Buildings: 10th Anniversary

A special issue of Buildings (ISSN 2075-5309).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 October 2021) | Viewed by 148106

Special Issue Editor

Construction Engineering and Management Program, Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering, Illinois Institute of Technology, 3201 South Dearborn Street, Chicago, IL 60616, USA
Interests: construction management; organizational theory; conflict resolution; optimal bidding strategies; project delivery systems; sustainability, linear scheduling methods; stochastic simulation; information technologies
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Buildings is celebrating its 10th anniversary. During this time, Buildings has come a long way.  Over these years, the number of published papers, the rejection rate, the number of full-text downloads, the number of citations, the Impact Factor, and the submission-to-publication time have consistently and steadily improved. The scope of the journal is comprehensive, and includes almost every aspect of building design, construction, and operation. The Editorial Board is composed of a relatively small but great mix of highly accomplished and well-established academics and practitioners, representing many countries. I am hoping that the members of our Editorial Board will contribute to the “10th Anniversary” Issue by writing papers in their respective areas of expertise reflecting the scope of the journal, covering historical trends, current challenges, the state-of-the-art, creative and innovative solutions, and future developments in building science, engineering, and management.

Prof. Dr. David Arditi
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

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

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

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • architecture
  • design
  • construction
  • management
  • operations
  • materials
  • structures
  • mechanical systems
  • lighting systems
  • sustainability
  • energy

Published Papers (39 papers)

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Research

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17 pages, 2976 KiB  
Article
Evaluating Modular Healthcare Facilities for COVID-19 Emergency Response—A Case of Hong Kong
by Wei Pan and Zhiqian Zhang
Buildings 2022, 12(9), 1430; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings12091430 - 11 Sep 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2969
Abstract
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, modular construction has been adopted for rapidly delivering healthcare facilities, but few have systematically explored the impacts of the pandemic and the contributions of modular construction. This paper aims to evaluate modular construction for delivering healthcare facilities [...] Read more.
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, modular construction has been adopted for rapidly delivering healthcare facilities, but few have systematically explored the impacts of the pandemic and the contributions of modular construction. This paper aims to evaluate modular construction for delivering healthcare facilities in response to COVID-19, through the exploration of the challenges, strategies, and performance of using modular construction for emergency healthcare building project delivery. The study was conducted using 12 real-life healthcare building projects in Hong Kong with both within- and cross-case analyses. The results of the within-case study reveal critical challenges such as tight program but limited resources available and the corresponding strategies such as implementation of smart technologies. The results of the cross-case analysis indicate 106% improved time efficiency and 203% enhanced cost efficiency of using modular construction compared with conventional practices. Based on the multi-case studies, the paper develops an innovative framework which illustrates the roles of stakeholders, goals, engineering challenges, and management principles of using modular construction. Practically, the paper should assist both policymakers and industry stakeholders in addressing the critical challenges of delivering healthcare facilities under COVID-19 in an efficient and collaborative manner. Theoretically, it should set an exemplar of linking the building construction industry with emergency management and healthcare service systems to facilitate efficient response to pandemics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Buildings: 10th Anniversary)
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17 pages, 2617 KiB  
Article
Analysis of the Air-Reversed Brayton Heat Pump with Different Layouts of Turbochargers for Space Heating
by Shugang Wang, Shuangshuang Li, Shuang Jiang and Xiaozhou Wu
Buildings 2022, 12(7), 870; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings12070870 - 21 Jun 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1579
Abstract
The air-reversed Brayton cycle produces charming, environmentally friendly effects by using air as its refrigerant and has potential energy efficiency in applications related to space heating and building heating. However, there exist several types of cycle that need to be discussed. In this [...] Read more.
The air-reversed Brayton cycle produces charming, environmentally friendly effects by using air as its refrigerant and has potential energy efficiency in applications related to space heating and building heating. However, there exist several types of cycle that need to be discussed. In this paper, six types of air-reversed Brayton heat pump with a turbocharger, applicable under different heating conditions, are developed. The expressions of the heating coefficient of performance (COP) and the corresponding turbine pressure ratio are derived based on thermodynamic analysis. By using these expressions, the effects of turbine pressure ratio on the COP under different working conditions are theoretically analyzed, and the optimal COPs of different cycles under specific working conditions are determined. It is observed that Cycles A and C have the highest heating COPs, and there is an optimal pressure ratio for each cycle. The corresponding pressure ratio of the optimal COP is different, concentrated in the range of 1.5–1.9. When the pressure ratio reaches the optimal value, increasing the pressure ratio does not significantly improve the heating COP. Take Cycle F as an example: the maximum error between the calculated results and experimental observation is lower than 5.6%. These results will enable further study of the air-reversed Brayton heat pump with a turbocharger from a different perspective. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Buildings: 10th Anniversary)
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23 pages, 19116 KiB  
Article
Earth to Earth: Patterns of Environmental Decay Affecting Modern Pisé Walls
by Dirk H. R. Spennemann
Buildings 2022, 12(6), 748; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings12060748 - 31 May 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2569
Abstract
Rammed earth/pisé is an earth building technique with a deep history in several countries across the globe. In the past twenty years, pisé buildings have seen a resurgence in popularity, primarily because of their environmentally friendly, passive energy characteristics, but also due [...] Read more.
Rammed earth/pisé is an earth building technique with a deep history in several countries across the globe. In the past twenty years, pisé buildings have seen a resurgence in popularity, primarily because of their environmentally friendly, passive energy characteristics, but also due to the aesthetic appeal of the fabric. As with all other earth architecture, pisé is susceptible to decay by moisture ingress. This paper presents longitudinal observations on the decay of capped and uncapped pisé walls of an early twenty-first-century complex of four buildings in Albury (NSW, Australia). It can be shown that while surface treatment with water-repellent sealants prevents the ingress of penetrating damp, it also traps moisture (falling damp) in the fabric by restricting evaporation. This leads to internal cleavage between the consolidated and the unconsolidated fabric and accelerates the decay of uncapped walls. The future design of both stabilized and unstabilized external rammed earth walls must ensure effective protection from rainfall through well-proportioned overhanging eaves. While the capping of feature walls may be aesthetically pleasing, and thus architecturally desirable, it does not adequately protect the walling against long-term decay. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Buildings: 10th Anniversary)
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15 pages, 4597 KiB  
Article
The Impact of Building Orientation and Window-to-Wall Ratio on the Performance of Electrochromic Glazing in Hot Arid Climates: A Parametric Assessment
by Imene Lahmar, Alessandro Cannavale, Francesco Martellotta and Noureddine Zemmouri
Buildings 2022, 12(6), 724; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings12060724 - 26 May 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2584
Abstract
The significant increase in construction industry demand with its negative effects on energy consumption is particularly evident in areas with severe climatic factors. Here, the designers aim at providing comfort with the least amount of energy, and consequently have resorted to using different [...] Read more.
The significant increase in construction industry demand with its negative effects on energy consumption is particularly evident in areas with severe climatic factors. Here, the designers aim at providing comfort with the least amount of energy, and consequently have resorted to using different software tools to choose the optimal solution in the early phase of design to avoid time and cost losses. The use of smart innovative technologies such as electrochromic (EC) glazing may provide an important contribution in reducing consumptions while providing good thermal and visual comfort conditions. Nonetheless, as shown in the literature, such glazing should be used and managed carefully to avoid any adverse effects or low performance. Thus, a parametric simulation was carried out using Rhinoceros and Grasshopper to assess the advantages in terms of energy use resulting from use of EC glazing in residential buildings as a function of façade orientation and window-to-wall ratio (WWR) with reference to the city of Biskra, located in the northeastern region of Algeria. Eight main orientations and ten WWR scenarios were investigated in order to evaluate the benefit of using this technology in the selected climatic region. The research results proved the benefit of using EC glazing in all orientations, with energy savings ranging from 35.88% in the northern façade to 60.47% in the southwestern façade. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Buildings: 10th Anniversary)
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14 pages, 1615 KiB  
Article
Green and Gold Buildings? Detecting Real Estate Market Premium for Green Buildings through Evolutionary Polynomial Regression
by Domenico Enrico Massimo, Pierfrancesco De Paola, Mariangela Musolino, Alessandro Malerba and Francesco Paolo Del Giudice
Buildings 2022, 12(5), 621; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings12050621 - 07 May 2022
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 2308
Abstract
This study concerns the determination of empirical evidence of a real estate market premium for Green Buildings and of an aware role of the private real estate market as driver to foster-up urban and architectural sustainability and energy efficiency. In real estate markets, [...] Read more.
