Showing papers in "Civil and environmental engineering in 2023"
TL;DR: In this article , the concept of using a combination of reinforced concrete and alkaline-activated composite material in the application of reinforcement concrete beams without shear reinforcement is presented. But the results of static load tests are evaluated in detail with regard to the formation and propagation of cracks.
Abstract: Abstract Concrete, which is based on the use of Portland cement as a binder, often becomes a construction material in the construction industry. Concrete itself, however, exists in a number of modifications that are intended for specific applications. Especially with regard to the development of materials engineering, variants were created, which include, for example, fiber reinforced concrete with improved tensile properties and alkaline-activated composite, which produces less CO2 emissions. The aim of the presented article is to verify the concept of using a combination of reinforced concrete and alkaline-activated material in the application of reinforced concrete beams without shear reinforcement. Components of the experimental program are static load tests, which are evaluated in detail with regard to the formation and propagation of cracks. Laboratory tests are also part of the experimental program, which focus on a detailed description of the properties and the possibility of a technological solution.
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TL;DR: In this paper , the behavior of hybrid reinforced T-Beam with partial substitution recycled rubberized concrete is studied using finite element modeling by using ANSYS version 15 program, and the results indicated that although the flexural capacity of the tested specimen decreased with the addition of Crumb Rubber and reduced its self-weight, the failure load increased with bottom reinforcement by the GFRP bar or CFRP bar.
Abstract: Abstract At present, the need to make use of industrial waste materials is increasing due to their harmful effects on the environment. In the present work, the behavior of hybrid reinforced T-Beam with partial substitution recycled rubberized concrete is studied. The finite element modeling by using ANSYS version 15 program. It contains also all the required steps needed to create the concrete models that were prepared to study the behavior of beams with partial substitution recycled rubberized concrete (RRC). The reinforcement of beams was various combinations of polymer GFRP and steel bars. The Rubberized concrete mixes were prepared by partial substitution 7.5 %, 10 %, and 12.5 % replacements by volume. The ratio of GFRP to steel reinforcement at mid‐span section was the second parameter investigated. Due to the large number of parameters affecting the behavior of Hybrid Reinforced T- Beam with partial substitution Recycled Rubberized Concrete, an extensive parametric study was performed using ANSYS version 15 program. Three parameters were investigated namely; Bottom RFT, compressive strength of concrete, and the existence of opening. The analytical results agree well with the experimental results in terms of mode of failure and the failure load values. The results indicated that although the flexural capacity of the tested specimen decreased with the addition of Crumb Rubber and reduced its self-weight. The failure load of the beam with partial substitution recycled rubberized concrete increases with bottom reinforcement by the GFRP bar or CFRP bar. Also, reinforced beams by CFRP bars had a higher failure load than reinforced beams by GFRP bars. Having an opening in hybrid reinforced T-Beam with partial substitution recycled rubberized concrete reduced the beam load capacity and maximum deflection. Also, using GFRP bars, and CFRP bars in the vicinity of openings in hybrid reinforced T-Beams increased the load capacity of these beams.
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TL;DR: In this paper , the compressive strength test measured between 24.17-27.36 MPa and the loading capacity test was conducted with a 10-ton vehicle on a track with porous concrete rigid pavement on hard soil.
Abstract: Abstract Roads play an important role as a connection between locations and can facilitate the efficient mobility of people's economic activities. Five tests are involved in evaluating of the porous concrete, such as the slump test, compressive strength test, permeability test, flexure test, and load capacity test (loading test). Meanwhile, there are three types of soil: peat, clay, and hard. The compressive strength test measured an average compressive strength between 24.17-27.36 MPa. According to the permeability test, the average speed of water infiltration on the porous concrete rigid pavement was 20 seconds on clay soil and 55.344 seconds on peat soil, with large areas drained on porous concrete rigid pavement of 346.185 cm2 with 5 litres of water used, whereas it was 6.554 seconds with a flow area of 288.75 cm2 and 2 litres of water used on hard soil. The Loading Test was conducted with a 10-ton. The maximum difference in deflection was 1-2 cm. In addition, there were no cracks in the porous concrete rigid pavement with a porous concrete rigid pavement thickness of 15 cm in three different soil conditions. A track with porous concrete rigid pavement on clay, hard soil, or peat soil can accommodate a maximum payload of 10 tons.
