Abstract: The successive climate changes witnessed in recent years have underscored the urgency of implementing more mindful environmental strategies to preserve ecosystems and our planet. Consequently, new policies of environmental sustainability are increasingly targeting industries with significant ecological footprints, such as construction. Construction has been identified as one of the most influential industries contributing to climate change, owing to its high energy consumption, production processes, and reliance on daily supplies of electric and thermal energy.

Abstract: The integration of quantum technology into architectural design represents a paradigm shift, leveraging exponential computational speed to solve industry critical challenges. Key advancements include: Material Discovery: Quantum simulations analyze molecular structures 1,000x faster than classical methods, enabling rapid identification of high strength, sustainable materials (e.g., carbon neutral concrete), which could reduce construction emissions by 20-30%.Structural Optimization & Safety: Quantum algorithms accelerate design iterations from weeks to hours, improving load bearing analysis precision by 40-60% and enhancing safety margins in high rise projects. Energy Efficiency: Quantum optimized smart buildings achieve 20-30% energy savings via real time HVAC and lighting adjustments. Supply Chain & Logistics: Quantum solutions resolve resource allocation problems 100-1,000x faster, mitigating delays and cutting costs by 15-25%. Case studies, such as PsiQuantum’s Chicago facility, demonstrate scalable applications, while interdisciplinary collaboration addresses challenges like regulatory compliance and ROI (projected at 30-50% over 10 years). This synergy positions quantum computing as a cornerstone for sustainable, efficient construction.

Abstract: Building Information Modeling (BIM) enables the optimization of costs, time, and material consumption in integral planning processes. However, the adaptation of Building Energy Modeling (BEM) in the early planning phase is not fully exploited yet, although it is important for optimizing the energy efficiency of buildings. While BIM adaptation is increasing in the architecture, engineering, construction and operation (AECO) industry, BEM integration faces major challenges, including interoperability issues between BIM and BEM tools. These challenges are enhanced by the fact that the current planning practice does not focus on early design optimization in the case of energy performance. Current research reinforces the importance of standardizing exchange requirements to tackle these interoperability challenges. The BIM2IndiLight project validated and documented over 400 properties for daylighting, artificial lighting and façade systems. However, feedback from the industry showed that standardization of properties alone is not enough. In the follow-up project BIM2BEM-Flow, a 3-step toolchain was devel-oped to efficiently manage and transfer project- or company-specific properties. This workflow defines parameters, assigns responsibilities and coordinates information via a BIM plugin that enables a validated export of IFC files for energy simulation. This paper presents the results from both projects, emphasizing the potential of stand-ardized properties and toolchain integration to close the gap between BIM and BEM for optimizing energy efficiency in the AECO industry.

Abstract: The increasing frequency and intensity of heat waves, combined with urban heat islands (UHI), pose significant public health challenges. Implementing low-cost, real-time moni-toring networks with distributed stations within the Smart city framework faces obstacles in transforming urban spaces. However, accurate data is essential for assessing these ef-fects. This paper compares different network types in a medium sized city in West Spain and their implications for UHI identification quality. The study first examines a pur-pose-built monitoring network using Open-Source platforms, IoT technology, and Lo-RaWAN communications, adhering to World Meteorological Organization guidelines. Additionally, it evaluates two citizen weather observer networks (CWON): one from a commercial smart device company and another from a global community connecting en-vironmental sensor data. The findings highlight several advantages of bespoke monitor-ing networks over CWON. These networks offer enhanced data accessibility and greater flexibility to meet specific requirements, facilitating adaptability and scalability for future upgrades. However, specialization is crucial for effective deployment and maintenance. Conversely, CWON faces limitations in network uniformity, data shadow zones, and in-sufficient knowledge of real sensor situations or component characteristics. Furthermore, CWON exhibits some data inconsistencies in probability distribution and scatter plots during extreme heat periods, as well as improbable UHI temperature values.

