Journal Description
Buildings
Buildings
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on building science, building engineering and architecture published monthly online by MDPI. The International Council for Research and Innovation in Building and Construction (CIB) is affiliated with Buildings and their members receive a discount on the article processing charges.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), Inspec, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Engineering, Civil) / CiteScore - Q1 (Architecture)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 14.6 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.6 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
- Companion Journal: Architecture.
Impact Factor:
3.8 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
3.8 (2022)
Latest Articles
Multi-Zone Energy Performance Assessment of Algerian Social Housing Using a Parametric Approach
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1587; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061587 (registering DOI) - 30 May 2024
Abstract
In the early stages of building design, decisions are made about the building’s form and envelope, but designers rarely base their decisions on sophisticated energy simulations, even though these features are critical to a building’s energy performance. This paper employs three methods—empirical, parametric,
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In the early stages of building design, decisions are made about the building’s form and envelope, but designers rarely base their decisions on sophisticated energy simulations, even though these features are critical to a building’s energy performance. This paper employs three methods—empirical, parametric, and uncertainty—to assess the interconnectedness of building form, envelope, orientation, and occupancy regarding thermal comfort and energy consumption for heating and cooling a residential building across three regions: Gdyel (mediterranean climate), Oum El Bouaghi, and Constantine (semi-arid climate). The study variables include indoor air temperature, relative humidity, and energy consumption. The initial findings stem from an experiment conducted in an apartment on the top floor of a building in Gdyel, which allowed us to record the evolution of the variables mentioned throughout the year and validate the parametric results of the multi-zone model created in TRNSYS16 software. This study showed that for the considered climates, a compact form is more suitable; it was found that the top floor with SF = 0.57 needs about 30% to 54% more energy than the inter-floor with SF = 0.21. In addition, the heating and cooling methods and habits adopted by Algerian households are responsible for 18% to 35% on the top floor and the inter-floor, respectively.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Buildings for the 21st Century)
Open AccessArticle
Site Suitability Evaluation of a Large Commercial Complex Using an Improved Projection Pursuit Model
by
Han Wu, Jiannan Yu, Siqi Ai, Peng Zhou and Yuxin Chen
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1586; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061586 (registering DOI) - 30 May 2024
Abstract
In developing countries, especially China, large-scale commercial complexes are the current trend in commercial real estate. Compared with other similar buildings, scientific site selection is very important for the smooth construction and efficient operation of these complexes. However, there is still a lack
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In developing countries, especially China, large-scale commercial complexes are the current trend in commercial real estate. Compared with other similar buildings, scientific site selection is very important for the smooth construction and efficient operation of these complexes. However, there is still a lack of a targeted evaluation index system and quantitative evaluation methods. Therefore, this paper put forward the evaluation index system and method of large-scale commercial-complex location based on a projection pursuit model. First, this paper comprehensively considered the environmental, social, and economic factors, and used secondary and tertiary indicators to systematically establish an evaluation index system. This index system effectively dealt with the complex problem of its site selection. Compared with the traditional multi-attribute evaluation method based on expert advice, the evaluation method of the improved projection pursuit model based on a sparrow search algorithm constructed in this paper was to mine key information from the evaluation data, which could evaluate the site suitability of large commercial complexes more scientifically and objectively. In addition, this paper made a detailed empirical study of the Joy City project in Nanchang, China. The research results found the key factors affecting the site selection of the project and determined that the site-selection evaluation result of the project was medium. The research results of this paper provide the scientific and objective decision-making basis for the development enterprises of large commercial complexes to reduce site-selection risk and improve investment efficiency.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Life Cycle Management of Civil Engineering)
