Journal of Structural Monitoring and Built Environment
Journal of Structural Monitoring and Built Environment (JSMBE) is a peer-reviewed journal that is scheduled for biannual publish. The JSMBE covering broad scope areas of structural engineering, structural monitoring and assessment, and built environment which is divided into 16 subject areas. JSMBE is supported by national and international editorial board consisting of a distinguished team of researchers. This journal aims at high quality research while maintaining rigorous peer-review process. JSMBE will also occasionally publish review articles and bring out special issues on a specific sub-field of structural engineering, structural monitoring and assessment, and built environment. Authors are encouraged to contact the Journal's Editors for the submission of review articles or special issues of the Journal. We welcome contributions from local and international researchers and practitioners in various field of structural engineering, structural monitoring and built environment.
Study on Strength Development of Concrete Using Rice Husk Ash, Quarry Dust and Polypropylene Fibres
River sand and cement consumption has increased because of Malaysia's rising demand for concrete production. This has a bad impact on the environment, such as a lot of mining and damage of river stability. This study aims to reduce these environmental issues by investigating the use of alternative materials in concrete mixtures. The study specifically investigates the use of rice husk ash (RHA) as a substitute for cement, quarry dust (QD) as a substitute for fine aggregate Polypropylene fibre (PPF) as an additive to enhance concrete properties. The objectives of this study are to evaluate the workability, density, water absorption, surface hardness and compressive strength of blended concrete mixes using RHA, QD and PPF. Additionally, the study aims to assess the strength performance of concrete with varying replacement levels of these materials and to determine the optimal blend of RHA, QD and PPF for the best concrete mix proportion. RHA replaces Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) at varying percentage of 0%, 6%, 8%, 10% and 12%. QD will replacing fine aggregate at constant percentages of 20% and PPF will add with 1% of total concrete weight. All samples are expected to have a compressive strength of 30 MPa after 28 days. The Department of Environment's (DoE) concrete mix design method was used to prepare 36 samples and tests were performed to assess the samples' hardness, water absorption, compressive strength and workability. The results show that while adding RHA, QD and PPF decreased the concrete's workability, higher percentages of QD and PPF replacement increased the concrete's compressive strength.
Copyright (c) 2026 Journal of Structural Monitoring and Built Environment https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Mechanical Performance of Concrete Incorporating Wastewater Treatment Sludge from Pet Bottle Washing Recycling Lines as Partial Cement Replacement
This study focused on the effect of using wastewater treatment sludge from polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottle washing recycling lines (PWLS) as a partial cement replacement in concrete production. The concrete was produced with a constant mix proportion by controlling the water-to-cement ratio and aggregate content. Thus, in this study, a total of 16 mix designs were produced using PWLS as a partial cement replacement of 1% and 5% of the cement mass, with water-to-cement ratios of 0.55 kg and 0.65 kg, and curing periods of 7 and 28 days. Slump tests were conducted to determine the fresh concrete workability, while density, water absorption, and compressive strength tests were conducted at 7 and 28 days after curing periods. As for the chemical composition characterization of PWLS, X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis was conducted. Design Expert software is being used to conduct a statistical analysis through analysis of variance (ANOVA) and numerical optimization. The incorporation of 1% PWLS as partial cement replacement achieved the highest mechanical properties, with a compressive strength value of 37.9 MPa at 7 days and a predicted value of 31.1 MPa at 28 days, while density of 1993.75 kg/m³, and water absorption of 2.126% with a desirability of 0.853. Hence, the key finding of this study showed that the PWLS contain 82.9% aluminum, iron, and silicon oxides, which confirm its suitability as a supplementary cementitious material. Therefore, the incorporation of 1% PWLS has achieved the optimum balance between mechanical performance and sustainable waste utilization, while 5% replacement significantly reduced its strength due to delayed hydration.