TL;DR: In this article , a new model was proposed for the stress-strain relationship of unconfined concrete in compression valid for normal and high strength concrete, where a wide range of experimental data with varied lab circumstances has been used for fitting and other data for verifying the model.
Abstract: Abstract The research includes a new model proposed for the stress-strain relationship of unconfined concrete in compression valid for normal and high strength concrete. A wide range of experimental data with varied lab circumstances has been used for fitting and other data for verifying the model. It is noted that the current model has a good agreement with the experimental data for both its ascending and descending branches in normal and high strength concrete. Depending on the mean of average values of experimental to calculated stresses, coefficient of variation, and difference ratio. Where values of the average experimental to calculated stresses ranged from 0.723 to 1.354 for 38 samples with a mean of 0.994, while the coefficient of variation values ranged from 16.099 to 48.562 with a mean of 27.704 % for these specimens. Also, difference ratio values ranged from 0.86 % to 31.804 % with a mean of 9.009 % for these specimens. The model gives the best results in comparison with other models.
TL;DR: In this article , the authors investigated how fired clay bricks' physical and mechanical properties are affected by plastic/glass (P/G) powder and found that the mechanical properties (compressive and flexural strengths) are increased with the increased plastic quantity.
Abstract: Abstract Around the world, large amounts of plastic and glass waste have been collected. This work is given as a way to reduce this material. This paper aims to investigate how fired clay bricks' physical and mechanical properties are affected by plastic/glass (P/G) powder. It is used as a replacement for clay, varying the plastic/glass content 00/20, 05/15, 10/10, 15/05, and 20/00 weight %. The ratio of soil to water remains constant 0.3. The maximum temperature is presented after three fire phases. The temperatures are 300 °C for the first, 600 °C for the second, and 900 °C for the third. Results for the physical properties showed an increase in the water absorption of clay brick specimens as the plastic content increased; in addition, efflorescence was increased with plastic powder. However, the density and firing shrinkage decrease with plastic quantity. Also, the experimental results showed a decrease in water absorption and efflorescence when the glass powder was increased. While the density is higher when glass powder is 20 %. According to the findings on mechanical properties, clay brick samples with higher plastic powder content 20 % displayed a decrease in compressive strength and flexural bending strength, i. e. the mechanical properties (compressive and flexural strengths) are increased with the increased
TL;DR: In this paper , nonwoven fabrics were placed in the middle of the thickness of gypsum boards and subjected to tests of density, thermal conductivity coefficient λ, and bending strength.
Abstract: Abstract The article attempts to assess the possibility of using non-woven fabrics made of waste fibers in cladding panels. For this purpose, woolen and polypropylene nonwovens were tested for mass per unit area, characteristic opening size, and lengthwise and crosswise elongation at maximum strength. Non-woven fabrics were placed in the middle of the thickness of cement and gypsum boards and subjected to tests of density, thermal conductivity coefficient λ, and bending strength. The influence of individual nonwoven fabrics with different properties on the properties of the finished composite was determined. It was found that wool nonwoven fabrics had the best effect on the thermal conductivity coefficient. A better affinity for nonwoven fabrics was shown by gypsum mortar. The best influence on the bending strength of the panels had polyester non-woven fabrics with the lowest mass per unit area and the largest characteristic opening size.
TL;DR: In this article , a parametric study performed on a one-way post-tensioned slab which can help to understand the effect of the depth of the core and the distance from the edge of the hole (position of strain gauges) on the change in stress in the vicinity of the drilled core.
Abstract: Abstract Determination of the stress state in concrete structures is a very important, but difficult task. In the case of new structures, it is possible to easily instal measurement instruments which can provide important data as a part of real-time monitoring. However, the evaluation of stresses in existing structures is much more challenging. Currently, stress relief methods are a well-established approach for the evaluation of the actual state of existing structures. The so-called Drilling method (also known as Stress-relief coring technique) is one of the possible techniques for such analysis. For practical use of this method, knowledge of pivotal factors which influence stress relief is crucial. Therefore, this paper presents a parametric study performed on a one-way post-tensioned slab which can help to understand the effect of the depth of the core and the distance from the edge of the hole (position of strain gauges) on the change in stress in the vicinity of the drilled core. Finally, based on the obtained data, the recommendations for the subsequent experimental program will be summarized. According to the study, it seems that the depth of drilled core does not significantly influence the stress relief and the main impact can be attributed to distance from the edge of the hole.
