Journal Description
Buildings
Buildings
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on building science, building engineering and architecture published monthly online by MDPI. The International Council for Research and Innovation in Building and Construction (CIB) is affiliated with Buildings and their members receive a discount on the article processing charges.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), Inspec, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Engineering, Civil) / CiteScore - Q1 (Architecture)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 14.6 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.6 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
- Companion Journal: Architecture.
Impact Factor:
3.8 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
3.8 (2022)
Latest Articles
Seismic Isolation Performance of Nuclear Power Plant Containment Structures
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1650; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061650 (registering DOI) - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
Non-isolated structures have strong destructive effects and poor isolation effects when encountering earthquakes. Setting isolation bearings can prolong the natural vibration period of the structure, reduce the horizontal seismic response of the structure under the influence of variables such as acceleration, base reaction,
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Non-isolated structures have strong destructive effects and poor isolation effects when encountering earthquakes. Setting isolation bearings can prolong the natural vibration period of the structure, reduce the horizontal seismic response of the structure under the influence of variables such as acceleration, base reaction, and inter story displacement, and enhance the overall seismic performance of the structure. The new material—epoxy plate thick layer rubber isolation bearing—has unique advantages compared to other bearings, such as effective energy absorption, simple construction, and low cost. This study establishes a three-dimensional isolated nuclear power plant containment structure based on the principle of similarity ratio, and compares and analyzes the acceleration, base reaction, and displacement responses of non-isolated and isolated structures. At the same time, the incremental dynamic analysis method (IDA) is used to analyze the seismic vulnerability of the structure, and the isolation performance of the nuclear containment structure using epoxy plate thick layer rubber isolation bearings is comprehensively and deeply explored. The results show that the epoxy plate thick layer rubber isolation bearing effectively prolongs the natural vibration period of the structure, reduces the horizontal seismic response of the structure, reduces the dome acceleration response by 66.55%, and reduces the base horizontal shear force by 55.51%. Therefore, setting epoxy plate thick layer rubber isolation bearings in the isolation layer can effectively enhance the seismic performance of the structure, thereby improving the redundancy of the nuclear power plant containment structure.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Structures)
Open AccessArticle
Analysis and Optimization of Residential Elements from the Perspective of Multi-Child Families in the Yangtze River Delta Region
by
Xi Zhou, Fan Ye, Fang Zhang and Dengyu Wang
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1649; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061649 - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
Over the last few decades, policy changes have resulted in changes in family structure and cyclical changes within families. The structure of multi-child families will have a significant influence on housing demand and supply, necessitating a thorough demand study. This study examines the
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Over the last few decades, policy changes have resulted in changes in family structure and cyclical changes within families. The structure of multi-child families will have a significant influence on housing demand and supply, necessitating a thorough demand study. This study examines the requirements of 739 multi-child families in the Yangtze River Delta (YRD) region at different stages and graphically displays the variables influencing their level of housing satisfaction, offering a scientific reference for the design and optimization of housing. Firstly, the residential elements that impact families with multiple children were categorized into 3 categories, 14 subcategories, and 65 influencing elements based on expert consultation and word frequency data. Secondly, 739 families in the YRD region were chosen for investigation, and importance–performance analysis (IPA) was employed to study and assess the residential elements of multi-child families. The IPA study findings were compared to those obtained from on-site surveys and network data crawling. Finally, the residential elements to be optimized were quantitatively determined, and the relevant optimization techniques were provided in conjunction with door-to-door interviewing. This study examines the needs of multi-child families at various phases, as well as the factors that impact their residential satisfaction, and provides optimization solutions for the long-term use and renewal of residential structures.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Architectural Design, Urban Science, and Real Estate)
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Open AccessArticle
Research on Optimization Design Strategies for Natural Ventilation in Living Units of Institutional Elderly Care Facilities Based on Computational Fluid Dynamics Simulation
by
Tianye Liu, Jingxian Wang, Dian Zhou, Xiangzhao Meng, Xilian Luo and Yupeng Wang
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1648; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061648 - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
