Resilient Civil Infrastructure, 2nd Edition

Journal Name	Impact Factor	CiteScore	Launched Year	First Decision (median)	APC
Applied Sciences applsci	2.5	5.5	2011	19.8 Days	CHF 2400	Submit
Buildings buildings	3.1	4.4	2011	14.9 Days	CHF 2600	Submit
Designs designs	-	4.8	2017	18.3 Days	CHF 1600	Submit
Infrastructures infrastructures	2.9	6.0	2016	15.7 Days	CHF 1800	Submit
Journal of Marine Science and Engineering jmse	2.8	5.0	2013	15.6 Days	CHF 2600	Submit

29 pages, 17619 KB

Open AccessArticle

Fusing Historical Records and Physics-Informed Priors for Urban Waterlogging Susceptibility Assessment: A Framework Integrating Machine Learning, Fuzzy Evaluation, and Decision Analysis

by Guangyao Chen, Wenxin Guan, Jiaming Xu, Chan Ghee Koh and Zhao Xu

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(19), 10604; https://doi.org/10.3390/app151910604 - 30 Sep 2025

Viewed by 166

Abstract

Urban Waterlogging Susceptibility Assessment (UWSA) is vital for resilient urban planning and disaster preparedness. Conventional methods depend heavily on Historical Waterlogging Records (HWR), which are limited by their reliance on extreme rainfall events and prone to human omissions, resulting in spatial bias and [...] Read more.

Urban Waterlogging Susceptibility Assessment (UWSA) is vital for resilient urban planning and disaster preparedness. Conventional methods depend heavily on Historical Waterlogging Records (HWR), which are limited by their reliance on extreme rainfall events and prone to human omissions, resulting in spatial bias and incomplete coverage. While hydrodynamic models can simulate waterlogging scenarios, their large-scale application is restricted by the lack of accessible underground drainage data. Recently released flood control plans and risk maps provide valuable physics-informed priors (PI-Priors) that can supplement HWR for susceptibility modeling. This study introduces a dual-source integration framework that fuses HWR with PI-Priors to improve UWSA performance. PI-Priors rasters were vectorized to delineate two-dimensional waterlogging zones, and based on the Three-Way Decision (TWD) theory, a Multi-dimensional Connection Cloud Model (MCCM) with CRITIC-TOPSIS was employed to build an index system incorporating membership degree, credibility, and impact scores. High-quality samples were extracted and combined with HWR to create an enhanced dataset. A Maximum Entropy (MaxEnt) model was then applied with 20 variables spanning natural conditions, social capital, infrastructure, and built environment. The results demonstrate that this framework increases sample adequacy, reduces spatial bias, and substantially improves the accuracy and generalizability of UWSA under extreme rainfall. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Resilient Civil Infrastructure, 2nd Edition)

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21 pages, 4203 KB

Open AccessArticle

Hierarchical Prediction of Subway-Induced Ground Settlement Based on Waveform Characteristics and Machine Learning with Applications to Building Safety

by Xin Meng, Yongjun Qin, Liangfu Xie, Peng He and Liling Zhu

Buildings 2025, 15(18), 3390; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15183390 - 19 Sep 2025

Viewed by 363

Abstract

Ground settlement caused by urban subway construction can significantly impact surrounding buildings and underground infrastructure, posing risks to structural safety and long-term performance. Accurate prediction of settlement trends is therefore essential for ensuring building integrity and supporting informed decision-making during construction. This study [...] Read more.

Ground settlement caused by urban subway construction can significantly impact surrounding buildings and underground infrastructure, posing risks to structural safety and long-term performance. Accurate prediction of settlement trends is therefore essential for ensuring building integrity and supporting informed decision-making during construction. This study proposes a hierarchical prediction framework that incorporates waveform-based curve classification and machine learning to forecast ground settlement patterns. Monitoring data from the Urumqi Metro construction project are analyzed, and settlement curve types are identified using Fréchet distance, categorized into five distinct forms: inverse cotangent, exponential, multi-step, one-shaped, and oscillating. Each type is then matched with the most suitable predictive model, including the Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA), Attention Mechanism-enhanced Long Short-Term Memory (AM-LSTM), Genetic Algorithm-optimized Support Vector Regression (GA-SVR), and Particle Swarm Optimization-based Backpropagation neural network (PSO-BP). Results show that AM-LSTM achieves the best performance for inverse cotangent and large-sample exponential curves; ARIMA excels for small-sample exponential curves; PSO-BP is most effective for multi-step curves; and GA-SVR offers superior accuracy for one-shaped and oscillating curves. Validation on a newly excavated section of Urumqi Metro Line 2 confirms the model’s potential in enhancing the safety management of buildings and infrastructure in subway construction zones. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Resilient Civil Infrastructure, 2nd Edition)

