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
Study on the Effect of Interfacial Modification on the Properties of Super Standard Mica Sand Cement-Based Materials
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1665; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061665 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2024
Abstract
Mica is a harmful substance in sand and occurs frequently. The application of super standard mica sand is a difficult problem in large-scale engineering. In this work, the effects of an interface modifier, mineral admixture, and a curing system on the properties of
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Mica is a harmful substance in sand and occurs frequently. The application of super standard mica sand is a difficult problem in large-scale engineering. In this work, the effects of an interface modifier, mineral admixture, and a curing system on the properties of cement-based materials with super standard mica sand were studied. The strength of cement-based materials linearly decreases with the mica content in sand. When the mica content in sand exceeds 6%, the compressive strength of mortar and concrete at 28 d decreases by more than 22.3% and 33.5%, respectively. By adding the silane coupling agent (SCA) of 50% mica mass and curing in natural conditions, the compressive strength of mortar increases by 10.9%. The cement-based materials with the SCA are more suitable for curing in natural conditions, and the performance of the SCA will not be affected by adding appropriate amounts of mineral admixture. The drying shrinkage strain of the concrete, with the sand containing high mica content modified by SCA, is reduced by 10.5%, and the diffusion of chloride ions in concrete is reduced. The XRD results show that the addition of the interfacial agent does not change the hydration products. The MIP and SEM results show that the SCA can form a bridge structure between the hydration products and the mica, improve the bonding strength of the interface zone, and reduce the number of harmful pores.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Latest Advances in Optimized Concrete Mix Design: Assessing Physical Properties, Mechanical Performance and Long-Term Durability)
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Open AccessArticle
The Risk of Alkali–Carbonate Reaction and the Freeze–Thaw Resistance of Waste Dolomite Slag-Based Concrete
by
Yulin Chen, Xuefei Xiong, Ding Wang, Xianliang Zhou, Changwu Liu and Zhipeng Xu
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1664; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061664 (registering DOI) - 4 Jun 2024
Abstract
The alkali–carbonate reaction (ACR) is a type of alkali–aggregate reaction (AAR) that may lead to serious damage in concrete construction. There is sufficient research on the effect of the ACR on dolomite limestone; however, research on the effect of the ACR on pure
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The alkali–carbonate reaction (ACR) is a type of alkali–aggregate reaction (AAR) that may lead to serious damage in concrete construction. There is sufficient research on the effect of the ACR on dolomite limestone; however, research on the effect of the ACR on pure dolomite is absent, and there are a large number of dolomite resources that cannot be effectively utilized in civil engineering. This study aims to investigate whether the ACR occurs in pure dolomite spoil and to determine the freeze–thaw resistance of pure waste dolomite slag-based concrete (PWDSC). In this study, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and the lithofacies method (LM) confirmed that the tested samples were pure dolomite. The rock cylinder method (RCM) and rapid preliminary screening testing for carbonate aggregates (AAR-5) were employed to determine the alkali activity of pure dolomite: the RCM indicated a variation of −0.09% in length during the 84-day test period, the AAR-5 exhibited a length expansion rate of 0.03% within 28 days, and the expansion rates were less than 0.1%. These findings suggest that pure waste dolomite slag (PWDS) does not possess alkali activity. The freeze–thaw cycle test showed no significant spalling on the concrete surface, the inside of the cement produced few micro-cracks according to scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and the uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) test showed a decrease of approximately 20% after 200 freeze–thaw cycles. The results verified that ACR does not occur in PWDS and that it can withstand freeze–thaw damage, to a certain extent, when used as concrete coarse aggregate.