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Open AccessArticle
A Case Study of Air Infiltration for Highly Airtight Buildings under the Typical Meteorological Conditions of China
by
Yichen Du, Yongming Ji, Lin Duanmu and Songtao Hu
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1585; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061585 (registering DOI) - 30 May 2024
Abstract
Passive house standard buildings (PHSBs), characterized by exceptional airtightness, present a promising technology for attaining carbon neutrality by 2060. The level of building airtightness is closely associated with air infiltration, which significantly impacts building energy consumption. However, there has been insufficient analysis of
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Passive house standard buildings (PHSBs), characterized by exceptional airtightness, present a promising technology for attaining carbon neutrality by 2060. The level of building airtightness is closely associated with air infiltration, which significantly impacts building energy consumption. However, there has been insufficient analysis of air infiltration in highly airtight buildings across diverse climatic regions. The present study involves the numerical simulation of the air infiltration rate (AIR) in an airtight building under varying design conditions during winter and summer, followed by a comprehensive analysis of the corresponding energy demand associated with air infiltration. The simulation results indicate that the building’s AIR ranges from 125 to 423 m3/h, with an average of 189 m3/h under summer design conditions, and from 40 to 344 m3/h, with an average of 198 m3/h under winter design conditions. The statistical findings demonstrate distinct distribution patterns for AIR and energy demand across various climatic regions, exhibiting significant variations in values. The discussion emphasizes the substantial heating load associated with air infiltration, even at a building airtightness level of 0.5 h−1, highlighting the necessity of considering its impact in the design of highly airtight buildings. Furthermore, it is recommended to establish specific airtightness limits for buildings in different climatic regions of China. This study offers theoretical guidance for the airtightness design of highly airtight buildings.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recently Advances in the Thermal Performance of Buildings)
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Open AccessArticle
Toward Nearly Zero-Waste Architecture: Innovation, Application, and Practice of Construction Methods Using Natural Materials
by
Shu-Chen Tsai, Xue-Fang Zhang and Yao-Tan Chang
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1584; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061584 (registering DOI) - 30 May 2024
Abstract
The goals of this study are to propose a method to minimize the waste of buildings’ exterior walls and to respond to practical technical reports on disaster resistance and reductions in resource extraction. This study’s scientific value is its testing of new nearly
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The goals of this study are to propose a method to minimize the waste of buildings’ exterior walls and to respond to practical technical reports on disaster resistance and reductions in resource extraction. This study’s scientific value is its testing of new nearly zero-waste materials and their construction methods for external walls. Four cases using a bamboo and pozzolana wall construction method between 2016 and 2021 in Southern Taiwan were examined. The results show that the materials can be decomposed on site to achieve the goal of nearly zero waste. Steel structures and exterior walls can provide toughness and breathability to resist earthquakes and hot and humid climates. Traditional construction techniques contain elements of technological change and can transcend outdated regulations. The exterior wall materials in this study can replace the local high-carbon-emitting mining industry and are a feasible way to actively respond to net-zero emissions.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Towards Zero-Emission, Hazard-Resilient Buildings and Infrastructure: Advanced Material, Construction, and Energy Systems)
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Open AccessArticle
Architectural Physical Acoustic Environmental Design Transformation of Academic Lecture Halls in the Universities—Taking the Hall of School of Architecture and Urban Planning of Yunnan University as an Example
by
Yao-Ning Yang, Jie Zhou, Jing-Ran Song, Xin-Ping Wang, Xiao-Huan Xu, Yuan-Xi Li, Jun-Cheng Zeng, Ying Sa and Wei Jiang
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1583; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061583 (registering DOI) - 30 May 2024
Abstract
In recent years, multi-functional lecture halls have developed rapidly and become a symbol of contemporary public spaces and places. This kind of spatial facility that brings together the advantages of land intensiveness and multi-functional integration also faces feedback such as poor acoustic effects.