This study concerns the determination of empirical evidence of a real estate market premium for Green Buildings and of an aware role of the private real estate market as driver to foster-up urban and architectural sustainability and energy efficiency. In real estate markets, there is growing relevance of Green Buildings, especially in cities where the greater part of residential buildings is built before the first regulations on energy performance. Through policies oriented towards sustainable practices, a twofold goal can be achieved: energy consumption mitigation respecting the historical value for existing buildings, direct economic impacts on real estate values. In some metropolitan or urban contexts, the “green premium” for buildings can be understood as a real “gold premium”. This result has been highlighted and quantified with a real estate market analysis developed for a central area of an Italian mid-size city, pursued through the innovative tool of Evolutionary Polynomial Regression (EPR). The study highlighted a higher sale price for properties characterized by the best ecological characteristics and energy efficiency (+41.52%). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Buildings: 10th Anniversary)
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23 pages, 6936 KiB  
Article
An Innovative Modelling Approach Based on Building Physics and Machine Learning for the Prediction of Indoor Thermal Comfort in an Office Building
by Giovanni Tardioli, Ricardo Filho, Pierre Bernaud and Dimitrios Ntimos
Buildings 2022, 12(4), 475; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings12040475 - 12 Apr 2022
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 2795
Abstract
The estimation of indoor thermal comfort and the associated occupant feedback in office buildings is important to provide satisfactory and safe working environments, enhance the productivity of personnel, and to reduce complaints. The assessment of thermal comfort is a difficult task due to [...] Read more.
The estimation of indoor thermal comfort and the associated occupant feedback in office buildings is important to provide satisfactory and safe working environments, enhance the productivity of personnel, and to reduce complaints. The assessment of thermal comfort is a difficult task due to many environmental, physiological, and cultural variables that influence occupants’ thermal perception and the way they judge their working environment. Traditional physics-based methods for evaluating thermal comfort have shown shortcomings when compared to actual responses from the occupants due to the incapacity of these methods to incorporate information of various natures. In this paper, a hybrid approach based on machine learning and building dynamic simulation is presented for the prediction of indoor thermal comfort feedback in an office building in Le Bour-get-du-Lac, Chambéry, France. The office was equipped with Internet of Things (IoT) environmental sensors. Occupant feedback on thermal comfort was collected during an experimental campaign. A calibrated building energy model was created for the building. Various machine learning models were trained using information from the occupants, environmental data, and data extracted from the calibrated dynamic simulation model for the prediction of thermal comfort votes. When compared to traditional predictive approaches, the proposed method shows an increase in accuracy of about 25%. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Buildings: 10th Anniversary)
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18 pages, 5273 KiB  
Article
Experimental Investigation on Cement Mortar Bricks Manufactured with Fennel Wastes
by Antonio Formisano and Antonio Davino
Buildings 2022, 12(2), 230; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings12020230 - 17 Feb 2022
Viewed by 1612
Abstract
Current practices supporting sustainable building design aim at reducing the expenditure of natural resources, such as raw materials, energy and water, in the production of construction supplies. In the current paper water is replaced by fennel centrifugate (FC) for the realization of cement [...] Read more.
Current practices supporting sustainable building design aim at reducing the expenditure of natural resources, such as raw materials, energy and water, in the production of construction supplies. In the current paper water is replaced by fennel centrifugate (FC) for the realization of cement mortar bricks. After having identified the most suitable cementitious pre-mixed over three potential candidates, the mechanical and physical characteristics of the FC bricks are compared to cement mortar bricks, prepared with regular water, by means of bending, compression at ordinary and high temperatures, imbibition and acoustic tests. From compared results, it is noticed that FC bricks have the same imbibition property, but tensile and compression (ordinary and high temperatures) resistances have about 20% less than the control specimen ones. The acoustic tests revealed a better response of FC bricks to the high frequencies greater than 1600 Hz. However, fennel fibres do not provide a manifest advantage, likely due to the small size of the centrifuged fragments that are not able to enhance the product tensile resistance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Buildings: 10th Anniversary)
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25 pages, 4374 KiB  
Article
BIM in the Center of Digital Transformation of the Construction Sector—The Status of BIM Adoption in North Macedonia
by Lihnida Stojanovska-Georgievska, Ivana Sandeva, Aleksandar Krleski, Hristina Spasevska, Margarita Ginovska, Igor Panchevski, Risto Ivanov, Ignasi Perez Arnal, Tomo Cerovsek and Tomas Funtik
Buildings 2022, 12(2), 218; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings12020218 - 15 Feb 2022
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 7303
Abstract
The building sector nowadays has come to the stage where it needs a “digital” renovation. This is to be accomplished by an introduction of change into the methodology of construction and using new tools and technologies, such as BIM technology. This paper gives [...] Read more.
The building sector nowadays has come to the stage where it needs a “digital” renovation. This is to be accomplished by an introduction of change into the methodology of construction and using new tools and technologies, such as BIM technology. This paper gives an insight into the status of BIM adoption in North Macedonia. It presents the threefold actions toward introduction of BIM in the national construction industry. These actions refer to scanning the current situation regarding digitalization of the sector, then taking promotional actions to express the benefits of BIM, and finally identifying and proposing the most suitable measures, summarized in the proposal of the National Roadmap for BIM adoption. The methods used consist of a brief literature review of the global status of BIM development. Then, the results of a survey conducted on more than 300 respondents representing a sample of building professionals in the country are discussed, and the barriers for successful BIM adoption are accordingly identified. The next step is to showcase the potential benefits of BIM for assessment of energy performance of buildings. As a final point, the conclusions drafted toward identification of the most important challenges are addressed in the proposed National Roadmap for BIM adoption. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Buildings: 10th Anniversary)
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14 pages, 6337 KiB  
Article
Contemporary and Novel Hold-Down Solutions for Mass Timber Shear Walls
by Thomas Tannert and Cristiano Loss
Buildings 2022, 12(2), 202; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings12020202 - 11 Feb 2022
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 2882
Abstract
‘Mass timber’ engineered wood products in general, and cross-laminated timber in particular, are gaining popularity in residential, non-residential, as well as mid- and high-rise structural applications. These applications include lateral force-resisting systems, such as shear walls. The prospect of building larger and taller [...] Read more.
‘Mass timber’ engineered wood products in general, and cross-laminated timber in particular, are gaining popularity in residential, non-residential, as well as mid- and high-rise structural applications. These applications include lateral force-resisting systems, such as shear walls. The prospect of building larger and taller timber buildings creates structural design challenges; one of them being that lateral forces from wind and earthquakes are larger and create higher demands on the ‘hold-downs’ in shear wall buildings. These demands are multiple: strength to resist loads, lateral stiffness to minimize deflections and damage, as well as deformation compatibility to accommodate the desired system rocking behaviour during an earthquake. In this paper, contemporary and novel hold-down solutions for mass timber shear walls are presented and discussed, including recent research on internal-perforated steel plates fastened with self-drilling dowels, hyperelastic rubber pads with steel rods, and high-strength hold-downs with self-tapping screws. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Buildings: 10th Anniversary)
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30 pages, 6556 KiB  
Article
The Identification, Development, and Evaluation of BIM-ARDM: A BIM-Based AR Defect Management System for Construction Inspections
by Kieran W. May, Chandani KC, Jose Jorge Ochoa, Ning Gu, James Walsh, Ross T. Smith and Bruce H. Thomas
Buildings 2022, 12(2), 140; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings12020140 - 28 Jan 2022
Cited by 26 | Viewed by 4285
Abstract
This article presents our findings from a three-stage research project, which consists of the identification, development, and evaluation of a defect management Augmented Reality (AR) prototype that incorporates Building Information Modelling (BIM) technologies. Within the first stage, we conducted a workshop with four [...] Read more.
