Construction Engineering
Articles tagged with Construction Engineering
New study provides rule of thumb to estimate land sustainability in river deltas
Hasanuddin University study paves way for sustainable construction in sugar-producing regions
New research uses AI to unlock decades of hidden flood risk data
Researchers at the University of Houston have developed an AI-driven framework to extract and analyze historical flood insurance maps, uncovering significant changes in flood hazard areas. The study reveals that flood risks have expanded in two areas and reduced in one, with critical consequences for resilience and exposure.
Coffee waste transformed into high-performance, biodegradable insulation material
Researchers developed a biodegradable composite made from spent coffee grounds and natural polymer, offering strong thermal insulation while being environmentally sustainable. The new material has a thermal conductivity comparable to commercial expanded polystyrene and is fully derived from renewable resources.
Research targets outdated manufactured housing wind-safety codes
A University of Kansas engineer is conducting research on outdated manufactured housing wind-safety codes, which have remained unchanged since 1994. The study uses a hurricane simulator to test the structural response and failure points of manufactured homes under varying wind conditions.
Jeonbuk National University researchers develop clustering-based framework for water level forecasting
The new framework groups stations with similar hydrological behavior, reducing computational cost while maintaining high predictive accuracy. This approach enables scalable, data-efficient AI systems for water level forecasting, supporting flood early-warning systems, optimized reservoir and irrigation management, and improved decision...
Concrete sensor manufacturer Wavelogix receives $500,000 grant from National Science Foundation
Wavelogix, a concrete sensor manufacturer, has received a $500,000 grant from the National Science Foundation to refine and scale its Rebel concrete strength sensing system. The system enables faster, data-driven decisions through real-time concrete strength monitoring.
Concrete as a carbon sink
Researchers are developing sustainable alternative cements that can bind CO₂ permanently, making concrete a climate-friendly material. By using CO₂ from industrial exhaust gases, these new cements can reduce emissions and create a carbon sink.
Modern buildings risk not being ready for climate change warns academic
A leading climate-resilience architecture academic, Professor Susan Roaf, warns that modern buildings are not designed to cope with the impending realities of the 2030's and 2040's climates. This poses health risks and pressure on services. Roaf advocates for mixed-mode buildings that harness local energy and natural ventilation to mit...
UH engineers issue hot take on cold-steel: Finding hidden damage requires radar, AI
Researchers have developed a new framework to detect possible damage in concealed cold-formed steel construction framing materials, utilizing ground-penetrating radar and artificial intelligence. The technology allows for rapid detection of damage, enabling inspectors to verify only flagged spots without removing walls or cladding.
Purdue radar technology estimates location, orientation, radius of underground pipes
Engineers at Purdue University have developed a patent-pending method to estimate the location, orientation, and radius of underground utility pipes using ground-penetrating radar. This innovation could help prevent hazardous strikes during construction projects, reducing financial losses and service disruptions.
A new model for old cracks
University of Pittsburgh engineers develop predictive models for longitudinal cracking on concrete pavements to improve road performance and reduce repairs. The project aims to create a nationwide infrastructure solution by pinpointing root causes and developing mechanistic-empirical models.
Taller doesn’t mean terrible: How smart design can lower carbon emissions for residential buildings
Researchers found that concrete slab size is the worst offender in terms of carbon emissions, with changing this feature alone able to save large amounts of emissions. Optimize design decisions such as floor thickness, building materials, and construction culture to reduce pollution.
AI could prevent construction delays before they happen, study finds
A new study proposes a framework for connecting AI risk prediction systems with scheduling platforms to detect emerging risks and adjust project plans before delays occur. This approach aims to close the gap between early warning and actionable response, enabling more resilient project delivery.
Surviving the extreme temperatures of the climate crisis calls for a revolution in home and building design
As climates become more extreme, traditional building designs are failing to keep people safe and comfortable. A new generation of architects is creating climate-ready buildings that can maintain comfortable temperatures independently from the grid, using local natural resources like sun, wind, and ground-sourced energy.