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(This article belongs to the Section Building Materials, and Repair & Renovation)
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Open AccessArticle
Strategies for Mitigating Risks of Government-Led Energy Retrofitting Projects in China
by
Ling Jia, Queena K. Qian, Frits Meijer and Henk Visscher
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1663; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061663 (registering DOI) - 4 Jun 2024
Abstract
Residential energy retrofitting projects in the hot summer and cold winter (HSCW) zone of China face various risks related to project activities, which incur transaction costs (TCs), such as search, negotiation, and monitoring costs. As the leader in project implementation, the Chinese government
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Residential energy retrofitting projects in the hot summer and cold winter (HSCW) zone of China face various risks related to project activities, which incur transaction costs (TCs), such as search, negotiation, and monitoring costs. As the leader in project implementation, the Chinese government is responsible for project planning, organisation, and coordination. However, TCs impede the government’s ability to execute risk-related project activities effectively, subsequently increasing the probability of the occurrence of risk. Drawing on transaction cost economics (TCE), this study proposes a theoretical framework to understand the barriers—such as asset specificity, uncertainty, and frequency—that prevent the government from performing project activities and mitigating risks effectively. An artificial neural network (ANN) is applied to verify the hypotheses. The results underscore experience and operational maturity in project activities, cost and time constraints, and the immature retrofitting market as significant impediments to the government’s execution of risk-related activities. Considering the varying roles of the government in reducing different risks, this study concludes by offering policy recommendations to alleviate these activity barriers and mitigate risks. By employing a TCs perspective, this study not only identifies key barriers but also deepens our understanding of risk mitigation mechanisms, providing robust policy insights tailored to the specific regional context of China, thereby enhancing both the execution and the framework of government-led retrofitting projects.
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(This article belongs to the Section Building Energy, Physics, Environment, and Systems)
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Open AccessArticle
Multifractal Characteristics and Displacement Prediction of Deformation on Tunnel Portal Slope of Shallow Buried Tunnel Adjacent to Important Structures
by
Xiannian Zhou, Yurui He, Wanmao Zhang and Dunwen Liu
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1662; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061662 - 4 Jun 2024
Abstract
The tunnel portal section is often in extremely weak and fragmented strata, and the deformation of the portal side and slope will affect the stability of the surrounding rock and the tunnel-supporting structure. However, the deformation characteristics and displacement development patterns of slopes
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The tunnel portal section is often in extremely weak and fragmented strata, and the deformation of the portal side and slope will affect the stability of the surrounding rock and the tunnel-supporting structure. However, the deformation characteristics and displacement development patterns of slopes in the tunnel portal section are not clear. In this paper, the multifractal characteristics and displacement prediction of the deformation sequence of the tunnel portal slope at of a weak and water-rich shallow buried tunnel adjacent to an important structure are studied in depth. Combined with the deformation characteristics of the tunnel portal slope, a suitable slope monitoring and measurement scheme is designed to analyze the deformation pattern of the tunnel portal slope. Based on the multifractal detrended fluctuation analysis (MF-DFA) method, the multifractal characteristics of the deformation monitoring sequences at each monitoring point of the tunnel portal slope are analyzed. The multifractal characteristics of displacement sequences at different monitoring points of the tunnel portal slope are consistent with the actual monitoring results. Furthermore, the Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) model is optimized using the Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) algorithm to predict the deformation of the tunnel portal slope. The results show that the maximum mean square error (MSE) of the horizontal displacement test set prediction results is 0.142, and the coefficient of determination (R2) is higher than 91%. The maximum value of MSE for vertical displacement test set prediction is 0.069, and the R2 are higher than 91%. The study shows that the performance of the PSO-LSTM prediction model can meet the requirements for predicting the displacement of the tunnel portal slope. Based on the MF-DFA method and PSO-LSTM prediction model, the fluctuation characteristics of the displacement value of the tunnel portal section can be accurately identified and the displacement development pattern can be effectively predicted. The conclusions of the study are of great practical significance for the safe construction of the tunnel portal section.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Underground Space Design: Structural Stability and Mechanics Analysis)
Open AccessArticle
Automated Counting of Steel Construction Materials: Model, Methodology, and Online Deployment
by
Jun Chen, Qian Huang, Wenhao Chen, Yang Li and Yutao Chen
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1661; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061661 - 4 Jun 2024
Abstract