Abstract: The circular economy is becoming an increasingly important part of development strategies in various sectors, as it responds to critical challenges related to environmental protection, the rational use of natural resources and sustainable development. The transition from a linear to a circular model requires changes on many levels, both technological and social. In the circular model, it is crucial to design products with a view to their longer use and easier recycling and reuse. The aim of the research was to determine the physical and mechanical parameters of mortars with the addition of recycled material. The effect of the additive on the compres-sive and flexural strength, water absorption and capillary suction of mortars was inves-tigated. The rheological properties of mortars, i.e. consistency, bulk density and setting time, were also studied. The internal structure of the samples was examined using an industrial computer tomograph Nikon XT H 225 ST and the microstructure of the mortars was analysed. Thermal conductivity coefficients for mortars were estimated. The analysis of the conducted tests shows that the addition of recycled material affects the rheological properties of mortars, causing an increase in the flow of fresh mortars, an extension of the setting time and a reduction in bulk density. The recycled material affects the parameters of the hardened mortar, resulting in a reduction in compressive and flexural strength. The biocomponent causes the cement matrix to seal, resulting in a reduction in weight gain in the water absorption and capillary rise tests.

Abstract: This study assesses thermal comfort and indoor air quality (IAQ) across different zones within a hypermarket located in Gombak, Selangor, Malaysia, a region characterized by a tropical climate with high humidity and temperature. Key indicators, including Predicted Mean Vote (PMV), Percentage of People Dissatisfied (PPD), and IAQ parameters such as carbon dioxide (CO2), total volatile organic compounds (TVOC), PM2.5, and PM10, were evaluated. Significant disparities were observed between zones, with the cafeteria (Zone 5) recording the highest discomfort levels, marked by a PPD of 50%, CO2 concentrations of 900 ppm, and TVOC levels reaching 1500 ppb, primarily due to cooking activities and inadequate ventilation. In contrast, the intermediate retail zone (Zone 3) demonstrated favourable conditions, with a PPD of 12% and PMV values within the recommended range. These findings were benchmarked against ASHRAE 55 and Köppen-Geiger climate classification standards, emphasising the need for targeted improvements to enhance the thermal comfort and IAQ of the hypermarket indoor environment.

Abstract: This paper explores the strategic integration of the Building Information Modeling (BIM) methodology with the principles of Lean Construction, an approach derived from Lean Production that seeks to maximize value and minimize waste in construction projects. This fusion represents a significant advance for the AEC (Architecture, Engineering, and Construction) industry, combining the digital capabilities of BIM such as 3D modeling, common data environments (CDE), and early clash detection with Lean practices such as Just-In-Time (JIT), Pull Planning, and Continuous Improvement (Kaizen). The synergy between the two methodologies allows for the optimization of key processes: BIM facilitates collaborative visualization and planning, while Lean Construction eliminates inefficiencies by reducing waste (identified under the acronym TIM WOODS) and standardizing workflows. Tools such as the Last Planner System (LPS) and Takt Time Planning, when integrated with BIM platforms (e.g., Autodesk Revit and Navisworks), improve project predictability and reduce costs and timelines. Cited studies show that projects with this integration achieve up to 45% on time deliveries and cost savings of 20-30%. However, implementation faces challenges, such as resistance to change in traditional organizational cultures, high initial costs of technology adoption, and a lack of trained personnel in both disciplines. Furthermore, the document highlights the need to standardize protocols and delve deeper into return on investment (ROI) metrics to consolidate adoption. As a future trend, Autonomous Lean Construction stands out, where artificial intelligence (AI) and IoT will automate project management, along with the use of 4D/5D BIM to integrate time and cost variables. The document concludes by emphasizing the importance of applied research, interdisciplinary training, and open collaboration between academia and industry to scale these benefits. In essence, BIM-Lean Construction integration is not just a tool, but a paradigm shift toward more efficient, sustainable, and value-driven construction, supported by data and cross functional collaboration. Its success will depend on overcoming technical and cultural barriers, but its potential to transform the industry is undeniable.

Abstract: In order to improve the response speed and structural stability of post-disaster temporary shelter construction, a rapid construction technology based on UAV-3D printing linkage is proposed. An air-ground collaborative architecture is constructed to achieve precise construction through SLAM modeling, BIM optimization engine and dynamic path planning, and highly rheological bio-based composites are used to optimize deposition precision and interlayer bond strength. We analyze the intelligent scheduling, real-time path optimization and environmental adaptability of the UAV swarm, and verify the construction accuracy, construction efficiency and material performance under different working conditions. The results show that the technology can efficiently construct a low-energy, high-strength temporary shelter structure in complex terrain environments, with a 45% reduction in carbon emission compared with traditional methods, and the energy consumption per unit area of construction is controlled within 0.8kWh/m², and the construction of 200m² shelter is completed within 72 hours. Combined with multimodal sensing monitoring and intelligent control algorithms, it can further enhance the autonomy and sustainability of disaster emergency construction.

