Submit to Applied Sciences Review for Applied Sciences Propose a Special Issue

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

► Journal Browser

Technology and Management Applied in Construction Engineering Projects II

Print Special Issue Flyer
Special Issue Editors
Special Issue Information
Keywords
Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue
Published Papers

A special issue of Applied Sciences (ISSN 2076-3417). This special issue belongs to the section "Civil Engineering".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (20 September 2025) | Viewed by 8594

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Diego Calvetti

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

Construction Institute, CONSTRUCT/GEQUALTEC, Faculty of Engineering, Porto University, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
Interests: project management; education 5.0; worker 4.0; digital twins; digitalisation; OpenBIM; data-driven start-ups; workforce build-up-skills; circular economy

Prof. Dr. Igal Shohet

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

Construction Management Program, Faculty of Engineering Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, POB 653, Beer-Sheva 84105, Israel
Interests: building information modeling; construction engineering and management; construction safety; facilities management; risk assessment and management in critical infrastructures; seismic risk analysis; fragility curves

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The utilization of technologies is crucial in the efficient management of Construction Engineering Projects. Trends such as Digital Twins and Construction 4.0 and 5.0 have intensified the deployment of innovations across the whole life cycle of projects. However, management practices continue to represent the backbone of construction project deployment and performance. At the same time, novel means of construction are becoming more affordable and feasible, being based on robotization and 3D printing, for example. However, such engineering projects will demand labor-intensive endeavors. Data interoperability and process integration are essential in the provision of accurate information for decision-making. This scenario sets a primary challenge: the management of both people and data using technology that aims to provide a mutual benefit for enterprises and society. Human-centered benefits and environmental protection are non-negotiable principles in the future of industry. In this, human–data interaction is fundamental to the implementation of technology in construction engineering projects. Finally, research in the field of innovation for construction management should target solutions for all phases, from concept design, manufacturing/construction, and use to deconstruction. The scope of this Special Issue therefore includes, but is not limited to, the following topics:

The use of Digital Twins in buildings, infrastructure or industrial projects;
Three-dimensional printing: concepts and use cases;
Blockchain for Smart Contracts;
Lean construction using sensing technologies;
AI-based management decision-making;
Electronic Performance Monitoring (EPM);
Circular Economy and Project Management;
Data-driven projects, and the implementation of CDE (Common Data Environment), DBL (Digital Building Logbook), DPP (Digital Product Passport);
Human–Data Interaction (HDI).

Dr. Diego Calvetti
Dr. Igal Shohet
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Applied Sciences is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

project management
digitalization
decision-making
artificial intelligence
data-driven
human-centric
environment

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

Ease of navigation: Grouping papers by topic helps scholars navigate broad scope journals more efficiently.
Greater discoverability: Special Issues support the reach and impact of scientific research. Articles in Special Issues are more discoverable and cited more frequently.
Expansion of research network: Special Issues facilitate connections among authors, fostering scientific collaborations.
External promotion: Articles in Special Issues are often promoted through the journal's social media, increasing their visibility.
Reprint: MDPI Books provides the opportunity to republish successful Special Issues in book format, both online and in print.

Further information on MDPI's Special Issue policies can be found here.

Published Papers (6 papers)

Download All Papers

Order results

Result details

Show export options Show export options

Select all

Export citation of selected articles as:

Research

Jump to: Other

35 pages, 2008 KB

Open AccessArticle

Decision Framework for Asset Criticality and Maintenance Planning in Complex Systems: An Offshore Corrosion Management Case

by Marina Polonia Rios, Bruna Siqueira Kaiser, Rodrigo Goyannes Gusmão Caiado, Paulo Ivson and Deane Roehl

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(19), 10407; https://doi.org/10.3390/app151910407 - 25 Sep 2025

