Toward Sustainable Engineering Structures for Better Safety in Built-Environment

A special issue of Applied Sciences (ISSN 2076-3417). This special issue belongs to the section "Civil Engineering".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (28 February 2021) | Viewed by 68254

Special Issue Editors


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Guest Editor
Department of Architectural Engineering, Chungbuk National University (CBNU), Cheongju, Korea
Interests: structural engineering; shear; torsion; flexure; seismic behavior of prestressed concrete structure
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Guest Editor
Department of Architectural Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan, Korea
Interests: seismic behavior of structures
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Guest Editor
Department of Architectural Engineering, Kyonggi University, Suwon-si, Korea
Interests: blast and impact behavior of structures
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Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The concept of safe design in architectural and civil engineering is important for protecting humanity, considering the economic, environmental, and sociality aspects of society and their capacity and opportunity to maintain and improve the quality of life without degrading the quantity and quality. This Special Issue covers various research topics related to safety and sustainability issues in the recent engineering-built environment. The results disseminated in this Special Issue will be helpful in understanding how to make our society a better place by utilizing scientific and engineering methods, which is of interest for potential readers of Applied Sciences. The manuscripts submitted to this Special Issue will be subject to a prompt peer review process for the rapid and wide dissemination of research results, developments, and applications.

The scope of this Special Issue, “Toward Sustainable Engineering Structures for Better Safety in Built Environments”, covers all the aspects of architectural and civil engineering, including the behavior of various structural, geotechnical, and environmental components and systems.

Dr. Deuckhang Lee
Dr. Donghyuk Jung
Dr. Sanghee Kim
Guest Editors

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Keywords

  • Sustainable construction materials;
  • Steel, concrete, and composite structures;
  • Prestressed and precast construction;
  • Structural reliability;
  • Structural strengthening and rehabilitation;
  • Sustainable engineering in design method, standard and code, and its applications;
  • Sustainable building and infrastructures;
  • Long-term maintenance and monitoring of built environments;
  • Sustainable alternatives in geotechnical engineering;
  • Sustainable engineering management for the long service life of built environments;
  • New emerging environmental issue

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Published Papers (22 papers)

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Editorial

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4 pages, 168 KiB  
Editorial
Toward Sustainable Engineering Structures for Better Safety in Built-Environment
by Deuckhang Lee, Donghyuk Jung and Sanghee Kim
Appl. Sci. 2021, 11(14), 6285; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/app11146285 - 07 Jul 2021
Viewed by 1382
Abstract
The concept of safe design in architectural and civil engineering is of importance to protect humanity considering our economic, environment and sociality to maintain and improve its quality of life without degrading the quantity and quality [...] Full article

Research

Jump to: Editorial

16 pages, 2986 KiB  
Article
Performance Evaluation of Buried Concrete Pipe Considering Soil Pressure and Crack Propagation Using 3D Finite Element Analysis
by Hoki Ban, Seungjun Roh and Won-Jun Park
Appl. Sci. 2021, 11(7), 3292; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/app11073292 - 06 Apr 2021
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2542
Abstract
Numerous factors affect the soil pressure distributions around buried pipes, including the shape, size, and stiffness of the pipe, burial depth, and the stiffness of the surrounding soil. Additionally, to some extent, a pipe can benefit from the soil arching effect, where the [...] Read more.
Numerous factors affect the soil pressure distributions around buried pipes, including the shape, size, and stiffness of the pipe, burial depth, and the stiffness of the surrounding soil. Additionally, to some extent, a pipe can benefit from the soil arching effect, where the overburden and surcharge pressure at the crown can be supported by the adjacent soil. As a result, a buried pipe only needs to support the portion of the load that is not transferred to the adjacent soil. This paper presents numerical investigations of the soil pressure distributions around buried concrete pipes and crack propagation under different environmental conditions, such as loading, saturation level, and the presence of voids. To this end, a nonlinear elastoplastic model for backfill materials was implemented using finite element software and a user-defined subroutine. Three different backfill materials and two different native soils were selected to examine the material-specific behaviors of concrete pipes, including soil pressure distributions and crack propagation. For each backfill material, the effects of the loading type, groundwater, and voids were investigated. These simulation results provide helpful information regarding pressure redistribution and buried concrete pipe behavior under various environmental conditions. Full article
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16 pages, 2983 KiB  
Article
Development of Optimal Design Method for Steel Double-Beam Floor System Considering Rotational Constraints
by Insub Choi, Dongwon Kim and Junhee Kim
Appl. Sci. 2021, 11(7), 3266; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/app11073266 - 06 Apr 2021
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 6171
Abstract
Under high gravity loads, steel double-beam floor systems need to be reinforced by beam-end concrete panels to reduce the material quantity since rotational constraints from the concrete panel can decrease the moment demand by inducing a negative moment at the ends of the [...] Read more.
Under high gravity loads, steel double-beam floor systems need to be reinforced by beam-end concrete panels to reduce the material quantity since rotational constraints from the concrete panel can decrease the moment demand by inducing a negative moment at the ends of the beams. However, the optimal design process for the material quantity of steel beams requires a time-consuming iterative analysis for the entire floor system while especially keeping in consideration the rotational constraints in composite connections between the concrete panel and steel beams. This study aimed to develop an optimal design method with the LM (Length-Moment) index for the steel double-beam floor system to minimize material quantity without the iterative design process. The LM index is an indicator that can select a minimum cross-section of the steel beams in consideration of the flexural strength by lateral-torsional buckling. To verify the proposed design method, the material quantities between the proposed and code-based design methods were compared at various gravity loads. The proposed design method successfully optimized the material quantity of the steel double-beam floor systems without the iterative analysis by simply choosing the LM index of the steel beams that can minimize objective function while satisfying the safety-related constraint conditions. In particular, under the high gravity loads, the proposed design method was superb at providing a quantity-optimized design option. Thus, the proposed optimal design method can be an alternative for designing the steel double-beam floor system. Full article
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13 pages, 16193 KiB  
Article
Optimizing Support Locations in the Roof–Column Structural System
by Xianchuan Meng, Ting-Uei Lee, Yulin Xiong, Xiaodong Huang and Yi Min Xie
Appl. Sci. 2021, 11(6), 2775; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/app11062775 - 19 Mar 2021
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 4548
Abstract
The roof–column structural system is utilized for many engineering and architectural applications due to its structural efficiency. However, it typically requires column locations to be predetermined, and involves a tedious trial-and-error adjusting process to fulfil both engineering and architectural requirements. Finding efficient column [...] Read more.
The roof–column structural system is utilized for many engineering and architectural applications due to its structural efficiency. However, it typically requires column locations to be predetermined, and involves a tedious trial-and-error adjusting process to fulfil both engineering and architectural requirements. Finding efficient column distributions with the aid of computational methods, such as structural optimization, is an ongoing challenge. Existing methods are limited, with continuum methods involving the generation of undesired complex shapes, and discrete methods involving a time-consuming process for optimizing columns’ spatial order. This paper presents a new optimization method to design the distribution of a given number of vertical supporting columns under a roof structure. A computational algorithm was developed on the basis of the optimality-criterion (OC) method to preserve and removed candidate columns pre-embedded with design requirements. Three substrategies are presented to improve optimizer performance. The effectiveness of the new method was validated with a range of roof–column structural models. Treating column locations as design variables provides opportunities to significantly improve structural performance. Full article
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16 pages, 3957 KiB  
Article
Vision-Based Structural FE Model Updating Using Genetic Algorithm
by Gun Park, Ki-Nam Hong and Hyungchul Yoon
Appl. Sci. 2021, 11(4), 1622; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/app11041622 - 10 Feb 2021
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2228
Abstract
Structural members can be damaged from earthquakes or deterioration. The finite element (FE) model of a structure should be updated to reflect the damage conditions. If the stiffness reduction is ignored, the analysis results will be unreliable. Conventional FE model updating techniques measure [...] Read more.
Structural members can be damaged from earthquakes or deterioration. The finite element (FE) model of a structure should be updated to reflect the damage conditions. If the stiffness reduction is ignored, the analysis results will be unreliable. Conventional FE model updating techniques measure the structure response with accelerometers to update the FE model. However, accelerometers can measure the response only where the sensor is installed. This paper introduces a new computer-vision based method for structural FE model updating using genetic algorithm. The system measures the displacement of the structure using seven different object tracking algorithms, and optimizes the structural parameters using genetic algorithm. To validate the performance, a lab-scale test with a three-story building was conducted. The displacement of each story of the building was measured before and after reducing the stiffness of one column. Genetic algorithm automatically optimized the non-damaged state of the FE model to the damaged state. The proposed method successfully updated the FE model to the damaged state. The proposed method is expected to reduce the time and cost of FE model updating. Full article
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14 pages, 7843 KiB  
Article
Shear Behavior of Concrete Encased Steel Truss Composite Girders
by Chisung Lim, Seung-Ho Choi, Jae Yuel Oh, Sun-Jin Han, Moon-Sung Lee and Kang Su Kim
Appl. Sci. 2021, 11(4), 1569; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/app11041569 - 09 Feb 2021
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3277
Abstract
In this study, experimental tests were performed to evaluate the shear performance of encased steel truss (EST) composite girders that can resist loads at construction and composite stages. Four full-scale EST composite girders were fabricated, where the truss type (Pratt truss and Warren [...] Read more.
In this study, experimental tests were performed to evaluate the shear performance of encased steel truss (EST) composite girders that can resist loads at construction and composite stages. Four full-scale EST composite girders were fabricated, where the truss type (Pratt truss and Warren truss) and presence of stirrups were set as main test variables. The test results showed that in specimens applied with the Pratt truss, horizontal shear cracking occurring along the interface between concrete and steel was the dominant failure mode. Based on the crack pattern and failure plane observed from the test, the horizontal shear strengths of the Pratt truss specimens were calculated, which provided conservative results. On the other hand, in the specimens with the Warren truss inside, the strengths of the specimens were governed by the shear failure occurring in the screw rod connecting the truss elements prior to the yielding of the diagonal member. The shear strengths of the Warren truss specimens calculated based on the shear failure of the screw rod were similar to that obtained from the test. Full article
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12 pages, 13639 KiB  
Article
Experimental Analysis of Ultrasonic Multiple Scattering Attenuation through the Air with Fine Dust
by Ukyong Woo, Hajin Choi and Homin Song
Appl. Sci. 2021, 11(2), 694; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/app11020694 - 13 Jan 2021
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1696
Abstract
In this study, we experimentally evaluated the application of multiple scattering theory for measuring ultrasonic attenuation. Based on the independent approximation theory, the method adopted for calculating the attenuation of coherent waves through air with fine dust is discussed. To obtain a scattering [...] Read more.
In this study, we experimentally evaluated the application of multiple scattering theory for measuring ultrasonic attenuation. Based on the independent approximation theory, the method adopted for calculating the attenuation of coherent waves through air with fine dust is discussed. To obtain a scattering wavefield, a unique ultrasonic scattering hardware was developed, and signal processing schemes were suggested. Four cases of standard particle doses (0, 0.004, 0.008, and 0.012 g) were investigated inside a chamber. The results obtained from the experiments demonstrate that the proposed signal processing approach successfully calculates the scattering attenuation, which correlates well with the applied doses of fine dust. In addition, we discuss the irregular shape and composition of fine dust relative to the scattering cross-section. Full article
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17 pages, 12038 KiB  
Article
Hybrid Approach to the First Order Reliability Method in the Reliability Analysis of a Spatial Structure
by Agnieszka Dudzik and Beata Potrzeszcz-Sut
Appl. Sci. 2021, 11(2), 648; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/app11020648 - 11 Jan 2021
Cited by 20 | Viewed by 2061
Abstract
The objective of the article involves presenting two approaches to the structure reliability analysis. The primary research method was the First Order Reliability Method (FORM). The Hasofer–Lind reliability index β in conjunction with transformation method in the FORM was adopted as the measure [...] Read more.
The objective of the article involves presenting two approaches to the structure reliability analysis. The primary research method was the First Order Reliability Method (FORM). The Hasofer–Lind reliability index β in conjunction with transformation method in the FORM was adopted as the measure of reliability. The first proposal was combining NUMPRESS software with the non-commercial KRATA program. In this case, the implicit form of the random variables function was created. Limit state function was symbolically given in the standard math notation as a function of the basic random and external variables. The second analysis proposed a hybrid approach enabling the introduction of explicit forms of limit state functions to the reliability program. To create the descriptions of this formula, the neural networks were used and our own original FEM module. The combination of conventional and neural computing can be seen as a hybrid system. The explicit functions were implemented into NUMPRESS software. The values of the reliability index for different descriptions of the mathematical model of the structure were determined. The proposed hybrid approach allowed us to obtain similar results to the results from the reference method. Full article
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13 pages, 5425 KiB  
Article
Concrete Delamination Depth Estimation Using a Noncontact MEMS Ultrasonic Sensor Array and an Optimization Approach
by Homin Song, Jinyoung Hong, Hajin Choi and Jiyoung Min
Appl. Sci. 2021, 11(2), 592; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/app11020592 - 09 Jan 2021
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2096
Abstract
In this study, we present a method to estimate the depth of near-surface shallow delamination in concrete using a noncontact micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) ultrasonic sensor array and an optimization-based data processing approach. The proposed approach updates the bulk wave velocities of the tested [...] Read more.
In this study, we present a method to estimate the depth of near-surface shallow delamination in concrete using a noncontact micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) ultrasonic sensor array and an optimization-based data processing approach. The proposed approach updates the bulk wave velocities of the tested concrete element by solving an optimization problem using reference ultrasonic scanning data collected from a full-depth concrete region. Subsequently, the depth of concrete delamination is estimated by solving a separate optimization problem. Numerical simulations and laboratory experiments were conducted to evaluate the performance of the proposed ultrasonic data processing approach. The results demonstrated that the depth of shallow delamination in concrete structures could be accurately estimated. Full article
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13 pages, 4425 KiB  
Article
Numerical Analysis of Ultrasonic Multiple Scattering for Fine Dust Number Density Estimation
by Homin Song, Ukyong Woo and Hajin Choi
Appl. Sci. 2021, 11(2), 555; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/app11020555 - 08 Jan 2021
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2613
Abstract
In this study, a method is presented for estimating the number density of fine dust particles (the number of particles per unit area) through numerical simulations of multiply scattered ultrasonic wavefields. The theoretical background of the multiple scattering of ultrasonic waves under different [...] Read more.
In this study, a method is presented for estimating the number density of fine dust particles (the number of particles per unit area) through numerical simulations of multiply scattered ultrasonic wavefields. The theoretical background of the multiple scattering of ultrasonic waves under different regimes is introduced. A series of numerical simulations were performed to generate multiply scattered ultrasonic wavefield data. The generated datasets are subsequently processed using an ultrasound data processing approach to estimate the number density of fine dust particles in the air based on the independent scattering approximation theory. The data processing results demonstrate that the proposed approach can estimate the number density of fine dust particles with an average error of 43.4% in the frequency band 1–10 MHz (wavenumber × particle radius ≤ 1) at a particle volume fraction of 1%. Several other factors that affect the accuracy of the number density estimation are also presented. Full article
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21 pages, 2620 KiB  
Article
The Impact of Support Type on the Reliability of Steel Trusses Subjected to the Action of a Fire
by Katarzyna Kubicka and Urszula Radoń
Appl. Sci. 2020, 10(21), 7916; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/app10217916 - 08 Nov 2020
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2092
Abstract
The objective of the article involves examining the impact of the type of supporting steel truss on its reliability under the conditions of a fire. The paper uses the system reliability method. Its application was preceded by the identification of kinematically admissible failure [...] Read more.
The objective of the article involves examining the impact of the type of supporting steel truss on its reliability under the conditions of a fire. The paper uses the system reliability method. Its application was preceded by the identification of kinematically admissible failure mechanisms (KAFMs) and the performance of strength-static calculations for all structural elements for a given moment of fire duration, meaning under the load of current temperature. The KAFMS were identified by the spectral analysis of the stiffness matrix. The criterion of the collapse for a single element was buckling for elements in compression and exceeding the yield strength for elements in tension. A reliability analysis and the calculation of temperature, axial forces, and the bearing capacity of individual elements were performed using original software created in the C++ language. The Cornell reliability index β was adopted as the measure of reliability. A drop in its value along with the fire development was presented for the analyzed structures. The obtained results indicate unambiguously that in the case of a structure subjected to fire action, the selection of a support method is of the utmost importance and determines its safety. Full article
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17 pages, 77854 KiB  
Article
Automatic Bridge Design Parameter Extraction for Scan-to-BIM
by Jae Hyuk Lee, Jeong Jun Park and Hyungchul Yoon
Appl. Sci. 2020, 10(20), 7346; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/app10207346 - 20 Oct 2020
Cited by 21 | Viewed by 4172
Abstract
Building information modeling (BIM), which can efficiently manage the life cycle of structures, has been increasingly applied in the construction industry. However, it is difficult to implement BIM for existing structures, due to the differences between the design and as-built conditions. Point cloud [...] Read more.
Building information modeling (BIM), which can efficiently manage the life cycle of structures, has been increasingly applied in the construction industry. However, it is difficult to implement BIM for existing structures, due to the differences between the design and as-built conditions. Point cloud data (PCD) can be obtained through the scan-to-BIM process, which builds a model based on the current state of the structure. The scan-to-BIM process is complicated for bridge structures and consumes significant time and resources. Therefore, this study developed a system to extract bridge design parameters automatically to reduce the time and resources for the scan-to-BIM process. The proposed automatic bridge design parameter extraction is performed in three steps: (1) noise reduction, (2) 3D transformation, and (3) parameter extraction. The validation test was conducted on the Osong test track fifth bridge in Nojang-ri, Jeondong-myeon, Yeongi-gun, Chungcheongnam-do, Korea. The system developed in this study successfully extracted the design parameters of the bridge from the PCD automatically, resulting in 0.8% error rate. Full article
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13 pages, 4991 KiB  
Article
Experimental Testing and Strut-and-Tie Modeling of Full-Scale Precast Concrete Girders with FRP Repaired End Regions
by Hang Zhao and Bassem Andrawes
Appl. Sci. 2020, 10(17), 5822; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/app10175822 - 22 Aug 2020
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2599
Abstract
Bridges located in cold regions are susceptible to extreme deterioration due to harsh climate conditions. Distressing of girder’s end regions is among the most common damage types in these bridges. This work focuses on addressing this type of damage through the use of [...] Read more.
Bridges located in cold regions are susceptible to extreme deterioration due to harsh climate conditions. Distressing of girder’s end regions is among the most common damage types in these bridges. This work focuses on addressing this type of damage through the use of a fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) repair scheme. Three-point-bending tests are conducted on the control, damaged, mortar repair and carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) repair cases of bridge girders that are taken out of service. Test results are analyzed to investigate the effectiveness of FRP to repair precast concrete (PC) girders with damaged end regions. Furthermore, since the damage is mainly localized at girder’s end region where beam theory is invalid, the behavior of FRP repaired end region (D-region) is studied using the strut-and-tie method. Based on the test results, a strut-and-tie model (STM) is proposed to estimate the shear capacity of the girder with the FRP repaired end region. The outcome of the experimental work shows that the FRP laminate repair system is effective in recovering and improving the shear behavior of the girder including both peak force and ductility. The proposed STM can be used to predict the shear capacity of the PC girder with a similar damage pattern to the one considered in this study. Full article
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26 pages, 7901 KiB  
Article
Assessment of Accidental Torsion in Building Structures Using Static and Dynamic Analysis Procedures
by Osama Ahmed Mohamed and Mohamed Sherif Mehana
Appl. Sci. 2020, 10(16), 5509; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/app10165509 - 09 Aug 2020
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4373
Abstract
This article presents the findings of a study on assessment of the increase in building’s response due to accidental torsion when subjected to seismic forces. Critical stiffness and geometrical parameters that define buildings torsional response are examined including: (1) the ratio, Ω, [...] Read more.
This article presents the findings of a study on assessment of the increase in building’s response due to accidental torsion when subjected to seismic forces. Critical stiffness and geometrical parameters that define buildings torsional response are examined including: (1) the ratio, Ω, between uncoupled torsional frequency ωθ to uncoupled translation frequencies in the direction of ground motion ωx or ωy, (2) floor plan aspect ratio, b/r, which is a function of the floor dimension and radius of gyration. The increased response is assessed on symmetric multi-storey buildings using both static and dynamic analysis methods specified by ASCE-7 and considering parameters affecting the torsional response. It was concluded that static and dynamic analysis procedures predict different accidental torsion responses. Static analysis based on the Equivalent Lateral Force (ELF) method predicts more conservative accidental torsions responses for flexible structures with Ω < 0.7~0.80, while the responses are less conservative for stiffer buildings. The conservativism in static analysis method is attributed to the response amplification factor, Ax. Floor plans and their lateral support system having frequency ratio Ω = 1 will also have a torsional radius equal to radius of gyration, and will experience drop in torsional response relative to more torsionally flexible buildings. This article presents a procedure to overcome the shortcomings of static and dynamic analysis procedures in terms of estimating accidental torsion response of symmetric building structures. Full article
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14 pages, 2289 KiB  
Article
Development of Energy-Based Impact Formula-Part II: Scabbing Depth, Scabbing Limit, and Perforation Limit
by Sanghee Kim and Thomas H.-K. Kang
Appl. Sci. 2020, 10(16), 5481; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/app10165481 - 07 Aug 2020
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1966
Abstract
Numerous formulae are available for predicting the scabbing limit and perforation limit thicknesses subjected to impact loading, but no formula has yet been proposed for estimating the scabbing depth, which is the damaged depth at the rear face when the back of the [...] Read more.
Numerous formulae are available for predicting the scabbing limit and perforation limit thicknesses subjected to impact loading, but no formula has yet been proposed for estimating the scabbing depth, which is the damaged depth at the rear face when the back of the concrete panel is peeled. In this paper, a new energy-based impact formula along with a theoretical background is proposed to estimate the scabbing depth, scabbing limit, and perforation limit. Based on the scabbing theory, energy–depth relation, and energy conservation law, the new formula is developed and verified with test results. Compared to other impact formulae, the proposed impact formula is found to be more effective. Full article
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24 pages, 4009 KiB  
Article
Stabilization of Sand with Colloidal Nano-Silica Hydrosols
by Soheil Ghadr, Arya Assadi-Langroudi, Ching Hung, Brendan C. O’Kelly, Hadi Bahadori and Taher Ghodsi
Appl. Sci. 2020, 10(15), 5192; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/app10155192 - 28 Jul 2020
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3146
Abstract
Colloidal nano-silica (NS) hydrosols are electrochemically stabilized, polymerized amorphous silica in low viscosity solutions, and in the form of hydrated gels, silica globules or pellicles. Compared to applications in concrete technology, the use of silica-based binders for groundwork applications has received little attention. [...] Read more.
Colloidal nano-silica (NS) hydrosols are electrochemically stabilized, polymerized amorphous silica in low viscosity solutions, and in the form of hydrated gels, silica globules or pellicles. Compared to applications in concrete technology, the use of silica-based binders for groundwork applications has received little attention. Silica-based hydrosols impose no known direct risks to humans and are generally courteous to the soil health and ecosystem service functions. Their localized impact on microorganisms however needs to be further investigated. To this end, NS hydrosols have a scope for use as an alternative low-viscose material in groundworks. The current understanding of interactions between NS hydrosols and soil (sand) is, however, confused by the limited availability of experimental evidence concerning undrained static flow and large strain behavior. The contributions, presented in this paper, advance the knowledge through experimental testing, molecular modelling, and micro-analytical measurements. Four grades of colloidal NS (1–15 wt.%) were synthesized for grouting medium-dense sub-angular fine siliceous sand specimens. Consolidated-undrained triaxial compression testing was performed on the base and treated sand for isotropic consolidation over the effective stress range 100–400 kPa. Overall, silica impregnation produced improvements in yield and residual undrained shear strengths, restricted unwelcomed impacts of excess pore water pressure, and led to the formation of generally more dilative, strain-hardening behavior. Steady states and static flow potential indices are also studied as functions of confinement level and viscosity of the NS grout. Full article
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27 pages, 3380 KiB  
Article
Development of Energy-Based Impact Formula—Part I: Penetration Depth
by Sanghee Kim and Thomas H.-K. Kang
Appl. Sci. 2020, 10(14), 4964; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/app10144964 - 19 Jul 2020
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3342
Abstract
Predicting the damage to a concrete panel under impact loading is difficult due to the complexity of the impact mechanism of concrete. Based on the experimental results obtained by various researchers, the energies involved in the impact mechanism are classified into seven categories: [...] Read more.
Predicting the damage to a concrete panel under impact loading is difficult due to the complexity of the impact mechanism of concrete. Based on the experimental results obtained by various researchers, the energies involved in the impact mechanism are classified into seven categories: Kinetic energy, deformed energy of a projectile, elastic penetration resistance energy of the panel, overall deformed energy of the panel, spalling-resistant energy, tunneling-resistant energy, and scabbing-resistant energy. Using these impact mechanisms and the energy conservation law, a new energy-based penetration depth formula is proposed to predict the penetration depth. This is validated using 402 impact test results, which include those with high-strength concrete, ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC), or steel fiber-reinforced concrete, those under very high-velocity impact, and those with a very low ratio of target panel thickness to projectile diameter. It is found that the new impact formula predicts the penetration depth quite well. Full article
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19 pages, 8723 KiB  
Article
Assessment of Mechanical Properties of Corroded Prestressing Strands
by Chi-Ho Jeon, Cuong Duy Nguyen and Chang-Su Shim
Appl. Sci. 2020, 10(12), 4055; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/app10124055 - 12 Jun 2020
Cited by 35 | Viewed by 3743
Abstract
The corrosion of prestressing steel in prestressed concrete bridges is a critical issue for bridge maintenance. To assess structures with corroded strands, it is necessary to define the mechanical properties of the strands and their influence on the structural behavior. In this study, [...] Read more.
The corrosion of prestressing steel in prestressed concrete bridges is a critical issue for bridge maintenance. To assess structures with corroded strands, it is necessary to define the mechanical properties of the strands and their influence on the structural behavior. In this study, corroded strands were taken from external tendons in existing post-tensioned concrete bridges and tested to determine the effects of corrosion on their tensile properties. Empirical equations for the tensile strength and ductility of the corroded strands were proposed using test results. The most corroded wire governs the mechanical properties of the strand. Experiments on prestressed concrete beams with a single corroded strand were conducted to investigate their structural behavior. A reduction in the flexural strength and maximum deformation was observed in these experiments. According to the section loss of a wire in a strand and its location in a beam, the flexural capacity can be evaluated using the proposed equation. The reduced ultimate strain of the corroded strand can be the governing factor of the flexural strength. Full article
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19 pages, 5614 KiB  
Article
Behavior of Longitudinal Plate-to-Rectangular Hollow Structural Section K-Connections Subjected to Cyclic Loading
by Tae-Hyun Yoon, Tae-Sung Eom, Chul-Goo Kim and Su-Min Kang
Appl. Sci. 2020, 10(11), 3793; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/app10113793 - 29 May 2020
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 5412
Abstract
This study investigated the behavior of longitudinal plate-to-rectangular hollow section (RHS) K-connections to which concrete-filled composite branch members were jointed. At the connections, longitudinal plates with or without chord face stiffener were welded to the RHS chord member and the branch members were [...] Read more.
This study investigated the behavior of longitudinal plate-to-rectangular hollow section (RHS) K-connections to which concrete-filled composite branch members were jointed. At the connections, longitudinal plates with or without chord face stiffener were welded to the RHS chord member and the branch members were connected to the longitudinal plates by bolting (slip-critical connection). Cyclic tests were performed for three longitudinal plate-to-RHS K-connection specimens. The tests showed that the connection behavior was dominated by the plastification of the thin chord face and by the slip and hole-bearing resistance of the bolted joint. Chord face plastification was prevented or delayed by using the stiffened longitudinal plate. The strengths of the plate-to-RHS K-connections with or without the chord face stiffener, depending on the governing limit states, were estimated in accordance with current design codes, and the results were compared with the test results. Full article
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11 pages, 2090 KiB  
Article
Effective Compressive Strengths of Corner and Edge Concrete Columns Based on an Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System
by Hae-Chang Cho, Seung-Ho Choi, Sun-Jin Han, Sang-Hoon Lee, Heung-Youl Kim and Kang Su Kim
Appl. Sci. 2020, 10(10), 3475; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/app10103475 - 18 May 2020
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 1896
Abstract
In the current design codes, the effective compressive strength can be used to reflect decrease in load-transfer performance when upper/lower columns and slabs have different concrete compressive strengths. In this regard, this study proposed a method that can accurately estimate the effective compressive [...] Read more.
In the current design codes, the effective compressive strength can be used to reflect decrease in load-transfer performance when upper/lower columns and slabs have different concrete compressive strengths. In this regard, this study proposed a method that can accurately estimate the effective compressive strengths by using an adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS). The ANFIS is an algorithm that introduces a learning system that corrects errors into a fuzzy theory and has widely been used to solve problems with complex mechanisms. In order to constitute the ANFIS algorithm, 50 data randomly extracted from 75 existing test datasets were used in training, and 25 were used for verification. It was found that analysis using the ANFIS model provides a more accurate evaluation of the effective compressive strengths of corner and edge columns than do the equations specified in the current design codes. In addition, parametric studies were performed using the ANFIS model, and a simplified equation for calculating the effective compressive strength was proposed, so that it can be easily used in practice. Full article
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18 pages, 8003 KiB  
Article
Recovery Behavior of Fe-Based Shape Memory Alloys under Different Restraints
by Ki-Nam Hong, Yeong-Mo Yeon, Won-Bo Shim and Do-Hyung Kim
Appl. Sci. 2020, 10(10), 3441; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/app10103441 - 16 May 2020
Cited by 20 | Viewed by 2375
Abstract
This paper presents the experimental results of an evaluation of the recovery behavior of Fe-based shape memory alloys (Fe-SMAs) under different restraints. For the study, three types of Fe-SMA (FSMA-A, FSMA-B, FSMA-C) were produced. As a result of the direct tensile test, the [...] Read more.
This paper presents the experimental results of an evaluation of the recovery behavior of Fe-based shape memory alloys (Fe-SMAs) under different restraints. For the study, three types of Fe-SMA (FSMA-A, FSMA-B, FSMA-C) were produced. As a result of the direct tensile test, the yield strength of the FSMA-A specimen was nearly 34% higher than the strength of FSMA-B and FSMA-C. Under free restraint, the recovery strains are 0.00956, 0.01445, and 0.01977 for FSMA-A, FSMA-B and FSMA-C specimens, respectively, after activation when the pre-strain is 0.04, and the heating temperature 200 °C. Under rigid restraint, the final recovery stresses are 518, 391 and 401 MPa for FSMA-A, FSMA-B, FSMA-C specimens after activation when a pre-strain of 0.04 and heating temperature 200 °C. Additionally, under the rigid restraint, the effect of pre-strain on the final recovery stress was insignificant, whereas the final recovery stress increased as the heating temperature increased. When Fe-SMA was constrained during cooling, the recovery stress is 50% lower than under rigid restraint. Hence, in order to develop a large recovery stress, Fe-SMA must be constrained during heating. In addition, a method for calculating the effective confining stress of the Fe-SMA coupler for pipe joining was proposed based on the experimental results. Full article
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11 pages, 4018 KiB  
Article
Comparative Analysis of Kazakhstani and European Approaches for the Design of Shallow Foundations
by Assel Shaldykova, Sung-Woo Moon, Jong Kim, Deuckhang Lee, Taeseo Ku and Askar Zhussupbekov
Appl. Sci. 2020, 10(8), 2920; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/app10082920 - 23 Apr 2020
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2595
Abstract
The design of shallow foundations is performed in accordance with different building regulations depending on geotechnical and geological conditions. This paper involves the design calculations applying Kazakhstani and European approaches. The design of shallow foundations in Nur-Sultan city in Kazakhstan was implemented by [...] Read more.
The design of shallow foundations is performed in accordance with different building regulations depending on geotechnical and geological conditions. This paper involves the design calculations applying Kazakhstani and European approaches. The design of shallow foundations in Nur-Sultan city in Kazakhstan was implemented by the calculation of bearing capacity and elastic settlement in accordance with the design procedures provided in SP RK 5.01-102-2013: Foundations of buildings and structures, and Eurocode 7: Geotechnical design. The calculated results of bearing capacity and elastic settlement for two types of shallow foundations, such as pad foundation and strip foundation, adhering to Kazakhstani and European approaches are relatively comparable. However, the European approach provided higher values of bearing capacity and elastic settlement for the designed shallow foundation compared to the Kazakhstani approach. The difference in the results is explained by the application of different values of partial factors of safety for the determination of bearing capacity and different methods for the calculation of the elastic settlement of shallow foundations (i.e., elasticity theory and layer summation method). Full article
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