Abstract: Artificial Intelligence (AI) has recently played a crucial role in improving bridge assessment through diverse methodologies to optimize maintenance strategies and reduce costs. Therefore, the current study proposed two different methods to estimate the current condition rating of R.C. bridges by 1) Fuzzy Decision-Making; and 2) Markov Chain Modelling. The purpose of this study is to investigate the more applicable and accurate technique due to AI for reinforced concrete bridge assessment. The current study focused on corrosion as the main defect used to estimate the bridge condition rating. The dual methods depend on visual inspection, applying field and laboratory tests, and reviewing the historical data of the inspected bridge to estimate its condition rating. The fuzzy decision model is applied to find a correlation between corrosion degree and concrete surface condition to estimate the condition rating. The Markov chain model is used to predict the future condition rating for the whole bridge and when it will reach the critical condition. The service life for each bridge element is calculated due to carbonation and chloride attack. The Life 365 model is applied to estimate the service life due to chloride ingress. The proposed system is validated through a real case study, and the results show that the fuzzy is less accurate compared to the Markov Chain. The introduced models are expected to provide proper Maintenance, Repair, and Replacement (MRR) decisions for the bridges.

Abstract: Korea has a high density of population, considering the size of the territory. So, the im-portance of convenient and comfortable apartment buildings and high-rise residen-tial-commercial complex buildings has been rising. In addition, because of the improve-ment of the standard of living along with continuous national economic growth, the in-terest in wellbeing and the expectation of quiet life for comfortable and pleasant residen-tial environment have also been increasing. However, Korea has the lifestyle of sitting on the floor, so floor impact sound has been occurring more and more frequently. Because of that, unneighborly disputes have been a serious social problem. And lately damage and disputes from noise between floors have been much more increasing. The present work, therefore, used waste tire chips as a resilient material for reduction of floor impact sound in order to recycle waste tires effectively. Also, a compounded resilient material, which combines EPS (Expanded Polystyrene), a flat resilient material of the upper part with waste tire chips of the lower part, was developed. After constructing waste tire chips at a standardized test building, experiments of both lightweight and heavy-weight floor im-pact sound were performed. The tests proved that it was possible to control effectively both the lightweight and heavy-weight impact sound, when using waste tire chips as a resili-ent material for reduction of floor impact noise.

Abstract: This study explores the integration of advanced sensing technologies into HVAC systems to improve efficiency and performance, with a focus on Northwest Indiana casinos. The project addresses challenges faced by traditional systems, such as inconsistent temperature control, high energy consumption, and poor air quality, which impact guest comfort and operational costs. By incorporating IoT-enabled sensors, infrared thermal imaging, and AI-driven predictive maintenance, HVAC systems can dynamically adjust based on real-time data, ensuring optimal comfort and energy savings. Infrared cameras identify inefficiencies like air leaks and duct blockages, while Schlieren imaging visualizes airflow patterns to resolve zoning issues. Results demonstrate significant improvements in temperature regulation, a 15% reduction in energy consumption, and enhanced air quality. This research highlights the potential for advanced HVAC technologies to transform high-occupancy environments, fostering sustainability, operational efficiency, and improved guest experiences.

Abstract: With the advancement of rural construction, the transformation of traditional kitchens faces issues such as uniform design, destruction of traditional aesthetics, high costs, and difficulties in localization, which affect the quality of kitchen renovations and the living standards of villagers. This study explores methods for kitchen transformation in traditional residences of Northwest Yunnan under low-technology strategies, aiming to enhance the quality of rural kitchens while preserving traditional aesthetics. Through field research, case analysis, and climate simulation, a kitchen renovation plan tailored to Tangfang Village in Yunnan Province was developed and implemented, including measures for optimizing functional flow, improving ventilation and lighting, enhancing water supply and drainage systems, increasing energy efficiency, and addressing insulation and moisture prevention. The renovated kitchens showed significant improvements in lighting, ventilation, and thermal comfort, with costs controlled within a reasonable range, achieving enhancements in architectural quality, user comfort, and endogenous motivation for autonomy. This research provides an operable model for rural construction, which, through low-technology strategies and collaborative creation models, not only enhances the functional use of rural kitchens but also preserves the cultural value of traditional architecture, holding significant importance for promoting sustainable rural development.

