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Advancements in Smart Civil Engineering: Durability, Seismic Resilience, Construction, and...
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Advancements in Smart Civil Engineering: Durability, Seismic Resilience, Construction, and Composite Repair Technologies

A special issue of Buildings (ISSN 2075-5309). This special issue belongs to the section "Building Structures".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 January 2026) | Viewed by 15840

Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Qin Zhang

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
College of Civil and Transportation Engineering, Hohai University, Nanjing 210024, China
Interests: anti-seismic and durable RC structures; new structural materials
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Baoyin Sun

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
College of Civil and Transportation Engineering, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China
Interests: seismic analysis; seismic damage; nonlinear analysis; multi-scale simulation; peridynamics
Dr. Zhiwei Shan

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Civil Engineering, School of Civil Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China
Interests: structural engineering; resilience; health monitoring
Dr. Ziqi Li

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
School of Civil Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211816, China
Interests: deep learning; computer vision; structural health monitoring; geotechnical engineering materials
Dr. Yantai Zhang

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
College of Civil Engineering, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing 210037, China
Interests: earthquake engineering; urban resilience; fragility analysis; performance-based design
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

This Special Issue will bring together the latest advancements in smart civil engineering, with a focus on enhancing structural durability, seismic resilience, innovative construction methods, and composite repair technologies. The rapid development of smart civil engineering is driving the industry towards more efficient and sustainable practices. This Special Issue will cover a broad spectrum of topics, from advanced materials and structural design to intelligent construction techniques, contributing to the global infrastructure landscape. It will provide a platform for researchers and professionals to showcase innovations and solutions that are transforming the civil engineering sector. Topics relevant to this Special Issue include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Advanced materials for civil engineering;
  • Life cycle assessment and environmental impacts;
  • Structural health monitoring and maintenance;
  • Seismic resilience and earthquake engineering;
  • Intelligent construction techniques;
  • Sustainable construction practices;
  • Composite repair and strengthening technologies;
  • Smart infrastructure and urban development;
  • Resilient infrastructure systems;
  • Innovative structural design;
  • Computational methods and simulations.

Dr. Qin Zhang
Dr. Baoyin Sun
Dr. Zhiwei Shan
Dr. Ziqi Li
Dr. Yantai Zhang
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 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

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. Buildings 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 2600 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

  • smart civil engineering
  • structural durability
  • seismic design
  • composite repair
  • intelligent construction technologies
  • sustainable building
  • high-performance materials
  • seismic resilience
  • structural optimization
  • infrastructure repair

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

Published Papers (19 papers)