This article presents our findings from a three-stage research project, which consists of the identification, development, and evaluation of a defect management Augmented Reality (AR) prototype that incorporates Building Information Modelling (BIM) technologies. Within the first stage, we conducted a workshop with four construction-industry representatives to capture their opinions and perceptions of the potentials and barriers associated with the integration of BIM and AR in the construction industry. The workshop findings led us to the second stage, which consisted of the development of an on-site BIM-based AR defect management (BIM-ARDM) system for construction inspections. Finally, a study was conducted to evaluate BIM-ARDM in comparison to the current paper-based defect management inspection approach employed on construction sites. The findings from the study revealed BIM-ARDM significantly outperformed current approaches in terms of usability, workload, performance, completion time, identifying defects, locating building elements, and assisting the user with the inspection task. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Buildings: 10th Anniversary)
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26 pages, 1993 KiB  
Article
Method to Identify the Likelihood of Death in Residential Buildings during Coastal Flooding
by Axel Creach, Emilio Bastidas-Arteaga, Sophie Pardo and Denis Mercier
Buildings 2022, 12(2), 125; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings12020125 - 26 Jan 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2077
Abstract
Tools exist to predict fatalities related to floods, but current models do not focus on fatalities in buildings. For example, Storm Xynthia in France in 2010 resulted in 41 drowning deaths inside buildings. Therefore, there has been increasing recognition of the risk of [...] Read more.
Tools exist to predict fatalities related to floods, but current models do not focus on fatalities in buildings. For example, Storm Xynthia in France in 2010 resulted in 41 drowning deaths inside buildings. Therefore, there has been increasing recognition of the risk of people becoming trapped in buildings during floods. To identify buildings which could expose their occupants to a risk of death in the case of flooding, we propose the use of the extreme vulnerability index (VIE index), which identifies which buildings are at greatest risk of trapping people during floods. In addition, the “mortality function method” is used to further estimate the expected number of fatalities based on (1) groups of vulnerable people (e.g., aged or disabled), (2) the location of buildings in relation to major watercourses, and (3) the configuration of buildings (e.g., single or multiple entries and single or multiple stories). The overall framework is derived from case studies from Storm Xynthia which give a deterministic approach for deaths inside buildings for coastal floods, which is suited for low-lying areas protected by walls or sandy barriers. This methodology provides a tool which could help make decisions for adaptation strategy implementation to preserve human life. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Buildings: 10th Anniversary)
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16 pages, 3884 KiB  
Article
The Journal Buildings: A Bibliometric Analysis (2011–2021)
by Zhiwen Xiao, Yong Qin, Zeshui Xu, Jurgita Antucheviciene and Edmundas Kazimieras Zavadskas
Buildings 2022, 12(1), 37; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings12010037 - 02 Jan 2022
Cited by 19 | Viewed by 3404
Abstract
The journal Buildings was launched in 2011 and is dedicated to promoting advancements in building science, building engineering and architecture. Motivated by its 10th anniversary in 2021, this study aims to develop a bibliometric analysis of the publications of the journal between April [...] Read more.
The journal Buildings was launched in 2011 and is dedicated to promoting advancements in building science, building engineering and architecture. Motivated by its 10th anniversary in 2021, this study aims to develop a bibliometric analysis of the publications of the journal between April 2011 and October 2021. This work analyzes bibliometric performance indicators, such as publication and citation structures, the most cited articles and the leading authors, institutions and countries/regions. Science mappings based on indicators such as the most commonly used keywords, citation and co-citation, and collaboration are also developed for further analysis. In doing so, the work uses the Scopus database to collect data and Bibliometrix to conduct the research. The results show the strong growth of Buildings over time and that researchers from all over the world are attracted by the journal. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Buildings: 10th Anniversary)
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25 pages, 13618 KiB  
Article
Physics-Based Ground Motion Simulations for the Prediction of the Seismic Vulnerability of Masonry Building Compounds in Mirandola (Italy)
by Nicola Chieffo, Marco Fasan, Fabio Romanelli, Antonio Formisano and Giovanni Mochi
Buildings 2021, 11(12), 667; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings11120667 - 20 Dec 2021
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2441
Abstract
The current paper aims at investigating the seismic capacity of a masonry building aggregate in the historical centre of Mirandola based on a reliable ground motion simulation procedure. The examined clustered building is composed of eleven structural units (SUs) mutually interconnected to each [...] Read more.
The current paper aims at investigating the seismic capacity of a masonry building aggregate in the historical centre of Mirandola based on a reliable ground motion simulation procedure. The examined clustered building is composed of eleven structural units (SUs) mutually interconnected to each other, which are made of brick walls and are characterized by wooden floors poorly connected to the vertical structures. Non-linear static analyses are performed by adopting the 3Muri software to characterize the seismic capacity of both the entire aggregate and the individual SUs. In this framework, a multi-scenario physics-based approach is considered for the definition of the seismic input in terms of broadband seismic signals inclusive of source and site effects. Finally, the incidence of the seismic input variability is discussed for the prediction of the global capacity response of the case study building. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Buildings: 10th Anniversary)
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22 pages, 6932 KiB  
Article
Numerical Simulation and Design Recommendations for Web Crippling Strength of Cold-Formed Steel Channels with Web Holes under Interior-One-Flange Loading at Elevated Temperatures
by Zhiyuan Fang, Krishanu Roy, Hao Liang, Keerthan Poologanathan, Kushal Ghosh, Abdeliazim Mustafa Mohamed and James B. P. Lim
Buildings 2021, 11(12), 666; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings11120666 - 20 Dec 2021
Cited by 36 | Viewed by 3503
Abstract
This paper investigates the interior-one-flange web crippling strength of cold-formed steel channels at elevated temperatures. The stress-strain curves of G250 and G450 grade cold-formed steel (CFS) channels at ambient and elevated temperatures were taken from the literature and the temperatures were varied from [...] Read more.
This paper investigates the interior-one-flange web crippling strength of cold-formed steel channels at elevated temperatures. The stress-strain curves of G250 and G450 grade cold-formed steel (CFS) channels at ambient and elevated temperatures were taken from the literature and the temperatures were varied from 20 to 700 °C. A detailed parametric analysis comprising 3474 validated finite element models was undertaken to investigate the effects of web holes and bearing length on the web crippling behavior of these channels at elevated temperatures. From the parametric study results, it was found that the web crippling strength reduction factor is sensitive to the changes of the hole size, hole location, and the bearing length, with the parameters of hole size and hole location having the largest effect on the web crippling reduction factor. However, the web crippling strength reduction factor remains stable when the temperature is changed from 20 to 700 °C. Based on the parametric analysis results, the web crippling strength reduction factors for both ambient and elevated temperatures are proposed, which outperformed the equations available in the literature and in the design guidelines of American standard (AISI S100-16) and Australian/New Zealand standard (AS/NZS 4600:2018) for ambient temperatures. Then, a reliability analysis was conducted, the results of which showed that the proposed design equations could closely predict the reduced web crippling strength of CFS channel sections under interior-one-flange loading conditions at elevated temperatures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Buildings: 10th Anniversary)
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28 pages, 322 KiB  
Article
An Integrated Safety, Health and Environmental Management Capability Maturity Model for Construction Organisations: A Case Study in Ghana
by Millicent Asah-Kissiedu, Patrick Manu, Colin Anthony Booth, Abdul-Majeed Mahamadu and Kofi Agyekum
Buildings 2021, 11(12), 645; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings11120645 - 13 Dec 2021
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3385
Abstract
Safety, health and environmental (SHE) management is becoming a priority as construction companies (i.e., contractors) strive to reduce construction accidents and negative environmental impacts, conform to regulatory requirements, and sustain their competitiveness. Consequently, construction firms are expected to adopt and implement innovative SHE [...] Read more.