Viewed by 241

Abstract

Asset maintenance management is critical in industries such as petrochemicals and oil and gas (O&G), where complex, interdependent systems heighten failure risks. Maintenance costs represent a significant portion of operational expenditures, emphasizing the need for effective risk-based strategies. A considerable gap exists in integrating uncertainty modelling into both criticality assessment and maintenance planning. Existing approaches often neglect combining expert-driven assessments with optimization models, limiting their applicability in real-world scenarios where cost-effective and risk-informed decision-making is crucial. Maintenance inefficiencies due to suboptimal asset selection result in substantial financial and safety-related consequences in asset-intensive industries. This study presents a framework integrating Reliability-Centered Maintenance (RCM) principles with fuzzy logic and decision-support methodologies to optimise maintenance portfolios for offshore O&G assets, particularly focusing on corrosion management. The framework evaluates asset criticality through comprehensive FMEA, employing MCDM and fuzzy logic to enhance maintenance planning and extend asset lifespan. A case study on offshore asset corrosion management demonstrates the framework’s effectiveness, selecting 60% of highly critical assets for maintenance, compared to 10% by current industry practices. This highlights the potential risk reduction and prevention of critical failures that might otherwise go unnoticed, providing actionable insights for asset integrity managers in the O&G sector. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Technology and Management Applied in Construction Engineering Projects II)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

40 pages, 6160 KB

Open AccessArticle

Framework for Optimizing the Construction Process: The Integration of Lean Construction, Building Information Modeling (BIM), and Emerging Technologies

by Omar Alnajjar, Edison Atencio and Jose Turmo

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(13), 7253; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15137253 - 27 Jun 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2126

Abstract

This paper presents a novel framework for integrating Building Information Modeling (BIM), Lean Construction tools, and Emerging Technologies to optimize construction project management. The framework categorizes these elements across four phases: Plan, Design, Construction, and Operation in construction projects. Each phase identifies specific intersections and synergies among the three domains to enhance functionality, collaboration, and value delivery. Integration is built upon core principles such as functionality alignment, process efficiency, and lifecycle optimization. This study also highlights Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to evaluate the framework’s effectiveness in real-world applications and addresses limitations to guide future research. The framework was developed and validated using the Design Science Research Methodology (DSRM). The proposed approach offers a transformative pathway for addressing inefficiencies, reducing waste, and maximizing project outcomes in modern construction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Technology and Management Applied in Construction Engineering Projects II)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

32 pages, 1094 KB

Open AccessArticle

Benefits and Limitations of Lean Tools in the Building Design Process: A Functional and Comparative Analysis

by Adriana Luna, Rodrigo F. Herrera, Karen Castañeda, Edison Atencio and Clarissa Biotto

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(9), 5137; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15095137 - 6 May 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1643

Abstract

The design phase is critical in construction projects, as it directly impacts cost, quality, and execution efficiency. However, it suffers from structural deficiencies in communication, coordination, and early problem detection, leading to delays, cost overruns, and inefficiencies. While Lean Construction has been widely applied in execution phases, its adoption in design remains fragmented, lacking a clear framework for identifying and evaluating Lean tools in this context. This study aims to identify, classify, and evaluate Lean tools applicable to the building design phase, emphasizing their functionalities, benefits, and limitations. A systematic literature review and expert validation process led to the identification of 16 Lean tools and 26 design-related functionalities. Among these tools, Building Information Modeling (BIM), Last Planner System (LPS), and Agile Design Management (ADM) were identified as the most impactful, collectively addressing 88% of design functionalities. Expert insights revealed that ADM improves task control and decision-making clarity, LPS reduces uncertainty and enhances workflow reliability, and BIM strengthens coordination and early conflict detection. This study provides a structured perspective on Lean tool integration during design, highlighting their benefits and limitations and offering guidance for their implementation. The findings contribute to improving design efficiency, minimizing waste, and fostering collaboration in construction projects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Technology and Management Applied in Construction Engineering Projects II)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 18843 KB

Open AccessArticle

Numerical Analysis of Friction Reduction of Grouting in Long-Distance Pipe Jacking

by Kai Wu, Linlong Mu, Longhao Hu and Linni Zhang

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(4), 1782; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15041782 - 10 Feb 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1076