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Research

26 pages, 8243 KB  
Article
Probability-Based Residual Deformation Modeling for SDOF System Subjected to Mainshock–Aftershock Seismic Excitation
by Qin Zhang, Xi Liang, Jun Xiao, Xiang-Chen Guo, Jun Huang, Hai-Tao Zhao and Xiang-Lin Gu
Buildings 2026, 16(6), 1104; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings16061104 - 10 Mar 2026
Viewed by 278
Abstract
To evaluate the seismic performance of single-degree-of-freedom (SDOF) systems under mainshock–aftershock (MS–AS) seismic excitation, nonlinear time-history analyses were conducted on SDOF systems with various parameter combinations, using 50 sets of real MS–AS sequences and 150 sets of artificial sequences generated by repetition, random, [...] Read more.
To evaluate the seismic performance of single-degree-of-freedom (SDOF) systems under mainshock–aftershock (MS–AS) seismic excitation, nonlinear time-history analyses were conducted on SDOF systems with various parameter combinations, using 50 sets of real MS–AS sequences and 150 sets of artificial sequences generated by repetition, random, and attenuation methods. The results indicate that the ground motion characteristics of MS–AS sequences generated by the repetition, random, and attenuation methods differ from those of real MS–AS sequences, with the repetition and random methods tending to overestimate the peak ground motion parameters and acceleration response spectra of MS–AS sequences, and the attenuation method potentially underestimating them, while all three methods for generating MS–AS sequences are prone to overestimating the ground motion duration of MS–AS sequences. Residual deformation is influenced by relative yield strength coefficient (η), aftershock relative intensity (χ), post-yield stiffness ratio (r), natural vibration period (T) and the hysteresis model under MS–AS seismic excitation, and residual deformation exhibits a positive dependence on aftershock intensity (χ) and a negative dependence on post-yield stiffness ratio (r), while the relationship between residual deformation and relative yield strength coefficient (η) is influenced by the natural vibration period (T), showing a positive correlation in the short-period range and a negative correlation in the mid-to-long period range. A log-normal distribution can be adopted to describe the probability distribution of the ratio of residual deformation to peak elastic-plastic deformation subjected to MS–AS seismic excitation with different parameters. Finally, a probabilistic prediction model for residual deformation under MS–AS seismic excitation was proposed which can effectively predict residual deformation under MS–AS seismic excitation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancements in Smart Civil Engineering: Durability, Seismic Resilience, Construction, and Composite Repair Technologies)
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12 pages, 4571 KB  
Article
Experimental Study on Wind Resistance Performance of Self-Monitoring Reinforced Metal Roof Structures
by Jifeng Xue, Linfeng Qian, Chunguang Lan, Zhe Zhang and Ronggui Liu
Buildings 2026, 16(5), 949; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings16050949 - 28 Feb 2026
Viewed by 246
Abstract
Wind-induced roof-lifting accidents occur frequently in metal roofs, making the monitoring of wind uplift resistance an important part of building health monitoring. This paper proposes an integrated monitoring and reinforcement method for metal roofs using embedded fiber Bragg grating (FBG) smart rebars, develops [...] Read more.
Wind-induced roof-lifting accidents occur frequently in metal roofs, making the monitoring of wind uplift resistance an important part of building health monitoring. This paper proposes an integrated monitoring and reinforcement method for metal roofs using embedded fiber Bragg grating (FBG) smart rebars, develops smart rebars with both sensing and load-bearing functions, and conducts wind uplift tests in accordance with relevant standards. The experimental results show that: 1. The smart rebar can achieve high-frequency real-time monitoring at 100 Hz, accurately capture the dynamic force characteristics of the roof panel throughout the wind load application process, and precisely locate the damaged area. 2. The smart rebar and the roof panel form an integrally stressed “rebar–panel” system. Under wind load, they deform coordinately; the smart rebar uniformly transfers the load from local high-stress areas to the entire roof system, optimizing the force transmission path and avoiding premature damage caused by local stress exceeding the limit. During the experiment, it effectively restricts the deformation of the decorative panel and prevents secondary damage caused by “splashing”. 3. Based on the experimentally measured strain data and the degree of roof damage, a graded-control index system is established with a “first-level alarm threshold of 1800 με, second-level alarm threshold of 2400 με, and third-level alarm threshold of 3000 με”. Each level of alarm corresponds to relevant disposal measures, realizing closed-loop management from data monitoring to risk response. The smart rebar system serves both load-bearing and sensing functions, fulfilling the practical engineering needs of monitoring and enhancing the roof, thereby achieving the dual purposes of monitoring and reinforcement. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancements in Smart Civil Engineering: Durability, Seismic Resilience, Construction, and Composite Repair Technologies)
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26 pages, 9457 KB  
Article
Experimental Studies of the Mechanical Properties and Synergy Mechanism of Dispersed Fiber Mixture Reinforcement in ECC with a Multiscale Coral Sand Matrix
by Yi Zhong, Yiling Pang, Jiabo Chen, Zhangzhan Li, Xinheng Huang, Sheng He, Yuejing Luo and Peng Yu
Buildings 2026, 16(4), 717; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings16040717 - 10 Feb 2026
Viewed by 307
Abstract
This study investigates seawater coral sand engineering cementitious composites (SC-ECCs) characterized by multi-crack propagation and strain-hardening properties, utilizing seawater and coral sand as the primary matrix materials. The research systematically evaluates the interactions between polyethylene (PE), co-polyoxymethylene (POM), calcium carbonate whiskers (CW), and [...] Read more.