Safety, health and environmental (SHE) management is becoming a priority as construction companies (i.e., contractors) strive to reduce construction accidents and negative environmental impacts, conform to regulatory requirements, and sustain their competitiveness. Consequently, construction firms are expected to adopt and implement innovative SHE management systems to mitigate SHE risks effectively and efficiently. For construction firms to effectively do this, they need to have the adequate capability in respect of integrated SHE management. However, there is limited empirical insight regarding the integrated SHE management capabilities of construction companies. Furthermore, there is limited insight regarding the mechanisms for ascertaining the integrated SHE management capability of construction companies to guide such organisations towards SHE management excellence in their operations. Drawing on the capability maturity model integration (CMMI) concept, this study, by applying expert reviews (i.e., Delphi technique and the design methodology for capability maturity grids), developed an integrated Safety, Health and Environmental Management Maturity Model (iSHEM-CMM). The model offers capability maturity assessment on a five-level scale within five thematic categories and 20 integrated SHE management capability attributes. Based on an industrial validation by construction professionals, it is concluded that the maturity model is a useful assessment framework or tool for industry stakeholders, particularly construction firms, to evaluate the status of their current SHE management capabilities, identify strengths and improvement areas, and accordingly prioritise strategies/actions for improving their SHE management. Furthermore, clients who appoint construction companies could use the model as part of prequalification arrangements in selecting construction companies with an adequate SHE management capability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Buildings: 10th Anniversary)
18 pages, 294 KiB  
Article
Champions of Social Procurement in the Australian Construction Industry: Evolving Roles and Motivations
by Martin Loosemore, Robyn Keast, Jo Barraket and George Denny-Smith
Buildings 2021, 11(12), 641; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings11120641 - 11 Dec 2021
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3846
Abstract
There has been a recent proliferation of social procurement policies in Australia that target the construction industry. This is mirrored in many other countries, and the nascent research in this area shows that these policies are being implemented by an emerging group of [...] Read more.
There has been a recent proliferation of social procurement policies in Australia that target the construction industry. This is mirrored in many other countries, and the nascent research in this area shows that these policies are being implemented by an emerging group of largely undefined professionals who are often forced to create their own roles in institutional vacuums with little organisational legitimacy and support. By mobilising theories of how organisational champions diffuse innovations in other fields of practice, this paper contributes new insights into the evolving nature of these newly emerging roles and the motivations which drive these professionals to overcome the institutional inertia they invariably face. The results of semi-structured interviews, with fifteen social procurement champions working in the Australian construction industry, indicate that social procurement champions come from a wide range of professional backgrounds and bring diverse social capital to their roles. Linked by a shared sense of social consciousness, these champions challenge traditional institutional norms, practices, supply chain relationships, and traditional narratives about the concepts of value in construction. We conclude that, until normative standards develop around social procurement in the construction industry, its successful implementation will depend on external institutional pressures and the practical demonstration of what is possible in practice within the performative constraints of traditional project objectives. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Buildings: 10th Anniversary)
19 pages, 4684 KiB  
Article
Optimization of Useful Daylight Illuminance for Vertical Shading Fins Covered by Photovoltaic Panels for a Case Study of an Office Room in the City of Wroclaw, Poland
by Marcin Brzezicki, Paweł Regucki and Jacek Kasperski
Buildings 2021, 11(12), 637; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings11120637 - 10 Dec 2021
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3084
Abstract
A building’s facade is its main interface with the external environment, as it controls almost all energy flows in the building—losses and gains. In this context, the most recent invention of adaptive façades allows for the introduction of an optimized system for both [...] Read more.
A building’s facade is its main interface with the external environment, as it controls almost all energy flows in the building—losses and gains. In this context, the most recent invention of adaptive façades allows for the introduction of an optimized system for both daylight management and electrical energy production. The authors of the presented paper propose a novel adaptive façade system that is equipped with vertical shading fins of 1 × 4 m that are covered with PV panels. The fins are kinetic and rotate around a vertical axis in order to optimize solar irradiation for producing electricity. The presented adaptive façade is analyzed in two stages. Firstly, the number of vertical shading fins is optimized in the context of useful daylight illuminance (UDI) and daylight glare probability (DGP) using Radiance-cored software. Next, two scenarios of PV installation are verified for fixed and the Sun-tracking solution. The results show that the Sun-tracking system is more efficient than the fixed one, but electricity production is only increased by 3.21%. The reason for this is the fact that—while following the Sun’s azimuth position—fins shade each other and reduce the effective area of the adjacent PV panels. Based on this, the authors conclude that the Sun-tracking system might be justified due to its protective or decorative function and not because of its improved effectiveness in generating electrical energy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Buildings: 10th Anniversary)
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19 pages, 1618 KiB  
Article
Factors Influencing Green Building Development in Kazakhstan
by Daniyar Assylbekov, Abid Nadeem, Md Aslam Hossain, Gulzhanat Akhanova and Malik Khalfan
Buildings 2021, 11(12), 634; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings11120634 - 10 Dec 2021
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 4618
Abstract
Green buildings have been actively spreading as a solution for sustainability issues of the construction industry in at least the last two decades. As green building practices unfold in developing countries, the need of identifying factors that both hinder and drive its spread [...] Read more.
Green buildings have been actively spreading as a solution for sustainability issues of the construction industry in at least the last two decades. As green building practices unfold in developing countries, the need of identifying factors that both hinder and drive its spread rises. Multiple studies reveal a general inconsistency among results in different parts of the world, caused by each country’s environmental, economic, and social conditions. Taking into account the experience of developing international green buildings and the current state of green building development in Kazakhstan, this study aims to spread the understanding of the factors that hinder and have the potential to drive the development of green buildings in Kazakhstan. A questionnaire survey was carried out among 38 industry experts in Kazakhstan to accomplish study objectives. Multiple data analysis methods were used to identify correlations among groups of experts and rank the factors. The results revealed a lack of skill/experience, a lack of government support, and the high cost of sustainable materials and products as the most crucial barriers. Water and energy efficiency, improved health of occupants, comfort, and satisfaction were identified as the most influential drivers. By expanding knowledge on factors affecting the implementation of green buildings, the study uncovered common trends in the responses of professionals, providing valuable information for field professionals and suggesting future research recommendations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Buildings: 10th Anniversary)
24 pages, 3366 KiB  
Article
An Exhaustive Search Energy Optimization Method for Residential Building Envelope in Different Climatic Zones of Kazakhstan
by Mirzhan Kaderzhanov, Shazim Ali Memon, Assemgul Saurbayeva and Jong R. Kim
Buildings 2021, 11(12), 633; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings11120633 - 10 Dec 2021
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2564
Abstract
Nowadays, the residential sector of Kazakhstan accounts for about 30% of the total energy consumption. Therefore, it is essential to analyze the energy estimation model for residential buildings in Kazakhstan so as to reduce energy consumption. This research is aimed to develop the [...] Read more.
Nowadays, the residential sector of Kazakhstan accounts for about 30% of the total energy consumption. Therefore, it is essential to analyze the energy estimation model for residential buildings in Kazakhstan so as to reduce energy consumption. This research is aimed to develop the Overall Thermal Transfer Value (OTTV) based Building Energy Simulation Model (BESM) for the reduction of energy consumption through the envelope of residential buildings in seven cities of Kazakhstan. A brute force optimization method was adopted to obtain the optimal envelope configuration varying window-to-wall ratio (WWR), the angle of a pitched roof, the depth of the overhang shading system, the thermal conductivity, and the thicknesses of wall composition materials. In addition, orientation-related analyses of the optimized cases were conducted. Finally, the economic evaluation of the base and optimized cases were presented. The results showed that an average energy reduction for heating was 6156.8 kWh, while for cooling it was almost 1912.17 kWh. The heating and cooling energy savings were 16.59% and 16.69%, respectively. The frontage of the building model directed towards the south in the cold season and north in the hot season demonstrated around 21% and 32% of energy reduction, respectively. The energy cost savings varied between 9657 to 119,221 ₸ for heating, 9622 to 36,088 ₸ for cooling. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Buildings: 10th Anniversary)
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27 pages, 2601 KiB  
Article
Novel Fuzzy-Based Optimization Approaches for the Prediction of Ultimate Axial Load of Circular Concrete-Filled Steel Tubes
by Jinsong Liao, Panagiotis G. Asteris, Liborio Cavaleri, Ahmed Salih Mohammed, Minas E. Lemonis, Markos Z. Tsoukalas, Athanasia D. Skentou, Chrysanthos Maraveas, Mohammadreza Koopialipoor and Danial Jahed Armaghani
Buildings 2021, 11(12), 629; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings11120629 - 09 Dec 2021
Cited by 28 | Viewed by 2341
Abstract
An accurate estimation of the axial compression capacity of the concrete-filled steel tubular (CFST) column is crucial for ensuring the safety of structures containing them and preventing related failures. In this article, two novel hybrid fuzzy systems (FS) were used to create a [...] Read more.