Construction material management is crucial for promoting intelligent construction methods. At present, the manual inventory of materials is inefficient and expensive. Therefore, an intelligent counting method for steel materials was developed in this study using the object detection algorithm. First, a large-scale image
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Construction material management is crucial for promoting intelligent construction methods. At present, the manual inventory of materials is inefficient and expensive. Therefore, an intelligent counting method for steel materials was developed in this study using the object detection algorithm. First, a large-scale image dataset consisting of rebars, circular steel pipes, square steel tubes, and I-beams on construction sites was collected and constructed to promote the development of intelligent counting methods. A vision-based and accurate counting model for steel materials was subsequently established by improving the YOLOv4 detector in terms of its network structure, loss function, and training strategy. The proposed model provides a maximum average precision of 91.41% and a mean absolute error of 4.07 in counting square steel tubes. Finally, a mobile application and a WeChat mini-program were developed using the proposed model to allow users to accurately count materials in real time by taking photos and uploading them. Since being released, this application has attracted more than 28,000 registered users.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Intelligent Construction, Operation and Maintenance)
Open AccessArticle
Three-Dimensional Discrete Element Analysis of Bearing Characteristics of Concrete–Cored Sand–Gravel Pile Composite Foundation under Cyclic Dynamic Load
by
Binhui Ma, Wenbiao Tang, Tian Lan, Xu Deng and Bicheng Du
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1660; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061660 - 4 Jun 2024
Abstract
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Concrete-cored sand–gravel piles are a kind of composite pile formed by wrapping a concrete-cored pile with a sand–gravel shell, which has the advantages of both a rigid pile and bulk-material pile. The bearing characteristics of the concrete-cored sand–gravel pile composite foundation were investigated
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Concrete-cored sand–gravel piles are a kind of composite pile formed by wrapping a concrete-cored pile with a sand–gravel shell, which has the advantages of both a rigid pile and bulk-material pile. The bearing characteristics of the concrete-cored sand–gravel pile composite foundation were investigated by establishing a three-dimensional discrete element numerical model for a cyclic dynamic loading test. The results show that the vertical stress of the core pile body fluctuates greatly at the beginning of loading, and the fluctuation amplitude decreases with the depth, and gradually tends to be stable in the middle and late stages, and the vertical-stress distribution is relatively uniform. The radial stress in the upper part of the core pile body fluctuates greatly, the fluctuation in the lower part is small, and the radial stress in each part of the core pile body gradually tends to be stable in the late-loading period. The radial stress factor of the core pile body reaches the stable speed with the foundation depth decreasing; the fluctuation amplitude of the pile-soil stress ratio decreases with the foundation depth and gradually tends to be stable with the increase in loading. The results of this study can provide a reference for the design and construction of a core sand pile composite foundation.
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Open AccessArticle
A Comparative Analysis of Machine Learning Algorithms in Predicting the Performance of a Combined Radiant Floor and Fan Coil Cooling System
by
Shengze Lu, Mengying Cui, Bo Gao, Jianhua Liu, Ji Ni, Jiying Liu and Shiyu Zhou
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1659; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061659 - 4 Jun 2024
Abstract
Machine learning algorithms have proven to be practical in a wide range of applications. Many studies have been conducted on the operational energy consumption and thermal comfort of radiant floor systems. This paper conducts a case study in a self-designed experimental setup that
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Machine learning algorithms have proven to be practical in a wide range of applications. Many studies have been conducted on the operational energy consumption and thermal comfort of radiant floor systems. This paper conducts a case study in a self-designed experimental setup that combines radiant floor and fan coil cooling (RFCFC) and develops a data monitoring system as a source of historical operational data. Seven machine learning algorithms (extreme learning machine (ELM), convolutional neural network (CNN), genetic algorithm-back propagation (GA-BP), radial basis function (RBF), random forest (RF), support vector machine (SVM), and long short-term memory (LSTM)) were employed to predict the behavior of the RFCFC system. Corresponding prediction models were then developed to evaluate operative temperature (Top) and energy consumption (Eh). The performance of the model was evaluated using five error metrics. The obtained results showed that the RF model had very high performance in predicting Top and Eh, with high correlation coefficients (>0.9915) and low error metrics. Compared with other models, it also demonstrated high accuracy in Eh prediction, yielding maximum reductions of 68.1, 82.4, and 43.2% in the mean absolute percentage error (MAPE), mean squared error (MSE), and mean absolute error (MAE), respectively. A sensitivity ranking algorithm analysis was also conducted. The obtained results demonstrated the importance of adjusting parameters, such as the radiant floor supply water temperature, to enhance the indoor comfort. This study provides a novel and effective method for evaluating the energy efficiency and thermal comfort of radiant cooling systems. It also provides insights for optimizing the efficiency and thermal comfort of RFCFC systems, and lays a theoretical foundation for future studies integrating machine learning algorithms in this field.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Radiant Cooling and Heating Systems in Buildings)