As China transitions into a deeply aging society, the elderly population’s growth has driven a rapid increase in elderly care institutions and facilities during the “13th Five-Year Plan” period, rising by over 235% compared to the “12th Five-Year Plan”. The ongoing normalization of
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As China transitions into a deeply aging society, the elderly population’s growth has driven a rapid increase in elderly care institutions and facilities during the “13th Five-Year Plan” period, rising by over 235% compared to the “12th Five-Year Plan”. The ongoing normalization of COVID-19 prevention measures has underscored the urgent need to improve natural ventilation in elderly care residential facilities. This study conducted empirical surveys to assess the current state of natural ventilation in typical elderly care facilities and analyzed the architectural elements influencing it. By examining the needs and preferences of the elderly for natural ventilation, two basic living space layout types were identified through typological analysis. Suitable CFD simulation software was then employed to model key elements, and effective methods to enhance ventilation were summarized. This study found that modifying the floor plan to reduce the depth of south-facing rooms to 8.4 m, relocating external openings to the center of the rooms, adjusting the ratio of ventilation openings to room area to greater than 1/12, and adding 0.5 m high windows facing internal traffic roads can significantly improve indoor ventilation while maintaining privacy. Furthermore, placing the main activity and resting areas of the elderly in well-ventilated zones with minimal drafts can enhance both comfort and ventilation effectiveness. The research provides a scientific basis and methodological guidance for the construction and renovation of elderly care residential facilities.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Engineering Problems and Legal Challenges in Urban and Rural Low-Carbon Development)
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Open AccessArticle
Research on the Current Situation and Calculation Method of Carbon Emissions Assessment for Building Curtain Walls
by
Xichen Zhang, Xiangqiu Fu, Xiuchun Zheng, Shunmou Li, Qian Zhao and Jinjie Lin
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1647; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061647 - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
Curtain wall systems stand out as a pivotal domain within the construction sector’s endeavors towards energy efficiency and carbon mitigation. To refine the evaluation framework for carbon emissions within this industry, this paper explores the calculation and assessment method for building curtain walls.
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Curtain wall systems stand out as a pivotal domain within the construction sector’s endeavors towards energy efficiency and carbon mitigation. To refine the evaluation framework for carbon emissions within this industry, this paper explores the calculation and assessment method for building curtain walls. The article first reviews the current research status regarding carbon emissions from materials and the impact of curtain walls on buildings in the operational stage. Based on lifecycle theory, the carbon emissions from building curtain walls are divided into six stages: material acquisition, processing and production, installation and construction, transportation, use and maintenance, and dismantling. On this basis, this paper proposes a method for calculating carbon emissions from building curtain walls. Following that, a case study is conducted using a specific glass curtain wall project for illustrative analysis. The results indicate that the carbon emissions from the material acquisition stage constitute approximately 90% of the total, serving as the primary source of carbon emissions for glass curtain walls. Furthermore, the scientific application of photovoltaics can significantly reduce the carbon emission levels of building curtain walls. Finally, an analysis was conducted on the current issues existing in the evaluation of carbon emissions.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Building Technologies for Energy Savings and Decarbonization)
Open AccessArticle
Energy Efficiency Analysis of Building Envelope Renovation and Photovoltaic System in a High-Rise Hotel Building in Indonesia
by
Leni Sagita Riantini, Rossy Armyn Machfudiyanto, Titi Sari Nurul Rachmawati, Mochamad Daffa Alfiansyah Rachman, Reza Fachrizal and Farshid Shadram
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1646; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061646 - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
The development of high-rise buildings worldwide has given rise to significant concerns regarding their excessive electricity consumption. Among the various categories of high-rise structures, hotels used for business and conferences stand out as particularly extravagant in their energy use. The consequence arising from
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The development of high-rise buildings worldwide has given rise to significant concerns regarding their excessive electricity consumption. Among the various categories of high-rise structures, hotels used for business and conferences stand out as particularly extravagant in their energy use. The consequence arising from excessive energy usage is an escalation in carbon emissions, which is a primary driver of global warming. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the energy use intensity (EUI) of a hotel building located in Jakarta, Indonesia. In order to improve energy performance, this study explored various options for renovating the building envelope, such as incorporating insulation and a roof covering, as well as implementing building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV). The building envelope renovations demonstrated a notable reduction in energy use by 15.8–27.7% per year. BIPV, such as curtain walls and double-skin façades, generated an energy use reduction of 4.8–8.6% per year. Remarkably, by combining the two approaches (i.e., adding insulation and a roof covering in the building envelope and adopting BIPV as double-skin façades), the potential reduction in energy use reached up to 32.2% per year. The findings can assist decision-makers in developing building renovation strategies for high-rise buildings while considering energy conservation.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Building Technologies for Energy Savings and Decarbonization)