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24 pages, 6559 KB

Open AccessArticle

Study on Physical Properties and Bearing Capacity of Quaternary Residual Sand for Building Foundations: A Case Study of Beaches in Quanzhou, China

by Lin Su, Feng Zhang, Chuan Peng, Guohua Zhang, Liming Qin, Xiao Wang, Shuqi Yang and Wenyao Peng

Buildings 2025, 15(17), 3104; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15173104 - 29 Aug 2025

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Abstract

This study addresses engineering challenges associated with sandy residual deposits in the coastal zone of Quanzhou, China, characterized by high void ratios (e > 0.8), low cohesion (c < 10 kPa), and strong liquefaction tendencies induced by marine dynamic forces. Focusing [...] Read more.

This study addresses engineering challenges associated with sandy residual deposits in the coastal zone of Quanzhou, China, characterized by high void ratios (e > 0.8), low cohesion (c < 10 kPa), and strong liquefaction tendencies induced by marine dynamic forces. Focusing on the beach sands of Shenhu Bay and Qingshan Bay, 123 in situ dynamic penetration tests and 12 laboratory physical–mechanical tests (including water content, particle gradation, relative density, and triaxial shear strength) were conducted. The correlations between the physical and mechanical properties of these coastal sandy soils and their foundation bearing capacity were systematically analyzed. Results reveal that the sands, predominantly medium-to-fine grains with 8–15% biogenic debris, are generally in a loose-to-medium dense state (relative density ~34%), with negligible cohesion. Shear strength depends primarily on the internal friction angle (28.89–37.43°). Correlation analyses show that water content (17.8–31.92%) and particle gradation parameters (uniformity coefficient C_u and curvature coefficient C_c) significantly influence bearing capacity, with bearing capacity increasing by 12.15% per 14.12% rise in water content and 35% per 0.518 increase in C_c. An improved foundation bearing capacity model based on the Prandtl–Reissner theory is proposed by integrating particle gradation and water content, tailored for beach foundations in Quanzhou. Model validation demonstrates an average error of approximately 15%, outperforming traditional models. These findings provide valuable theoretical support for assessing foundation stability in building construction projects in Quanzhou and similar coastal regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Resilient Civil Infrastructure, 2nd Edition)

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35 pages, 520 KB

Open AccessArticle

Research on Smart Construction Site Evaluation Model Based on DEMATEL-ANP Method

by Jianhu Wang, Yongjun Qin, Peng He and Wenlong Yan

Buildings 2025, 15(17), 3077; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15173077 - 28 Aug 2025

Viewed by 577

Abstract

The current research on smart construction sites is mainly from the perspective of the whole life cycle of the project, and often focuses on the identification of factors at the macro level. It lacks in-depth quantitative analysis of the complex interdependence between influencing [...] Read more.

The current research on smart construction sites is mainly from the perspective of the whole life cycle of the project, and often focuses on the identification of factors at the macro level. It lacks in-depth quantitative analysis of the complex interdependence between influencing factors, and it is difficult to accurately identify key driving factors and weight distribution. This paper takes engineering project management as the perspective, constructs a smart site construction model. The advantages of DEMATEL method and ANP method are innovatively combined to construct the DEMATEL-ANP evaluation model, which overcomes the limitations of single method in weight determination and relationship analysis, and provides a more detailed and scientific analysis framework for the evaluation of smart site construction, and, taking the Urumqi region as an example, its smart construction is evaluated and analyzed. The results of the study show that the correlation between the indicators affecting the construction of smart construction sites is strong, in which the comprehensive influence of personnel safety management, construction quality management, and construction safety management play a greater role, with the comprehensive weights of 0.0917, 0.0817 and 0.0767, respectively; the total score of smart construction site construction of Urumqi region is 63.959, which is in the primary construction stage. Among them, the construction and application of meteorological monitoring are the best, scoring 70.26; the construction and application of most indicators, such as personnel safety management, cost comparison decision-making, dust monitoring, and noise monitoring, are the second best; the construction progress control and wastewater monitoring construction are poor, scoring 55.21 and 57.741. The results of this study can provide direct value to key audiences such as construction enterprise managers, government regulators, and smart site solution providers. This paper considers regions with unique climate types to provide a reference for the construction of intelligent construction sites in the same type of regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Resilient Civil Infrastructure, 2nd Edition)

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17 pages, 4228 KB

Open AccessArticle

Deflection-Controlled Design Method for Mono-Bucket Foundations in Clay: Numerical Investigation and Engineering Implications

by Xiangming Ge, Gao Peng, Zhenqiang Jiang, Weijiang Chu, Ben He, Ruilong Shi, Can Wang and Qingxiang Meng

Designs 2025, 9(4), 97; https://doi.org/10.3390/designs9040097 - 18 Aug 2025

Viewed by 535

Abstract

This study introduces an innovative deflection-controlled design method (DCM) for evaluating the bearing capacity of offshore mono-bucket foundations (MBFs) in clay, integrating advanced numerical simulations using FLAC3D with the modified cam clay (MCC) soil model. Departing from conventional ultimate bearing capacity approaches, the [...] Read more.