An accurate estimation of the axial compression capacity of the concrete-filled steel tubular (CFST) column is crucial for ensuring the safety of structures containing them and preventing related failures. In this article, two novel hybrid fuzzy systems (FS) were used to create a new framework for estimating the axial compression capacity of circular CCFST columns. In the hybrid models, differential evolution (DE) and firefly algorithm (FFA) techniques are employed in order to obtain the optimal membership functions of the base FS model. To train the models with the new hybrid techniques, i.e., FS-DE and FS-FFA, a substantial library of 410 experimental tests was compiled from openly available literature sources. The new model’s robustness and accuracy was assessed using a variety of statistical criteria both for model development and for model validation. The novel FS-FFA and FS-DE models were able to improve the prediction capacity of the base model by 9.68% and 6.58%, respectively. Furthermore, the proposed models exhibited considerably improved performance compared to existing design code methodologies. These models can be utilized for solving similar problems in structural engineering and concrete technology with an enhanced level of accuracy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Buildings: 10th Anniversary)
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17 pages, 2500 KiB  
Article
The Impact of Temporary Means of Access on Buildings Envelope’s Maintenance Costs
by Cláudia Ferreira, Ilídio S. Dias, Ana Silva, Jorge de Brito and Inês Flores-Colen
Buildings 2021, 11(12), 601; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings11120601 - 01 Dec 2021
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1669
Abstract
Accessibility to buildings’ envelope depends on efficient inspection and other maintenance actions of their components. When access to these components is not planned, special means of access are required to carry out the maintenance work. Means of access, besides having a fundamental role [...] Read more.
Accessibility to buildings’ envelope depends on efficient inspection and other maintenance actions of their components. When access to these components is not planned, special means of access are required to carry out the maintenance work. Means of access, besides having a fundamental role on the quality of maintenance works of building envelope components, also represents a considerable part of the maintenance costs. Thus, to optimize costs and resources in maintenance plans, assessment of the impact of the means of access on maintenance costs is crucial. For works in height, there are several alternative means of access. The choice of the most adequate solution is strongly linked to the characteristics (e.g., architecture, height) and constraints (e.g., users, surrounding space) of each building, the maintenance needs of the envelope, and the time and funds available for the intervention. Therefore, in this study, a sensitivity analysis to understand how the cost of means of access can influence the maintenance costs is carried out. Moreover, the optimisation of maintenance activities in façade claddings is also analysed. This study intends to assess whether it is advantageous to consider permanent means of access during the design phase or opt for temporary means of access. In a first stage, the impact of six temporary means of access (supported and suspended scaffolds; articulated booms; telescopic booms; scissor lifts; and rope access) on the maintenance plans developed for the six types of claddings (ceramic tiling systems—CTS, natural stone claddings—NSC, rendered façades—RF, painted surfaces—PS, external thermal insulation composite systems—ETICS, and architectural concrete façades—ACF) is examined. The impact is estimated through a stochastic maintenance model based on Petri nets. After that, a sensitivity analysis and a multi-criteria decision analysis are performed. Based on the results, general recommendations are presented concerning the maintenance strategies to adopt in the cladding solutions analysed. The results reveal that planning the means of access during the design stage can be economically beneficial for all buildings’ envelope components. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Buildings: 10th Anniversary)
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17 pages, 6832 KiB  
Article
Local Retrofit of Reinforced Concrete Structures by the ACM System
by Stefano Sorace, Gloria Terenzi and Elena Fuso
Buildings 2021, 11(12), 575; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings11120575 - 24 Nov 2021
Viewed by 2217
Abstract
During the last decades, low architectural impact strategies have been increasingly adopted in the seismic retrofit of reinforced concrete structures. Among the emerging technologies in this field, the active lateral confinement of columns, beams, and beam-to-column joints is gaining growing attention thanks to [...] Read more.
During the last decades, low architectural impact strategies have been increasingly adopted in the seismic retrofit of reinforced concrete structures. Among the emerging technologies in this field, the active lateral confinement of columns, beams, and beam-to-column joints is gaining growing attention thanks to the localization of the interventions only on the members in unsafe conditions, the resulting small increase in size, and the limited demolition required for installation. The study presented herein is focused on the application of a highly performing confinement technology, named as ACM (Active Confinement of Masonry), which was conceived more than twenty years ago in Italy for masonry structures, and then successfully applied to reinforced concrete ones. A representative case study is examined in detail herein, i.e., a school built in the early 1960s in the Friuli Venezia Giulia area in Italy. A seismic assessment analysis of the building is carried out in its current state, also supported by preliminary diagnostic investigations, which highlights several seismic deficiencies, especially in terms of shear response of columns and beams. Thus, a retrofit hypothesis based on the installation of the ACM system is proposed, which allows attaining a substantial improvement in the seismic response capacities, while maintaining limited architectural intrusion. A detailed description of the case study characteristics and a synthesis of the time-history seismic analyses developed in original conditions are presented in this article, along with the design criteria, drawings of the interventions, and an evaluation of the resulting performance enhancement in retrofitted configuration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Buildings: 10th Anniversary)
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23 pages, 2590 KiB  
Article
Blockchain-Based Trusted Property Transactions in the Built Environment: Development of an Incubation-Ready Prototype
by Srinath Perera, Amer A. Hijazi, Geeganage Thilini Weerasuriya, Samudaya Nanayakkara and Muhandiramge Nimashi Navodana Rodrigo
Buildings 2021, 11(11), 560; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings11110560 - 20 Nov 2021
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3570
Abstract
Blockchain can be introduced to use cases in the built environment where reliability of transaction records is paramount. Blockchain facilitates decentralised, cryptographically secure, trustworthy, and immutable recordkeeping of transactions. However, more research is urgently required to understand the process and complications in implementing [...] Read more.
Blockchain can be introduced to use cases in the built environment where reliability of transaction records is paramount. Blockchain facilitates decentralised, cryptographically secure, trustworthy, and immutable recordkeeping of transactions. However, more research is urgently required to understand the process and complications in implementing blockchain solutions in the built environment. This paper demonstrates a methodology for developing a blockchain system starting from problem analysis, selection of blockchain platform, system modelling, prototype development, and evaluation. The evolutionary prototyping model was selected as the software development methodology for the use case of property transactions. A systematic process protocol involving the multi-criteria decision-making method, Simple Multi Attribute Rating Technique (SMART), was used to select Hyperledger Fabric as the most suitable blockchain platform for the prototype. The system architecture facilitates a simplified, lean property transaction process implemented through chaincode (smart contract) algorithms and graphical user interfaces. System evaluation through test cases allowed iterative improvements, leading to an incubation-ready software prototype. The contribution to knowledge of this paper is in the demonstration of the process to follow to implement a blockchain solution for a specific domain. The findings provide the foundation for developing proofs of concept for other potential applications of blockchain in the built environment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Buildings: 10th Anniversary)
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16 pages, 3259 KiB  
Article
Pareto-Based Bi-Objective Optimization Method of Sensor Placement in Structural Health Monitoring
by Shao-Xiao Nong, Dong-Hui Yang and Ting-Hua Yi
Buildings 2021, 11(11), 549; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings11110549 - 16 Nov 2021
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1862
Abstract
For a practical structural health monitoring (SHM) system, the traditional single objective methods for optimal sensor placement (OSP) cannot always obtain the optimal result of sensor deployment without sacrificing other targets, which creates obstacles to the efficient use of the sensors. This study [...] Read more.