Open AccessArticle
On the Shear Force Redistribution in Composite Steel and Concrete Beams with Web Openings
by
Jakub Bartus and Jaroslav Odrobinak
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1658; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061658 - 4 Jun 2024
Abstract
As far as research into the field of composite steel and concrete beams with web openings has shown, the initiation of a complex stress state due to the introduction of web openings is, unfortunately, inevitable. As a logical consequence, estimation of the resistance
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As far as research into the field of composite steel and concrete beams with web openings has shown, the initiation of a complex stress state due to the introduction of web openings is, unfortunately, inevitable. As a logical consequence, estimation of the resistance becomes complex as well. Aiming to provide a more convenient approach, especially for evaluation of the bending resistance to the Vierendeel effect with the presence of high shear forces, a marked simplification with respect to quantification of the shear force redistribution between T-sections is presented. This novel approach stands on strong fundamentals of experimental evidence and parametric finite element (FE) investigation. Concretely, within the experimental part of this investigation, the load response of four composite beam samples was recorded and profoundly analyzed. Subsequently, a detailed FE analysis in the software ANSYS 2024 R1 (ANSYS Inc., Canonsburg, PA, USA), exploiting its parametric design language (APDL), was conducted. Finally, concise data compilation and their comprehensible interpretation were enabled by employing the software MATLAB 2024a (The MathWorks, Inc., Natick, MA, USA). In view of this treatment, a cornerstone for successive assessment of the obtained data was laid. Attempting to identify the key factors influencing the shear force proportion between the tees, integration of the shear stresses along the vertical sections with regular spacing along the FE beam models was conducted. By virtue of this concept, not only the magnitudes of the shear forces for the tees were obtained but also the leading importance of the opening depth was demonstrated. Furthermore, a complete picture of the shear force behavior along the composite perforated beams was derived. On this basis, a novel method representing a simpler and more accurate form of estimation of the shear force proportion for T-sections was proposed.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Structures)
Open AccessArticle
Crack Detection of Curved Surface Structure Based on Multi-Image Stitching Method
by
Dashun Cui and Chunwei Zhang
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1657; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061657 - 4 Jun 2024
Abstract
The crack detection method based on image processing has been a new achievement in the field of civil engineering inspection in recent years. Column piers are generally used in bridge structures. When a digital camera collects cracks on the pier surface, the loss
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The crack detection method based on image processing has been a new achievement in the field of civil engineering inspection in recent years. Column piers are generally used in bridge structures. When a digital camera collects cracks on the pier surface, the loss of crack dimension information leads to errors in crack detection results. In this paper, an image stitching method based on Speed-Up Robust Features (SURFs) is adopted to stitch the surface crack images captured from different angles into a complete crack image to improve the accuracy of the crack detection method based on image processing in curved structures. Based on the proposed method, simulated crack tests of vertical, inclined, and transverse cracks on five different structural surfaces were conducted. The results showed that the influence of structural curvature on the measurement results of vertical cracks is very small and can be ignored. Nevertheless, the loss of depth information at both ends of curved cracks will lead to errors in crack measurement outcomes, and the factors that affect the precision of crack detection include the curvature of the surface and the length of the crack. Compared with inclined cracks, the structural curvature significantly influences the measurement results of transverse cracks, especially the length measurement results of transverse cracks. The image stitching method can effectively reduce the errors caused by the structural curved surface, and the stitching effect of three images is better than that of two images.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Structural Performance and Damage Assessment of Reinforced Concrete Structures Exposed to High Strain Rate Loads)
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The Study of the Cognitive Tendency of Chinese Y and Z Generations towards the Design Element Shan-Shui in Architectural Environments
by
Shaochen Wang and Yang Song
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1656; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061656 - 4 Jun 2024
Abstract
The future of architectural environments in China will serve the needs of, and thus be shaped/re-shaped by, the Chinese Y and Z generations. Although Shan-Shui designs have long been a classic style of architectural environment in China, there is a lack of comprehensive