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Open AccessArticle
Design and Analysis of Novel Anti-Rocking Bearing
by
Yuqing Yang, Fanchang Kong, Longgui Bu and Zaigen Mu
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1645; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061645 - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
To address the issue of severe rocking phenomena under seismic conditions in structures equipped with steel spring isolation bearings, this paper investigates a novel type of anti-rocking bearing. Firstly, the structural configuration and working principle of the novel anti-rocking bearing are introduced, and
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To address the issue of severe rocking phenomena under seismic conditions in structures equipped with steel spring isolation bearings, this paper investigates a novel type of anti-rocking bearing. Firstly, the structural configuration and working principle of the novel anti-rocking bearing are introduced, and a design method for bearing parameters is proposed. Secondly, a finite element analysis model is established using SAP2000-v20 software to conduct nonlinear dynamic time–history analysis under seismic loading. The analysis results show that the structural arrangement of the novel anti-rocking bearing reduces both the vertical displacement difference and the rocking angle of the isolation layer. The bearing exhibits a certain level of anti-rocking effect, but it may cause significant tensile forces in some bearings. The effectiveness of the anti-rocking effect improves as the stiffness of the steel tension rod in the bearing increases. For structures equipped with the novel anti-rocking bearing, the acceleration amplifies under most cases, with amplification coefficients ranging from 0.82 to 1.55. Through the finite element simulation of the bearing, the mechanical properties of the bearing are essentially the same as the theoretical analysis results.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Structures)
Open AccessArticle
Construction Activity Recognition Method Based on Object Detection, Attention Orientation Estimation, and Person Re-Identification
by
Jiaqi Li, Xuefeng Zhao, Lingjie Kong, Lixiao Zhang and Zheng Zou
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1644; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061644 - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
Recognition and classification for construction activities help to monitor and manage construction workers. Deep learning and computer vision technologies have addressed many limitations of traditional manual methods in complex construction environments. However, distinguishing different workers and establishing a clear recognition logic remain challenging.
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Recognition and classification for construction activities help to monitor and manage construction workers. Deep learning and computer vision technologies have addressed many limitations of traditional manual methods in complex construction environments. However, distinguishing different workers and establishing a clear recognition logic remain challenging. To address these issues, we propose a novel construction activity recognition method that integrates multiple deep learning algorithms. To complete this research, we created three datasets: 727 images for construction entities, 2546 for posture and orientation estimation, and 5455 for worker re-identification. First, a YOLO v5-based model is trained for worker posture and orientation detection. A person re-identification algorithm is then introduced to distinguish workers by tracking their coordinates, body and head orientations, and postures over time, then estimating their attention direction. Additionally, a YOLO v5-based object detection model is developed to identify ten common construction entity objects. The worker’s activity is determined by combining their attentional orientation, positional information, and interaction with detected construction entities. Ten video clips are selected for testing, and a total of 745 instances of workers are detected, achieving an accuracy rate of 88.5%. With further refinement, this method shows promise for a broader application in construction activity recognition, enhancing site management efficiency.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Engineering Safety Monitoring and Management)
Open AccessArticle
Production of Glass Foam in a Microwave Oven Using Agro-Industrial Waste as Raw Material
by
Fernando Antonio da Silva Fernandes, Thamara Fernanda da Silva Fernandes and João Adriano Rossignolo
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1643; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061643 - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
Climate change is characterized by shifts in temperature and climate patterns. Constructing new high-rise environments using materials that incorporate agro-industrial waste can help mitigate this impact without compromising technological properties. This study produced vitreous foams intended to replace natural aggregates in lightweight concrete