For a practical structural health monitoring (SHM) system, the traditional single objective methods for optimal sensor placement (OSP) cannot always obtain the optimal result of sensor deployment without sacrificing other targets, which creates obstacles to the efficient use of the sensors. This study mainly focuses on establishing a bi-objective optimization method to select the sensor placement positions. The practical significance of several single-objective criteria for OSP is firstly discussed, based on which a novel bi-objective optimization method is proposed based on the Pareto optimization process, and the corresponding objective functions are established. Furthermore, the non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm is introduced to obtain a series of the Pareto optimal solutions, from which the final solution can be determined based on a new defined membership degree index. Finally, a numerical example of a plane truss is applied to illustrate the proposed method. The Pareto optimization-based bi-objective OSP framework presented in this study could be well suited for solving the problem of multi-objective OSP, which can effectively improve the efficiency of the limited sensors in SHM system. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Buildings: 10th Anniversary)
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19 pages, 1136 KiB  
Article
Cost Modeling from the Contractor Perspective: Application to Residential and Office Buildings
by Francisco Pereira Monteiro, Vitor Sousa, Inês Meireles and Carlos Oliveira Cruz
Buildings 2021, 11(11), 529; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings11110529 - 10 Nov 2021
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2229
Abstract
For the majority of the contractual arrangements used in construction projects, the owner is not responsible for the cost deviations due to the variability of labor productivity or material price, amongst many other aspects. Consequently, the cost performance of a project may be [...] Read more.
For the majority of the contractual arrangements used in construction projects, the owner is not responsible for the cost deviations due to the variability of labor productivity or material price, amongst many other aspects. Consequently, the cost performance of a project may be entirely distinct for the owner and the contractor. Since the majority of quantitative research on cost estimation and deviation found in the literature adopts the owners’ perspective, this research provides a contribution towards modeling costs and cost deviation from a contractor’s perspective. From an initial sample of 13 residential buildings and 10 office building projects, it was possible to develop models for cost estimation at the early stage of development, including both endogenous and exogenous variables. Although the sample is relatively small, the authors were able to fully analyze all the cost data, using no secondary sources of data (which is very frequent in cost modeling studies). The statistically significant variables in the cost estimation models were the areas above and below ground and the years following the 2008 financial crisis, including the international bailout (2011–2014) period. For estimating the unit cost, a nonlinear model was obtained with the number of underground and total floor, the floor ratio, and the years following the 2008 financial crisis, including the international bailout (2011–2014) period as predictors. For the office buildings, a statistically significant correlation was also found between the cost deviation and number of underground floors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Buildings: 10th Anniversary)
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16 pages, 1823 KiB  
Article
Absorption and Strength Properties of Short Carbon Fiber Reinforced Mortar Composite
by Md. Safiuddin, George Abdel-Sayed and Nataliya Hearn
Buildings 2021, 11(7), 300; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings11070300 - 08 Jul 2021
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 2994
Abstract
This paper presents the water absorption and strength properties of short carbon fiber reinforced mortar (CFRM) composite. Four CFRM composites with 1%, 2%, 3%, and 4% short pitch-based carbon fibers were produced in this study. Normal Portland cement mortar (NCPM) was also prepared [...] Read more.
This paper presents the water absorption and strength properties of short carbon fiber reinforced mortar (CFRM) composite. Four CFRM composites with 1%, 2%, 3%, and 4% short pitch-based carbon fibers were produced in this study. Normal Portland cement mortar (NCPM) was also prepared for use as the control mortar. The freshly mixed mortar composites were tested for workability, wet density, and entrapped air content. In addition, the hardened mortar composites were examined for compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, flexural strength, and water absorption at the ages of 7 and 28 days. The effects of different carbon fiber contents on the tested properties were observed. Test results showed that the incorporation of carbon fibers decreased the workability and wet density, but increased the entrapped air content in mortar composite. Most interestingly, the compressive strength of CFRM composite increased up to 3% carbon fiber content and then it declined significantly for 4% fiber content, depending on the workability and compaction of the mortar. In contrast, the splitting tensile strength and flexural strength of the CFRM composite increased for all fiber contents due to the greater cracking resistance and improved bond strength of the carbon fibers in the mortar. The presence of short pitch-based carbon fibers significantly strengthened the mortar by bridging the microcracks, resisting the propagation of these minute cracks, and impeding the growth of macrocracks. Furthermore, the water absorption of CFRM composite decreased up to 3% carbon fiber content and then it increased substantially for 4% fiber content, depending on the entrapped air content of the mortar. The overall test results suggest that the mortar with 3% carbon fibers is the optimum CFRM composite based on the tested properties. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Buildings: 10th Anniversary)
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24 pages, 5696 KiB  
Article
Innovation in Sustainable Solar-Powered Net-Zero Energy Solar Decathlon Houses: A Review and Showcase
by Yeganeh Baghi, Zhenjun Ma, Duane Robinson and Tillmann Boehme
Buildings 2021, 11(4), 171; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings11040171 - 16 Apr 2021
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3387
Abstract
Solar Decathlon is a showcase of cutting-edge residential buildings containing innovative solutions and technologies. This study reviewed, identified, and categorized technological innovations from past Solar Decathlon competitions. The review was based on publicly available data of the top five houses from each U.S. [...] Read more.
Solar Decathlon is a showcase of cutting-edge residential buildings containing innovative solutions and technologies. This study reviewed, identified, and categorized technological innovations from past Solar Decathlon competitions. The review was based on publicly available data of the top five houses from each U.S. and international Solar Decathlon competition. The most prolific innovations identified were from building services systems and architectural design and construction. It was observed that most innovations within building services systems were in heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning, and home automation, while architectural design and construction innovations focused on building adaptability, façade, structure, and building materials. It was found that although there is no fixed relationship between the numbers of innovations in the houses and their overall competition points, there is a high probability for an innovative house to be placed within the top five houses. This study also provides information about technological innovations within Solar Decathlon houses and offers an innovation classification scheme to guide Solar Decathletes to understand what innovations could be implemented in their future entries. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Buildings: 10th Anniversary)
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18 pages, 6936 KiB  
Article
Energy Rating of Buildings to Promote Energy-Conscious Design in Israel
by Abraham Yezioro and Isaac Guedi Capeluto
Buildings 2021, 11(2), 59; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings11020059 - 08 Feb 2021
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2617
Abstract
Improving the energy efficiency of existing and new buildings is an important step towards achieving more sustainable environments. There are various methods for grading buildings that are required according to regulations in different places for green building certification. However, in new buildings, these [...] Read more.
Improving the energy efficiency of existing and new buildings is an important step towards achieving more sustainable environments. There are various methods for grading buildings that are required according to regulations in different places for green building certification. However, in new buildings, these rating systems are usually implemented at late design stages due to their complexity and lack of integration in the architectural design process, thus limiting the available options for improving their performance. In this paper, the model ENERGYui used for design and rating buildings in Israel is presented. One of its main advantages is that it can be used at any design stage, including the early ones. It requires information that is available at each stage only, as the additional necessary information is supplemented by the model. In this way, architects can design buildings in a way where they are aware of each design decision and its impact on their energy performance, while testing different design directions. ENERGYui rates the energy performance of each basic unit, as well as the entire building. The use of the model is demonstrated in two different scenarios: an office building in which basic architectural features such as form and orientation are tested from the very beginning, and a residential building in which the intervention focuses on its envelope, highlighting the possibilities of improving their design during the whole design process. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Buildings: 10th Anniversary)
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17 pages, 1509 KiB  
Article
Office Distractions and the Productivity of Building Users: The Effect of Workgroup Sizes and Demographic Characteristics
by Maryam Khoshbakht, Eziaku O. Rasheed and George Baird
Buildings 2021, 11(2), 55; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings11020055 - 06 Feb 2021
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2709
Abstract
Knowledge workers are experiencing ever-increasing distractions or unwanted interruptions at workplaces. We explored the effect of unwanted interruptions on an individual’s perceived productivity in various building types, user groups and workgroups. A case study of 68 buildings and their 5149 occupants using the [...] Read more.