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The future of architectural environments in China will serve the needs of, and thus be shaped/re-shaped by, the Chinese Y and Z generations. Although Shan-Shui designs have long been a classic style of architectural environment in China, there is a lack of comprehensive studies on how the Chinese Y and Z generations perceive Shan-Shui designs as an architectural style. Quantitatively analyzing and understanding Chinese YZ generations’ perceived relationships between Shan-Shui designs and architectural environments will have many implications for both the economy and education. In this paper, we present a large-scale study by conducting a questionnaire survey of 441 human subjects representative of both the Y and Z generations. The questionnaires were carefully designed with a focus on understanding the perceptions and cognitions of Shan-Shui designs in the survey group. The survey results were analyzed using the widely adopted SPSS25 method. Our overall analyses show that the Chinese Y and Z generations have a tendency to subconsciously perceive Shan-Shui as a relatively independent form/style from architectural environments. Between the Y and Z generations, our comparative analyses show that the latter has a more positive perception with respect to different aspects of Shan-Shui designs in architectural environments.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Architectural Design, Urban Science, and Real Estate)
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Open AccessArticle
Multi-Story Volumetric Blocks Buildings with Lower Frame Floors
by
Ilia Teshev, Aliy Bespayev, Zauresh Zhambakina, Murat Tamov, Ulan Altigenov, Timur Zhussupov and Aigerim Tolegenova
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1655; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061655 - 4 Jun 2024
Abstract
This article presents the results of experimental studies of the stress–strain state of volumetric blocks based on the underlying frame structures. The aim of the research is to evaluate the stress–strain state and the nature of damage development as a result of an
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This article presents the results of experimental studies of the stress–strain state of volumetric blocks based on the underlying frame structures. The aim of the research is to evaluate the stress–strain state and the nature of damage development as a result of an increase in the load up to a critical level. Based on the analysis of the nature of the damage, recommendations have been developed to strengthen the destruction zone. Data were collected on the redistribution of stresses and deformations, the formation of cracks and joint openings, the magnitude of horizontal displacements, and the failure mode of volumetric blocks and floor frames. Five full-scale volumetric blocks were tested under the loading of hydraulic jacks, differing in concrete type, reinforcement, presence of doors, and dimensions of the stylobate beams. When the volumetric modules were supported by a frame floor the results revealed that the maximum destructive load of 10,462 kN was observed in the first specimen; the horizontal displacements of the walls decreased by 13–18 mm, and there was a decrease in the crack opening width to 0.5 mm. The cracks decreased the strength of the walls, leading to a redistribution of the compressive stresses and their increase in the support zone. The most significant compressive strains in concrete in the corner parts of longitudinal walls were in the range of (600–620) × 10−6, and in the middle part of the walls, 370 × 10−6 were observed. Furthermore, the largest cracks caused significant horizontal displacements (deplanation) of the walls, which decreased the stiffness of the conjunction of longitudinal walls with the floor slab and created an additional eccentricity of the vertical force. Based on the findings, the correlation between the measured parameters of each specimen at all stages of vertical load increase is demonstrated and illustrated in graphs of the measured parameters. The importance of quantity compliance with the initial rigid connection between the longitudinal wall and ceiling plate has been estimated.
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(This article belongs to the Section Building Structures)
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Open AccessArticle
Implementation of an Automated Code Checking Algorithm Based on Site Analysis
by
Seong Jeongmin and Shin Sangyun
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1654; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061654 - 4 Jun 2024
Abstract
To date, BIM has been primarily utilized in cost and schedule management, an interference check between architectural and structural models and systems based on geometric data in the process of the construction life cycle. However, there is a lack of research that utilizes
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To date, BIM has been primarily utilized in cost and schedule management, an interference check between architectural and structural models and systems based on geometric data in the process of the construction life cycle. However, there is a lack of research that utilizes the information contained in the BIM model to review whether the proposed architectural model is appropriately designed in accordance with each country’s building regulations or building codes or that proposes a model optimized for laws and standards. ‘Building code checking’ is the step of reviewing whether a building designed based on the building codes is suitable for being constructed as a building. However, this process consumes significant time and money and leads to human errors due to the manual review process. This study included implementation of an algorithm based on the Korean building code. In this study, there was the process of selection of codes when architects interpret building codes in common and implementation based on the codes selected. Next, modeling based on DXF files from NGII (National Geographic Information Institute) was applied to the algorithm developed in this study. Last, it includes case studies that compare the outputs of the algorithm with the real buildings, which had received real code checking, to make sure the algorithm in this paper is working properly. The implementation of such an automated system has the potential to significantly improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the building design and construction process. It can help architects to quickly and accurately identify potential legal issues and provide alternative solutions that meet regulatory requirements. This, in turn, can lead to reduced project costs, improved quality of designs, and faster project delivery times.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Technologies for Urban and Architectural Design)