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Climate change is characterized by shifts in temperature and climate patterns. Constructing new high-rise environments using materials that incorporate agro-industrial waste can help mitigate this impact without compromising technological properties. This study produced vitreous foams intended to replace natural aggregates in lightweight concrete partially. These foams were sintered in a microwave oven at temperatures of 750 °C, 800 °C, and 850 °C, utilizing glass powder and sugarcane bagasse ash as raw materials. The homogenization and preparation of these materials were conducted through a mechanical pelletization process, employing a constant rotation engine at approximately 40 rpm. The efficacy of microwave sintering was assessed by comparing the outcomes with those from sintering in a conventional electric muffle furnace under identical conditions. The results indicated that the microwave-sintered vitreous foams exhibited the following values for apparent density (≤0.30 g/cm³), porosity (86% to 94%), and compressive strength (0.48 MPa to 0.58 MPa), which align with the global standards for commercial vitreous foams. The microwave sintering route proved to be economically feasible by reducing sintering time and, consequently, energy costs, without sacrificing technological properties. The materials produced in this study offer a promising solution to minimize the environmental impact associated with constructing new buildings, particularly tall structures. Additionally, they support the circular economy by converting waste into valuable by-products.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Utilization of Recycled Aggregates and Waste in Sustainable Road Materials)
Open AccessArticle
Exploring the Use of Lean, Offsite and Simulation in Housing Delivery: Evidence from the UK
by
Emmanuel Itodo Daniel, Ashendra Nikeshala Konara and Olalekan Oshodi
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1642; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061642 - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
The subpar performance of housing construction projects has been attributed to their reliance on traditional construction methods. In response to this issue, numerous innovative approaches, including modern methods of construction (MMC), have been employed to facilitate the execution of housing projects. The present
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The subpar performance of housing construction projects has been attributed to their reliance on traditional construction methods. In response to this issue, numerous innovative approaches, including modern methods of construction (MMC), have been employed to facilitate the execution of housing projects. The present study explores the use of MMC, specifically lean, offsite, and simulation (LOS) techniques, in delivering housing construction projects within the United Kingdom. Employing a qualitative research approach, eighteen relevant stakeholders from England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland were interviewed to fulfil the study’s purpose. The findings demonstrate that the integration of LOS techniques is advantageous in the delivery of housing construction projects. Moreover, governmental support, collaboration, leadership, training, stakeholder engagement, and environmental consideration were identified as critical factors facilitating the implementation of LOS in housing project delivery. This study provides valuable insights into the key factors that support the adoption of LOS techniques within the UK context and can serve as a guide for stakeholders in the future use of LOS in the UK housing sector. Furthermore, the empirical and qualitative evidence presented on the application of lean, offsite, and simulation (LOS) in housing delivery in the UK can contribute to efforts to address the country’s housing shortage.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Technologies and Workflows for BIM and Digital Construction)
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A Qualitative Study on University Students’ Restorative Experience of the Library Space Environment
by
Xiaoyun Song, Zheyu Wang, Xue Meng and Minghao Liu
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1641; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061641 - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
Currently, university students are facing high levels of stress and negativity. Creating a campus learning environment that promotes students’ physical and mental health and well-being has become a key focus of current research. There is now a wealth of research proving that the
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Currently, university students are facing high levels of stress and negativity. Creating a campus learning environment that promotes students’ physical and mental health and well-being has become a key focus of current research. There is now a wealth of research proving that the natural attributes of learning spaces are highly restorative for university students, both physically and mentally. In order to comprehensively clarify the characteristics of the library spatial environment that has a restorative effect on university students, this paper conducted semi-structured interviews with 50 university students and thematically analyzed the data obtained from these interviews. Ultimately, we identified five key themes: (1) Being away: students believe that studying alone is a way to escape social pressures, immersing themselves in their studies helps them forget everything around them, and the view from the window creates a sense of detachment; (2) Extent: students perceive the design of the library space as rich and orderly; (3) Fascination: many elements of the library spatial environment appeal to them and make them feel energized. The overall atmosphere motivates them to engage more actively in their learning; (4) Compatibility: the library spatial environment provides a variety of facilities that meet their learning needs, along with various types of spaces catering for different behaviors; and (5) Biophilia: Many interviewees mentioned the benefits of natural environments and timber, as well as their preference for spaces with a sufficient sense of enclosure and the ability to observe others. The first four themes were found to be closely related to the Attention Restorative Theory during the course of the study, while the last theme was mentioned by most of the students. The results of this study prove that library spaces can be described as restorative environments in the same way as natural environments, with both physical and mental restorative effects. Furthermore, the results of this study can also provide certain ideas for the design and renovation of the internal spatial environment of university libraries.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Energy, Physics, Environment, and Systems)