Knowledge workers are experiencing ever-increasing distractions or unwanted interruptions at workplaces. We explored the effect of unwanted interruptions on an individual’s perceived productivity in various building types, user groups and workgroups. A case study of 68 buildings and their 5149 occupants using the Building Use Studies methodology was employed in this study. The database contains information on the occupants’ perceptions of physical and environmental parameters, including unmined data on the frequency of unwanted interruptions. Pearson’s correlation was used to test the correlation between the variables. In order to determine whether there are any statistically significant differences between the means of two or more independent (unrelated) groups, one-way ANOVA was employed to examine the significance of differences in mean scores between various user groups and workgroups. The evidence of clear correlations between the frequency of unwanted interruptions and perceived productivity is detailed in various user groups and in multiple building types. The Pearson correlation coefficients were −0.361 and −0.348 for sustainable and conventional buildings, respectively, demonstrating a lower sensitivity to unwanted interruptions in sustainable buildings. Females and older participants were more sensitive to unwanted interruptions and their productivity levels were reduced much more by unwanted interruptions. Comparing different sized workgroups, the highest sensitivity to unwanted interruptions for occupants in offices shared with more than 8 people was found. The findings of this study contribute to the understanding of different user needs and preferences in the design of workplaces. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Buildings: 10th Anniversary)
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19 pages, 8474 KiB  
Article
Development of Retrofitting Solutions: Remedial Wall Ties for Masonry Enclosure Brick Walls
by Filipe Rebelo, António Figueiredo, Gonçalo Correia Lopes, Tiago Miguel Ferreira and Romeu Vicente
Buildings 2021, 11(1), 28; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings11010028 - 13 Jan 2021
Viewed by 2539
Abstract
The external envelope walls of a significant percentage of the residential building stock in Southern European countries is commonly constituted by infill masonry walls. However, thousands of square meters of this masonry wall typology presents severe issues of cracking and instability, related to [...] Read more.
The external envelope walls of a significant percentage of the residential building stock in Southern European countries is commonly constituted by infill masonry walls. However, thousands of square meters of this masonry wall typology presents severe issues of cracking and instability, related to the incorrect and deficient support conditions of the outer brick panel of the double-leaf wall solution. In this work, an experimental campaign divided in two phases has been performed to evaluate the effectiveness of two different remedial wall ties retrofitting techniques (Solution A and Solution B) used for double leaf horizontally hollowed clay brick masonry façades. The first phase of the experimental campaign was performed on 120 isolated specimens of horizontally hollowed clay bricks, resorting to post- and pre-NP EN 771-1 brick exemplars (that is, new and pre-existent aged bricks, respectively), as well as on 4 square wallettes, with a side length of 1.20 m, considered as representative of a real scale scenario, for evaluating the two remedial wall ties retrofitting techniques. The second phase of the experimental campaign was performed to fully characterize the different failure types as well as the slipping phenomena observed in the first phase of the experimental campaign, focusing solely on the retrofitting technique Solution B and comprises 24 tests performed on isolated specimens, resourcing to new and pre-existent aged bricks as well. The results obtained by the use of these techniques revealed an average anchorage strength value ranging from 0.25 to 2.5 kN for each tested tie-bar. Solution B reveals an increase of double of the anchorage strength value in comparison to Solution A. In this sense, the global results revealed a suitable applicability of both retrofit studied solutions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Buildings: 10th Anniversary)
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25 pages, 3430 KiB  
Article
Critical Review of the Evolution of Project Delivery Methods in the Construction Industry
by Salma Ahmed and Sameh El-Sayegh
Buildings 2021, 11(1), 11; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings11010011 - 26 Dec 2020
Cited by 21 | Viewed by 12290
Abstract
Selecting the appropriate project delivery method (PDM) is a very significant managerial decision that impacts the success of construction projects. This paper provides a critical review of related literature on the evolution of project delivery methods, selection methods and selection criteria over the [...] Read more.
Selecting the appropriate project delivery method (PDM) is a very significant managerial decision that impacts the success of construction projects. This paper provides a critical review of related literature on the evolution of project delivery methods, selection methods and selection criteria over the years and their suitability in the construction industry of today’s world. The literature review analysis has concluded that project delivery methods evolve at a slower rate compared to the evolution of the construction industry. The paper also suggests features of an evolved project delivery method that is digitally integrated, people-centered, and sustainability-focused. Moreover, the paper highlights the latest selection criteria such as risk, health and wellbeing, sustainability goals and technological innovations. Furthermore, the paper concluded that advanced artificial intelligence techniques are yet to be exploited to develop a smart decision support model that will assist clients in selecting the most appropriate delivery method for successful project completion. Additionally, the paper presents a framework that illustrates the relationship between the different PDM variables needed to harmonize with the construction industry. Last, but not least, the paper fills a gap in the literature as it covers a different perspective in the field of project delivery methods. The paper also provides recommendations and future research ideas. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Buildings: 10th Anniversary)
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21 pages, 3250 KiB  
Article
Suitability of Seismic Isolation for Buildings Founded on Soft Soil. Case Study of a RC Building in Shanghai
by Francisco López Almansa, Dagen Weng, Tao Li and Bashar Alfarah
Buildings 2020, 10(12), 241; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings10120241 - 14 Dec 2020
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3459
Abstract
Base (seismic) isolation is a promising technology for seismic protection of buildings and other constructions. Nowadays, it is accepted that such a technique is efficient and reliable; however, it has two major limitations: soft foundation soil, and tall buildings. The first issue restrains [...] Read more.
Base (seismic) isolation is a promising technology for seismic protection of buildings and other constructions. Nowadays, it is accepted that such a technique is efficient and reliable; however, it has two major limitations: soft foundation soil, and tall buildings. The first issue restrains the seismic isolation spreading, given that soft soil is frequent in densely populated areas, and usually such a soil type concentrates the highest seismicity levels. This paper aims to contribute to demonstrating that base isolation, if properly implemented, can be suitable for soft soil. A representative case study is analyzed: a 6-story reinforced concrete (RC) building with base isolation that has recently been built in Shanghai. Since the building is founded on soft soil, concern regarding base isolation suitability arose; even the Chinese design code does not recommend this solution for soft soil. To clarify this issue, non-linear time-history analyses are carried out for a number of natural and artificial seismic inputs that represent the site seismicity; the superstructure behavior is linear, while nonlinearities are concentrated in the isolation layer. The adequacy of base isolation is assessed in the superstructure (in terms of reduction of interstory drift, absolute acceleration and shear force) and in the isolation layer (in terms of axial force, torsion angle and shear strain). The relevance of soil–structure interaction is discussed. The behavior when the mechanical parameters of the isolation units have experienced important changes is also analyzed. The major conclusion is that base isolation of ordinary mid-height RC buildings founded on soft soil can perform satisfactorily in medium seismicity regions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Buildings: 10th Anniversary)
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34 pages, 1532 KiB  
Article
Increasing Green Infrastructure in Cities: Impact on Ambient Temperature, Air Quality and Heat-Related Mortality and Morbidity
by Matthaios Santamouris and Paul Osmond
Buildings 2020, 10(12), 233; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings10120233 - 07 Dec 2020
Cited by 32 | Viewed by 7027
Abstract
Urban vegetation provides undeniable benefits to urban climate, health, thermal comfort and environmental quality of cities and represents one of the most considered urban heat mitigation measures. Despite the plethora of available scientific information, very little is known about the holistic and global [...] Read more.
Urban vegetation provides undeniable benefits to urban climate, health, thermal comfort and environmental quality of cities and represents one of the most considered urban heat mitigation measures. Despite the plethora of available scientific information, very little is known about the holistic and global impact of a potential increase of urban green infrastructure (GI) on urban climate, environmental quality and health, and their synergies and trade-offs. There is a need to evaluate globally the extent to which additional GI provides benefits and quantify the problems arising from the deployment of additional greenery in cities which are usually overlooked or neglected. The present paper has reviewed and analysed 55 fully evaluated scenarios and case studies investigating the impact of additional GI on urban temperature, air pollution and health for 39 cities. Statistically significant correlations between the percentage increase of the urban GI and the peak daily and night ambient temperatures are obtained. The average maximum peak daily and night-time temperature drop may not exceed 1.8 and 2.3 °C respectively, even for a maximum GI fraction. In parallel, a statistically significant correlation between the peak daily temperature decrease caused by higher GI fractions and heat-related mortality is found. When the peak daily temperature drops by 0.1 °C, then the percentage of heat-related mortality decreases on average by 3.0% The impact of additional urban GI on the concentration of urban pollutants is analysed, and the main parameters contributing to decrease or increase of the pollutants’ concentration are presented. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Buildings: 10th Anniversary)
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14 pages, 504 KiB  
Article
Construction Disputes in the UAE: Causes and Resolution Methods
by Sameh El-Sayegh, Irtishad Ahmad, Malak Aljanabi, Rawan Herzallah, Samuel Metry and Omar El-Ashwal
Buildings 2020, 10(10), 171; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings10100171 - 25 Sep 2020
Cited by 34 | Viewed by 7989
Abstract
Claims and disputes occur frequently in the construction industry between different contracting parties, mainly the owner, the designer and the contractor. Consequently, valuable time and a significant amount of money are lost. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) construction industry, one of the most [...] Read more.