TL;DR: In this article , a new masonry construction is proposed based on honey beehive cell internal geometry as a unique structure and hydrostatic pressure principle, which is confirmed by the obtained results and could be related to the presence of internal or self-confining pressure.
Abstract: Abstract In this paper, a new masonry construction is proposed based on honey beehive cell internal geometry as a unique structure and hydrostatic pressure principle. The considered experimental program involved suggestion, manufacturing, testing and analysis of masonry specimens of honey beehive units’ arrangement as well as corresponding specimens of custom arrangement, two classes of cementations bonding mortars are used. Plan strain concept and Saint Venant’s principle are adopted to model and assign proper boundary conditions of testing specimens. The significant improvement of masonry construction bearing capacity is confirmed by the obtained results and could be related to the presence of internal or self-confining pressure, which is produced due to the specific internal geometry of proposed honey beehive units’ arrangement of hexagonal construction units. The obtained results show that, the masonry specimens of proposed honey beehive arrangement Mode II exhibited higher bearing capacity in term of ultimate and service loads besides stiffness improvement in comparison with the customary arrangement Mode I.
TL;DR: In this article , the best location for the dam's water storage was determined and the water flow direction, water streams, stream orders, order 4 watershed, and all water basins were obtained.
Abstract: Abstract This paper was conducted to determine the hydrological and morphometric characteristics of the Wad Ramli region, Sudan. The Digital Elevation Model (DEM) was obtained and then processed within the ArcGIS 10.8 program. Hydrological analysis tools were used to determine the hydrological characteristics, and then the quantitative analysis was done to deduce the morphological characteristics. The water flow direction, water streams, stream orders, order 4 watershed, and all water basins were obtained. The best location for the dam's water storage was determined. It was found that the water is flowing normally, the basin is asymmetrical, and the area has low terrain.
TL;DR: In this paper , the relationship between plastic viscosity and the fresh and hardened SCC properties was examined, and the results shown that SCC mixture with ternary blend, binary blend with GGBS, fly ash, and blend with pure OPC are suitable for creating fresh characteristics.
Abstract: Abstract The main problem is to raise the standard of construction, rethinking concrete's expanding potential as a construction material. The scarcity of river sand as a fine aggregate ingredient is currently a widespread issue for many concrete plants. As a result, quarried stones that were accessible locally were used as fine aggregate. Crushed Rock Particles, also known as crushed sand, performs better in terms of fresh characteristics since there are more fines present in CRF than in river sand. The current study additionally examines the relationship between plastic viscosity and the fresh and hardened SCC properties. As a partial substitute for Ordinary Portland Cement, Fly Ash and Ground Granulated Blast Slag blends are used to generate binary and ternary. The experimental tests satisfactorily validate the suggested blend design. The results shown that SCC mixture with ternary blend, binary blend with GGBS, fly ash, and blend with pure OPC are suitable for creating fresh characteristics. Additionally, it was found that a cohesive and workable mix was produced when 100 % CRF was used in place of sand.
TL;DR: In this article , a study was conducted to provincially analyze traffic accidents in Iraq using data from 2010 to 2020 to shed light on the current situation, and three key conclusions were made from the results: first, people aged 35 years and under was the age group recorded in the most traffic accidents, second, Al-Najaf province recorded the highest rate of traffic accidents; and third, COVID-19 lockdown in Iraq caused a 28.5 % decline in traffic accidents while fatality and injury rates fell by 28 % and 18.4 %, when comparing with the data of the same period in 2019.
Abstract: Abstract Road accidents have been identified as one of the main causes of death and have a significant effect on public health challenges, economic growth and development. The Iraqi transport infrastructure has suffered from the effects of war, carelessness, and lack of investment. As a result, road traffic accidents have increased, and the current efforts to address road safety are minimal in comparison to the growing level of citizen suffering. The objective of this study was to provincially analyze traffic accidents in Iraq using data from 2010 to 2020 to shed light on the current situation. Three key conclusions were made from the results: first, people aged 35 years and under was the age group recorded in the most traffic accidents; second, Al-Najaf province recorded the highest rate of traffic accidents; and third, COVID-19 lockdown in Iraq caused a 28.5 % decline in traffic accidents while fatality and injury rates fell by 28 % and 18.4 % respectively, when comparing with the data of the same period in 2019.