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In recent years, multi-functional lecture halls have developed rapidly and become a symbol of contemporary public spaces and places. This kind of spatial facility that brings together the advantages of land intensiveness and multi-functional integration also faces feedback such as poor acoustic effects. However, current research rarely involves the architectural design perspective, which is actually the root consideration of this problem; that is, how to set up corresponding spatial layout measures to optimize acoustic performance in a relatively economical and simple way. This study uses the academic lecture hall of the School of Architecture and Planning of Yunnan University as a case to try to solve these problems. The research is based on holistic considerations, starting from site selection, architectural design, aesthetic considerations, and environmental noise assessment, and combining simulation results with actual measurement results. Using a prediction–comparison–verification method, key acoustic parameters such as speech intelligibility, loudness, and reverberation time were calculated and evaluated to understand the acoustic design problems of the hall. The study found that the out-of-control reverberation time was the main cause of poor acoustic feedback, and based on this, optimization and transformation were carried out from an architectural perspective. Finally, a renovation suggestion was made that the application of sound-absorbing materials on the rear wall can achieve better acoustic effects inside the hall. Among the space combination methods, the combination of “rear wall, central ceiling, and front ceiling” has the best effect. Practical insights are provided for improving the acoustic performance of the multi-functional lecture halls while taking into account the acoustic design and feasible requirements.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Energy, Physics, Environment, and Systems)
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Open AccessReview
Recent Advances and Developments in Phase Change Materials in High-Temperature Building Envelopes: A Review of Solutions and Challenges
by
Farhan Lafta Rashid, Anmar Dulaimi, Wadhah Amer Hatem, Mudhar A. Al-Obaidi, Arman Ameen, Muhammad Asmail Eleiwi, Sarah Abbas Jawad, Luís Filipe Almeida Bernardo and Jong Wan Hu
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1582; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061582 (registering DOI) - 30 May 2024
Abstract
The use of phase change materials (PCMs) has become an increasingly common way to reduce a building’s energy usage when added to the building envelope. This developing technology has demonstrated improvements in thermal comfort and energy efficiency, making it a viable building energy
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The use of phase change materials (PCMs) has become an increasingly common way to reduce a building’s energy usage when added to the building envelope. This developing technology has demonstrated improvements in thermal comfort and energy efficiency, making it a viable building energy solution. The current study intends to provide a comprehensive review of the published studies on the utilization of PCMs in various constructions of energy-efficient roofs, walls, and ceilings. The research question holds massive potential to unlock pioneering solutions for maximizing the usefulness of PCMs in reducing cooling demands, especially in challenging high-temperature environments. Several issues with PCMs have been revealed, the most significant of which is their reduced effectiveness during the day due to high summer temperatures, preventing them from crystallizing at night. However, this review investigates how PCMs can delay the peak temperature time, reducing the number of hours during which the indoor temperature exceeds the thermal comfort range. Additionally, the utilization of PCMs can improve the building’s energy efficiency by mitigating the need for cooling systems during peak hours. Thus, selecting the right PCM for high temperatures is both critical and challenging. Insulation density, specific heat, and thermal conductivity all play a role in heat transfer under extreme conditions. This study introduces several quantification techniques and paves the way for future advancements to accommodate practical and technical solutions related to PCM usage in building materials.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applications of Phase Change Materials (PCMs) in Buildings)
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Research on the Characteristics of Jacks Used to Rectify Tilted Buildings
by
Krzysztof Gromysz, Mateusz Smolana and Marian Drusa
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1581; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061581 - 30 May 2024
Abstract
One method of rectifying tilted buildings is by lifting them unevenly using hydraulic jacks. These jacks are loaded both monotonically and cyclically during the rectification process. It has been shown that the change in jack length is the sum of the change in