Claims and disputes occur frequently in the construction industry between different contracting parties, mainly the owner, the designer and the contractor. Consequently, valuable time and a significant amount of money are lost. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) construction industry, one of the most vibrant sectors globally, is experiencing a high level of construction disputes and claims. This paper aims to identify and assess the major causes of disputes in the UAE and weigh the effectiveness of the methods used for their avoidance and resolution. The sources of disputes, and their avoidance/resolution methods, were identified through a comprehensive literature review. A survey was then developed and sent to 150 construction professionals. Fifty-four responses were received and analyzed. The results show that the top five sources of disputes in the UAE are variations initiated by the owner, obtaining permit/approval from the municipality and other governmental authorities, material change and approval during the construction phase, the slowness of the owner in decision-making, and the short time available during the design phase. As for the avoidance and the resolution method, the most effective method was found to be negotiation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Buildings: 10th Anniversary)
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Review

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16 pages, 6189 KiB  
Review
The Relationship between Wind Pressure and Pressure Coefficients for the Definition of Wind Loads on Buildings
by Vincenzo Picozzi, Antonio Malasomma, Alberto Maria Avossa and Francesco Ricciardelli
Buildings 2022, 12(2), 225; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings12020225 - 17 Feb 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3373
Abstract
Wind induced pressures on buildings are the product of a velocity pressure and a pressure coefficient. The way in which these two quantities are calculated has changed over the years, and Design Codes have been modified accordingly. This paper tracks the evolution of [...] Read more.
Wind induced pressures on buildings are the product of a velocity pressure and a pressure coefficient. The way in which these two quantities are calculated has changed over the years, and Design Codes have been modified accordingly. This paper tracks the evolution of the approach to wind loading of buildings from the practice in the 1950s, mainly referring to the Swiss Code SIA, to the most recent advances including probabilistic methods, internet databases, and advanced modelling of meteorological phenomena. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Buildings: 10th Anniversary)
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12 pages, 1965 KiB  
Review
Challenges and Future Development Paths of Low Carbon Building Design: A Review
by Chang Xi and Shi-Jie Cao
Buildings 2022, 12(2), 163; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings12020163 - 02 Feb 2022
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 8016
Abstract
Excessive carbon emissions are causing the problems of global warming and the greenhouse effect, which urgently need to be controlled worldwide. It is crucial to reduce the carbon emissions of the construction industry as it is one of the main sources. Carbon is [...] Read more.
Excessive carbon emissions are causing the problems of global warming and the greenhouse effect, which urgently need to be controlled worldwide. It is crucial to reduce the carbon emissions of the construction industry as it is one of the main sources. Carbon is generated at all phases of the building life cycle, including in material production, building design, and building operation and maintenance. Notably, building design has various extents of influence on carbon emissions at each phase, for which a low carbon method urgently needs to be explored. This paper aims to summarize the current status of building design through literature review considering standard systems, carbon emission calculations, and building design optimization. The challenges of building design are as follows: lack of (1) a comprehensive standard system considering different factors, (2) lack of a carbon emission calculation method for the design phase, and a (3) no real-time optimization model aiming at carbon reduction. The path of “standard−calculation−prediction−optimization” (SCPO) for future building design is proposed to address these challenges. It takes standard system as the framework, the carbon calculation method as the foundation, the prediction model as the theory, and the low carbon building as the objective. This paper can provide theoretical guidance for low carbon building design. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Buildings: 10th Anniversary)
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15 pages, 857 KiB  
Review
Causal Effects between Criteria That Establish the End of Service Life of Buildings and Components
by Ana Silva, Jorge de Brito, André Thomsen, Ad Straub, Andrés J. Prieto and Michael A. Lacasse
Buildings 2022, 12(2), 88; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings12020088 - 18 Jan 2022
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2668
Abstract
In the last decades, considerable work has been done regarding service life prediction of buildings and building components. Academics and members of the CIB W080 commission, as well as of ISO TC 59/SC14, have made several efforts in this area and created a [...] Read more.
In the last decades, considerable work has been done regarding service life prediction of buildings and building components. Academics and members of the CIB W080 commission, as well as of ISO TC 59/SC14, have made several efforts in this area and created a general terminology for the concept of service life, which is extremely relevant for property management, life cycle assessment (LCA) and life cycle costs (LCC) analyses. Various definitions can be found in the literature that share common ideas. In fact, there are different criteria that trigger the end of a building’s service life, but the trap that building practitioners too often fall into and that should be avoided is dividing a problem into separate boxes, labels, and specializations without the mutual cohesion and interaction, and ignoring human behavior. Some definitions of service life are discussed in this review paper, in which the cause-effect processes underlying aging and decay are described. These descriptions highlight the continuous interrelation between different criteria for the end of a building’s service life, considering too often neglected and misunderstood causes of the end of life. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Buildings: 10th Anniversary)
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23 pages, 1231 KiB  
Review
Experimental Campaigns on Mechanical Properties and Seismic Performance of Unstabilized Rammed Earth—A Literature Review
by Ana Perić, Ivan Kraus, Jelena Kaluđer and Lucija Kraus
Buildings 2021, 11(8), 367; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings11080367 - 19 Aug 2021
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3561
Abstract
Earthen architecture has a significant share in the world’s fund of both residential architecture and cultural heritage. It provides a home to more than half of the world’s population and can be found in seismically active areas. Empirically acquired knowledge on building with [...] Read more.
Earthen architecture has a significant share in the world’s fund of both residential architecture and cultural heritage. It provides a home to more than half of the world’s population and can be found in seismically active areas. Empirically acquired knowledge on building with rammed earth (RE) has usually been passed down from generation to generation by word of mouth, with no written scientific grant for the load-bearing capacity and resistance of structural elements. Today, many countries still do not have standards for the design of RE structures. In the development of new as well as existing design standards, the results of experimental research play a significant role. The focus of this study was on unstabilized RE, which is locally available material with low embodied energy. This paper elaborates experimental campaigns, within which meticulous techniques were employed to provide new knowledge on RE for use in earthquake-prone areas. Furthermore, this paper includes: (i) ranges of values of mechanical properties determined on RE specimens from all over the world; (ii) a comparative summary of experimental research conducted on walls and buildings to assess their seismic performance; (iii) an overview of standards and testing methods used in experiments; and (iv) recommendations for further research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Buildings: 10th Anniversary)
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28 pages, 7786 KiB  
Review
Implementation of Passive Radiative Cooling Technology in Buildings: A Review
by Suhendri, Mingke Hu, Yuehong Su, Jo Darkwa and Saffa Riffat
Buildings 2020, 10(12), 215; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings10120215 - 26 Nov 2020
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 8741
Abstract
Radiative cooling (RC) is attracting more interest from building engineers and architects. Using the sky as the heat sink, a radiative cooling material can be passively cooled by emitting heat to the sky. As a result of the development of material technology, RC [...] Read more.
Radiative cooling (RC) is attracting more interest from building engineers and architects. Using the sky as the heat sink, a radiative cooling material can be passively cooled by emitting heat to the sky. As a result of the development of material technology, RC research has been revived, with the aim of increasing the materials’ cooling power as well as finding reliable ways to utilize it in cooling for buildings. This review identifies some issues in the current implementation of RC technologies in buildings from an architectural point of view. Besides the technical performance of the RC technologies, some architectural aspects, such as integration with architectural features, aesthetic requirements, as well as fully passive implementations of RC, also need to be considered for building application. In addition, performance evaluation of a building-integrated RC system should begin to account for its benefit to the occupant’s health and comfort alongside the technical performance. In conclusion, this review on RC implementation in buildings provides a meaningful discussion in regard to the direction of the research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Buildings: 10th Anniversary)
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