TL;DR: In this article, the authors used the Differential Evolution method combined with limit equilibrium methods to find the factor of safety of a variety of different configurations of slopes and soil parameters, and used these data to train and test an artificial neural network for predicting the safety of slopes.
Abstract: Abstract This study aims for two purposes: firstly, using the Differential Evolution method combined with limit equilibrium methods to find the factor of safety of a variety of different configurations of slopes and soil parameters. Two patterns of the embankments are assessed, a one-layer soil pattern with 540 cases and a two-layer soil pattern with 24300 cases. Secondly, using these data to train and test an artificial neural network for predicting the factor of safety of slopes. The experimental data and values predicted by the artificial neural network correlate well with a linear coefficient of correlation of around 0.99. Given large enough training data, the proposed approach shows its reliability in quick evaluation of the slope stability without a long process of searching for a critical slip surface.
TL;DR: In this article, the effect of the position of voids in the voided flat slabs has been studied and it is concluded that the concrete has no role at below the neutral axis of structural void cross-section for all specimens including controlled specimens.
Abstract: Abstract In recent modern buildings, voided slabs have been implemented because of the high reduction of their weight up to 35 %. Also, CO2 emission takes place which was developed from mass concrete. Due to percentage reduction of concrete, it leads to help the pollution free environment, eco-friendly and also more sustainable. On voided flat slabs, a minimal study has been recorded. In this current study, an approach has been made to study the effect of the position of voids in the voided flat slabs. Two groups of seven specimens each, one slab in each group was a controlled flat slab specimen with zero number of voids kept as a reference specimen, while the others were voided slabs. In each group, the number of voids were used based on the positions. The designation of the specimens is made depending on the number of voids placed and the diameter of the rebar used in the specimens. Group-A was reinforced with 8 mm diameter rebars, and Group-B was reinforced with 6 mm diameter rebars. The parameters of the study are the void positions and the rebar diameter. The specimens were subjected to a gradually concentrated load through the short column up to failure. The load carrying capacity of both voided and controlled flat slabs tested have almost same. It indicates that, the inactive concrete below the neutral axis where high density polyethylene (HDPE) recycled hollow spheres have been provided in the flat slab has shown no impact on load carrying capacity of the test specimens. However, the presence of the punching shear can be seen in the specimens where the voids are positioned near the columns and supports. Besides, ABAQUS program (A finite element based software) was used to perform the finite element analysis for profoundly illustrating the experimental findings and performing a parametric study. It is concluded that the concrete has no role at below the neutral axis of structural voided flat slab cross-section for all specimens including controlled specimens (0VS6, 0VS8). Also, it is noticed that the finite element analysis obtained results have shown more or less same as experimental results. From the present study, it is evident that behaviour of voided flat slabs are different from simply supported voided flat slabs.
TL;DR: In this article , a study of the ductility and distribution of strain values occurred in the reinforcement of control columns and retrofit columns with wire mesh size M6 and SCC experienced an increase in the value of ductility.
Abstract: Abstract A lot of damage to building structures due to earthquakes is damage to column components that serve as vertical elements to pass the load to the foundation. Ductility is one of the parameters that must be owned by the column and as part of the column, longitudinal reinforcement is part of the column element that is quite vital and one of the parameters that can be studied is the distribution of strains that occur in longitudinal reinforcement when burdened with cyclic loads. In this study, a study of the ductility and distribution of strain values occurred in the reinforcement of control columns and retrofit columns with wire mesh size M6. From the test results in can be that on the column that is retrofit with wire mesh and SCC experienced an increase in the value of ductility. While the strain value on the reinforcement of the control column and retrofit column tends to enlarge when it is in the plastic hinge area of the column. In the control column the strain value that occurs in the plastic hinge area is greater than the strain value in the retrofit column, so that in the control column the plastic hinge mechanism has begun to form, while in the retrofit column the plastic hinge mechanism has not been formed due to higher stiffness.
TL;DR: In this article , the acceptability of using induction furnace steel slag as a partial replacement for aggregate and as an additive in concrete mixtures for columns was investigated, and the results showed that using SS in general decreases displacement levels and increases load levels.
Abstract: Abstract Carbon emissions and sand mining have generated massive environmental imbalances. Because of the impact of depleting resources, using slag in concrete is a viable alternative for minimizing environmental impact. The acceptability of using induction furnace steel slag as a partial replacement for aggregate and as an additive in concrete mixtures for columns was investigated. Ten 140 mm × 140 mm × 750 mm short columns subjected to axial and uniaxial loads were tested. The outcome demonstrates that using SS in general decreases displacement levels and increases load levels. The proposed steel slag as a 30 % sand replacement mixture is preferred over the others. All the suggested combinations showed decreases in the ductility ratio and energy absorption. Induction furnace steel slag can be used in concrete columns.
TL;DR: In this article , the effect of three parameters on the behavior of the foundation for immediate and consolidation settlement, these parameters are soil cohesion, the pressure applied on the foundation, and layer thickness.
Abstract: Abstract In the present study, laboratory model tests and numerical analysis are carried out to study the immediate, and consolidation settlement of shallow foundations rested on clayey soil. The purpose is to evaluate the immediate and consolidation settlement of different cases and compares them with the calculated values using theoretical equations; the numerical analysis is utilized by the Plaxis-3D program for developing the finite element model, whereas the soft soil model was used for simulation. It was studied the effect of three parameters on the behavior of the foundation for immediate and consolidation settlement, these parameters are soil cohesion, the pressure applied on the foundation, and layer thickness. The obtained results indicated that the simulation using the soft soil model underestimates the immediate settlement by about 30 % and gives excellent results for predicting consolidation settlement. The total settlement of shallow raft foundation rested on a clay layer of depth three times raft width to one time was increased by about 66 %. The consolidation settlement is much higher than the immediate in clayey soils, however, the average of immediate to consolidation settlement is equal to 0.3 % for pressure 20 kPa, and increases with rising applied pressure until it reaches 1.2 %. The numerical analysis revealed a lower value than the calculated using the theoretical equation for immediate settlement, while for consolidation settlement, the results are close except for the soft clay condition cu = 20 kPa.
TL;DR: In this article , glass fibers reinforced polymer (GFRP) was used to longitudinally and transversally 12 columns and while the other 4 columns were reinforced with steel or steel and GFRP as reference specimens.
Abstract: Abstract Glass fibers reinforced polymer (GFRP) were used to longitudinally and transversally 12 columns and while the other 4 columns were reinforced with steel or steel and GFRP as reference specimens. This research dealt with several parameters under different loading conditions, such as the reinforcing material and spacing between ties. This study aims to find out the ability of the reinforced columns with GFRP to bear the loads. In addition, investigate the mode of failure in these columns and their appropriateness in the structures since the columns are compression members. The tested results revealed that the concentric loading columns give higher resistance than their eccentrically loaded counterparts. Also, the hybrid column (steel and GFRP) had the highest peak load compared with the fully reinforced steel and GFRP columns. In addition, the fully GFRP RC- column had an ultimate load slightly less than its steel counterpart under the same loading condition.
TL;DR: In this article , a behavioral study of hybrid epoxy thermoset polymer matrix laminates was conducted to highlight the influence of alternate hybridization of glass and carbon fibers on the physical-mechanical behavior of the materials.
Abstract: Abstract The performance/weight ratio of fiber reinforced polymer matrix composites makes them the material of choice for structural applications in many fields such as aerospace, aeronautics, automotive and civil engineering...etc. In polymer matrix composites, the fibers used as reinforcement are mainly synthetic fibers such as carbon and/or glass fibers. To ensure the low cost of using fiber-reinforced materials in motor vehicles, it is proposed to selectively incorporate carbon fibers to enhance glass fiber composites along the roadway, and to enhance glass fiber composites along the main load path. For this purpose, we conducted a behavioral study of hybrid epoxy thermoset polymer matrix laminates to highlight the influence of alternate hybridization of glass and carbon fibers on the physical-mechanical behavior of the materials.The results obtained show that the alternated hybridation of the fibers has a significant influence on the tensile properties; and it affected the density, hardness and flexural properties significantly.
TL;DR: In this article , the authors examined the potencial and possibillity of building constructed wetlands in urban areas particularly in arid areas and Mediterranean regions, according to Koppen climate classiffication.