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One method of rectifying tilted buildings is by lifting them unevenly using hydraulic jacks. These jacks are loaded both monotonically and cyclically during the rectification process. It has been shown that the change in jack length is the sum of the change in the piston slide out and the change in the jack’s cylinder length, which is supported by a parallelepiped element. Laboratory tests were conducted to investigate the piston slide out and the change in the jack’s cylinder length under both monotonically and cyclically loaded conditions. The results indicated that the piston slide out forms a hysteresis loop. In contrast, the change in the jack’s cylinder length does not exhibit a hysteresis loop and is a non-linear function of the load. A structural model of the jack was proposed, consisting of three components: a linearly elastic component connected in parallel to the component where the frictional force occurs, and a component with non-linear elastic characteristics connected in series with them. Displacements of the linear elastic component, characterized by a constant stiffness, occur as long as the external load exceeds the internal frictional force. The value of the frictional force in this model increases with the load. The stiffness of the non-linear elastic component increases proportionally to the load.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Technologies in Foundations Engineering and Construction Materials)
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Open AccessArticle
Automatic Detection Method for Concrete Spalling and Exposed Steel Bars in Reinforced Concrete Structures Based on Machine Vision
by
Shengmin Wang, Jun Wan, Shiying Zhang and Yu Du
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1580; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061580 - 30 May 2024
Abstract
Reinforced concrete (RC), renowned for its amalgamation of strength and durability, stands as a cornerstone in modern engineering, extensively employed in various structures such as buildings, bridges, and pipe culverts. However, prevalent issues of concrete spalling and exposed steel bars within RC structures
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Reinforced concrete (RC), renowned for its amalgamation of strength and durability, stands as a cornerstone in modern engineering, extensively employed in various structures such as buildings, bridges, and pipe culverts. However, prevalent issues of concrete spalling and exposed steel bars within RC structures pose significant challenges. An automated identification methodology is proposed to detect concrete spalling and exposed steel bars, leveraging machine vision technology and deep learning algorithms. Initially, a classifier is utilized to discern concrete spalling areas within the image domain at the image level. Subsequently, a semantic segmentation algorithm is applied to precisely delineate the contours of both concrete spalling areas and exposed steel bars at the pixel level. The efficacy and feasibility of the proposed method are validated through training and testing on both a publicly available dataset and actual RC structure images. The results illustrate that the average detection precision, Intersection over Union (IOU), recall, and F1-score for concrete spalling areas are 0.924, 0.872, 0.937, and 0.925, respectively, while for exposed steel areas, the corresponding values are 0.905, 0.820, 0.899, and 0.855. This method demonstrates promising prospects for wide-ranging applications in defect detection within RC structures.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Life Cycle Management of Civil Engineering)
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Analysis of the Effect of Loading Rate on Mechanical Properties of Fissured Rock Materials and Acoustic Emission Characteristic Parameters
by
Guokun Liu, Wenxi Wang, Xiaohua Li, Wei Chen, Yu Zhou, Yuanzeng Wang and Sheng Ren
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1579; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061579 - 30 May 2024
Abstract
In nature, rock masses often exhibit fissures, and varying external forces lead to different rates of loading on fissured rock masses. By studying the influence of the loading rate on the mechanical properties of fractured rock mass and AE characteristic parameters, it can
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In nature, rock masses often exhibit fissures, and varying external forces lead to different rates of loading on fissured rock masses. By studying the influence of the loading rate on the mechanical properties of fractured rock mass and AE characteristic parameters, it can provide a theoretical basis for the safety and stability prediction of engineering rock mass. To investigate the influence of loading rates on fissured rock masses, this study utilizes surrogate rock specimens resembling actual rock bodies and prefabricates two fissures. By conducting uniaxial compression acoustic emission tests at different loading rates, the study explores changes in their mechanical properties and acoustic emission characteristic parameters. Research findings indicate the following: (1) Prefabricated fissures adversely affect the stability of specimens, resulting in lower strength compared to intact specimens. Under the same fissure inclination angle, peak strength, elastic modulus, and loading rate exhibit a positive correlation. When the fissure inclination angle varies from 0° to 60° under the same loading rate, the peak strength of specimens generally follows a “V”-shaped trend, decreasing initially and then increasing, with the minimum peak strength observed at α = 30°. (2) Prefabricated fissure specimens primarily develop tensile cracks during loading, gradually transitioning to shear cracks, ultimately leading to shear failure. (3) The variation patterns of AE (acoustic emission) characteristic parameters under the influence of loading rate differ: AE event count, AE energy, and cumulative AE energy show a positive correlation with loading rate, while cumulative AE event count gradually decreases with increasing loading rate. (4) AE characteristic parameters exhibit good correlation with the stress–strain curve and can be divided into four stages. The changes in AE characteristic parameters correspond to the changes in the stress–strain curve. With increasing loading rate, AE signals in the first three stages gradually stabilize, focusing more on the fourth stage, namely the post-peak stage, where the specimens typically experience maximum AE signals accompanying final failure.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering and Mining Sciences in Construction)
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A Hydration-Based Integrated Model to Evaluate Properties Development and Sustainability of Oyster Shell Powder–Cement Binary Composites
by
Seung-Jun Kwon and Xiao-Yong Wang
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1578; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061578 - 30 May 2024
Abstract
Currently, oyster shell powder (OSP) is becoming more widely used in the production of cement-based materials. The purpose of this study is to propose a predictive model that can predict the properties of concrete materials incorporating oyster shell powder. The methods of this
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Currently, oyster shell powder (OSP) is becoming more widely used in the production of cement-based materials. The purpose of this study is to propose a predictive model that can predict the properties of concrete materials incorporating oyster shell powder. The methods of this prediction model are given as follows. First, based on the measurement results of the heat of hydration in the first 7 days, the prediction parameters of the hydration model are obtained. Secondly, based on the hydration model, the measured results of the heat of hydration were extrapolated, and the heat of hydration from the start of stirring to day 28 was calculated. From the calculation results, the developments of compressive strength, ultrasonic velocity, and surface electrical resistivity were estimated. Finally, we evaluated the CO2 emissions of concrete incorporating oyster shell powder. The CO2 emissions corresponding to unit compressive strength and unit surface electrical resistivity were calculated. The important conclusions of the prediction model are given as follows. First, for different substitution amounts of oyster shell powder, the model result shows that the ultimate value of the heat of hydration corresponding to the unit cement mass is the same, i.e., 454.27 J/g. While the substitution amount of oyster shell powder increases from 0% to 30%, the model result shows that the cumulative 28-day hydration heat for 1 g cement increases the powder amount from 405.7 J/g to 419.3 J/g. Secondly, as the amount of substituted oyster shell powder increases from 0% to 30%, the model result shows that the cumulative 28-day heat of hydration per gram of cementitious material decreases this amount from 405.7 J/g to 293.4 J/g. Compressive strength, ultrasonic pulse velocity, and surface electrical resistivity can all be expressed as exponential functions of the heat of hydration. For compressive strength, ultrasonic pulse velocity, and surface electrical resistivity, the coefficients of determination for the simulation results and experimental results are 0.8396, 0.7195, and 0.9408, respectively. Finally, as the amount of substituted oyster shell powder increases from 0% to 30%, the model result shows that the CO2 emission per unit of compressive strength increases from 10.18 kg/MPa to 16.51 kg/MPa. As the amount increases from 0% to 30%, the model result shows that the CO2 emission corresponding to the unit surface electrical resistivity does not change significantly. In summary, the importance of this model is that it can predict various properties of concrete mixed with oyster shell powder, reduce the number of experiments, and promote the engineering application of oyster shell powder concrete.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Low-Carbon and Green Materials in Construction—2nd Edition)
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Open AccessArticle
Experimental Study on the Bearing Behavior and Failure Model of Digging Hold Foundation in Rock Ground
by
Wenxiang Zhang, Qiang Cui, Banglu Xi and Lin Qi
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1577; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061577 - 30 May 2024
Abstract
The physical model test is an effective method to study the bearing behavior of digging hold foundations due to its low cost and clear boundary conditions. Here, similar materials of rocks were configured and employed to study the bearing capacity and failure model
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The physical model test is an effective method to study the bearing behavior of digging hold foundations due to its low cost and clear boundary conditions. Here, similar materials of rocks were configured and employed to study the bearing capacity and failure model of digging hold foundations in rock ground. Firstly, sixteen groups of material proportion schemes were employed to make similar materials of rocks, and the effects of four mix parameters were analyzed. Then, similar materials of rocks were employed to perform the uplift tests of digging hold foundations. The results show that the mass ratio of fine particles and aggregate has the greatest influence on the density and internal friction angle, while the cement moisture content has the greatest influence on the cohesion and compressive strength of similar materials of rocks. During the pull-out process of the digging hold foundation, the radial cracks radiate outward from the circumferential cracks, which is different from those in the field test because the ground is small and uniform without fissures inside. The foundation drives the surrounding similar materials to be pulled up as a whole with a certain failure angle, which increases from 35.7° to 42.5° as the internal friction angle decreases from 56° to 41°. In addition, the ratio between the equivalent shear strength in Chinese Code and uniaxial compressive strength falls in the range of 0.027–0.05.
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(This article belongs to the Section Building Energy, Physics, Environment, and Systems)
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Evaluating Clay Characteristics for Printable Geo-Materials: A Case Study of Clay–Sand Mixes
by
Stefanie Rückrich, Galit Agranati and Yasha J. Grobman
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1576; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061576 - 29 May 2024
Abstract
Extrusion-based 3D Construction Printing (3DCP) involves developing novel material mixtures that incorporate local geo-materials. Given that clay minerals and silt are major causes of soil variability, this study focuses on the fine fraction of soil to facilitate purpose-oriented design, classification, and standardization. We
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Extrusion-based 3D Construction Printing (3DCP) involves developing novel material mixtures that incorporate local geo-materials. Given that clay minerals and silt are major causes of soil variability, this study focuses on the fine fraction of soil to facilitate purpose-oriented design, classification, and standardization. We begin with an overview of current research in the field and general information about clays. Subsequently, we establish an evaluation methodology, examining various clay–sand mix ratios, along with locally sourced material to gain general insights into the material’s clay-dependent macro-printability characteristics. The findings are then correlated and discussed in relation to the microcharacteristics of the clays, emphasizing the significance of both intraparticle and interparticle swelling for strength and cohesiveness. Factors such as swelling ability, and charge, which may be reflected by pH, are pivotal for strength; while the quantity of clay and its interparticle swelling ability, denoted by the plasticity index (PI), delineate cohesiveness, which is essential for pumpability and extrudability. Furthermore, the presence of organic material and other minerals is observed to have a significant impact on these properties.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advance in Eco-Friendly Building Materials and Innovative Structures)
Open AccessArticle
Research on Planning Strategy for Urban Community Living Environment for the Elderly That Promotes “Living Mutual Aid”
by
Tianye Liu, Chendi Zhu, Dian Zhou and Yupeng Wang
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1575; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061575 - 29 May 2024
Abstract
With the development of urban population aging in China, enhancing the quality of community living environments for the elderly has become crucial. Traditional residential planning focused on functionality, neglecting the elderly’s active participation and mutual aid needs. This paper proposes the development of
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With the development of urban population aging in China, enhancing the quality of community living environments for the elderly has become crucial. Traditional residential planning focused on functionality, neglecting the elderly’s active participation and mutual aid needs. This paper proposes the development of urban community environments promoting “living mutual aid” to improve elderly life quality and practice active aging. Using qualitative and quantitative methods, the study identifies key components of mutual aid, explores the relationship between mutual aid behaviors and spatial composition, and outlines strategies for designing community environments that support mutual aid. Based on “active aging” theory, the study qualitatively summarizes the concept of mutual aid among the elderly through literature and policy analysis. Surveys, interviews, and observations in Xi’an’s typical communities were conducted, with results analyzed using factor and frequency analysis. The study categorizes mutual aid activities and behavior characteristics, and explores the relationship between behavior and spatial needs using environmental behavior theory. It identifies mutual aid space units and suggests types, paths, strategies, and methods for integrating these units into community environments. The findings provide scientific guidance for urban community planning and valuable references for creating elderly-friendly urban habitats.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Engineering Problems and Legal Challenges in Urban and Rural Low-Carbon Development)
Open AccessReview
Analysis of Laminated Composite Plates: A Comprehensive Bibliometric Review
by
Ali Odeh, Madyan A. Al-Shugaa, Husain J. Al-Gahtani and Faisal Mukhtar
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1574; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061574 - 29 May 2024
Abstract
Laminated composite plates have become a crucial point of interest in the industry, with the need to ensure sustained and stable structures throughout the plates’ lifespan. This study conducted a bibliometric analysis using the Scopus database, gathering 8221 documents for further scrutiny based
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Laminated composite plates have become a crucial point of interest in the industry, with the need to ensure sustained and stable structures throughout the plates’ lifespan. This study conducted a bibliometric analysis using the Scopus database, gathering 8221 documents for further scrutiny based on the linked meta-data. Utilizing the VOS viewer software version 1.6.19, maps were generated from scientific publishing network data, illustrating connections between researchers’ nations and keywords. The investigation into co-occurring phrases associated with laminated composite plates employed author keywords. The results reveal a significant and close relationship among top authors, suggesting a strong research connection, with the United States and China leading the field. Top cited documents and keyword correlations are examined to gauge current research interests. These critical reviews serve as essential resources for scholars and practitioners in the field. Additionally, the review discusses the advancements in and practical applications of different theories for laminated composite plates, with a focus on a bibliometric study using the Scopus database. This paper categorizes models within the context of an equivalent single-layer laminate, analyzing variations in established theories and methodologies for modeling laminated composite plates to offer a nuanced understanding of approaches and assessments in this field.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applications of Computational Methods in Structural Engineering)
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Development of a New Method for Assessing Project Risks in Sustainable Building Construction Projects in Developing Countries: The Case of Jordan
by
Rami Alawneh, Ismael Jannoud, Hesham Rabayah, Samaher Asaad, Hatem Almasaeid, Rana Imam and Farid Ezanee Mohamed Ghazali
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1573; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061573 - 29 May 2024
Abstract
Sustainable buildings contribute significantly to achieving sustainable development and provide many benefits. However, sustainable building construction projects are riskier than traditional construction projects. Thus, this research aimed to identify and assess the risks in sustainable construction projects in Jordan based on their probabilities
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Sustainable buildings contribute significantly to achieving sustainable development and provide many benefits. However, sustainable building construction projects are riskier than traditional construction projects. Thus, this research aimed to identify and assess the risks in sustainable construction projects in Jordan based on their probabilities of occurrence and impacts on time and cost. For this purpose, a literature review and structured interviews were performed to identify the risks. Additionally, questionnaire surveys were conducted, and the relative relevance index and analytic hierarchy process were utilized to assess the probabilities and impacts of these risks on time and cost. After that, a focus group discussion was conducted. According to the the risks’ probability and impacts on time and cost, the top-scoring risks include changes to the original design, budgeting inaccuracies owing to a lack of experience with sustainable building projects, additional costs incurred as a result of the use of sustainable building construction materials and equipment, inadequate or inaccurate sustainable design information, insufficient funds from clients, inadequate project planning for a sustainable building project, a tight project schedule for a sustainable building project, and insufficient identification of sustainable construction’s scope. This research contributes to the body of knowledge and practice by providing a novel integrated method for assessing risks in sustainable building construction projects in Jordan.