Open AccessArticle
Enhanced Indoor Air Quality Dashboard Framework and Index for Higher Educational Institutions
by
Farah Shoukry, Sherif Goubran and Khaled Tarabieh
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1640; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061640 - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
This research proposes a 10-step methodology for developing an enhanced IAQ dashboard and classroom index (CI) in higher educational facilities located in arid environments. The identified parameters of the enhanced IAQ dashboard–inspired by the pandemic experience, result from the literature review and the
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This research proposes a 10-step methodology for developing an enhanced IAQ dashboard and classroom index (CI) in higher educational facilities located in arid environments. The identified parameters of the enhanced IAQ dashboard–inspired by the pandemic experience, result from the literature review and the outcome of two electronic surveys of (52) respondents, including health professionals and facility management experts. On the other hand, the indicators included in the CI are based on (80) occupant survey responses, including parameters related to IAQ, Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ), and thermal comfort, amongst other classroom operative considerations. The CI is further tested in four learning spaces at the American University in Cairo, Egypt. The main contribution of this research is to suggest a conceptual visualization of the dashboard and a practical classroom index that integrates a representative number of contextual indicators to recommend optimal IAQ scenarios for a given educational facility. This study concludes by highlighting several key findings: (1) both qualitative and quantitative metrics are necessary to capture indoor air quality-related parameters accurately; (2) tailoring the dashboard as well as the CI to specific contexts enhances its applicability across diverse locations; and finally, (3) the IAQ dashboard and CI offer flexibility for ad-hoc applications.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthy, Digital and Sustainable Buildings and Cities)
Open AccessArticle
Experimental Study on the Bonding Performance between Shaped Steel and High-Strength Concrete
by
Qinglin Tao, Weiping Pei, Hao Zhang, Yi Hu, Yuandi Qian, Yingtong Wang and Zhengyi Kong
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1639; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061639 - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
The integration of steel fibers into high-strength concrete (HSC) offers a solution to address the brittleness and limited ductility typically associated with conventional HSC structures. To investigate the bonding properties between shaped steel and high-strength concrete with steel fiber (SFRC), thirteen tests of
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The integration of steel fibers into high-strength concrete (HSC) offers a solution to address the brittleness and limited ductility typically associated with conventional HSC structures. To investigate the bonding properties between shaped steel and high-strength concrete with steel fiber (SFRC), thirteen tests of the shaped steel/SFRC specimens are conducted to explore the effects of various factors such as steel fiber volume ratio, concrete strength grade, reinforcement ratio, steel embedment depth, and cover thickness on bond–slip behavior. Three distinct failure modes, such as pushout failure, bond splitting, and yielding failure of steel, are identified during the pushout tests. Three different types of bond strength, such as the initial bond strength, the ultimate bond strength, and the residual bond strength, are observed from the load–slip curves between the shaped steel and concrete. By incorporating nonlinear spring elements, a numerical model for accurately simulating the bond performance between the shaped steel and SFRC specimens is developed. The bond strength between the shaped steel and concrete increase as the concrete strength, cover thickness, steel fiber volume ratio, and stirrup ratio increase, while it decreases as the steel embedment depth increases. A model for the bond strength between shaped steel and SFRC is developed, and it agrees well with the test data.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Latest Research on Building Materials and Structures)
Open AccessArticle
Linking Occupant Behavior and Window Design through Post-Occupancy Evaluation: Enhancing Natural Ventilation and Indoor Air Quality
by
Mojgan Pourtangestani, Nima Izadyar, Elmira Jamei and Zora Vrcelj
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1638; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061638 - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
This study investigates how window design features, such as size, placement, and orientation, might impact occupants’ behavior related to natural ventilation in residential houses and how residents manage natural ventilation to affect indoor air quality (IAQ), comfort, and energy efficiency. By analyzing responses