This study investigates seawater coral sand engineering cementitious composites (SC-ECCs) characterized by multi-crack propagation and strain-hardening properties, utilizing seawater and coral sand as the primary matrix materials. The research systematically evaluates the interactions between polyethylene (PE), co-polyoxymethylene (POM), calcium carbonate whiskers (CW), and basalt fiber (BF). Quasi-static mechanical tests and split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) dynamic impact experiments were conducted to analyze fiber bridging characteristics, dynamic stress–strain behaviors, and failure morphologies. The results indicate that while the PE-BF hybrid system optimized static tensile performance with a maximum strain capacity of 7.5%, and the multiscale fiber system delivered superior compressive and impact capabilities. Specifically, the multiscale configuration achieved a quasi-static compressive strength of 119 MPa, representing a 33% improvement over the single-doped PE control group. Under high-strain-rate impact loading, the multiscale reinforced HSC-ECC exhibited outstanding impact resistance, reaching a peak dynamic compressive strength of approximately 160 MPa—28% higher than the control group. These findings demonstrate that multiscale fiber reinforcement significantly enhances energy absorption and damage control, providing a robust technical basis for the application of SC-ECC in marine infrastructure subjected to impact loads. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancements in Smart Civil Engineering: Durability, Seismic Resilience, Construction, and Composite Repair Technologies)
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17 pages, 5675 KB  
Article
Long-Term Field Measurement and Analysis of Wind Characteristics for a Supertall Building Under Construction: The Case of Shanghai
by Feng Pan, Zheng He, Zhimin Zhang, Jintao Zhang and Dawei Xu
Buildings 2026, 16(3), 645; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings16030645 - 4 Feb 2026
Viewed by 314
Abstract
With the rapid development of mega-cities, clarifying the wind field characteristics of high-density urban areas is crucial for the accurate assessment of wind loads on newly built or temporary structures. Taking the high-density urban area of Shanghai as a case study, this research [...] Read more.
With the rapid development of mega-cities, clarifying the wind field characteristics of high-density urban areas is crucial for the accurate assessment of wind loads on newly built or temporary structures. Taking the high-density urban area of Shanghai as a case study, this research utilizes long-term wind field monitoring data obtained from a super high-rise building under construction. Statistical methods are employed to analyze the mean wind and fluctuating wind characteristics of such sites. The results indicate the following: the mean wind direction distribution is generally consistent with code statistics, with dominant wind directions varying significantly by season; the mean wind profile exponent at the site is 0.39, which is slightly higher than the reference value for Terrain Category D specified in codes; turbulence intensity tends to stabilize as wind speed increases, and the ratio of along-wind to cross-wind turbulence intensity is 1:0.59, which is slightly lower than the code-suggested value and shows a significant positive correlation with the gust factor. The mean peak factor is 2.52, while the mean longitudinal and lateral turbulence integral length scales are 118 m and 45 m, respectively. For strong wind samples, the longitudinal wind spectrum agrees well with the Davenport spectrum, whereas the lateral power spectrum correlates well with the Von Karman spectrum. This study provides a scientific basis and data support for wind load calculation and structural safety assessment in Shanghai and other high-density cities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancements in Smart Civil Engineering: Durability, Seismic Resilience, Construction, and Composite Repair Technologies)
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23 pages, 6886 KB  
Article
Degradation Law and Constitutive Model of Dynamic Mechanical Properties of Sisal Fiber-Reinforced Coral Aggregate Concrete Under Marine Semi-Submerged Environment
by Yi Zhong, Xinxiao Liang, Yefeng Tang, Lili Zhang, Zikang Guo, Sheng He, Yuejing Luo and Peng Yu
Buildings 2026, 16(3), 520; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings16030520 - 27 Jan 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 370
Abstract
The durability of coral concrete in marine tidal zones is a critical concern due to the coupling effects of impact loads and aggressive ion erosion. This study investigates the dynamic mechanical degradation of Sisal Fiber-Reinforced Coral Aggregate Concrete (SFCAC) under a semi-submerged environment, [...] Read more.
The durability of coral concrete in marine tidal zones is a critical concern due to the coupling effects of impact loads and aggressive ion erosion. This study investigates the dynamic mechanical degradation of Sisal Fiber-Reinforced Coral Aggregate Concrete (SFCAC) under a semi-submerged environment, focusing on the interplay between fiber bridging and corrosion evolution. Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar (SHPB) tests were conducted on specimens with varying fiber dosages (0–6 kg/m3) and erosion durations (0–120 days). Quantitative results indicate that while the addition of sisal fibers had a limited effect on increasing the peak impact-compression strength, it significantly modified the failure characteristics. The dynamic compressive strength exhibited a non-linear trend, peaking at 30 days due to pore filling. However, after 120 days, the strength of the Plain Coral Concrete (SF0) deteriorated to 70.84 MPa, while the 6 kg/m3 fiber-reinforced group (SF6) maintained a higher residual strength of 77.63 MPa. Crucially, although the 6 kg/m3 specimens still suffered crushing failure under high strain rates, the fibers effectively mitigated catastrophic shattering by holding the fragments together, exhibiting superior post-peak energy absorption compared to the pulverized plain matrix. Microscopic analysis (SEM) revealed that although the hydrophilic nature of sisal fibers accelerated ion transport (leading to Friedel’s salt and gypsum formation), their physical bridging effect counteracted the corrosion-induced brittleness. Collectively, these findings provide a theoretical basis for the durability design of SFCAC structures in severe marine splash zones and offer new insights into utilizing sustainable, locally sourced materials for island engineering. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancements in Smart Civil Engineering: Durability, Seismic Resilience, Construction, and Composite Repair Technologies)
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21 pages, 3243 KB  
Article
A Multimodal Agent Framework for Construction Scenarios: Accurate Perception, Dynamic Retrieval, and Explainable Hazard Reasoning
by Sihan Cheng, Yujun Qi, Rui Wu and Yangyang Guan
Buildings 2025, 15(24), 4439; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15244439 - 9 Dec 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1216
Abstract
Construction sites are complex environments where traditional safety monitoring methods often suffer from low detection accuracy and limited interpretability. To address these challenges, this study proposes a modular multimodal agent framework that integrates computer vision, knowledge representation, and large language model (LLM)–based reasoning. [...] Read more.
Construction sites are complex environments where traditional safety monitoring methods often suffer from low detection accuracy and limited interpretability. To address these challenges, this study proposes a modular multimodal agent framework that integrates computer vision, knowledge representation, and large language model (LLM)–based reasoning. First, the CLIP model fine-tuned with Low-Rank Adaptation (LoRA) is combined with YOLOv10 to achieve precise recognition of construction activities and personal protective equipment (PPE). Second, a construction safety knowledge graph integrating Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) is constructed to provide structured domain knowledge and enhance contextual understanding. Third, the FusedChain prompting strategy is designed to guide large language models (LLMs) to perform step-by-step safety risk reasoning. Experimental results show that the proposed approach achieves 97.35% accuracy in activity recognition, an average F1-score of 0.84 in PPE detection, and significantly higher performance than existing methods in hazard reasoning. The modular design also facilitates scalable integration with more advanced foundation models, indicating strong potential for real-world deployment in intelligent construction safety management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancements in Smart Civil Engineering: Durability, Seismic Resilience, Construction, and Composite Repair Technologies)
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21 pages, 4112 KB  
Article
Axial Crashworthiness and Multi-Objective Optimization of a Bio-Inspired Corrugated Sandwich Tube
by Jing Lu, Fu-Qi Li, Long Zheng, Ming Xiao and Yin-Quan Yu
Buildings 2025, 15(24), 4397; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15244397 - 5 Dec 2025
Viewed by 505
Abstract
Bio-inspired thin-walled energy-absorbing structures have attracted wide attention due to their excellent energy absorption characteristics. Inspired by the internal microstructure of the dactyl club of the marine stomatopod, Odontodactylus scyllarus, a bio-inspired corrugated sandwich tube (BCST) with a similar cross-sectional configuration, was [...] Read more.
Bio-inspired thin-walled energy-absorbing structures have attracted wide attention due to their excellent energy absorption characteristics. Inspired by the internal microstructure of the dactyl club of the marine stomatopod, Odontodactylus scyllarus, a bio-inspired corrugated sandwich tube (BCST) with a similar cross-sectional configuration, was designed. To verify the axial crashworthiness of the BCST, axial impact tests were first conducted on single-cell and four-cell thin-walled tubes to validate the models. Subsequently, the crashworthiness of the BCST is systematically investigated using ABAQUS/Explicit 6.14. The influences of material properties, the number of bio-inspired cells, wall thickness. Finally, a multi-objective optimization was conducted by combining the response surface method (RSM) with the non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm (NSGA-II), aiming to maximize specific energy absorption (SEA) and minimize crushing displacement (S), yielding the optimal design parameters for the BCST structure. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancements in Smart Civil Engineering: Durability, Seismic Resilience, Construction, and Composite Repair Technologies)
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19 pages, 4292 KB  
Article
Degradation Law of Dynamic Mechanical Properties of Coral Concrete Under Marine Environment
by Yi Zhong, Yansong Luo, Jiafeng Zhang, Sheng He, Yuejing Luo and Peng Yu
Buildings 2025, 15(23), 4288; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15234288 - 26 Nov 2025
Viewed by 432
Abstract
The impact mechanical properties of coral aggregate seawater concrete (CASC) are crucial for its application in island construction. This study examines how the dynamic compressive mechanical properties of CASC degrade in a marine setting. Laboratory tests were conducted to simulate the corrosion of [...] Read more.
The impact mechanical properties of coral aggregate seawater concrete (CASC) are crucial for its application in island construction. This study examines how the dynamic compressive mechanical properties of CASC degrade in a marine setting. Laboratory tests were conducted to simulate the corrosion of CASC under three different immersion scenarios: full immersion (FI), semi-immersion (SI), and salt spray (SS). Dynamic compressive mechanical property tests were performed using a split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB). The study analyzed the effects of immersion condition and duration on key dynamic properties, including strength, elasticity, dynamic increase factor (DIF, defined as the ratio of dynamic strength to static strength), and energy dissipation. The experimental stress–strain data were fitted using the Guo model. Results show that the dynamic strength and energy dissipation in FI and SI conditions first increased, peaking at 30 days of corrosion, before decreasing. The DIF of CASC was linearly related to the strain rate and was largest in the SS zone, followed by the SI zone, and smallest in the FI zone. The experimental stress–strain data were well fitted by the Guo model, validating its effectiveness and offering insights into CASC use in island-reef engineering. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancements in Smart Civil Engineering: Durability, Seismic Resilience, Construction, and Composite Repair Technologies)
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35 pages, 17372 KB  
Article
Machine Learning Prediction on Progressive Collapse Resistance of Purely Welded Steel Frames Considering Weld Defects
by Zikang Guo, Peng Yu, Xinheng Huang, Yingkang Yao and Chunwei Zhang
Buildings 2025, 15(22), 4174; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15224174 - 19 Nov 2025
Viewed by 782
Abstract
This study proposes a machine learning (ML) framework to predict the progressive collapse resistance of purely welded steel frames considering weld defects. A finite element model (FEM) incorporating weld weakening degree at joints was developed and validated against push-down tests. A parametric modelling [...] Read more.
This study proposes a machine learning (ML) framework to predict the progressive collapse resistance of purely welded steel frames considering weld defects. A finite element model (FEM) incorporating weld weakening degree at joints was developed and validated against push-down tests. A parametric modelling program, combined with Latin Hypercube Sampling (LHS), was used to generate 700 samples from 27 design features across 8 categories, establishing a progressive collapse database containing full-process resistance curves. Five ML algorithms—DNN, SVR, RF, XGBoost, and LightGBM—were trained and evaluated. SVR was identified as the optimal model through Bayesian hyperparameter optimization and K-fold cross-validation, achieving an R2 = 0.988 and sMAPE = 5.096% in predicting the full-process resistance response. SHAP analysis was employed to examine feature interpretations both locally and globally, revealing that the failure scenario, beam span-to-height ratio, and weld quality are the three most significant factors affecting structural resistance, accounting for 22.6%, 22.5%, and 16% of the overall influence, respectively. For practical design, a steel frame with a beam span-to-height ratio of approximately 15, a weld joint relative position ratio between 0.15 and 0.18, a circular stub diameter-to-beam width ratio around 1.8, and a stub diameter-to-thickness ratio near 13 can achieve superior progressive collapse robustness, provided that weld quality is ensured. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancements in Smart Civil Engineering: Durability, Seismic Resilience, Construction, and Composite Repair Technologies)
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23 pages, 5437 KB  
Article
A Global Performance-Based Seismic Assessment of a Retrofitted Hospital Building Equipped with Dissipative Bracing Systems
by Roberto Nascimbene, Federica Bianchi, Emanuele Brunesi and Davide Bellotti
Buildings 2025, 15(22), 4022; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15224022 - 7 Nov 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 969
Abstract
This paper presents a global performance-based seismic assessment of an existing reinforced concrete hospital building retrofitted with dissipative bracing systems. The study aims to evaluate the overall effectiveness of different dissipative configurations, two traditional systems and one innovative low-activation solution in enhancing the [...] Read more.
This paper presents a global performance-based seismic assessment of an existing reinforced concrete hospital building retrofitted with dissipative bracing systems. The study aims to evaluate the overall effectiveness of different dissipative configurations, two traditional systems and one innovative low-activation solution in enhancing the seismic performance of the structure in compliance with the Italian Building Code (NTC 2018). The analyses were carried out using nonlinear static (pushover) procedures to determine the global capacity, equivalent damping, and displacement demand at the Life Safety (SLV) and Near Collapse (SLC) limit states. The retrofitting interventions were modeled assuming elastic connections between the existing RC frames and the added steel members, consistent with standard design practice in which connections are dimensioned with overstrength to avoid premature failure. The results demonstrate that the integration of dissipative systems significantly increases stiffness and damping, effectively reducing lateral displacements and improving the seismic safety index above the 60% threshold required for strategic facilities. The study highlights the importance of global assessment methodologies in guiding the seismic upgrading of hospitals and other critical infrastructures, while local detailing and device-level optimization are identified as topics for future research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancements in Smart Civil Engineering: Durability, Seismic Resilience, Construction, and Composite Repair Technologies)
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22 pages, 5646 KB  
Article
Simulations of Damage Scenarios in Urban Areas: The Case of the Seismic Sequence of L’Aquila 2009
by Rosa Maria Sava, Rosalinda Arcoraci, Annalisa Greco, Alessandro Pluchino and Andrea Rapisarda
Buildings 2025, 15(21), 3980; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15213980 - 4 Nov 2025
Viewed by 1025
Abstract
Simulation of damage scenarios is an important tool for seismic risk mitigation. While a detailed analysis of each building would be preferable to assess their vulnerability to seismic hazard, simplified yet robust methodologies are necessary at a large urban scale to overcome computational [...] Read more.
Simulation of damage scenarios is an important tool for seismic risk mitigation. While a detailed analysis of each building would be preferable to assess their vulnerability to seismic hazard, simplified yet robust methodologies are necessary at a large urban scale to overcome computational costs or data unavailability. Moreover, most damage assessments simulate single seismic shocks, though in many real sequences, with a series of aftershocks following the mainshocks, it is observed that buildings endure damage accumulation, which increases their vulnerability over time. The present study builds on a recently developed methodology for simulating urban-scale damage scenarios across seismic sequences, explicitly accounting for damage accumulation and the evolution of vulnerability. In particular, the availability of a dataset reporting the damage observed in the L’Aquila area (Italy) during the severe earthquake sequence of 2009, in combination with the georeferenced maps representing the spatial distribution of the ground motion, allows for the calibration of the methodology through the comparison between the simulations’ results and the sequence’s real data. Although calibrated on the L’Aquila dataset, the proposed procedure could also be applied to different urban areas, with both real and synthetic seismic sequences, enabling the forecasting of damage scenarios to support the development of effective strategies for seismic risk mitigation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancements in Smart Civil Engineering: Durability, Seismic Resilience, Construction, and Composite Repair Technologies)
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16 pages, 2811 KB  
Article
Seismic Performance and Architectural Function Recoverability for Self-Centering Precast Concrete Frames with Enhanced Post-Stiffness and Energy Dissipation
by Sicong Wang, Xiaoyan Zhou, Guoqing Yuan, Dandan Zhang, Linjie Huang and Yang Wei
Buildings 2025, 15(21), 3949; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15213949 - 2 Nov 2025
Viewed by 589
Abstract
Based on the principle of re-centering with low prestress and energy dissipation through sloped friction (SF) energy dissipators, this study proposes a new hysteresis concept characterized by enhanced post-stiffness and energy dissipation for self-centering prestressed concrete (SCPC) frames. The focus of this research [...] Read more.
Based on the principle of re-centering with low prestress and energy dissipation through sloped friction (SF) energy dissipators, this study proposes a new hysteresis concept characterized by enhanced post-stiffness and energy dissipation for self-centering prestressed concrete (SCPC) frames. The focus of this research is to compare the seismic performance of SCPC frames utilizing both traditional and novel hysteresis concepts, aiming to provide critical evidence for the advancement of seismic-resilient structures. Nonlinear dynamic time history analyses were conducted under various seismic levels to investigate the impact of the novel hysteretic concept on seismic performance indicators, including inter-story drift, residual inter-story drift, and beam-column damage. Additionally, the influence of energy dissipator configuration and prestress level on the repair costs of structures subjected to the maximum considered earthquake (MCE) was analyzed to elucidate the structural functional recovery capacity. The results indicate that the combination of low prestress and sloped friction energy dissipators significantly reduces internal forces in beams and columns compared to traditional high prestress SCPC frames with conventional friction energy dissipators. The integration of sloped friction energy dissipators and the application of low prestress to post-tensioned (PT) strands effectively dissipate the energy transmitted to the frame during an earthquake, leading to a substantial reduction in structural damage within the SCPC frame utilizing the new hysteresis concept during large earthquakes, thereby facilitating post-earthquake repairs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancements in Smart Civil Engineering: Durability, Seismic Resilience, Construction, and Composite Repair Technologies)
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20 pages, 3517 KB  
Article
Study on the Energy Distribution and Dissipation of High-Rise Structures Under Long-Period Ground Motions
by Lianjie Jiang, Guoliang Bai, Lu Guo, Yun Shi and Fangzhi Zhu
Buildings 2025, 15(19), 3600; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15193600 - 7 Oct 2025
Viewed by 531
Abstract
Seven groups of long-period ground motions (LPGMs) and three groups of ordinary ground motions (OGMs) were selected and bidirectionally input into a high-rise structure; the energy distribution and dissipation characteristics of the structure were studied comparatively. The results show that at the same [...] Read more.
Seven groups of long-period ground motions (LPGMs) and three groups of ordinary ground motions (OGMs) were selected and bidirectionally input into a high-rise structure; the energy distribution and dissipation characteristics of the structure were studied comparatively. The results show that at the same seismic level, the input energy of the structure under LPGMs is significantly greater than that under OGMs. Under OGMs, the structure mainly dissipates energy through damping energy, while under LPGMs, hysteretic energy becomes the main way of energy dissipation. During an 8-degree frequent earthquake, coupling beams are the main energy dissipation members, the floors below 2/3 of the structural height mainly dissipate hysteresis energy by coupling beams, with the hysteretic energy ratio ranging from 61% to 99.9%, and the floors above 2/3 of the structural height mainly dissipate hysteretic energy by frame beams. During 8-degree design and rare earthquakes, the hysteretic energy ratio of coupling beams significantly decreases, and frame beams are the main energy-dissipating members; the hysteresis energy on the first to second floors is mainly dissipated by shear walls, while on floors above the third floor, the hysteresis energy is mainly borne by frame beams, the hysteretic energy ratio from the fifth to the twelfth accounts for 56% to 89%, and above the twelfth floor accounts for more than 85% to 90% on that floor. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancements in Smart Civil Engineering: Durability, Seismic Resilience, Construction, and Composite Repair Technologies)
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15 pages, 2248 KB  
Article
MAML Bridges the Data Gap in Deep Learning-Based Structural Health Monitoring
by Xianzheng Yu, Hua Liu, Jinghang Wang, Xiaoguang Wen, Zhixiang Ge, Wenlong Chen, Xiaolin Fan, Zhongrui Wang and Ziqi Li
Buildings 2025, 15(17), 3163; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15173163 - 3 Sep 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1504
Abstract
Deep learning has revolutionized structural health monitoring (SHM), yet data scarcity remains a critical bottleneck limiting its deployment in real-world engineering applications. Meta-learning—an emerging paradigm enabling models to learn from limited examples—offers a compelling solution to this challenge. Herein, we systematically investigate meta-learning’s [...] Read more.