This study introduces an innovative deflection-controlled design method (DCM) for evaluating the bearing capacity of offshore mono-bucket foundations (MBFs) in clay, integrating advanced numerical simulations using FLAC3D with the modified cam clay (MCC) soil model. Departing from conventional ultimate bearing capacity approaches, the proposed method prioritizes serviceability limits by constraining foundation deflections to ensure optimal structural performance and turbine efficiency. A systematic investigation revealed that the MBF performance is predominantly governed by eccentricity ratios and soil–structure interaction, with vertical loads exhibiting a minimal impact in a serviceability limit state. Key findings include the following: (1) the rotation center (RC) stabilizes at approximately 0.8 times the skirt length (L) under loading; (2) thin, deep MBFs (aspect ratio > 1.0) exhibit up to a 30% higher bearing capacity compared to wide, shallow configurations; (3) increasing eccentricity ratios (ε = 0.31–1.54) enhance the moment capacity but reduce the allowable horizontal force by 15–20%; (4) compressive vertical loads (υ = −0.30) slightly reduce the normalized bending moments (ω) by 5–10% at low eccentricities (ε < 0.5). The numerical framework was rigorously validated against centrifuge test data, demonstrating high accuracy (error < 3%) in predicting foundation behavior. By bridging geotechnical mechanics with practical engineering requirements, this study provides a robust and efficient design framework for MBFs, offering significant improvements in reliability and cost-effectiveness for offshore wind turbine applications. The proposed DCM successfully guided the design of an MBF in southeastern China, demonstrating its efficacy for use with homogeneous clay. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Resilient Civil Infrastructure, 2nd Edition)

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23 pages, 20067 KB

Open AccessArticle

On-Site Construction and Experimental Study of Prefabricated High-Strength Thin Concrete Segment Liners for the Reinforcement of Underground Box Culverts

by Shi-Qing Wang, Yanpo Bai, Hongwen Gu, Ning Zhao and Xu-Yang Cao

Buildings 2025, 15(14), 2509; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15142509 - 17 Jul 2025

Viewed by 610

Abstract

Conventional trenchless pipeline rehabilitation technologies are primarily designed for circular pipelines, with limited applicability to box culvert structures. Even when adapted, these methods often lead to significant reductions in the effective cross-sectional area and fail to enhance the structural load-bearing capacity due to [...] Read more.

Conventional trenchless pipeline rehabilitation technologies are primarily designed for circular pipelines, with limited applicability to box culvert structures. Even when adapted, these methods often lead to significant reductions in the effective cross-sectional area and fail to enhance the structural load-bearing capacity due to geometric incompatibilities. To overcome these limitations, this study proposes a novel construction approach that employs prefabricated high-strength thin concrete segment liners for the reinforcement of underground box culverts. The feasibility of this method was validated through full-scale (1:1) experimental construction in a purpose-built test culvert, demonstrating rapid and efficient installation. A static stacking load test was subsequently conducted on the reinforced upper section of the culvert. Results indicate that the proposed reinforcement method effectively restores structural integrity and satisfies load-bearing and serviceability requirements, even after removal of the original roof slab. Additionally, a finite element analysis was performed to simulate the stacking load test conditions. The simulation revealed that variations in the mechanical properties of the grout between the existing structure and the new lining had minimal impact on the internal force distribution and deformation behavior of the prefabricated segments. The top segment consistently exhibited semi-rigid fixation behavior. This study offers a promising strategy for the rehabilitation of urban underground box culverts, achieving structural performance recovery while minimizing traffic disruption and enhancing construction efficiency. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Resilient Civil Infrastructure, 2nd Edition)

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23 pages, 5097 KB

Open AccessArticle

Experimental and Restoring Force Model of Precast Shear Walls with Steel Sleeve and Corrugated Metallic Duct Hybrid Connections

by Yuqing Han, Yongjun Qin, Wentong Cheng and Qi Chen

Buildings 2025, 15(13), 2178; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15132178 - 22 Jun 2025

Viewed by 672

Abstract

This study proposes a novel hybrid connection method for precast concrete shear walls, where the edge walls are connected using grouting splice sleeves and the middle walls are connected using grouted corrugated metallic ducts. To investigate the effects of connection type and axial [...] Read more.

