, pavement engineering, construction engineering, environmental engineering, water resources engineering, urban and regional planning, materials engineering, coastal engineering, and earthquake engineering. A non-exhaustive list of topics follows:

• Computer-aided design and engineering;
• Artificial intelligence and machine learning;
• Building Information Modeling (BIM) and digital twins;
• Robotics and automation in construction;
• Smart sensors and Internet of Things (IoT);
• Sustainable and resilient infrastructure;
• Intelligent control systems and facilities management;
• Advanced functional materials and their applications.