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Open AccessArticle
Numerical Study of the Ultimate Bearing Capacity of Two Adjacent Rough Strip Footings on Granular Soil: Effects of Rotational and Horizontal Constraints of Footings
by
Mahdi Salari, Mojtaba Lezgy-Nazargah, Vahid Shafaie and Majid Movahedi Rad
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1653; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061653 (registering DOI) - 4 Jun 2024
Abstract
In this paper, the numerical study of the ultimate bearing capacity (UBC) of two closely spaced strip footings on granular soil is investigated using the finite element method (FEM) and upper bound limit analysis (UBLA). Although the UBC of two adjacent footings has
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In this paper, the numerical study of the ultimate bearing capacity (UBC) of two closely spaced strip footings on granular soil is investigated using the finite element method (FEM) and upper bound limit analysis (UBLA). Although the UBC of two adjacent footings has previously been studied in other experimental and numerical research, in all the previously reported studies, the footings were not allowed to rotate and move horizontally freely. Due to the deformation of the soil medium, two closely spaced footings are subjected to horizontal movements and tilting, even under central vertical loads. When the two adjacent footings are not permitted to rotate and move in the horizontal directions, the unwanted bending moment and horizontal force act on the footings. Indeed, the UBC of two closely spaced rough footings is evaluated under incorrect constraints in earlier research. In the present research, the UBC of two adjacent rough footings is evaluated with and without these incorrect constraints. The key finding of this study is that constraining the horizontal and rotational movement of the foundation artificially increases the UBC, which does not reflect field conditions. When foundations are permitted to rotate and move horizontally, there is no increase in UBC; however, there is an increased risk of differential settlement and structural instability.
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(This article belongs to the Section Building Structures)
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Open AccessArticle
Study of Acoustic Prototypes Based on Plastic Cap Waste
by
Romina Del Rey, José Enrique Crespo Amorós, Joan Escales Tur and Jesús Alba
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1652; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061652 (registering DOI) - 4 Jun 2024
Abstract
This paper presents the initial prototypes of solutions designed using plastic caps, seeking acoustic applications for both airborne sound insulation and the acoustic conditioning of rooms. Plastic caps are a waste product from the packaging sector and they constitute a major waste problem,
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This paper presents the initial prototypes of solutions designed using plastic caps, seeking acoustic applications for both airborne sound insulation and the acoustic conditioning of rooms. Plastic caps are a waste product from the packaging sector and they constitute a major waste problem, given that, if they are not attached to the packaging, they get lost during the recycling cycle and end up in landfill. Finding an application for this waste that can provide acoustic improvements is a sustainable alternative. This paper shows the results of airborne sound insulation measurements obtained in a scaled transmission chamber and sound absorption measurements obtained in a scaled reverberation chamber for different combinations of single and double plastic caps and combinations with thin sheets of sustainable materials, such as jute weaving, textile waste, hemp felt and cork board. Tests have shown that obtaining sound reduction index values of up to 20 dB is possible with plastic cap configurations, or even up to 30 dB is possible at some frequencies with combinations of caps and certain eco-materials. With regard to the sound absorption coefficient tests, close to unity absorption values have been achieved with the appropriate configuration at frequencies that can also be selected. The results indicate that these panels can be eco-solutions for airborne sound insulation as lightweight elements, or they can be used for the conditioning of rooms, tailoring the sound absorption maximums to the desired frequencies.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Comfortable Environments: Materials for Room Acoustics and Noise Control)
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Open AccessArticle
Practicalities of Incorporating 3D Laser Scanning with BIM in Live Construction Projects: A Case Study
by
Farhad Sadeghineko, Kenneth Lawani and Michael Tong
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1651; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061651 (registering DOI) - 4 Jun 2024
Abstract
The integration of laser scanning technology and Building Information Modelling (BIM) processes offers a transformative approach to managing the complexities in live construction projects. This paper aims to explore the significant impacts of incorporating laser scanning and BIM on construction projects in terms