Deep learning has revolutionized structural health monitoring (SHM), yet data scarcity remains a critical bottleneck limiting its deployment in real-world engineering applications. Meta-learning—an emerging paradigm enabling models to learn from limited examples—offers a compelling solution to this challenge. Herein, we systematically investigate meta-learning’s efficacy across three key SHM applications: surface damage detection, structural response prediction, and data-driven damage identification. Our experiments demonstrate that meta-learning achieves comparable performance with substantially reduced data requirements. For surface damage detection, meta-learning maintains detection accuracy while modestly decreasing sample dependency. In response prediction tasks, although the number of prediction errors increases marginally, the data efficiency gains are substantial. Similarly, damage identification shows slight accuracy trade-offs but dramatic reductions in required training samples. These findings establish meta-learning as a practical pathway for deploying deep learning in data-constrained SHM scenarios, potentially accelerating the adoption of intelligent monitoring systems in critical infrastructure. Our results suggest that the traditional data-hungry nature of deep learning need not be a barrier to advancing automated structural health assessment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancements in Smart Civil Engineering: Durability, Seismic Resilience, Construction, and Composite Repair Technologies)
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26 pages, 13046 KB  
Article
Damage Identification of Corroded Reinforced Concrete Beams Based on SSA-ELM
by Libin Tian, Xuyang Gao, Panfeng Ba, Chunying Zheng and Caiwei Liu
Buildings 2025, 15(16), 2937; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15162937 - 19 Aug 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1261
Abstract
Accurately quantifying corrosion damage in reinforced concrete (RC) beams is a significant challenge for structural health monitoring. This study introduces a novel damage identification method that integrates the Sparrow Search Algorithm (SSA)-optimized Extreme Learning Machine (ELM) to address this issue. By utilizing dynamic [...] Read more.
Accurately quantifying corrosion damage in reinforced concrete (RC) beams is a significant challenge for structural health monitoring. This study introduces a novel damage identification method that integrates the Sparrow Search Algorithm (SSA)-optimized Extreme Learning Machine (ELM) to address this issue. By utilizing dynamic characteristics, including natural frequencies and mode shapes, as input features, the model predicts three critical damage indicators: the mass corrosion ratio (ηs), flexural capacity reduction factor (α), and flexural stiffness reduction factor (β). Validation through ABAQUS finite element simulations demonstrated the superior performance of the SSA-ELM approach compared to conventional ELM, achieving a 60–70% reduction in mean square error (MSE). Specifically, the MSE for ηs decreased from 2.1062 to 0.3174. The experimental validation conducted on seven RC beams with corrosion levels ranging from 0% to 14.1% confirmed the method’s reliability, with prediction errors for α and β ranging from 5 to 10%. This represents a 50% improvement in accuracy compared to conventional ELM, which exhibited errors in the range of 9–20%. SSA-ELM is a novel and more effective solution to the challenges (e.g., early convergence and convergence speed) faced by existing optimized ELM methods (especially GWO-ELM and GA-ELM). Furthermore, the practical implementation of the proposed framework includes a MATLAB R2024a-based graphical user interface (GUI) with Docker containerization, enabling efficient field deployment for structural assessment. Overall, this study establishes SSA-ELM as a promising tool for post-corrosion safety evaluation of RC structures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancements in Smart Civil Engineering: Durability, Seismic Resilience, Construction, and Composite Repair Technologies)
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18 pages, 8921 KB  
Article
Seismic Performance of Self-Centering Frame Structures with Additional Exterior Wall Panels Connected by Flexible Devices
by Caiyan Zhang, Xiao Lai and Weihang Gao
Buildings 2025, 15(14), 2478; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15142478 - 15 Jul 2025
Viewed by 1035
Abstract
To address the issue of deformation mismatch between the exterior wall panels and the resilient frame structure under large deformations, two novel flexible devices (FDs) with different working principles are proposed in this paper. These FDs enable the exterior wall panels to achieve [...] Read more.
To address the issue of deformation mismatch between the exterior wall panels and the resilient frame structure under large deformations, two novel flexible devices (FDs) with different working principles are proposed in this paper. These FDs enable the exterior wall panels to achieve cooperative deformation with frame columns or beams under horizontal loads, thus improving the seismic performance of the frame structure with additional exterior wall panels. This study begins by explaining the specific design thought of the FDs based on examining the deformation characteristics of frame structures. Then, a series of low-cycle loading tests are conducted on frame specimens to demonstrate the effectiveness of the FDs. The experimental results indicate that the FDs can improve the interaction between the exterior wall panels and the main frame, reduce plastic damage to the wall panels, and increase the peak load-bearing capacity of the overall structure by approximately 17–21%. In addition, a refined finite element modeling method for the proposed FDs is presented using the ABAQUS software, providing a basis for further research on frame structures with additional exterior wall panels. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancements in Smart Civil Engineering: Durability, Seismic Resilience, Construction, and Composite Repair Technologies)
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23 pages, 6095 KB  
Article
Investigation on Shear Lugs Used in Equipment Foundations of Nuclear Engineering
by Yuan Gong, Xinbo Li, Chen Zhao and Yanhua Zhao
Buildings 2025, 15(14), 2435; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15142435 - 11 Jul 2025
Viewed by 798
Abstract
This paper investigates the shear performance of shear lugs commonly used in nuclear equipment foundations. A total of six groups of H-shaped steel shear lug specimens, six groups of angle steel shear lug specimens, and eight groups of steel plate shear lug specimens [...] Read more.