Abstract: The refurbishment of school buildings offers the opportunity to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions, which positively influences the reduction of environmental impact. It is also important to remember to maintain or enhance the comfort of the users of such buildings. This paper presents a systematic review of the state of the art on current trends and low-carbon technical, operational and behavioural methods used in the refurbishment of school buildings in cool temperate climates. This subject matter is positioned at the interface of architecture and environmental engineering. This study identifies the most commonly used active and passive refurbishment methods, as well as the research gaps and problems of applied solutions, and demonstrates the most likely and cost-effective optimisation directions in existing schools.

Abstract: The church of Saint Felix in Girona (Spain) is crowned by an octagonal bell tower with a stone pinnacle at each corner. I was built with dry-joined stone masonry. To reinforce the connection between the stone blocs of the pinnacles, a wooden log was placed in the cen-ter, spanning the stone structure, thorough a central hole carved into it. Nowadays, the inner structure has completely disappeared. During the maintenance and repair works, it was decided to restore the reinforcement’s functionality by installing a titanium bar. To determine the length of this metallic inclusion, a study was conducted that includes the effect of gravitational, wind and seismic forces. Due to the uncertainty associated to such model, a multi-approach was carried out combining numerical and scaled experimental models. Experimental results demonstrate that pinnacles need to be reinforced with a ti-tanium bar of the length of its height.

Abstract: The phenomenon of exclusive residential developments has gained substantial attention in the context of South African cities, where urbanisation and socioeconomic disparities have shaped the built environment in unique ways. This study, therefore, delves into the taxonomy of driving forces that underpin the proliferation of exclusive residential developments within these urban centres. The aim is to present results of a study that sought to examine the driving forces behind the growth of exclusive residential developments. Drawing from a literature review and a quantitative inquiry approach, primary data was also collected from 109 built environment professionals. Descriptive and inferential statistics, specifically exploratory factor analysis (EFA), were used to supplement this. According to the descriptive analysis utilising the mean score (MS) ranking technique, the perception among potential residents that exclusive residential communities provide a safer living environment was one of the higher up-front driving forces for exclusive residential developments. Additionally, there is a good chance that these developments may increase in value. Furthermore, the EFA revealed that the underlying grouped factors for exclusive development were: ‘free market capitalism’; ‘safety and security’; ‘local demand’; ‘PPP’; ‘affordability’; and ‘profit seeking’. These findings suggest that if housing costs rise, the average citizen may not be able to afford them due to the emphasis on maximising profits over affordability. Safety and security precautions can create a sense of exclusivity and seclusion in these communities, possibly cutting them off from the larger local community and affecting local demand for goods and services outside the community's borders.

Abstract: The work focuses on developing and exploring the concept of topological responsiveness which is a new approach in architecture. Based on geometric responsiveness and mechatronic work, the principles and form of a new responsive architecture model and behavior are conceptualized. A model of modular responsive structure is proposed for based on formulated guides. Using modeling and analysis, a model was prepared for testing entire structural layouts in Rhino Grasshopper as well as a single module in Autodesk Inventor. The research was conducted using an evolutionary algorithm. First, the usability of the solution was determined for different shapes and sizes of structures, then the effect of scale and aspect ratio was studied. Next, for the best-fit structure, the effectiveness of using the responsive solution was tested and compared with static topological optimization solutions for vertical and horizontal loads according to a uniform load model. As a result of the modeling work, a 1:10 scale physical model of the module was then prepared for further research. The conclusions outlined the tendencies of the system for simplifying further analysis and reducing the time of searching for effective topologies. In addition, the principles and scope of applicability of the solution are defined.