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The integration of laser scanning technology and Building Information Modelling (BIM) processes offers a transformative approach to managing the complexities in live construction projects. This paper aims to explore the significant impacts of incorporating laser scanning and BIM on construction projects in terms of as-built models, information management, and overall project performance utilising case study analysis of a building that was not BIM-based. The research scope is defined by the need to investigate the integration of laser scanning and BIM in live construction projects. It details the data acquisition process, challenges encountered due to site obstructions, and the methodologies employed for spatial modelling procedures. Key findings reveal that such integration can significantly enhance the accuracy of data collection and improve project outcomes. Results also identify the need for specialised equipment and skills for the effective implementation of such integrations. The research concludes by offering a practical approach to enhancing construction processes, from design to maintenance. This paper contributes to the body of knowledge by providing a detailed analysis of the practical application of laser scanning and BIM in a live construction project, offering insights into the benefits, challenges, and future directions for integrating these technologies in the construction industry.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Building Information Modelling (BIM) Applications in Construction Management)
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Open AccessArticle
Seismic Isolation Performance of Nuclear Power Plant Containment Structures
by
Zhicheng Xue, Xiujun Cui, Qiang Pei, Jintu Zhong, Yongyi He and Yao Zhang
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1650; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061650 (registering DOI) - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
Non-isolated structures have strong destructive effects and poor isolation effects when encountering earthquakes. Setting isolation bearings can prolong the natural vibration period of the structure, reduce the horizontal seismic response of the structure under the influence of variables such as acceleration, base reaction,
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Non-isolated structures have strong destructive effects and poor isolation effects when encountering earthquakes. Setting isolation bearings can prolong the natural vibration period of the structure, reduce the horizontal seismic response of the structure under the influence of variables such as acceleration, base reaction, and inter story displacement, and enhance the overall seismic performance of the structure. The new material—epoxy plate thick layer rubber isolation bearing—has unique advantages compared to other bearings, such as effective energy absorption, simple construction, and low cost. This study establishes a three-dimensional isolated nuclear power plant containment structure based on the principle of similarity ratio, and compares and analyzes the acceleration, base reaction, and displacement responses of non-isolated and isolated structures. At the same time, the incremental dynamic analysis method (IDA) is used to analyze the seismic vulnerability of the structure, and the isolation performance of the nuclear containment structure using epoxy plate thick layer rubber isolation bearings is comprehensively and deeply explored. The results show that the epoxy plate thick layer rubber isolation bearing effectively prolongs the natural vibration period of the structure, reduces the horizontal seismic response of the structure, reduces the dome acceleration response by 66.55%, and reduces the base horizontal shear force by 55.51%. Therefore, setting epoxy plate thick layer rubber isolation bearings in the isolation layer can effectively enhance the seismic performance of the structure, thereby improving the redundancy of the nuclear power plant containment structure.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Structures)
Open AccessArticle
Analysis and Optimization of Residential Elements from the Perspective of Multi-Child Families in the Yangtze River Delta Region
by
Xi Zhou, Fan Ye, Fang Zhang and Dengyu Wang
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1649; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061649 - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
Over the last few decades, policy changes have resulted in changes in family structure and cyclical changes within families. The structure of multi-child families will have a significant influence on housing demand and supply, necessitating a thorough demand study. This study examines the
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Over the last few decades, policy changes have resulted in changes in family structure and cyclical changes within families. The structure of multi-child families will have a significant influence on housing demand and supply, necessitating a thorough demand study. This study examines the requirements of 739 multi-child families in the Yangtze River Delta (YRD) region at different stages and graphically displays the variables influencing their level of housing satisfaction, offering a scientific reference for the design and optimization of housing. Firstly, the residential elements that impact families with multiple children were categorized into 3 categories, 14 subcategories, and 65 influencing elements based on expert consultation and word frequency data. Secondly, 739 families in the YRD region were chosen for investigation, and importance–performance analysis (IPA) was employed to study and assess the residential elements of multi-child families. The IPA study findings were compared to those obtained from on-site surveys and network data crawling. Finally, the residential elements to be optimized were quantitatively determined, and the relevant optimization techniques were provided in conjunction with door-to-door interviewing. This study examines the needs of multi-child families at various phases, as well as the factors that impact their residential satisfaction, and provides optimization solutions for the long-term use and renewal of residential structures.