This study proposes a novel hybrid connection method for precast concrete shear walls, where the edge walls are connected using grouting splice sleeves and the middle walls are connected using grouted corrugated metallic ducts. To investigate the effects of connection type and axial compression ratio on structural performance, five shear wall specimens were tested under low-cycle reversed loading, with detailed analysis of their failure modes and hysteretic behavior. Based on experimental results and theoretical derivation, a restoring force model incorporating connection type was developed. The results demonstrate that hybrid-connected specimens exhibit significantly improved load-bearing capacity, ductility, and seismic performance compared to those with only grouted corrugated metallic duct connections. A higher axial compression ratio enhances structural strength but also accelerates damage progression, particularly after peak loading. A three-line skeleton curve model was established to describe the load, displacement, and stiffness relationships at key characteristic points, and unloading stiffness expressions for different loading stages were proposed. The calculated skeleton and hysteresis curves align well with the experimental results, accurately capturing the cyclic behavior of the hybrid-connected precast shear walls. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Resilient Civil Infrastructure, 2nd Edition)

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19 pages, 6228 KB

Open AccessArticle

Alkali-Activated Slag–Fly Ash–Desert Sand Mortar for Building Applications: Flowability, Mechanical Properties, Sulfate Resistance, and Microstructural Analysis

by Wenlong Yan, Haoran Cheng, Meng Zhang, Yongjun Qin, Jianqing Cao and Xuyang Cao

Buildings 2025, 15(12), 2069; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15122069 - 16 Jun 2025

Viewed by 780

Abstract

This study investigates the performance of alkali-activated mortar incorporating slag, fly ash, and desert sand, with a focus on flowability, mechanical properties, sulfate resistance, and microstructural characteristics. A four-factor, three-level orthogonal experimental design was used to analyze the effects of the fly ash [...] Read more.

This study investigates the performance of alkali-activated mortar incorporating slag, fly ash, and desert sand, with a focus on flowability, mechanical properties, sulfate resistance, and microstructural characteristics. A four-factor, three-level orthogonal experimental design was used to analyze the effects of the fly ash substitution rate, alkali content (Na₂O/b), activator modulus, and desert sand replacement rate for natural sand. The results indicate that increased slag and desert sand contents reduce mortar flowability. Despite this, the mortar exhibits excellent mechanical strength, with compressive strength reaching 77.7 MPa at 28 days and increasing to 89.34 MPa under sulfate exposure. However, after 120 days of sulfate erosion, a decline in strength is observed due to the formation of expansive products such as gypsum and caliche, leading to cracking. Microstructural analyses (XRD, SEM/EDS, MIP) reveal partial dissolution of desert sand under alkali activation, enhancing gel formation and reducing cumulative porosity. The pore structure predominantly consists of harmless pores. These findings demonstrate the potential of slag–fly ash–desert sand alkali-activated mortar as a durable and sustainable material for structural and construction engineering applications, especially in sulfate-rich environments or arid regions where desert sand is abundant. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Resilient Civil Infrastructure, 2nd Edition)

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18 pages, 3931 KB

Open AccessArticle

An Efficient Discrete Element Method-Enhanced Mesoscale Modeling Method for Multi-Phase Concrete-like Composites with High Volume Fraction

by Penghao Qiu, Lei Yang, Chengjia Huang, Jinzhu Hu and Qingxiang Meng

Buildings 2025, 15(10), 1716; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15101716 - 19 May 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1005

Abstract

Concrete-like composites are widely used in the building of civil engineering applications such as houses, dams, and roads. Mesoscale modeling is a powerful tool for the physical and mechanical analysis of concrete-like composites. A novel discrete element method (DEM)-enhanced external force-free method for [...] Read more.

Concrete-like composites are widely used in the building of civil engineering applications such as houses, dams, and roads. Mesoscale modeling is a powerful tool for the physical and mechanical analysis of concrete-like composites. A novel discrete element method (DEM)-enhanced external force-free method for multi-phase concrete-like composite modeling with an interface transition zone (ITZ) is presented in this paper. Firstly, randomly distributed particles with arbitrary shapes are generated based on a grading curve. Then, a Minkowski sum operation for particles is implemented to control the minimum gap between adjacent particles. Secondly, a transition from particles to clumps is realized using the overlapping discrete element cluster (ODEC) method and is randomly placed into a specific space. Thirdly, the DEM simulation with a simple linear contact model is employed to separate the overlapped clumps. Meanwhile, the initial position, displacement, and rotation of clumps are recorded. Finally, the mesoscale model is reconstructed based on the displacement and rotation information. The results show that this method can efficiently generate multi-phase composites with arbitrary particle shapes, high volume fractions, an overlapped ITZ, and a periodic structure. This study proposes a novel, efficient tool for analyzing and designing composite materials in resilient civil infrastructure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Resilient Civil Infrastructure, 2nd Edition)

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18 pages, 15108 KB

Open AccessArticle

Vulnerability Assessment of Reinforced Concrete Piers Under Vehicle Collision Considering the Influence of Uncertainty

by Xiaohui Yu, Yihang Chen and Yu He

Buildings 2025, 15(8), 1222; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15081222 - 8 Apr 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 737

Abstract

In recent years, the serious damage and even collapse accidents of bridge under vehicle-to-pier collision occurred frequently and have attracted growing attention world widely. Numerous studies have been conducted to examine the structural resistance of bridge piers against vehicle-with-pier collisions. Nevertheless, most of [...] Read more.