Abstract

During pipe jacking construction, in addition to overcoming the resistance at the front, there is also the need to overcome significant frictional resistance. Grouting technology is commonly used in engineering to reduce the frictional resistance exerted on the pipe’s external surface during the jacking process. This paper first reviews the commonly used grouting materials and processes, summarizes their mechanisms for friction reduction, and then establishes a numerical analysis model for grouting in pipe jacking, enhancing the common theoretical methods based on simulation results. The study employs different interface reduction coefficients to simulate the different effects of friction reduction by grouting, focuses on the impact of grouting on friction reduction during long pipe jacking, and compares the results with those calculated using common methods. The results show that the frictional resistance around the pipe is the main source of jacking force in long-distance pipe jacking, and the jacking force increases approximately linearly with the interface reduction coefficient. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Technology and Management Applied in Construction Engineering Projects II)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

26 pages, 6837 KB

Open AccessArticle

Optimising Maintenance Planning and Integrity in Offshore Facilities Using Machine Learning and Design Science: A Predictive Approach

by Marina Polonia Rios, Rodrigo Goyannes Gusmão Caiado, Yiselis Rodríguez Vignon, Eduardo Thadeu Corseuil and Paulo Ivson Netto Santos

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(23), 10902; https://doi.org/10.3390/app142310902 - 25 Nov 2024

Viewed by 2721

Abstract

This research presents an innovative solution to optimise maintenance planning and integrity in offshore facilities, specifically regarding corrosion management. The study introduces a prototype for maintenance planning on offshore oil platforms, developed through the Design Science Research (DSR) methodology. Using a 3D CAD/CAE model, the prototype integrates machine learning models to predict corrosion progression, essential for effective maintenance strategies. Key components include damage assessment, regulatory compliance, asset criticality, and resource optimisation, collectively enabling precise and efficient anti-corrosion plans. Case studies on oil and gas platforms validate the practical application of this methodology, demonstrating reduced costs, lower risks associated with corrosion, and enhanced planning efficiency. Additionally, the research opens pathways for future advancements, such as integrating IoT technologies for real-time data collection and applying deep learning models to improve predictive accuracy. These potential extensions aim to evolve the system into a more adaptable and powerful tool for industrial maintenance, with applicability beyond offshore to other environments, including onshore facilities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Technology and Management Applied in Construction Engineering Projects II)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Other

Jump to: Research

24 pages, 889 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

From BIM to UAVs: A Systematic Review of Digital Solutions for Productivity Challenges in Construction

by Victor Francisco Saraiva Landim, João Poças Martins and Diego Calvetti

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(19), 10843; https://doi.org/10.3390/app151910843 - 9 Oct 2025

Abstract

The construction industry faces persistent productivity challenges despite the widespread adoption of advanced digital technologies. This systematic review examines how digital technologies contribute to improving on-site labor productivity within the Architecture, Engineering, Construction, and Operations (AECOs) sector. Following the PRISMA methodology, 431 records were initially identified, with 28 high-quality articles ultimately selected for analysis through rigorous screening and snowballing techniques. The reviewed technologies include Building Information Modeling (BIM), photogrammetry, LiDAR, augmented reality (AR), global navigation satellite systems (GNSSs), radio frequency identification (RFID), and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), which were categorized into three key areas: factors affecting productivity, modeling and evaluation, and productivity improvement methods. Findings highlight that these technologies collectively enhance resource allocation, reduce labor costs, and improve project scheduling through better coordination. Whilst digital technologies demonstrate substantial impact on construction productivity, further research is needed to quantify long-term benefits and address scalability challenges across different project contexts and organizational structures. Ultimately, the review concludes that digital technologies play a crucial role in enhancing construction productivity, highlighting the need for further research to assess long-term advantages and scalability across diverse construction environments. These technological advancements are essential for modernizing the industry and supporting sustainable growth in the digital transition era. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Technology and Management Applied in Construction Engineering Projects II)

► Show Figures

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Technology and Management Applied in Construction Engineering Projects II

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editors

Special Issue Information

Keywords

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

Published Papers (6 papers)

Research

Other

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI