Eric Forcael , Ramón Mata , Bryan González , Alexander Opazo-Vega , Rodrigo García-Alvarado , Marcelo González , Eduardo Núñez , Javiera Padilla
{"title":"Enhanced robotic cross-laminated timber panel assembly process","authors":"Eric Forcael , Ramón Mata , Bryan González , Alexander Opazo-Vega , Rodrigo García-Alvarado , Marcelo González , Eduardo Núñez , Javiera Padilla","doi":"10.1016/j.dibe.2025.100667","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.dibe.2025.100667","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The use of Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) panels in construction is often constrained by their weight, making handling and installation challenging. These limitations frequently result in on-site planning and manual assembly, increasing risks and inefficiencies. This study proposes an integrated framework that combines Building Information Modeling (BIM), discrete event simulation, and robotic assembly to optimize the installation of CLT structures within the built environment. By leveraging these technologies, the methodology addresses material handling challenges while enhancing construction efficiency and adaptability to urban and prefabricated settings. Numerical simulations and robotic assembly experimental tests were conducted to evaluate the framework’s performance. Results demonstrate an improvement in assembly efficiency, reducing both accident risks and installation time compared to manual methods. Strong agreement between numerical and experimental findings underscores the potential of computational tools in advancing automated construction practices. This research provides actionable recommendations to promote the broader adoption of automated processes in CLT construction, contributing to safer, more efficient, and sustainable building practices within the evolving built environment.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34137,"journal":{"name":"Developments in the Built Environment","volume":"22 ","pages":"Article 100667"},"PeriodicalIF":6.2,"publicationDate":"2025-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143851426","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"工程技术","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Performance of connection joints of beam-column structure using Ultra-high-performance concrete under full-scale tests","authors":"Krairerk Aiamsri , Teerasak Yaowarat , Suksun Horpibulsuk , Apichat Suddeepong , Apinun Buritatum , Artit Udomchai , Kirati Nitichote","doi":"10.1016/j.dibe.2025.100682","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.dibe.2025.100682","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study examines the application of Ultra-High Performance Concrete (UHPC) in precast beam-column joints to improve structural performance. The studied joints included both adequately and inadequately reinforced conditions (strong and weak joints), constructed using UHPC and deformed rebars. The strong joints allowed the rebars to reach their yield strength under the design bending moment, effectively transferring loads and maintaining structural integrity during service conditions. These well-detailed joints exhibited ductile failure behavior, which is a desired characteristic in reinforced concrete design. In contrast, the weak joints experienced premature and brittle failures, underscoring the importance of proper detailing and reinforcement length. Finally, a practical design scheme was developed to determine the appropriate rebar lengths in UHPC connections to ensure structural integrity and safety. Overall, the integration of UHPC into precast concrete joints significantly enhanced bond performance, improved load transfer mechanisms, and contributed to more resilient and reliable construction practices.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34137,"journal":{"name":"Developments in the Built Environment","volume":"22 ","pages":"Article 100682"},"PeriodicalIF":6.2,"publicationDate":"2025-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144124625","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"工程技术","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Europe's reinforced concrete structures: Corrosion rates in a changing climate","authors":"Filippo Landi , Fabrizio Moro , Sylvia Keßler","doi":"10.1016/j.dibe.2025.100661","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.dibe.2025.100661","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The long-term deterioration of reinforced concrete (RC) structures poses a significant challenge to their strength and serviceability, with steel reinforcement corrosion being the primary degradation mechanism. Corrosion is a complex process highly influenced by climatic conditions, making the prediction of corrosion rates under changing climate scenarios crucial for reliable service life assessments of ageing RC structures. In particular, increasing global temperatures due to climate change are expected to accelerate deterioration, promoting steel corrosion and increasing its rate. This study presents a predictive analysis of corrosion rate variations using a multi-model ensemble of daily climate projections under different future scenarios, incorporating existing knowledge on temperature dependency in corrosion models. A European-scale map illustrating the impact of climate change on corrosion rates is developed and analyzed, highlighting a significant increase in corrosion rates that will critically affect the durability and serviceability of RC structures and infrastructure.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34137,"journal":{"name":"Developments in the Built Environment","volume":"22 ","pages":"Article 100661"},"PeriodicalIF":6.2,"publicationDate":"2025-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144137882","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"工程技术","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Hang Su , Weizhi Wei , Xiangjie Liu , Qiwei Wang , Biao Yang
{"title":"A pilot study exploring the impact of daylight gradient on occupant in underground space","authors":"Hang Su , Weizhi Wei , Xiangjie Liu , Qiwei Wang , Biao Yang","doi":"10.1016/j.dibe.2025.100658","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.dibe.2025.100658","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The absence of daylight in underground spaces significantly affects the well-being. The negative impacts of fully static artificial lighting in deep underground spaces have been confirmed. However, the effects of the mixed lighting environment (natural light and artificial lighting) in shallow underground spaces remain unclear, specifically the impact of transitioning from 100 % static artificial lighting to 100 % natural light on individuals. In this study, a quasi-experimental approach using differences-in-differences method, was employed to assess the impact of varying daylight gradients on occupants' emotional states, cognitive evaluation, and task performance. Eight actual spaces across four underground sites were selected with varying proportions of daylight respectively (87 %, 12 %, 7 %, 0 %). It was found that, as the proportion of daylight decreases, task performance, emotional states, and cognitive evaluation are affected negatively. Comparing with task performance and emotional states, cognitive evaluation is affected in the condition of lower proportion of daylight.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34137,"journal":{"name":"Developments in the Built Environment","volume":"22 ","pages":"Article 100658"},"PeriodicalIF":6.2,"publicationDate":"2025-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143834012","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"工程技术","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Xiang Chen , Hongzhou Zhu , Xinqiang Zhang , Dan Yang , Zhenzhen Wang , Jian Zhang , Jian Zhang
{"title":"Synergistic modification of bamboo aggregates by sodium alginate-CaCl2: optimization and performance evaluation of sustainable lightweight concrete","authors":"Xiang Chen , Hongzhou Zhu , Xinqiang Zhang , Dan Yang , Zhenzhen Wang , Jian Zhang , Jian Zhang","doi":"10.1016/j.dibe.2025.100670","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.dibe.2025.100670","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>In the context of global climate change, the demand for green building materials has grown increasingly urgent. This study has made significant advancements in sustainable construction materials by developing all-bamboo aggregate concrete (BAC) enhanced with a sodium alginate-CaCl<sub>2</sub> synergy through an environmentally friendly process. Using response surface methodology optimization, the 28-day compressive strength was increased to 8.10 MPa. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis indicates that the alginate gel forms a cross-linked network within bamboo micro-cracks, substantially improving interfacial bonding. A novel bamboo aggregate mass index (BAMI) has been introduced to quantify particle shape, allowing precise control over aggregate quality, thus offering a new solution for lightweight pavement materials. While fly ash reduces short-term strength, its low alkalinity and secondary hydration effects positively influence long-term durability. This research provides a scientific basis for utilizing BAC in pedestrian pavements and advancing sustainable construction materials.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34137,"journal":{"name":"Developments in the Built Environment","volume":"22 ","pages":"Article 100670"},"PeriodicalIF":6.2,"publicationDate":"2025-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143878832","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"工程技术","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Dan Li , Tao Yu , Hao Wang , Chenxun Hu , Jiahao Nie , Pifu Cheng , Wenyu He
{"title":"Spectral element simulation data-driven acoustic emission damage location in orthotropic steel decks","authors":"Dan Li , Tao Yu , Hao Wang , Chenxun Hu , Jiahao Nie , Pifu Cheng , Wenyu He","doi":"10.1016/j.dibe.2025.100676","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.dibe.2025.100676","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Data-driven acoustic emission (AE) damage location methods yield promising performances in large-scale complex structures like orthotropic steel decks (OSDs), but rely on abundant training data that are generally obtained by pencil lead break (PLB) tests. A new data-driven AE location method based on spectral element simulation and machine learning is proposed for more efficient practical applications. Especially, a CPU-GPU heterogeneous parallel computing framework is developed for three-dimensional time-domain spectral element method (SEM) simulation. It helps to generate high-quality numerical AE waves without excessive computational resources for training the artificial neural network (ANN)-based location model. Through the experiment on a full-scale OSD model, the method was proved to achieve an accuracy significantly higher than the widely-used time of arrival (TOA) method and comparable to the traditional data-driven method with experimental input data. The innovation lied in obviating burdensome PLB tests to collect training data for the AE location machine learning model.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34137,"journal":{"name":"Developments in the Built Environment","volume":"22 ","pages":"Article 100676"},"PeriodicalIF":6.2,"publicationDate":"2025-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144071577","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"工程技术","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Elnaz Khankhaje, Hyounseung Jang, Jimin Kim, Mahdi Rafieizonooz
{"title":"Utilizing rice husk ash as cement replacement in pervious concrete: A review","authors":"Elnaz Khankhaje, Hyounseung Jang, Jimin Kim, Mahdi Rafieizonooz","doi":"10.1016/j.dibe.2025.100675","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.dibe.2025.100675","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The disposal of rice husk ash (RHA) presents environmental challenges, yet its high silica content makes it a promising partial cement replacement in pervious concrete. While previous studies have explored RHA's role in conventional concrete, comprehensive research on its effects in pervious concrete remains limited. This review systematically analyzes more than 100 peer-reviewed studies published in the last two decades, using predefined screening criteria focused on RHA dosage, processing methods, and mix design strategies. The findings indicate that incorporating 5–10 % RHA enhances compressive strength by up to 29 % and improves abrasion resistance while maintaining permeability. However, excessive replacement levels (above 15 %) reduce porosity and compromise drainage capacity. By identifying research gaps in mix optimization and long-term durability assessment, this study provides valuable insights for advancing sustainable and high-performance pervious concrete.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34137,"journal":{"name":"Developments in the Built Environment","volume":"22 ","pages":"Article 100675"},"PeriodicalIF":6.2,"publicationDate":"2025-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144089859","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"工程技术","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Guangling Shi , Hucheng Chai , Liya Zhao , Songhui Liu , Zhiying Guo , Haibo Zhang
{"title":"Study on the carbonation resistance of sulphoaluminate cement grouting materials enhanced by acrylamide in-situ polymerization modification","authors":"Guangling Shi , Hucheng Chai , Liya Zhao , Songhui Liu , Zhiying Guo , Haibo Zhang","doi":"10.1016/j.dibe.2025.100684","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.dibe.2025.100684","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Sulphoaluminate cement (SAC) is widely used in grouting applications owing to its rapid setting and high early strength. However, its low resistance to carbonation in highCO<sub>2</sub> environments restricts its broader application. This study explores the enhancement of SAC's carbonation resistance through in-situ polymerization of acrylamide (AM). SAC was modified with varying AM dosages (0–40 %), and the carbonation depth, mechanical properties, and microstructure were evaluated after different carbonation periods. The results indicate that increasing the AM content significantly improved SAC's long-term carbonation resistance. Samples with ≥20 % AM exhibited carbonation depths of less than 3 mm after 28 days of accelerated carbonation. Microstructural analysis revealed that in-situ polymerized PAM formed an interpenetrating organic-inorganic network with cement hydration products, enhancing both ductility and strength. The encapsulation of hydration products by PAM hindered CO<sub>2</sub> contact, while pore-filling effects reduced CO<sub>2</sub> diffusion pathways. This study demonstrates that in-situ polymerized PAM is a promising solution for mitigating carbonation-induced deterioration in SAC, potentially expanding its application in high CO<sub>2</sub> environments.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34137,"journal":{"name":"Developments in the Built Environment","volume":"22 ","pages":"Article 100684"},"PeriodicalIF":6.2,"publicationDate":"2025-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144168652","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"工程技术","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Enhancing sustainability in construction: Mechanical, carbon emission, and microstructural analysis of activated slag binders incorporating silica fume and nepheline syenite","authors":"Hadi Bahmani, Davood Mostofinejad","doi":"10.1016/j.dibe.2025.100681","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.dibe.2025.100681","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This research presents the first comprehensive investigation into the development of binders utilizing activated slag, silica fume, and nepheline syenite, addressing the urgent need for sustainable alternatives to traditional Portland cement, which is known for its high carbon emissions. The performance of these manufactured binders was systematically compared to conventional cement binders to evaluate their mechanical and environmental properties. After 28 days of curing, tests assessed compressive, tensile, and bending strengths and water absorption and microstructural features via Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX). The binder activated with silica fume (water-to-binder ratio of 0.45) achieved compressive, tensile, and bending strengths of 45 MPa, 4.7 MPa, and 4.9 MPa, while the binder activated with nepheline syenite showed lower strengths of 37 MPa, 3.3 MPa, and 3.5 MPa. The cement binder yielded strengths of 50 MPa, 4.9 MPa, and 5.2 MPa under the same conditions. Microstructural analysis indicated the highest density and calcium-to-silicon ratio in the cement binder, closely followed by the binder activated with silica fume. Binders activated with a 10 M sodium hydroxide solution exhibited superior performance compared to those with 15 M. Notably, the binder activated with nepheline syenite, formulated at a 1:2 ratio with sodium hydroxide, proved most sustainable, with a carbon footprint of 986 kg CO<sub>2</sub> per unit, significantly lower than the cement binder's 1984 kg CO<sub>2</sub>. These findings underscore the urgent need for sustainable construction materials and contribute to addressing environmental concerns associated with cement production.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34137,"journal":{"name":"Developments in the Built Environment","volume":"22 ","pages":"Article 100681"},"PeriodicalIF":6.2,"publicationDate":"2025-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144168653","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"工程技术","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
E. Garcia-Castillo , I. Paya-Zaforteza , T. Gernay
{"title":"Probabilistic risk assessment of historic timber flooring systems subjected to fire","authors":"E. Garcia-Castillo , I. Paya-Zaforteza , T. Gernay","doi":"10.1016/j.dibe.2025.100659","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.dibe.2025.100659","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Structural fire analyses of historic buildings face significant uncertainties due to their age and the scarcity of specific fire safety guidelines in modern codes. Typical prescriptive approaches often result in interventions that compromise the aesthetic and cultural value of these structures. In contrast, probabilistic performance-based approaches address uncertainties and offer flexibility to achieve compliance with fire safety requirements while preserving built heritage.</div><div>This study introduces a novel probabilistic methodology to assess the fire resistance of timber structures, demonstrated on historic timber jack arch flooring systems. Extensive numerical simulations were conducted to develop fire fragility functions and obtain reliability indices, incorporating variability in timber density, mechanical properties, strength reduction with temperature, and applied loads. Results indicate that many of the historic systems studied possess adequate fire safety. Applicable to any timber structure, this methodology allows case-specific analyses, promoting the rational conservation and design of heritage and contemporary timber systems.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34137,"journal":{"name":"Developments in the Built Environment","volume":"22 ","pages":"Article 100659"},"PeriodicalIF":6.2,"publicationDate":"2025-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143859554","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"工程技术","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}