Tackling uplift resistance in tall infrastructures sustainably
Researchers developed a winged composite pile foundation system to enhance wind resistance and utilize surplus excavated soil. The study found that larger expanded base wing diameters significantly increased uplift resistance, while soil density and surface characteristics of the steel components also played crucial roles.
Your future home might be framed with printed plastic
MIT engineers have designed a 3D-printed floor truss system made from recycled plastic, which exceeds building standards set by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development. The printed flooring can hold over 4,000 pounds and weighs about 13 pounds per truss, making it a lighter alternative to traditional wood-based trusses.
Mechanical engineers’ wood-based material could cut energy costs
A team of mechanical engineers has created a wood-based material that can store and release heat to make building temperatures more comfortable. The phase-change material reduces the need for air conditioning by harnessing excess heat from the environment.
New research enables safe reuse of concrete
A new framework developed by researchers at KTH Royal Institute of Technology enables builders to reuse structural elements confidently, extending the lifespan of used concrete by 50-100 years. The study's findings show that reusing concrete is one of the most effective ways to cut emissions and reduce waste in construction.
University of Toronto Engineering researchers create first-ever tool to generate emissions budgets for 1,000 cities worldwide
The University of Toronto Engineering researchers have created the first-ever tool to provide construction-related greenhouse gas emissions budgets for 1,000 cities globally. The open-source model helps cities navigate between the need for new housing and infrastructure and the need to keep global warming below two degrees. The model c...
Unveiling a novel and durable mechanoresponsive material
A newly designed mechanophore, called DAANAC, was developed to provide early warning against mechanical failure while resisting heat and UV. It features a stable and fluorescent diarylacetonitrile radical coupled to an alkoxycarbonyl radical that quenches fluorescence.
Pompeii offers insights into ancient Roman building technology
MIT researchers analyzed a recently discovered Pompeii construction site to shed new light on ancient Roman concrete, which has endured for thousands of years. They found that hot-mixing was indeed used by the Romans, contradicting ancient texts and providing valuable insights into a material with self-healing properties.
Building better, building beautiful
Researchers have developed a novel computational form-finding method that allows for the creation of complex, lattice-structured gridshells. This breakthrough method reduces computation cost by 98% and provides a standardized approach to designing attractive and robust gridshell structures.
Evaluating building materials for climate impact and noise suppression
A new study assesses various wall and floor types for their climate impact and acoustic performance, finding that timber outperforms standard steel studs in terms of climate friendliness. The research also highlights the importance of considering both acoustic comfort and environmental sustainability when designing buildings.
Seashells offer low-carbon concrete breakthrough in new study
Researchers at University of East London found that discarded seashells can be transformed into a low-carbon concrete ingredient, reducing carbon emissions by up to 36%. The study suggests a promising opportunity for industry to adopt sustainable cement alternatives.
Towards integrated data model for next-generation bridge maintenance
Researchers develop a novel integrated data model that merges construction and geospatial information standards to manage bridges' 3D geometry data and maintenance records. This framework enables accurate damage location assessment, repair prioritization, and predictive maintenance, leading to improved infrastructure safety and longevity.
Urban infrastructure renewal: Sustainable circulating mixing for urban pile removal
Researchers propose a novel approach to ensure uniform backfilling throughout borehole depth, addressing immediate safety concerns and long-term sustainability. The circulating mixing method improves process parameters and quality control through advanced numerical simulations.
Sinking Indian megacities pose 'alarming' building damage risks
Researchers warn of structural weakening in urban areas as a result of groundwater overexploitation, posing risks to millions of people. Satellite radar data reveals nearly 1.9 million people exposed to subsidence rates greater than 4 millimeters per year.
Researchers develop a power-free acoustic testing system using bubble wrap bursts
Researchers developed a non-destructive testing system using bubble wrap bursts, detecting objects within a 2% error margin without electricity or heavy equipment. The system harnesses the acoustic characteristics of bubble wrap bursts to identify internal obstructions in pipes.
Yonsei University study finds air pollution sharply raises workplace accident risk
A new study published by Yonsei University reveals that air pollution is a significant contributor to workplace accidents, increasing the risk of accidents and fatalities by 2.6 times when PM2.5 concentrations double. The study estimates economic losses of up to $10 billion annually.