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(This article belongs to the Section Architectural Design, Urban Science, and Real Estate)
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Open AccessArticle
Research on Optimization Design Strategies for Natural Ventilation in Living Units of Institutional Elderly Care Facilities Based on Computational Fluid Dynamics Simulation
by
Tianye Liu, Jingxian Wang, Dian Zhou, Xiangzhao Meng, Xilian Luo and Yupeng Wang
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1648; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061648 - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
As China transitions into a deeply aging society, the elderly population’s growth has driven a rapid increase in elderly care institutions and facilities during the “13th Five-Year Plan” period, rising by over 235% compared to the “12th Five-Year Plan”. The ongoing normalization of
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As China transitions into a deeply aging society, the elderly population’s growth has driven a rapid increase in elderly care institutions and facilities during the “13th Five-Year Plan” period, rising by over 235% compared to the “12th Five-Year Plan”. The ongoing normalization of COVID-19 prevention measures has underscored the urgent need to improve natural ventilation in elderly care residential facilities. This study conducted empirical surveys to assess the current state of natural ventilation in typical elderly care facilities and analyzed the architectural elements influencing it. By examining the needs and preferences of the elderly for natural ventilation, two basic living space layout types were identified through typological analysis. Suitable CFD simulation software was then employed to model key elements, and effective methods to enhance ventilation were summarized. This study found that modifying the floor plan to reduce the depth of south-facing rooms to 8.4 m, relocating external openings to the center of the rooms, adjusting the ratio of ventilation openings to room area to greater than 1/12, and adding 0.5 m high windows facing internal traffic roads can significantly improve indoor ventilation while maintaining privacy. Furthermore, placing the main activity and resting areas of the elderly in well-ventilated zones with minimal drafts can enhance both comfort and ventilation effectiveness. The research provides a scientific basis and methodological guidance for the construction and renovation of elderly care residential facilities.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Engineering Problems and Legal Challenges in Urban and Rural Low-Carbon Development)
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Open AccessArticle
Research on the Current Situation and Calculation Method of Carbon Emissions Assessment for Building Curtain Walls
by
Xichen Zhang, Xiangqiu Fu, Xiuchun Zheng, Shunmou Li, Qian Zhao and Jinjie Lin
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1647; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061647 - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
Curtain wall systems stand out as a pivotal domain within the construction sector’s endeavors towards energy efficiency and carbon mitigation. To refine the evaluation framework for carbon emissions within this industry, this paper explores the calculation and assessment method for building curtain walls.
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Curtain wall systems stand out as a pivotal domain within the construction sector’s endeavors towards energy efficiency and carbon mitigation. To refine the evaluation framework for carbon emissions within this industry, this paper explores the calculation and assessment method for building curtain walls. The article first reviews the current research status regarding carbon emissions from materials and the impact of curtain walls on buildings in the operational stage. Based on lifecycle theory, the carbon emissions from building curtain walls are divided into six stages: material acquisition, processing and production, installation and construction, transportation, use and maintenance, and dismantling. On this basis, this paper proposes a method for calculating carbon emissions from building curtain walls. Following that, a case study is conducted using a specific glass curtain wall project for illustrative analysis. The results indicate that the carbon emissions from the material acquisition stage constitute approximately 90% of the total, serving as the primary source of carbon emissions for glass curtain walls. Furthermore, the scientific application of photovoltaics can significantly reduce the carbon emission levels of building curtain walls. Finally, an analysis was conducted on the current issues existing in the evaluation of carbon emissions.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Building Technologies for Energy Savings and Decarbonization)
Open AccessArticle
Energy Efficiency Analysis of Building Envelope Renovation and Photovoltaic System in a High-Rise Hotel Building in Indonesia
by
Leni Sagita Riantini, Rossy Armyn Machfudiyanto, Titi Sari Nurul Rachmawati, Mochamad Daffa Alfiansyah Rachman, Reza Fachrizal and Farshid Shadram
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1646; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061646 - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
The development of high-rise buildings worldwide has given rise to significant concerns regarding their excessive electricity consumption. Among the various categories of high-rise structures, hotels used for business and conferences stand out as particularly extravagant in their energy use. The consequence arising from
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The development of high-rise buildings worldwide has given rise to significant concerns regarding their excessive electricity consumption. Among the various categories of high-rise structures, hotels used for business and conferences stand out as particularly extravagant in their energy use. The consequence arising from excessive energy usage is an escalation in carbon emissions, which is a primary driver of global warming. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the energy use intensity (EUI) of a hotel building located in Jakarta, Indonesia. In order to improve energy performance, this study explored various options for renovating the building envelope, such as incorporating insulation and a roof covering, as well as implementing building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV). The building envelope renovations demonstrated a notable reduction in energy use by 15.8–27.7% per year. BIPV, such as curtain walls and double-skin façades, generated an energy use reduction of 4.8–8.6% per year. Remarkably, by combining the two approaches (i.e., adding insulation and a roof covering in the building envelope and adopting BIPV as double-skin façades), the potential reduction in energy use reached up to 32.2% per year. The findings can assist decision-makers in developing building renovation strategies for high-rise buildings while considering energy conservation.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Building Technologies for Energy Savings and Decarbonization)
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