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This study investigates how window design features, such as size, placement, and orientation, might impact occupants’ behavior related to natural ventilation in residential houses and how residents manage natural ventilation to affect indoor air quality (IAQ), comfort, and energy efficiency. By analyzing responses from a questionnaire distributed among 200 occupants, this article reveals that stuffy air, perceived outdoor pollutants, odors, and relative humidity, along with factors like inadequate ventilation, temperature fluctuations, and energy consumption concerns, emerge as primary issues affecting occupants’ comfort and well-being. This study proposes design recommendations for enhancing IAQ, including optimal window placement for cross-ventilation, window-to-wall ratio (WWR) considerations, and the integration of smart window technologies. This research recognizes that window design is not just a technical matter but involves understanding social and behavioral factors as well. By analyzing occupant responses, it aims to provide insights into the socio-technical parameters that should be considered in window design. The findings offer valuable strategies for architects, designers, and homeowners to optimize natural ventilation and underscore the importance of an occupant-centered approach in sustainable building design.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Consumption and Environmental Comfort in Buildings)
Open AccessArticle
Experimental Study on the Horizontal Bearing Characteristic of a Strip-Walled Underground Diaphragm Wall
by
Guoqing Du, Shuang Xi, Chen Ling, Weian Shi, Xiaojuan Li, Mingxing Zhu and Shouguo Li
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1637; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061637 - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
Researching and developing a new type of diaphragm wall foundation can solve the problem that the traditional diaphragm wall structure may not meet the high standards of safety and stability of underground structures in some specific engineering environments. This paper focuses on the
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Researching and developing a new type of diaphragm wall foundation can solve the problem that the traditional diaphragm wall structure may not meet the high standards of safety and stability of underground structures in some specific engineering environments. This paper focuses on the horizontal bearing characteristic of a new form of foundation, a strip-walled underground diaphragm wall, through a series of model tests. In the tests, nine plexiglass models with different section sizes, wall spacings and wall heights, as well as loading strategies (horizontal loads along and against the wall in the model), were conducted. The influence of the above factors on the horizontal bearing performance of the foundation and the soil resistance distribution around the wall was studied. The results show that when the horizontal load applied along the wall is greater than 50 N, the growth rate of total displacement at the top of the wall gradually decreases; when a horizontal load is applied against the wall, with a uniform change in wall height, the optimal wall spacing is 11 cm. When the same displacement occurs, the bearing performance of the model under the former loading strategy is generally 10% higher than that under the later loading strategy. In addition, the depth where the maximum bending moment along the wall occurred gradually moves downward with the increase in horizontal load, and the increase in wall spacing and wall height has a positive effect on the horizontal bearing characteristic. With the application of load, the maximum bending moment of the wall will gradually decrease along the depth. The increase in wall spacing and wall height can improve the overall flexural stiffness and horizontal bearing performance of the foundation. Lastly, the group wall effect coefficient, β, is put forward, and a simplified formula for calculating the horizontal bearing capacity of a strip wall foundation is proposed. In the formula, β is negatively correlated with the buried depth of the wall and positively correlated with the distance between the walls, and its coefficient is greater than 1.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering and Mining Sciences in Construction)
Open AccessArticle
Water Resistance of Acrylic Adhesive Tapes for Rooftop Fastening
by
Klára V. Machalická, Petr Sejkot, Miroslav Vokáč, Petr Pokorný and Vera Obradović
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1636; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061636 - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
Rooftop solar modules are usually held in place by racks or frames that are mechanically attached to a roof structure and/or by heavyweight, ballasted footing mounts. These mounts ensure that the panel system remains in position against wind load. However, mechanical connectors create
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Rooftop solar modules are usually held in place by racks or frames that are mechanically attached to a roof structure and/or by heavyweight, ballasted footing mounts. These mounts ensure that the panel system remains in position against wind load. However, mechanical connectors create penetrations into the water-resistant layer of the roof, whereas ballasted footing mounts cause a significant additional load on the load-bearing structure of roof. For these reasons, adhesive connection seems to be a beneficial solution. Acrylic adhesive tapes, marked as VHBTM, may provide sufficient strength, and they have no need for mechanical fasteners or ballast. Acrylic adhesive tapes also provide a comfortable, fast, and efficient bonding process with no curing compared to liquid adhesives. On the other hand, resistance to water at load-bearing joints has not been sufficiently studied yet and could be critical for connections exposed to the outdoor environment. The present study aims at the determination of water resistance and durability of the VHBTM tapes from the GPH series, which are typically used to bond a variety of substrates including many metals. The mechanical properties and failure modes are compared for the specimens before and after a 21-day immersion in water. A significant reduction in strength was observed, depending on the substrate material. The study of chemical changes in the acrylic tape and in its leachate through infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray fluorescence, and X-ray diffraction analyses clarified the reduction in mechanical properties. The selected VHBTM tape demonstrated strong resistance to the effects of water. However, the overall strength of the joint after immersion was significantly impacted by the decrease in adhesion to a specific substrate.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Durability and Aging on Materials and Structures in Buildings)
