Nidhi Dhull

Machine Learning Optimizes 3D Concrete Printing Accuracy

Researchers have developed a computer vision system integrated with machine learning to enhance the precision of 3D concrete printing (3DCP). This innovative approach autonomously adjusts print parameters, ensuring consistent layer quality and reducing manual intervention, thus advancing construction technology towards greater sustainability and efficiency.

Novel Composite Cement for Energy-Efficient Buildings

An article in Scientific Reports introduces a composite thermal energy storage cement mortar (CTESCM) using lauric acid-palmitic acid/expanded graphite (LA-PA/EG) to enhance building energy efficiency. The study demonstrated the composite's superior heat transfer and stability, offering significant potential for energy-saving applications.

Enhancing Concrete Recovery with Cyclic Re-Curing

Researchers found water-CO2 cyclic recuring significantly restores the strength of thermally damaged high-performance concrete (HPC). This method, involving alternate water and CO2 exposure, outperformed traditional water recuring, offering accelerated and more efficient recovery for concrete damaged by high temperatures.

Eco-Friendly Mortars for Modern Construction

A study in Sustainability explored the physical, mechanical, and environmental properties of self-leveling mortars using various cements and additives. The results highlighted the significant impact of cement type on mortar performance and emphasized the potential for reducing CO2 emissions through optimized material use.

Underwater Construction: Techniques and Emerging Innovations

Underwater construction, initiated by Jacques Cousteau's team in the 1960s, has evolved significantly, driven by technological advancements to support transportation, telecommunication, defense, and leisure activities. Essential techniques include using caissons and cofferdams, and concrete placement methods like tremie and pumping.

Coastal Construction: Sustainability through Preventive Maintenance

Quantifying Carbon Dioxide Emissions in Highway Construction

A new study in Sustainability introduces a binary statistical method to accurately estimate CO2 emissions from highway construction. Focusing on a central China expressway, the research showed that raw material production is the main emission source, emphasizing the importance of adopting sustainable construction practices.

Plastic Waste: A Sustainable Concrete Solution

A study published in Materials explored incorporating plastic waste into concrete to address environmental concerns. The findings revealed that while plastic aggregates can reduce concrete's compressive strength, they offer a viable option for nonstructural applications, providing a sustainable alternative to traditional waste disposal methods.

Eco-Friendly Thermal Insulation Made From Rubber and Leather Waste

Researchers developed a sustainable thermal insulation material using expanded styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) and leather waste. This composite, especially with 20 phr leather, showed superior thermal and acoustic properties, offering an effective and eco-efficient solution for low-cost housing insulation.

AI Models Predict Energy Use of Educational Buildings

A study in Scientific Reports evaluated Decision Trees, K-Nearest Neighbors, Gradient Boosting, and LSTM models for predicting school energy consumption. The findings show that while each AI model has strengths, LSTM demonstrated superior generalization, highlighting the potential for improved energy management in educational buildings.