In recent years, the serious damage and even collapse accidents of bridge under vehicle-to-pier collision occurred frequently and have attracted growing attention world widely. Numerous studies have been conducted to examine the structural resistance of bridge piers against vehicle-with-pier collisions. Nevertheless, most of those studies employed a deterministic approach without incorporating the inherent uncertainty in structural and loading parameters. This study proposes a probabilistic approach to investigate the vulnerability of reinforced concrete (RC) piers under collisions with trucks and tractors. To do this, a dynamic mass-spring numerical model was developed to simulate the pier–vehicle collision process, which was further validated through simulating experimental data. A total of four parameters, including concrete strength, pier diameter, stirrup yield strength, and stirrup spacing, were considered and regarded as uncertainty parameters with their probability distributions determined according to the available studies. The Monte Carlo simulation method was used to generate 1000 samples for each of the uncertainty parameters and these random samples were coupled in the simplified numerical model. Through probabilistic analysis, the collapse vulnerability of RC piers was estimated. The results revealed that a tractor with a higher mass can result in higher failure probabilities than a truck. The uncertainty of the pier diameter and concrete strength have a great impact on the vulnerability of RC piers under different damage states. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Resilient Civil Infrastructure, 2nd Edition)

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20 pages, 5333 KB

Open AccessArticle

A New Prediction Model of Dam Deformation and Successful Application

by Shuangping Li, Bin Zhang, Meng Yang, Senlin Li and Zuqiang Liu

Buildings 2025, 15(5), 818; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15050818 - 5 Mar 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 968

Abstract

In most dam deformation monitoring practices, some single-point models do not consider the spatial correlation, and the traditional regression models do not consider the nonlinear relationship between the environmental quantity and the deformation quantity, resulting in poor prediction accuracy. In view of the [...] Read more.

In most dam deformation monitoring practices, some single-point models do not consider the spatial correlation, and the traditional regression models do not consider the nonlinear relationship between the environmental quantity and the deformation quantity, resulting in poor prediction accuracy. In view of the poor accuracy of the monitoring data, which reflect the overall deformation response in the current dam monitoring practices, this paper proposes an innovative solution of ensemble empirical mode decomposition and a wavelet noise reduction method. A high-precision prediction model considering spatial correlation is constructed. By studying the measured deformation data of an arch dam and comparing the performance parameters of various models, the superiority and universality of the proposed method are verified. Dam deformation monitoring data are of great significance to describe the operation behavior of dams. It is significant for us to optimize the health monitoring of dam safety structures and ensure dam safety and realize social harmony in our country. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Resilient Civil Infrastructure, 2nd Edition)

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23 pages, 10722 KB

Open AccessArticle

Time-Dependent Seismic Fragility of Coastal RC Frames Considering Effect of Distance from Coastline

by Xiaohui Yu, Zenghui Li, Ao Yang, Yushi Li, Dagang Lu and Kuangyu Dai

Buildings 2025, 15(5), 737; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15050737 - 25 Feb 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 874

Abstract

Reinforced concrete (RC) structures in coastal atmospheres commonly suffer the penetration of chloride ions, which can lead to the corrosion of reinforcements and, thus, a reduction in their structural performance under earthquakes. In recent years, time-dependent seismic fragility analysis has been widely used [...] Read more.

Reinforced concrete (RC) structures in coastal atmospheres commonly suffer the penetration of chloride ions, which can lead to the corrosion of reinforcements and, thus, a reduction in their structural performance under earthquakes. In recent years, time-dependent seismic fragility analysis has been widely used as an effective tool to represent the deterioration in the seismic performance of aging RC structures. However, few studies have considered the influences of varying chloride ion exposure environments due to the different distances of structures from a coastline. In light of this, this study performs a time-dependent seismic fragility analysis for aging RC frames, considering varying distances of the buildings from the coastline. To conduct this, a time-dependent reinforcement corrosion rate model that can consider the effect of the distance of a building from the coastline is established by combining a concrete surface chloride ion concentration model, an initial corrosion time model, and an electrochemical corrosion rate model. By integrating material deterioration models for reinforcements and concrete, the seismic fragility relationships for structures with different degrees of corrosion damage can be developed. A corrosion deterioration factor is then proposed to quantify the relationship between the seismic fragility function parameters and the corrosion rate. Subsequently, time-dependent fragility functions considering the effect of the distance from the coastline can be established. A nine-story RC frame designed according to the existing Chinese codes is used for illustration. The time-dependent seismic fragility relationship of the structure is developed considering different distances of buildings from the coastline. The results show that the effect of the distance of a building from the coastline varies under different categories of environment. The seismic fragility results for a structure under a III-a environment are more significantly influenced by the structural distance from the coastline compared to those for a structure under a II-a environment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Resilient Civil Infrastructure, 2nd Edition)

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31 pages, 4823 KB

Open AccessArticle

Philosophical Research Combined with Mathematics in Dam Safety Monitoring and Risk Analysis

by Yan Wang, Shuangping Li, Qi He, Meng Yang, Zuqiang Liu and Taoming Jiang

Buildings 2025, 15(4), 580; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15040580 - 13 Feb 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 932

Abstract

In this study, philosophical research combined with mathematics was carried out in the area of dam safety monitoring and risk analysis. Variational mode decomposition was improved and proposed for dam deformation prediction though deep learning. The accuracy and generalization ability of dam deformation [...] Read more.

In this study, philosophical research combined with mathematics was carried out in the area of dam safety monitoring and risk analysis. Variational mode decomposition was improved and proposed for dam deformation prediction though deep learning. The accuracy and generalization ability of dam deformation prediction were improved effectively. These should be fully understood in the context of the interaction and mutual promotion relationship between dam safety and risk monitoring and analysis, with a consideration of the imbalance of the environment and structure in development during the analysis and research of dam safety. The feasibility of this method for improving structural health monitoring systems is verified by analyzing the deformation monitoring data of a concrete dam. Moreover, a basic reference frame for opening up the deep cross-integration of disciplines was formulated with the dialectical, comprehensive, and dynamic study and exploration of dam safety monitoring and analysis from the perspective of philosophy. It is of great significance to optimize dam safety structure health monitoring, construct dam safety monitoring systems scientifically, ensure dam safety, and realize social harmony by analyzing and exploring the philosophical root of dam safety and risk analysis from the perspective of connection and development, contradiction, and unity. It was found that the proposed deformation analysis model can select the optimal set of influence factors for dam displacement and quickly perform modal decomposition compared with the conventional monitoring model. The prediction accuracy and generality of the model were improved to a certain extent. The purpose of this research is to search for a new pathway to obtain a more objective and accurate method for dam safety analysis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Resilient Civil Infrastructure, 2nd Edition)

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15 pages, 5058 KB

Open AccessArticle

Numerical Modeling and Analysis of Steel Sheet Pile Cofferdams, Considering the Construction Sequence

by Guangdong Lv, Zhengrong Liu, Xiang Yu, Fuhai Zhang, Qingxiang Meng and Xiaojing Hu

Buildings 2025, 15(3), 407; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15030407 - 27 Jan 2025

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1279

Abstract

The construction of steel sheet pile cofferdams is a systematic project. Simplified construction sequences are widely used to facilitate the numerical modeling of cofferdams, while the mechanical behaviors of cofferdams with different construction sequences have yet to be understood. In the present study, [...] Read more.

The construction of steel sheet pile cofferdams is a systematic project. Simplified construction sequences are widely used to facilitate the numerical modeling of cofferdams, while the mechanical behaviors of cofferdams with different construction sequences have yet to be understood. In the present study, finite element models of steel sheet pile cofferdams with different construction sequences were established, based on the temporary cofferdam of the Shenzhen–Zhongshan Link. The mechanisms of simplified construction sequences on bending moment were revealed by analyzing the displacements and contact press of steel sheet piles. The distribution of bending moment with elevation demonstrates the importance of the layered backfill process in numerical modeling. In addition, a finite element model of the cofferdam considering steady-state seepage was also established. The comparison of the hydrostatic pressure results and the bending moment results obtained by engineering experience and seepage analysis were discussed. The analysis results showed that the empirical method overestimated the maximum bending moment of the inner side of piles, which led to a more conservative design of the cofferdam. This work can serve as a reference for numerical modeling of steel sheet pile cofferdams and contribute to risk assessment in related engineering projects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Resilient Civil Infrastructure, 2nd Edition)

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20 pages, 6937 KB

Open AccessArticle

Study on the Stability of Unbalanced Rotation of Large-Tonnage T-Shaped Rigid Frame Bridges

by Hantao Wu, Zheng Yang, Chunting Lu, Zhongming Li, Chen Guo and Guohua Sha

Buildings 2024, 14(12), 3927; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14123927 - 9 Dec 2024

Viewed by 1015

Abstract

In the design of cantilever method bridge anti-overturning structures, the appropriate gap between the supporting foot and the lower rotating table is a crucial factor. It affects the distribution of the upper load and the friction force of the rotating structure, playing a [...] Read more.

In the design of cantilever method bridge anti-overturning structures, the appropriate gap between the supporting foot and the lower rotating table is a crucial factor. It affects the distribution of the upper load and the friction force of the rotating structure, playing a key role in stability control. Currently, a reasonably defined range for this gap based on engineering practice has not been established. This study, set against the backdrop of practical engineering for large-tonnage rotational bridges, analyzes potential overturning instability forms during rotation. It provides a detailed examination of the stability performance of bridges in unbalanced states under single-side joint support configurations and analyzes the mechanical performance and stability under different gaps and impact velocities during rotation. The result is that the impact acceleration, angular acceleration of rotation, and tilt angle (gap) increase displacement and stress in the support system, posing a significant safety risk. The present research demonstrates the safety and rationality of the proposed unbalanced rotation and provides control limits for tilt angle and rotation acceleration during the rotation process. These results demonstrate that the proposed support mode ensures safety requirements during unbalanced rotation, offering insights for the design and construction of large-tonnage rotational bridges. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Resilient Civil Infrastructure, 2nd Edition)

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23 pages, 13336 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Influence of Key Dimensions of the Swivel Hinge on the Mechanical Performance of Bridge Rotary Structure

by Hantao Wu, Zheng Yang, Chunting Lu, Zhongming Li, Chen Guo and Guohua Sha

Buildings 2024, 14(12), 3905; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14123905 - 6 Dec 2024

Viewed by 1040

Abstract

To assess the influence of the spherical and supporting radius of swivel hinges on the anti-overturning capability of T-structures and the safety of lower turntables, this study focuses on large-tonnage rotary bridges spanning the South-to-North Water Diversion Project along the Jiaozuo to Tanghe [...] Read more.

To assess the influence of the spherical and supporting radius of swivel hinges on the anti-overturning capability of T-structures and the safety of lower turntables, this study focuses on large-tonnage rotary bridges spanning the South-to-North Water Diversion Project along the Jiaozuo to Tanghe Expressway. The research involved theoretical analysis and numerical simulations to evaluate the stability of the rotary structures and the load-bearing capacity of rotary platforms with varying spherical and supporting radii, and we generated 15 numerical models. The results indicate that the critical eccentricity for T-structure anti-overturning increases with larger supporting and spherical radii, with diminishing returns as the supporting radius decreases. The critical eccentricity for spherical hinges is consistently lower than that seen for flat hinges. The lower turntable’s failure characteristics divide it into four zones, as follows: main compressive stress failure at the bottom under the hinge, main tensile stress failure at the top around the hinge, and two other regions less prone to failure. The supporting radius significantly influences compressive and tensile stress failures, while the spherical radius mainly affects the tensile stress area. These results offer insights for the design and construction of large-tonnage rotational bridges. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Resilient Civil Infrastructure, 2nd Edition)

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18 pages, 7247 KB

Open AccessArticle

Intelligent Inspection Method for Rebar Installation Quality of Reinforced Concrete Slab Based on Point Cloud Processing and Semantic Segmentation

by Ruishi Wang, Jianxiong Zhang, Hongxing Qiu and Jian Sun

Buildings 2024, 14(11), 3693; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14113693 - 20 Nov 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2410

Abstract

The rebar installation quality significantly impacts the safety and durability of reinforced concrete (RC) structures. Traditional manual inspection is time-consuming, inefficient, and highly subjective. In order to solve this problem, this study uses a depth camera and aims to develop an intelligent inspection [...] Read more.

The rebar installation quality significantly impacts the safety and durability of reinforced concrete (RC) structures. Traditional manual inspection is time-consuming, inefficient, and highly subjective. In order to solve this problem, this study uses a depth camera and aims to develop an intelligent inspection method for the rebar installation quality of an RC slab. The Random Sample Consensus (RANSAC) method is used to extract point cloud data for the bottom formwork, the upper and lower rebar lattices, and individual rebars. These data are utilized to measure the concrete cover thickness, the distance between the upper and lower rebar lattices, and the spacing between rebars in the RC slab. This paper introduces the concept of the “diameter calculation region” and combines point cloud semantic information with rebar segmentation mask information through the relationship between pixel coordinates and camera coordinates to measure the nominal diameter of the rebar. The verification results indicate that the maximum deviations for the concrete cover thickness, the distance between the upper and lower rebar lattices, and the spacing of the double-layer bidirectional rebar in the RC slab are 0.41 mm, 1.32 mm, and 5 mm, respectively. The accuracy of the nominal rebar diameter measurement reaches 98.4%, demonstrating high precision and applicability for quality inspection during the actual construction stage. Overall, this study integrates computer vision into traditional civil engineering research, utilizing depth cameras to acquire point cloud data and color results. It replaces inefficient manual inspection methods with an intelligent and efficient approach, addressing the challenge of detecting double-layer reinforcement. This has significant implications for practical engineering applications and the development of intelligent engineering monitoring systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Resilient Civil Infrastructure, 2nd Edition)