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(This article belongs to the Section Construction Management, and Computers & Digitization)
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The Creation of Geotechnical Seismic Isolation from Materials with Damping Properties for the Protection of Architectural Monuments
by
Yerik T. Bessimbayev, Sayat E. Niyetbay, Talal Awwad, Erzhan I. Kuldeyev, Saken S. Uderbayev, Zhanar O. Zhumadilova and Zauresh M. Zhambakina
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1572; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061572 - 28 May 2024
Abstract
This paper presents the results of a study on the relevance of seismic isolation systems for protecting architectural monuments from seismic and vibration impacts. This work aims to develop a method for protecting architectural monuments from seismic and vibration effects by installing geotechnical
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This paper presents the results of a study on the relevance of seismic isolation systems for protecting architectural monuments from seismic and vibration impacts. This work aims to develop a method for protecting architectural monuments from seismic and vibration effects by installing geotechnical seismic isolation systems made of various geomaterials, such as a silicate soil mixture (SSM), a cement–soil mixture (CSM), a bitumen–soil mixture (BSM), and a rubber–soil mixture (RSM). The novelty of the work lies in the results of studying the wave processes in different models of geomaterials to assess their effectiveness in a seismic isolation system in the form of damping barrier screens to ensure the seismic resistance of architectural monuments. By comparing the amplitude–frequency characteristics of various geomaterials, it was found that the rubber–soil mixture (RSM), the cement–soil mixture (CSM), and the bitumen–soil mixture (BSM) have the most effective damping properties. A proposed method for protecting architectural monuments with geotechnical seismic isolation in the form of vertical screen barriers and technology for their installation ensures the integrity and safety of architectural monuments at all stages of construction and operation.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Structures)
Open AccessReview
An Overview of the Recyclability of Alternative Materials for Building Surface Courses at Pavement Structures
by
Konstantinos Gkyrtis and Maria Pomoni
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1571; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061571 - 28 May 2024
Abstract
This paper overviews the use of several waste materials for the construction and reconstruction of surface courses of asphalt pavements in the framework of sustainable perspectives that are adopted in pavement engineering. Based on a relevant literature search, the most commonly investigated alternative
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This paper overviews the use of several waste materials for the construction and reconstruction of surface courses of asphalt pavements in the framework of sustainable perspectives that are adopted in pavement engineering. Based on a relevant literature search, the most commonly investigated alternative materials include waste plastic, crumb rubber, waste glass, steel slag, and Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement (RAP). Although recycling in pavement engineering is not a novelty, the strict performance requirements of the surface layers required to support a distress-resistant behavior possess continuous research challenges about the mechanical behavioral parameters, such as fatigue, rutting, moisture damage, and serviceability requirements, such as skid resistance. While studies in a laboratory environment mainly dominate, the importance of performance observations of real structures in the field is also pinpointed in an effort to provide a comprehensive overview of the so far knowledge status. Thereafter, this paper discusses peculiar issues and criteria for waste material selection that should balance performance requirements, local availabilities, and potential legislation concerns, thereby maximizing the economic or environmental advantages.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Utilization of Recycled Aggregates and Waste in Road Engineering)
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Open AccessArticle
Transmission Mechanism of Influencing Factors in the Promotion and Application of Whole-Process Engineering Consulting
by
Xu Huang, Qingbo Hu, Wenbin Zhou, Peng Yang, Fangru Liu and Wen Zhou
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1570; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061570 - 28 May 2024
Abstract
As a project construction organization model, whole-process engineering consulting (WPEC) is currently being promoted in China’s engineering consulting industry. However, various factors create numerous obstacles that hinder this model’s effective promotion and application. One essential task is to deeply analyze the transmission mechanism
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As a project construction organization model, whole-process engineering consulting (WPEC) is currently being promoted in China’s engineering consulting industry. However, various factors create numerous obstacles that hinder this model’s effective promotion and application. One essential task is to deeply analyze the transmission mechanism of the influencing factors in the promotion and application of WPEC, and explore effective pathways for promoting and applying this model. This paper systematically organizes and summarizes 10 primary influencing factors and 38 secondary influencing factors for promoting WPEC. Using the complex network analysis method, a network of influencing factors for promoting WPEC, a network structure, and motif analyses are conducted. The results show that the influencing factors have a complex transmission mechanism, and complex network analysis can reveal the laws of their construction and their causes. This paper provides a systematic basis and theoretical support for the effective formulation of policies related to the promotion and application of WPEC.
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(This article belongs to the Section Construction Management, and Computers & Digitization)
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Open AccessArticle
Parametric Study of the Deep Excavation Performance of Underground Pumping Station Based on Numerical Method
by
Jiani Zhang, Zhenkun Yang and Rafig Azzam
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1569; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061569 - 28 May 2024
Abstract
Environmental responses to deep excavations are combined results of numerous factors. The effects of some factors are relatively straightforward and can be considered carefully during the design. On the other hand, more features impact excavation-induced performances indirectly, making their influences difficult to be
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Environmental responses to deep excavations are combined results of numerous factors. The effects of some factors are relatively straightforward and can be considered carefully during the design. On the other hand, more features impact excavation-induced performances indirectly, making their influences difficult to be clearly understood. Unfortunately, the complexity and non-repeatability of practical projects make it impossible to thoroughly understand these issues through realistic deep excavation projects. Therefore, parametric studies based on repeatable laboratory and numerical tests are desired to investigate these issues further. This work examines the influence of several key features on excavation-induced displacements through a series of 3D numerical tests. The study includes the choice of soil constitutive models, the modeling method of the soil–wall interface, and the influences of various key soil parameters. The comparison shows that the MCC model can yield a displacement field similar to the HSS model, while its soil movement is greatly improved compared to the MC model. Both the soil–wall interface properties and soil parameters impact the excavation-induced displacement to a large extent. In addition, the influence mechanisms of these parameters are analyzed, and practical suggestions are given. The findings of this paper are expected to provide practical references to the design and construction of future deep excavation projects.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Underground Space Design: Structural Stability and Mechanics Analysis)
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Open AccessArticle
Wind-Induced Dynamic Response of Inter-Story Isolated Tall Buildings with Friction Pendulum Bearing Based on an Enhanced Simplified Model
by
Zhihao Li, Zhiran Xu, Guoqing Huang and Zhanfang Liu
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1568; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061568 - 28 May 2024
Abstract
Isolation technology, especially for base isolation, is increasingly being applied in earthquake-prone areas. To satisfy some special demands (such as prevention from seawater erosion of an isolation layer, story-adding retrofit of existing buildings, avoidance of collision between base-isolated tall buildings, and so on),
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Isolation technology, especially for base isolation, is increasingly being applied in earthquake-prone areas. To satisfy some special demands (such as prevention from seawater erosion of an isolation layer, story-adding retrofit of existing buildings, avoidance of collision between base-isolated tall buildings, and so on), the isolation layer sometimes has to be set in the middle of a building to constitute inter-story isolated buildings. This special structural form inevitably encounters strong wind loads during service life, and its wind-resistant performance deserves to be investigated. This study conducts the wind-induced vibration analysis of inter-story isolated tall buildings with friction pendulum bearing (FPB). The nonlinear time domain analysis model and statistical linearization method to compute the wind-induced response of FPB inter-story isolated tall buildings are addressed based on an enhanced simplified model. Considering the independence of the upper and lower structures, two structural design schemes for inter-story isolated tall buildings are provided. Their dynamic characteristics are analyzed, and wind-induced responses are compared. Finally, the accuracy of the statistical linearization method is verified. This study provides an important theoretical basis for the structural design and wind resistance of inter-story isolated tall buildings.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Technology of Green Intelligent Construction and Risk Assessment in Architectural Structures)
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