Elastic Properties Of Toughened Mussel Epoxy Under Aged And Unaged Conditions
This study investigates the mechanical behavior of silane-treated mussel powder modified epoxy (SMPME) composites under dry and hydrothermally aged conditions (60°C, 50 days). The effects of filler volume fraction on tensile properties, including elastic modulus, Poisson’s ratio, and tensile strength, were evaluated using dog-bone specimens. Results show that SMPME generally enhances mechanical performance, with a non-linear trend and an optimal filler content. After aging, an overall improvement in properties was observed, attributed to post-curing and improved filler–matrix interfacial bonding. Although absolute values are lower than literature due to fabrication-related factors, the trend remains consistent. Overall, SMPME demonstrates strong potential as a sustainable reinforcement for epoxy composites
Silane-treated Mussel Powder Modified Epoxy
ANN-Based Prediction of Earthquake Damage in Steel Frame Structures
Rapid, reliable, and precise evaluation of earthquake-induced damage in steel frame structures is essential for ensuring structural safety and aiding post-earthquake decision-making. Although dependable, traditional evaluation techniques such as finite element analysis and experimental testing can be labor-intensive and computationally demanding, which makes them unsuitable for rapid damage assessment. This paper highlights the development of an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) model for classifying seismic damage levels in steel frame structures using a data-driven method. A dataset of 500 numerically generated samples was used, which included important structural and seismic parameters such as building height, number of stories, peak ground acceleration, fundamental period, inter-story drift ratio, steel yield strength, damping ratio, beam depth, column depth, and ground motion duration. The damage index was treated as a categorical output with five damage classes ranging from no damage to collapse. To assess the performance of the model, subsets of the dataset were divided into training, testing, and validation. Supervised learning implemented using Orange Data Mining Software was employed to train the ANN model, and classification performance metrics such as Area Under Characteristic Curve (AUC), Matthews Correlation Coefficient (MCC), and F1-score were used to evaluate the model. The optimal ANN identified in this study had two hidden layers with 18 and 9 neurons (10–18–9–1). Testing and validation results showed F1-scores of 0.922 and 0.934, AUCs of 0.964 and 0.972, and MCCs of 0.937 and 0.949. This architecture was used for damage prediction and classification, demonstrating that ANNs are a fast and reliable tool for assessing seismic damage in steel frame structures.
Effectiveness Of Repair Material Using Polypropylene Fiber
The study investigated the impact of polypropylene fiber on the properties of SikaGrout®-215 mortar, focusing on compressive and flexural strength. Tests were conducted on mortar samples with a characteristic strength of 65-70 N/mm2 at 28 days. Polypropylene fiber volume fractions of 0.1%, 0.3%, and 0.5% were examined, with a control mix having no fiber. Surprisingly, fiber addition had no positive effect on compressive strength but significantly increased flexural strength. The addition of fiber increased pore structure, permeability, and porosity, although these decreased with longer curing periods. Despite falling within the range of good quality, the optimal mixture design was observed with a 0.3% fiber combination.
Polypropylene , SikaGrout®-215 , mortar repair , compressive strength, flexural strength.
Design and Tensile Performance of Face-to-Face Flange Connections of Cold-Formed Steel C-Section
Cold-formed steel (CFS) is widely used in structural applications due to its high strength-to-weight ratio and material efficiency. However, the performance of its connections is often governed by localized resistance mechanisms. This study investigates the behaviour of face-to-face flange (FTFF) sleeve connections in CFS C-sections, with particular emphasis on bearing and shear resistances. Analytical design resistances were determined in accordance with Eurocode 3 (EC3), and experimental validation was conducted through laboratory testing of 9 specimens with varying plate thicknesses (0.75 mm and 1.00 mm), sleeve lap lengths of 200 mm, and screw quantities (4 and 6). Tensile test of the several types of connection styles was performed using a 120-ton universal testing machine. From the experimental results, it shows increases in material thickness and screw quantity primarily enhance connection performance through improved bearing resistance and load transfer efficiency. The ultimate tensile load (Pu) ranged from 15.20 kN to 29.21 kN. The calculated normalization ratios, defined as the ratio of the experimental load Pu to the design bearing resistance, exceeded unity and ranged from 1.27 to 1.67. This confirms that bearing deformation governed the failure mechanism. In contrast, the shear resistance ratios remained below unity, within a relatively narrow range of 0.54 to 0.85, indicating a significant margin, which is also influenced by variations in thickness and screw configurations. The failure modes were dominated by bearing deformation with hole elongation and localized plate yielding, accompanied by minor screw tilting, with no screw fracture observed. Finally, optimal FTFF connection performance can be achieved through a balanced design that enhances bearing and shear resistances by appropriately configuring material thickness and fastener number to improve connection capacity.