AI tech from startup PaveX improves consistency, speed and cost of road condition assessments
The startup has assessed over 3,400 miles of Indiana roads using advanced computer vision algorithms to quickly and objectively assess pavement conditions. This platform provides actionable insights without requiring in-house data analysis expertise or costly hardware.
Wilkes Center awards $250,000 Climate Launch Prize to Build up Nepal
Build up Nepal's eco-brick technology reduces CO2 emissions and makes homes safer while cutting construction costs. The company will use the prize to scale up its innovative solution.
Cardboard and earth reshape sustainable construction
Engineers at RMIT University have developed cardboard-confined rammed earth, a novel building material that uses locally sourced materials and reduces waste going to landfill. The material boasts one quarter of the carbon footprint of concrete and can be made on-site using cardboard formwork.
Sneaky swirls: scientists confirm ‘hidden’ vortices could influence how soil and snow move
Researchers have confirmed the existence of hidden motions in granular materials like soil and snow, which can control their movement. This discovery could help understand how landslides and avalanches work, as well as benefit industries such as construction and grain filling.
Translating bamboo across continents and cultures
Researchers Kent Harries and Luisa Molari are advancing sustainable bamboo construction by sharing experience and insight to standardize its use. Bamboo, with its strong culms and effective carbon sequestration, holds promise for affordable housing globally.
Hanyang University researchers develop digital twin framework to enhance sustainability and efficiency of modular buildings
Researchers create digital twin facility management system for relocatable modular buildings, improving asset management and decision making. The DT-FMS enhances the lifecycle management of RMBs, minimizing waste and maximizing value through reuse and reconfiguration.
Nebraska engineers use 2 million plastic bags to pave a road
In a groundbreaking pilot project, South Sioux City has constructed a 4,000-foot stretch of Foundry Road using two million recycled plastic bags. This innovative asphalt blend aims to reduce plastic waste while improving road durability under varied weather conditions.
Should government incentivize EV adoption through consumer tax credits or infrastructure?
A new study by Carnegie Mellon University researchers suggests that investing in EV charging infrastructure is more effective than offering consumer tax credits to boost adoption. The study found that increasing EV adoption could reduce emissions by 51% and increase sales by 26% by building Level 3 fast-charging stations.
Engineers make a big splash, turning water treatment sludge into sustainable concrete
Researchers at University of South Australia develop a new material using water treatment sludge and blast-furnace slag, showing over 50% stronger compressive strength and resistance to acid degradation. The discovery has the potential to extend service life of sewage pipes, reduce maintenance costs, and promote circular economy.
Low-grade clay found to strengthen low-carbon concrete
A team of Australian engineers has developed a process to convert low-grade illite and kaolin clays into high-performance cement supplements, reducing CO2 emissions and increasing concrete strength. The study demonstrates the feasibility of using these clays as substitutes for traditional cement in construction materials.
Predicting underwater landslides before they strike
Using site characterization data from multiple disciplines, researchers can now accurately predict the occurrence of marine landslides. The correct sequence of site investigations and integration of data is crucial for maximizing information and confidence in landslide models.
UCF’s ‘bridge doctor’ combines imaging, neural network to efficiently evaluate concrete bridges’ safety
Researchers at UCF used a combination of emerging technologies to evaluate the safety of concrete bridges. By combining infrared thermography, high-definition imaging and neural network analysis, they can quickly identify defects and prioritize repairs.
Cracking the code: deciphering how concrete can heal itself
A synthetic lichen system developed by Texas A&M researchers enables concrete to heal itself without outside intervention. This innovation uses cyanobacteria and filamentous fungi to produce crack-filling minerals, setting it apart from previous self-healing concrete endeavors.
Cracking the code: deciphering how concrete can heal itself
Researchers have developed a synthetic lichen system that enables concrete to heal itself without external intervention. This innovation has far-reaching potential in reducing maintenance costs and extending the longevity of concrete infrastructure.
Knowledge-based intelligence method for controlling segment floating by optimizing shield tail grouting parameters
Researchers developed a knowledge-based intelligence method to predict and control segment floating by optimizing shield tail grouting parameters. The method achieved high prediction accuracy and optimized parameter configuration, reducing risks of engineering accidents.
Hurricane-proofed downtown skyscrapers unexpectedly vulnerable to ‘bouncing’ winds
A new study reveals that downtown Houston skyscrapers designed to withstand hurricanes are actually more vulnerable to intense, localized wind forces called downbursts. The research found that these strong winds can cause significant damage to facade panels, cladding, and windows on lower floors.
Researchers develop a five-minute quality test for sustainable cement industry materials
Researchers developed a five-minute quality test for sustainable cement industry materials, reducing testing time from seven days to just five minutes. The test uses colorimetry and camera technology for real-time quality control of calcined clays, which can partially replace ordinary Portland cement.
Going beyond Net Zero: University of Bath engineers and architects launch manifesto on regenerative design
The University of Bath's RENEW research center has published a manifesto on regenerative design and engineering to address the climate crisis. The guidebook provides a framework for creating 'Net Positive' buildings, technologies, and systems that renew unity with nature.
Discovery of a unique drainage and irrigation system that gave way to the “Neolithic Revolution” in the Amazon
A recent discovery in the Amazon reveals a unique drainage and irrigation system that enabled the Casarabe society to produce maize throughout the year. This innovation allowed for at least two harvests of maize per year, ensuring a stable food supply.
New tool promises to reduce high death rates on construction sites
A new automated job hazard analysis tool promises to significantly reduce workplace accidents and improve safety in the construction industry. The University of South Australia's research team has built a 'knowledge graph' to predict hazards, which can be analysed in real-time to identify potential risks and control measures.
Sustainable building components create a good indoor climate
Researchers from ETH Zurich developed hygroscopic wall and ceiling components that can significantly reduce humidity in heavily used indoor spaces, resulting in a 75% reduction in discomfort index compared to conventional painted walls.
Storing carbon in buildings could help address climate change
A new study by civil engineers and earth systems scientists at the University of California, Davis and Stanford University suggests that storing carbon in buildings could help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The researchers calculated that using carbonated aggregates to make concrete could absorb a gigaton of CO2 annually.
Graz University of Technology develops modular timber high-rise building for resource-efficient construction
The Graz University of Technology has developed a modular timber high-rise building system that combines prefabricated 3D timber modules with open load-bearing structures. This allows for flexible adaptations, extended operating life, and reduced resource consumption. The system enables targeted repairs and replacements of individual m...
A development by Graz University of Technology makes concreting more reliable, safer and more economical
Researchers at Graz University of Technology have developed a digital monitoring system to prevent costly mistakes in concreting processes. The system uses sensors and algorithms to measure and analyze various parameters, providing real-time warnings for potential issues, and eliminating the need for rework.
UVA engineering professor will augment his students’ reality this spring
Devin Harris and his team have developed an augmented reality app, STRUCT-AR, that allows students to 'stress test' virtual bridges, beams, frames, and trusses. The app, which is set to be tested this spring, aims to improve students' understanding of structural behavior by providing a more interactive and immersive learning experience.
Origami-inspired architecture
A multidisciplinary team of engineers and architects applied origami techniques to create living buildings that respond to environmental factors. The researchers combined human design creativity with computational intelligence to increase the effectiveness of designs for environmentally responsive building technologies.
Building safer cities with AI: Machine learning model enhances urban resilience against liquefaction
A machine learning model predicts soil behavior during earthquakes, identifying areas vulnerable to liquefaction and providing contour maps for safer construction sites. The study uses geological data to create detailed 3D maps of soil layers, improving prediction accuracy by 20%.
AI-trained CCTV in rivers can spot blockages and reduce floods
Researchers have developed AI-enabled detection software that can accurately detect natural debris, litter, or waste blocking culverts. The system can be integrated to existing CCTV systems to provide proactive flood defense, improving safety for response teams.
Concrete sensor manufacturer Wavelogix receives $1 million grant from National Science Foundation
The National Science Foundation has awarded Wavelogix a two-year, $999,910 Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase II grant. The funding will help the company develop a complete solution for scaling up production of its REBEL concrete strength sensors, enabling faster and data-driven decisions in construction engineering.