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Open AccessArticle
Structural Condition Assessment of Steel Anchorage Using Convolutional Neural Networks and Admittance Response
by
Duc-Duy Ho, Jeong-Tae Kim, Nhat-Duc Hoang, Manh-Hung Tran, Ananta Man Singh Pradhan, Gia Toai Truong and Thanh-Canh Huynh
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1635; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061635 - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
Structural damage in the steel bridge anchorage, if not diagnosed early, could pose a severe risk of structural collapse. Previous studies have mainly focused on diagnosing prestress loss as a specific type of damage. This study is among the first for the automated
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Structural damage in the steel bridge anchorage, if not diagnosed early, could pose a severe risk of structural collapse. Previous studies have mainly focused on diagnosing prestress loss as a specific type of damage. This study is among the first for the automated identification of multiple types of anchorage damage, including strand damage and bearing plate damage, using deep learning combined with the EMA (electromechanical admittance) technique. The proposed approach employs the 1D CNN (one-dimensional convolutional neural network) algorithm to autonomously learn optimal features from the raw EMA data without complex transformations. The proposed approach is validated using the raw EMA response of a steel bridge anchorage specimen, which contains substantial nonlinearities in damage characteristics. A K-fold cross-validation approach is used to secure a rigorous performance evaluation and generalization across different scenarios. The method demonstrates superior performance compared to established 1D CNN models in assessing multiple damage types in the anchorage specimen, offering a potential alternative paradigm for data-driven damage identification in steel bridge anchorages.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Autonomous Strategies for Structural Health Monitoring)
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Open AccessArticle
Lateral Performance Analysis of Trapezoidal Orthogonal Stiffened Steel Plate Shear Walls
by
Hong Zheng, Lele Cai, Jiawei Qin, Yuxi Mi, Liqiang Jiang, Xiaoming Ma and Zhiwei Sun
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1634; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061634 - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
This paper introduces a trapezoidal orthogonal stiffener steel plate shear wall (TSW). The finite element model of the TSW was developed following the validation of low-cycle repeated tests conducted on a single-span double-layer steel plate shear wall. The paper studies the effects of
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This paper introduces a trapezoidal orthogonal stiffener steel plate shear wall (TSW). The finite element model of the TSW was developed following the validation of low-cycle repeated tests conducted on a single-span double-layer steel plate shear wall. The paper studies the effects of the flat steel plate thickness, stiffener thickness, stiffener height, and stiffener bottom width on the seismic performance of TSW. Building upon these findings, a theoretical formula for the ultimate shear capacity of TSW was developed. The results prove the following: (1) By changing the flat steel plate thickness, the stiffener thickness, and the stiffener height, the seismic behavior of TSW can be enhanced. It is suggested that the flat steel plate thickness is 4~6 mm, the stiffener thickness is 4~6 mm, and the stiffener height is not more than 60 mm, while the effect of the stiffener bottom width on the seismic behavior of TSW can be neglected. (2) The maximum error is 22.16%, compared to the theoretical value of TSW ultimate shear capacity with the finite element simulation value. However, as the finite element results surpass the test results, it indicates that the formula-derived results are unsafe, necessitating a recommendation for correction.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Testing and Computation Methods for Disaster Mitigation of Engineering Structures)
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Advances in Retrofitting Strategies for Energy Efficiency in Tropical Climates: A Systematic Review and Analysis
by
Katherine Chung-Camargo, Jinela González, Miguel Chen Austin, Cristina Carpino, Dafni Mora and Natale Arcuri
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1633; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061633 - 2 Jun 2024
Abstract
The global construction industry significantly contributes to energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, necessitating immediate action for sustainable development. Recognizing the impact of buildings on emissions, the United Nations has set ambitious energy-related goals for 2030. Retrofitting buildings emerges as a strategic method
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The global construction industry significantly contributes to energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, necessitating immediate action for sustainable development. Recognizing the impact of buildings on emissions, the United Nations has set ambitious energy-related goals for 2030. Retrofitting buildings emerges as a strategic method for reducing energy consumption, offering lower environmental impact and life cycle costs. However, retrofitting is a complex process influenced by diverse factors such as policies, available resources, techniques, building-specific data, and uncertainties. Thus, this paper reviews the existing literature on retrofitting strategies for tropical and humid climates to identify effective approaches for enhancing energy efficiency, thermal comfort, and overall building performance in these regions. Through comprehensive analyses, including bibliometric analysis using VOSviewer version 1.6.18 and systematic assessments, this study