By Nidhi DhullReviewed by Susha Cheriyedath, M.Sc.Sep 11 2024A new study is shedding light on the latest innovations in sustainable construction, using a blend of advanced optimization tools and hands-on experimental methods. By focusing on practical solutions, the research addresses key challenges in building sustainably, with lab-based findings providing the vital data needed to fine-tune these tools and create greener, more efficient construction practices.
Study: Sustainable Construction through Utilization of Optimization Tools and Experimental Methods - An Editorial. Image Credit: M2020/Shutterstock.com
Background
The harmful social, economic, and environmental impacts of the construction sector are well-documented, highlighting the urgent need for innovative solutions to ensure more sustainable practices.
Optimization-based engineering offers a significant opportunity to advance sustainable construction by efficiently managing natural resources and optimizing business processes. This approach reduces energy consumption, cuts costs, and minimizes environmental impacts, all while improving health and safety in both new and existing systems through enhanced functionality. A key example of this is the use of advanced mathematical methods, which employ iterative numerical calculations driven by well-defined algorithms. These methods allow engineers to pinpoint optimal solutions without the need to explore every possibility, making the process both efficient and precise.
Optimization Tools
Various optimization methods are applied in construction projects to improve efficiency and decision-making. For example, fuzzy multi-criteria analysis, such as PROMETHEE II, is used to plan flat-roof renovations on public buildings. PROMETHEE II’s ability to transform uncertain and vague information into fuzzy numbers enables objective outcomes and allows for the comparison of alternatives. This method helps rank roofs for renovation priority based on specific goals, allowing building owners to make informed decisions beyond just cost and aesthetics.
In another application, the load-bearing function of double-skin façade (DSF) elements can be analyzed numerically to study the racking behavior of multi-story timber-framed buildings. Developing racking-resistant DSF elements through such analysis is crucial for designing multi-story timber buildings in seismic zones and areas with high winds. This approach can also reduce energy demands for heating and daylighting, enhancing comfort for building residents.
Optimization methods like harmony search and ensemble learning with SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) are ideal for optimizing post-tensioned or pre-stressed concrete cylindrical walls, benefiting both the economic and environmental aspects of construction. Similarly, multi-objective optimization can be used for optimizing circular reinforced concrete column sections, balancing material costs with environmental impacts like CO2 emissions.
A genetic algorithm (GA) is another powerful tool, helping to optimize waste material usage in flexible pavement structures while minimizing construction costs and CO2 emissions. GA-based parametric studies can assess the impact of waste materials on various pavement layers, such as asphalt, base, sub-base, and subgrade. GA is also useful for optimizing glulam roof structures by determining the optimal wood configuration and volume to meet structural and safety requirements, all while promoting resource efficiency.
Finally, by analyzing past project performance through bibliographic analysis and case studies, future project success can be predicted, even in multi-stakeholder environments. This framework can be applied to actual construction investment projects, allowing for accurate predictions of project success, even when the contractor is a single company.
Experimental Methods
Experimental methods derived from theoretical analysis play a vital role in advancing sustainable construction. For example, multi-criteria analyses that consider economic, environmental, and performance factors are used to evaluate the viability of various roof rehabilitation systems. Simulation tools further support these evaluations by assessing potential energy savings, payback periods, and environmental impacts.
The results are then mapped to specific neighborhoods, enabling the selection of the most appropriate refurbishment solution. These methods take into account key parameters such as cost, weight, and user preferences, ensuring that roof refurbishment not only enhances sustainability but also extends the building's lifespan.
Another approach involves using life cycle assessment models to design geopolymer (GP) compositions that minimize environmental impact. These models optimize the GP matrix and granular skeleton from existing formulations. Although GP technology is still in its early stages and may not always be environmentally favorable, it has significant potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
GP mortars, made from metakaolin and potassium silicate, demonstrate excellent extrudability, buildability, and compressive strength, making them suitable for high-performance applications in sustainable construction.
Furthermore, underutilized materials like Castanea sativa (chestnut timber) contribute to construction sustainability by offering an alternative to overexploited resources. As an orthotropic material, chestnut timber requires thorough evaluation of wood orientations for use in applications like wooden frictional pairs or steel plates. To support these innovations, comprehensive databases built from experimental investigations become essential for driving engineering optimizations, promoting efficient and responsible use of natural resources.
Conclusion
Overall, the researchers showcased a variety of optimization techniques, multi-criteria decision-making processes, and experimental methods aimed at addressing the sustainability challenges within the construction sector.
These proposed methods were the result of collaborative efforts from researchers across the globe, including contributions from Slovenia, Spain, Turkey, the US, the Republic of Korea, France, Italy, Croatia, and the Czech Republic. Collectively, they offer foundational knowledge that can drive the adoption and advancement of sustainable construction practices.
Journal Reference
Klanšek, U. & Žula, T. (2024). Sustainable Construction through Utilization of Optimization Tools and Experimental Methods - An Editorial. Sustainability, 16(17), 7666. DOI: 10.3390/su16177666, https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/16/17/7666
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