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14 pages, 3811 KB

Open AccessArticle

Recovery Resiliency Characteristics of Interdependent Critical Infrastructures in Disaster-Prone Areas

by Partha Sarker, Bhushan Lohar, Sean Walker, Stephanie Patch and John T. Wade

Infrastructures 2024, 9(11), 208; https://doi.org/10.3390/infrastructures9110208 - 19 Nov 2024

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Abstract

When Hurricane Maria struck the island of Puerto Rico in September, 2017, it devastated the island’s critical infrastructures, including the well-documented total loss of electric power systems. The strong interdependencies or associations among critical infrastructures in modern society meant that the failure of [...] Read more.

When Hurricane Maria struck the island of Puerto Rico in September, 2017, it devastated the island’s critical infrastructures, including the well-documented total loss of electric power systems. The strong interdependencies or associations among critical infrastructures in modern society meant that the failure of power systems propagated to and exacerbated the failure of other infrastructure systems. Moreover, these associations impact systems recovery just as they impact system failure. This study is a follow-up of previous research by the first author on Hurricane Maria. In this research authors extracted and quantified the recovery associations of Hurricane Fiona (September 2022) made landfall in Puerto Rico and inflicted considerable damage to its critical infrastructures. The recovery efforts following the disaster provided an opportunity to follow up on the previous research and examine the recovery associations. Significant money and efforts have gone into upgrading the infrastructures of Puerto Rico to make them more resilient to natural disasters such as hurricanes or tropical storms following Hurricane Maria. This paper explores the new recovery resiliency characteristics of Puerto Rico’s critical infrastructure systems (CISs) that the recovery efforts following Hurricane Fiona illustrate. This research shows that the power systems and other CISs of Puerto Rico are much more resilient when compared to their state of resiliency in 2017. Moreover, examining the recovery interdependencies reveals that some of the CISs are strongly dependent on power systems recovery. Outcomes of this study suggest that CIS relationships based on recovery data from Puerto Rico, are transferable to similar disaster-prone areas such as the Caribbean islands or other island nations, as they have similar characteristics and challenges. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Resilient Civil Infrastructure, 2nd Edition)

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21 pages, 5643 KB

Open AccessArticle

Study on the Effect of Heat Transfer Characteristics of Energy Piles

by Xiaoyang Wang, Tongyu Xu, Kaiming Zhao, Yueqiu Xia, Yuechen Duan, Weijun Gao and Gangqiang Kong

Buildings 2024, 14(11), 3593; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14113593 - 12 Nov 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2054

Abstract

The thermal performance of energy piles equipped with new metal fins to improve heat transmission is examined in this research. The solid heat transfer module of COMSOL Multiphysics was used to create a 2D numerical model of the energy pile, utilizing the energy [...] Read more.

The thermal performance of energy piles equipped with new metal fins to improve heat transmission is examined in this research. The solid heat transfer module of COMSOL Multiphysics was used to create a 2D numerical model of the energy pile, utilizing the energy pile at a field test site in Nanjing as an example. By contrasting the experimental data, the COMSOL Multiphysics model’s correctness was confirmed. After that, a new kind of energy pile fin was created to improve the heat transfer of the pile. The impact of the new fin type on the energy pile’s heat transfer efficiency was assessed, and the temperature change within the soil surrounding the pile before and after the fin was set was examined by contrasting the parameters of pipe configuration, buried pipe depth, and concrete thermal conductivity. The results indicate that after setting the fins to run for 336 h, the temperature of the concrete area increases by 10.8% to 12.3%, and the temperature of the region surrounding the pile increases by 5.3% to 8.7% when the tube diameter is chosen to be between 20 and 40 mm; The fins maximize the heat transfer temperature between the surrounding soil and the concrete, and as the tube diameter increases, the temperature drops. For 336 h of pile operation, the temperature of the concrete may be raised by 10.8% to 12.3% after the fins are set, and the temperature around the pile can be raised by 5.3% to 8.7%. The heat transmission efficiency of the energy pile can be improved by raising the temperature of the soil surrounding the pile through an increase in the concrete’s thermal conductivity; however, the degree of improvement diminishes as the conductivity rises. It is intended that this study will offer insightful information on the best way to design energy pile heat transfer efficiency. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Resilient Civil Infrastructure, 2nd Edition)

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