investigates various retrofitting strategies. This study categorizes tropical climates into Af (Tropical Rainforest Climate) and Aw (Tropical Savanna Climate) based on the Köppen climate classification. It reveals distinct emphases, with Af climates concentrating on office buildings and Aw climates prioritizing residential structures. Passive strategies were predominantly favored in office buildings, with glazing being the most commonly implemented approach. Residential structures, on the other hand, adopted a combination of passive strategies such as phase change materials along with active methods like appliance replacement. Educational buildings tended to rely on passive strategies, including roof covers, shading, and glazing. The absence of specific cost values underscores the importance of establishing baseline metrics, revealing significant challenges in retrofit techniques. This study further highlights an opportunity to explore passive methods in educational buildings, stressing the need for comprehensive guidelines, especially in institutional settings. Moreover, it emphasizes the urgency for ambitious regulations to address carbon emissions and optimize energy efficiency in tropical climates.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Studies in Nearly Zero-Energy Buildings and Optimal Design)
Open AccessArticle
Verification of Ventilation and Aerosol Diffusion Characteristics on COVID-19 Transmission through the Air Occurred at an Ice Arena in Japan
by
Koki Kikuta, Shun Omori, Masakazu Takagaki, Yasuhiko Ishii, Kazuhiro Okubo, Yuta Ohno, Yoshihiro Fujiya, Hitomi Kurosu, Tomoe Shimada, Tomimasa Sunagawa, Takuya Yamagishi and Motoya Hayashi
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1632; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061632 - 2 Jun 2024
Abstract
This study is about a COVID-19 outbreak and ventilation measures taken against COVID-19 transmission through the air occurred at an ice arena in Japan. The ice arena has been known to have a deterioration of indoor air quality affected by CO, NO2
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This study is about a COVID-19 outbreak and ventilation measures taken against COVID-19 transmission through the air occurred at an ice arena in Japan. The ice arena has been known to have a deterioration of indoor air quality affected by CO, NO2 and so on, and a total of 172 persons were infected with SARS-CoV-2, including the players and the spectators related to an ice hockey game in 2022. Given the suspected transmission through the air as one of infection routes, the primary objective of this study was to investigate the COVID-19 outbreak to verify the ventilation characteristics and aerosol diffusion characteristics. Additionally, the possibility of COVID-19 transmission through the air and the potentially effective ventilation measures in an ice arena are discussed. It was determined that the virus-containing aerosol was released from a player in the ice rink and accumulated in the cold air spot. After that, it was highly possible that it diffused from the player benches to the spectator seats due to the players’ movements under this unique air-conditioning and ventilation system. Judging from the results of genomic analysis, ventilation characteristics, and aerosol diffusion characteristics, the possibility of COVID-19 transmission through the air cannot be ruled out in an ice arena. The results of ventilation measures implemented in response to this problem confirmed that the integration of a lower-level exhaust fan based on cold air characteristics into the existing ventilation system is a relatively straightforward solution with the potential to be highly effective. While there is an option to refrain from using the ice arena in the event of an increased risk of mass infection during a pandemic, the findings of this study will contribute to an option to facilitate the smooth operation of ice arenas while implementing ventilation measures.
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(This article belongs to the Section Building Energy, Physics, Environment, and Systems)
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Feasibility of Repairing Concrete with Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene Fiber Cloth: A Comprehensive Literature Review
by
Zengrui Pan, Rabin Tuladhar, Shi Yin, Feng Shi and Faning Dang
Buildings 2024, 14(6), 1631; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14061631 - 2 Jun 2024
Abstract
This review explores the use of Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) fiber cloth as an innovative solution for the repair and reinforcement of concrete structures. UHMWPE is a polymer formed from a very large number of repeated ethylene (C2H4)
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This review explores the use of Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) fiber cloth as an innovative solution for the repair and reinforcement of concrete structures. UHMWPE is a polymer formed from a very large number of repeated ethylene (C2H4) units with higher molecular weight and long-chain crystallization than normal high-density polyethylene. With its superior tensile strength, elongation, and energy absorption capabilities, UHMWPE emerges as a promising alternative to traditional reinforcement materials like glass and carbon fibers. The paper reviews existing literature on fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) applications in concrete repair in general, highlighting the unique benefits and potential of UHMWPE fiber cloth compared to other commonly used methods of strengthening concrete structures, such as enlarging concrete sections, near-surface embedded reinforcement, and externally bonded steel plate or other FRPs. Despite the scarcity of experimental data on UHMWPE for concrete repair, this review underscores its feasibility and calls for further research to fully harness its capabilities in civil engineering applications.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Eco-Friendly Building Materials: Recycled Waste and Sustainable Design)
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