This paper investigates the shear performance of shear lugs commonly used in nuclear equipment foundations. A total of six groups of H-shaped steel shear lug specimens, six groups of angle steel shear lug specimens, and eight groups of steel plate shear lug specimens are designed and tested under horizontal shear loading. The failure modes, shear capacities, and deformation characteristics of the specimens are systematically examined. Furthermore, the influence of the embedment depth of the shear lug and the distance from the shear lug to the concrete edge on the shear performance of specimens is thoroughly analyzed. Based on the test results, equations for calculating the shear capacity of shear lugs are proposed. The result indicates that the failure modes of the three types of specimens under shear loading mainly show concrete shear breakout failure, and the changes in the embedment depth and concrete edge distance have a large effect on the shear capacity and ductility of the specimen. The proposed equations show good agreement with the test results, which can provide a theoretical foundation for the design of the shear lugs used in nuclear engineering. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancements in Smart Civil Engineering: Durability, Seismic Resilience, Construction, and Composite Repair Technologies)
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24 pages, 4306 KB  
Article
Structural Behavior Analyses and Simple Calculation of Asynchronous-Pouring Construction in PC Composite Girder Bridges with Corrugated Webs for Sustainability
by Bo Gan, Jun He, Sidong Feng, Baojun Guo, Bo Liu and Weisheng Lu
Buildings 2025, 15(14), 2434; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15142434 - 11 Jul 2025
Viewed by 814
Abstract
Asynchronous-pouring construction (APC) technology employs a suspended hanging basket directly supported by corrugated steel webs (CSWs) with high shear strength, significantly enhancing construction efficiency. To further elucidate the characteristics of APC and promote its application in prestressed concrete (PC) composite box girder bridges [...] Read more.
Asynchronous-pouring construction (APC) technology employs a suspended hanging basket directly supported by corrugated steel webs (CSWs) with high shear strength, significantly enhancing construction efficiency. To further elucidate the characteristics of APC and promote its application in prestressed concrete (PC) composite box girder bridges with CSWs, this study analyzes the sustainable development of APC from two aspects, including environmental impact and economic performance. Finite element models of APC and traditional balanced cantilever construction (TBCC) were established for the case bridge with a main span of 105 m. The stress distribution and deflection of the main girder in the cantilever construction state are compared with field measurements, and the variations in stress and deflection in typical sections during construction are analyzed. Additionally, a simplified theoretical method is proposed for calculating stress and deflection in PC composite girder bridges during the cantilever construction stage using APC. Results demonstrate that APC demonstrates significant advantages in reducing economic costs and minimizing long-term environmental impacts. Furthermore, this method ensures acceptable stress and deflection throughout construction. The proposed simplified formula for CSW deflection in the maximum segment agrees well with both measured data and finite element results, providing a valuable reference for deflection calculation in APC applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancements in Smart Civil Engineering: Durability, Seismic Resilience, Construction, and Composite Repair Technologies)
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24 pages, 5158 KB  
Article
Seismic Demand Prediction in Laminated Bamboo Frame Structures: A Comparative Study of Intensity Measures for Performance-Based Design
by Yantai Zhang, Jingpu Zhang, Yujie Gu, Jinglong Zhang and Kaiqi Zheng
Buildings 2025, 15(12), 2039; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15122039 - 13 Jun 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1352
Abstract
Engineered laminated bamboo frame structures have seen notable advancements in China, driven by their potential in sustainable construction. However, accurately predicting their seismic performance remains a pivotal challenge. Structural and non-structural damage caused by earthquakes can severely compromise building operability, lead to substantial [...] Read more.
Engineered laminated bamboo frame structures have seen notable advancements in China, driven by their potential in sustainable construction. However, accurately predicting their seismic performance remains a pivotal challenge. Structural and non-structural damage caused by earthquakes can severely compromise building operability, lead to substantial economic losses, and disrupt safe evacuation processes, collectively exacerbating disaster impacts. To address this, three laminated bamboo frame models (3-, 4-, and 5-story) were developed, integrating energy-dissipating T-shaped steel plate beam–column connections. Two engineering demand parameters—peak inter-story drift ratio (PIDR) and peak floor acceleration (PFA)—were selected to quantify seismic responses under near-field and far-field ground motions. The study systematically evaluates suitable intensity measures for these parameters, emphasizing efficiency and sufficiency criteria. Regarding efficiency, the applicable intensity measures for PFA differ from those for PIDR. The measures for PFA tend to focus more on acceleration amplitude-related measures such as peak ground accelerations (PGA), sustained maximum acceleration (SMA), effective design acceleration (EDA), and A95 (the acceleration at 95% Arias intensity), while the measures for PIDR are primarily based on spectral acceleration-related measures such as Sa(T1) (spectral acceleration at fundamental period), etc. Concerning sufficiency, significant differences exist in the applicable measures for PFA and PIDR, and they are greatly influenced by ground motion characteristics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancements in Smart Civil Engineering: Durability, Seismic Resilience, Construction, and Composite Repair Technologies)
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