Abstract: Abstract The development of societies and the increasing growth of recent constructions, especially in cities, have caused environmental issues, destruction, and reduction of natural resources and the environment, especially green and green-blue spaces. According to studies, in the past years, many parts of natural and even pristine surfaces and spaces in big cities have been turned into artificial, and impermeable spaces, which has aggravated environmental and ecological problems and also it has aggravated the aesthetic characteristics of the urban landscape, particularly in arid and semiarid areas. In this case, the studies show that identifying and applying natural ecosystems such as wetlands and their artificial types due to their multifunctional aspects and benefits, especially in urban areas, can be the basis for reducing many issues mentioned. Therefore, it is necessary to pay attention to this critical issue and do more research to know different types of constructed wetland ecosystems along with their services and values. The primary aim of this research is to identify the values and services of this ecosystem and to examine the diverse patterns of constructed wetlands in order to extract and design simple patterns of construcred wetlands. We want to know their role and position in landscape architecture and urban planning and design process. Also, this study aims to examine the potencial and possibillity of building constructed wetlands in urban areas particularly in arid areas and Mediterranean regions, according to Koppen climate classiffication. In this regard, the theoretical framework is provided based on the study of specialized texts and the study of similar foreign case studies and diverse patterns of urban wetlands with their different functions. These reviews have been done in a specific format consisting of some main aspects, such as the function and supply sources of wetlands. The final result and extractted simplified patterns, according to case studies, can be considered as a framework for designing and planning urban constructed wetlands and a guide for planning and designing a landscape consisting of this element, especially in areas with arid, semiarid, and Mediterranean climates with hot and dry summers.
TL;DR: In this article , the authors describe and interpret these facilities in the context of development of Central-European castles, and propose a presentation of these facilities to visitors which raises the tourist attractiveness of the castle and its neighbourhood.
Abstract: Abstract The castle in Nová Horka used to be the cultural centre of the Moravian-Silesian Region; it used to be called “Little Vienna”. Despite the fact there is little known about the structural development of the residence. The building archaeology survey in 2021/2022 helped to discover facilities that enabled to increase the comfort of noble people dwelling. These were parts of a heating system, system of lighting and waste disposal, and location of the castle in the landscape as well. The aim of this article is to describe and interpret these facilities in the context of development of Central-European castles. Another aim is to propose a presentation of these facilities to visitors which raises the tourist attractiveness of the castle and its neighbourhood. An educational presentation of this cultural heritage might contribute to sustainable development of this region.
TL;DR: In this article , a comparison between the results has been performed to investigate and study the effect of fire on reinforced concrete beams considering the following items: (flexural capacity, deflection behavior and crack pattern).
Abstract: Abstract The aim of this study is to investigate the behavior of RC concrete beams reinforced with basalt, carbon, glass fiber reinforced polymer bars and conventional steel. A comparison between the results has been performed to investigate and study the effect of fire on reinforced concrete beams considering the following items: (flexural capacity, deflection behavior and crack pattern). It is noticeable that the use of FRP bars significantly increased the ultimate load of the specimens, where the percentage of increase ranged between 34 - 73 % of the ultimate load of the specimen C-S under static load. The greatest ultimate load was reached the beam that was reinforced with carbon bars (CFRP). It was also noticed able that the use of FRP rods significantly increases the deflection of the beams. The percentage of increase was between 45 - 170 % of the final deflection of the C-S specimen under static load. It was noted that the effect of the fire on the beams reinforced with fiber bars (FRP), where the efficiency of bearing capacity of beams after fire decreases by 11 to 18 % of the actual efficiency of bearing capacity of beams control. As for the beam reinforced with conventional steel bars, its efficiency was reduced by 15 % from the actual capacity.
TL;DR: In this paper , the authors identified and evaluated the causes and effects of poor communication in the Jordanian construction industry, which negatively impacts project performance and can even lead to project failure in the construction sector.
Abstract: Abstract The construction sector in Jordan faces various obstacles, one of the most significant being poor communication, which negatively impacts project performance and can even lead to project failure. The primary objective of this study is to identify and evaluate the causes and effects of poor communication in Jordan. A questionnaire containing 32 causes and 21 effects of poor communication was used to gather data. The top ten causes of poor communication are; possessing different levels of education among construction teams; a lack of communication plan; a lack of an appropriate communications medium; a lack of communication procedures and training; a slow flow of information between parties; diversity of culture among construction teams; construction teams possessing different skill levels; contractual barriers; the unavailability of information at the time of need, and a lack of understanding among parties. Poor communication is a prevalent issue in the Jordanian construction industry, Jordan's construction industry needs to improve its current communication state. Both contractors and consultants are affected by this issue and there is a high level of agreement between them on the causes and effects of poor communication.
TL;DR: In this paper , a 3D model of the underground was created, and three areas were identified in which numerical calculations were performed in Plaxis 2D software, assuming that the conditions do not change diametrically.
Abstract: Abstract At the beginning of the 16th century, the original inhabitants of Čachtice built a large complex of tunnels and cellars under the village, today called the Čachtice underground. The underground protected people from war conflicts, most recently during World War II, as anti-aircraft shelters. Over time, the underground lost its significance. The corridors were walled up, covered with rubble, and collapsed due to construction work. Later, a part of the underground was repaired, and historical events occurred in such a preserved part. Due to a lawsuit, the Čachtice underground was eventually closed to the public, and it was necessary to test the stability of the walls of the Čachtice underground. A 3D model of the underground was created, and three areas were identified in which numerical calculations were performed in Plaxis 2D software. The whole underground is located in loess soil. The Čachtice underground is stable if the conditions do not change diametrically. The calculated factors of safety support this assumption.
TL;DR: In this paper , the results of the shear strength measurements of a soil-geosynthetic interface were presented using a large-size direct shear test apparatus, and the results pointed to the different behaviour of these materials in the testing of the interface shears strength.
Abstract: Abstract The paper presents the results of the shear strength measurements of a soil-geosynthetic interface. The tests were executed using a large-size direct shear test apparatus. A total of 5 different samples of materials were tested, i.e., ash, sand, well-graded gravel, fine poorly-graded gravel, and medium poorly-graded gravel. These materials were reinforced using different types of geosynthetics, i.e., Thrace WG80 black woven geotextile, Tencate Miragrid GX55/30 woven geogrid, and Thrace TG3030S rigid polypropylene geogrid. An interface coefficient α, which represents the ratio of the soil-geosynthetic interface shear strength to the shear strength of unreinforced material sample, was determined for given combination of the material and geosynthetics. The coefficient α reached a greater value in the critical stress state than in the peak stress state for sands and gravels reinforced using GX55/30 and TG3030S geogrids. The value of the coefficient α was in a range of 0.87 - 1.04 for gravels and 1.03 - 1.19 for sand. The black woven geotextile was used as the reinforcement only in samples of sand and ash. The results pointed to the different behaviour of these materials in the testing of the interface shear strength.
TL;DR: In this paper , the authors presented an analytical method to predict damage exceedance probabilities due to seismic events using the development of fragility curves, which was demonstrated by performing case study highway bridges located in cross border Albanian region with Greece and North Macedonia.
Abstract: Abstract Transport infrastructures, such as bridges, located in seismically active regions are potential exposure due to seismic hazards. A bridge collapse can have tremendous consequences because they provide vital links in a transportation system. Cross border region historically is very well known as territory characterized with high seismic risk. For that purpose, this study is related to the identification of seismic hazard cross-border harmonization vulnerability assessment of risk based on defined levels of seismic hazard and definition of reliable risk of simply supported girders bridge, which is main typology scheme. This study presents an analytical method to predict damage exceedance probabilities due to seismic events using the development of fragility curves. The proposed framework is demonstrated by performing case study highway bridges located in cross border Albanian region with Greece and North Macedonia. Bridge hazard identification is defined by established each damage state of probabilistic structural capacity. The damage probabilities of exceedance that structural demand exceeds capacity are analyzed, displaying results in the fragility curves of bridges.
TL;DR: In this article , an incremental dynamic analysis (IDA) and seismic fragility analysis of ground storey + 7 floor (G + 7) reinforced concrete frame subjected to suite of eleven ground motions were performed.
Abstract: Abstract Due to technological developments in last decade, new methods of seismic evaluation are in use like simulation based, algorithm based, probabilistic, software based etc. These developments have enabled researchers to move from linear to non-linear methods of analysis. Incremental dynamic analysis (IDA) is performance evaluation method where a suite of ground motions applied to structure are further scaled to particular levels of seismic intensity. Seismic fragility curves become significant in estimation of structures risk possibility from the point of view of potential earthquakes and helps in predicting the economic consequences for forthcoming earthquakes. The paper reflects IDA and seismic fragility analysis of ground storey + 7 floor (G + 7) reinforced concrete frame subjected to suite of eleven ground motions. Primary objective was to perform equivalent static and linear-dynamic analysis to meet the National and International codal requirements. Then, pushover analysis is carried out by introducing parametric auto hinges as per ASCE 41-13 tables. To carry out pushover analysis, both geometric and material non-linearity was introduced. Strong ground motions were selected as per suitable criteria of seismic intensity. IDA is then carried out as per SeismoStruct 2022 software and using IDA curves, the fragility analysis was carried out. The results of study found useful for researchers to predict the probability of damage of the structure under earthquakes.
TL;DR: In this article , a questionnaire targeting the resident population and the daily citizens in Rabat was used to identify various dysfunctions affecting mobility, pollution, and the living environment in general.
Abstract: Abstract Since its independence, Morocco suffered from many economic, social, environmental, and urban challenges. To deal with the existing dysfunctions, the State will look towards creating structuring projects, laws, national programs, etc. Except that all, the measures taken to remedy this do not integrate the population. The objective of this study is the participatory approach concretization in the process of sustainable development through a questionnaire targeting the resident population and the daily citizens in Rabat. As a result, various dysfunctions affecting mobility, pollution, and the living environment in general in Rabat were highlighted. These results will be the subject of a roadmap for an integrated and inclusive sustainable development project in a safe environment.
TL;DR: In this article , the authors present the analysis of the values of deformation characteristics on the reconstructed inter-station section Palárikovo - Nové Zámky, obtained verifying the quality of the implemented individual structural layers of the track bed.
Abstract: Abstract The fundamental pillars of the emerging European integrated railway area include improving the safety of rail transport and the quality parameters of railway lines and ensuring their interoperability. As rail transport is one of the safest transport systems and the most environmentally friendly, the Slovak Railways (ŽSR) have developed strategic and investment plans to increase the competitiveness of rail transport in relation to other modes of transport. The current modernisation or reconstruction in the territory of the Slovak Republic focuses on the main railway lines that are part of significant European corridors (AGC, AGTC, TEN-T corridors). The inter-station section Palárikovo - Nové Zámky, the subject of the article, is a part of the European corridor No. IV, connecting Dresden with Arad and leading through the territory of the Slovak Republic. In this context, the article presents the analysis of the values of deformation characteristics on the reconstructed inter-station section Palárikovo - Nové Zámky, obtained verifying the quality of the implemented individual structural layers of the track bed.
TL;DR: In this paper , a geotextile, a geonet and a geogrid are used for the design of walking, cycle and quad-bike paths in the investigated mine waste dump sites.
Abstract: Abstract In civil engineering geosynthetics play the role of reinforcing the ground and strengthening the foundation structures of engineering facilities. This paper shows the possibility of using a geotextile, a geonet and a geogrid for the design of walking, cycle and quad-bike paths in the investigated mine waste dump sites. The functions of the solutions designed for linear investments in areas affected by mining activity and rehabilitated into a sports and recreation area must be monitored. The paper discusses the scope and the method of FBG monitoring, the data of which illustrate the behaviour of structures with embedded geosynthetic materials with regard to variables such as the structure service life and durability and the need to meet all limit states. The impact of the choice of designs with geosynthetics in sustainable development can be quantified in terms of the carbon footprint. A site-rehabilitation working design can also be analysed economically by estimating the market, investment and replacement values of a construction investment. In addition to key technical aspects, the discussed solutions in anthropogenic areas also ensure significant sustainable development of the Benefits system.
TL;DR: In this paper , the authors present a numerical analysis of the deformation of a reinforced retaining wall in the profile monitored by geotechnical monitoring, and verify the reality of the numerical model of the retaining wall made it possible to use this model for a parametric study of the influence of the reinforcement method on the face of the reinforced wall.
Abstract: Abstract The highway section on the D3 highway Hričovské Podhradie – Žilina – Strážov was carried out on the left branch of the highway body on the overpass and on the right branch on the embankment body. The stability of the embankment body was ensured by a geosynthetics reinforced retaining wall. The retaining wall was assembled from reinforced concrete prefabs, on which the uniaxial geogrids were attached. The article presents a numerical analysis of the deformations of this reinforced structure in the profile monitored by geotechnical monitoring. The results of the numerical analysis of the deformations of the retaining wall were confronted with geotechnical monitoring measurements. Geotechnical monitoring measurements confirmed the reality of the numerical model of the retaining wall. Verification of the reality of the numerical model of the retaining wall made it possible to use this model for a parametric study of the influence of the reinforcement method on the deformation of the face of the reinforced retaining wall. In the parametric study, the effects of the change in the horizontal length and vertical spacing of the reinforcement elements, as well as their interaction with the backfill soil on the deformation values of the face of the retaining wall are analyzed.