Abstract: Understanding the complex phenomena of interactions between the elements of a Combined Piled Raft Foundation (CPRF) is essential for the proper design of such foundations. To evaluate the effects of mutual influence among CPRF elements, a series of long-term measurements of selected physical quantities related to the performance of the foundation were conducted on a building with a frame structure, stiffening walls, and monolithic technology, consisting of seven above-ground stories and one underground story. The analysis distinguishes the real deformations resulting from temperature changes and from stress strains resulting from load changes. The two types of deformations were subject to further interpretation of only changes in stress strain over time. Changes in stress values in the subsoil, as well as strain measurements in the vertical direction of concrete columns, were recorded to assess the load distribution between the CPRF components. The numerical analysis results obtained for a fragment of the monitored foundation were compared with actual measurement results to verify the numerical model of interaction between the structure and the soil. This comparison also served to supplement and sim-ultaneously expand the dataset of test results on a real-world scale.

Abstract: The AEC industry is currently undergoing a digital transformation, and leadership and trust are considered important factors in the successful use of digital work systems within organizations. There are indications that certain leadership qualities can promote a Trustful use of digital work systems, however, there is limited research on what these specific characteristics are. Therefore, it was of interest to investigate which aspects of leadership specifically promote the trustful use of digital technologies. The purpose of this study was to investigate which aspects of leadership are associated with Trustful use of digital work systems. An online survey was completed by 314 experts from various fields of expertise at Sweden's largest infrastructure owner. The main findings showed that the most important factors for the Trustful use of digital work systems were Role clarity and Digital literacy of the management team. Based on the results, it is recommended that the construction industry educate management teams at all levels of the organizational hierarchy about what digital transformation entails in terms of new technologies, changing ways of working and roles. This will make it easier for managers and leaders to support employees by clarifying their roles and responsibilities in a complex organization.

Abstract: Facades are integral to building design and their functionality, serving as the aesthetic outer shell and simultaneously acting as a thermal barrier. The Responsive Kinetic Facades revolutionize the concept of facades changing the dynamism from a static structure to adaptive system, capable of responding to external environmental stimuli of glare, and temperature variation. Many researchers in their studies have discussed the versatility of unique materials like ETFE (Ethylene tetrafluoroethylene), a polymer, as Responsive Kinetic Facades in reducing the building energy use. Widening this very scope Auto Heal, a self-healing polymer, has been explored as the suitable variant for the application on the facades of the buildings. The primary objective of this study is to analyse, evaluate and validate the performance of these materials in terms of energy efficiency of the building and thermal comfort of the occupants. With ETFE and Auto heal, on south façade of a high-rise office building is modelled as a base case in Jaipur, India, a location precise to composite climate of hot summers and cold winters considering the recommendations as per the ECBC (Energy Conservation Building Code) [1] and ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers) codes [2, 3, 4] . These materials are assessed based on several performance metrics, including fuel consumption (Wh/m2), discomfort hours, Fanger Predicted Percentage of Dissatisfied (PPD), and Fanger Predicted Mean Vote (PMV). The evaluation involved simulating the performance of each material under identical environmental conditions using advanced modelling software, Design Builder. This paper provides a comparative analysis of both the materials, discussing their performance as Responsive Kinetic Facades and their potential impact on reducing thermal discomfort hours and energy use. Such developments align with emerging new trends of using digital twins and energy-efficient building design, contributing to the enhancement of the urban built environment. These findings emphasize the importance of choosing the right adaptive materials for building skins, reducing thermal discomfort hours and energy consumption. This will improve the building's overall energy efficiency, indoor environmental quality and will support the efforts towards sustainable and smart urban development [4].

Abstract: The heat transfer coefficient or the HTC is an industry-standard indicator of building energy performance. It has been predicated on an assumption that it is of a constant value, and several different methods have been developed to measure and calculate the HTC as a constant. Whilst there are limited variations of results obtained from these different methods, none of these methods consider a possibility that the HTC could be dynamically variable. Our experimental work shows that the HTC is not a constant. Experimental evidence base from our environmental chambers, which contain detached houses, and in which ambient air temperature can be controlled between -20 °C and +40 °C, with additional relative humidity control and with weather rigs that can introduce solar radiation, rain and snow, shows that the HTC is dynamically variable. Analysis of data from fully instrumented and monitored houses in a combination with calibrated simulation models and data processing scripts based on genetic algorithm optimization provide experimental evidence of dynamic variability of the HTC. This research increases the understanding of building physics properties and has a potential to change the way the heat transfer coefficient is used in building performance analysis.