Role of Nano Materials in Improving Compressive Strength of Bio-Foamed Concrete Bricks: Towards Green Concrete Production
This study explores the enhancement of compressive strength in bio-foamed concrete through the integration of nanomaterials such as nano rice husk ash (NRHA), nano eggshell powder (NESP), nano coffee grounds (NUCG) as cement replacements, alongside the bacterial agent. By utilizing agricultural and food waste, this research aims to investigate the compressive strength of bio-foamed concrete brick (B-FCB) at 28 days using screening stage method. The nano materials enhanced the compressive strength of the B-FCB. The optimal replacement materials for the maximum compressive strength were 1% NRHA, 1% NUCG, and 5% NESP, combined with Bacillus tequilensis at a concentration of 3×105 cells/ml. The empirical modelling indicated that Bacillus tequilensis and ESP have a significant effect on the compressive strength of B-FCB. Incorporating nanosized agro-industrial wastes into B-FCB improves mechanical performance while reducing the environmental impact of accumulated wastes.
Behaviour Of Cold-Formed Steel Built-Up Square Battened Columns Composed of Different Spacing of Chord and Battened Plate
This study investigates square hollow sections (SHS) in built-up cold-formed steel (CFS) battened columns, aiming to assess structural performance and the impact of varied spacing configurations between chords and battened plates. Four configurations were tested under axial compression to evaluate differences in load-carrying capacity, deformation, and buckling behavior. Experimental results revealed that specimens with narrower chord and batten spacing exhibited higher stiffness and load capacity, while wider spacing led to earlier onset of buckling and greater lateral displacement. Notably, the configuration with 50 mm chords and 300 mm batten spacing achieved the highest ultimate load of approximately 590 kN, demonstrating superior axial performance. Load-strain and lateral displacement patterns confirmed that reduced spacing enhanced stability and delayed buckling failure. These findings provide actionable insights into optimizing the design of CFS battened columns for enhanced structural efficiency and reliability in engineering applications.
Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Structural Monitoring and Built Environment https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Bond Strength of Self-Sensing Concrete (SSC) Incorporating Biomass Activated Carbon
Self-sensing concrete (SSC) has emerged as a multifunctional smart material that combines structural performance with self-monitoring capabilities, offering significant potential for structural health monitoring. In this study, biomass-activated carbon (BAC) was incorporated into SSC as a supplementary cementitious material to investigate its impact on bond strength. While BAC is known to enhance electrical resistivity and compressive strength, its effect on interfacial bonding behaviour has not been comprehensively evaluated. Therefore, this study aims to assess the bond strength of SSC incorporating BAC (SSC-BAC). The mix design of SSC-BAC is based on C25/30, which consists of ordinary Portland cement (OPC), silica fume, BAC, sand, and water. Cube specimens were prepared for the compression test. Meanwhile, rectangular and prism specimens were prepared for the slant shear and three-point bending tests. Experimental tests revealed that the compressive strength decreases as BAC content increases. A similar trend was also observed in the bond strength. The threshold for the compressive strength is 31.54 MPa produced by 1% BAC. Meanwhile, 3% BAC has the lowest acceptable bond strength. The findings of this study suggest that SSC-BAC exhibits a strong bonding behaviour, which is suitable for application in structural health monitoring.
Finite Element Modelling on The Tensile Performances of Boxed-Flange Cold-Formed Steel C- Section Connections
Cold-formed steel (CFS) has gained significant attention due to its high strength-to-weight ratio, cost-effectiveness, and ease of fabrication. This study focuses on finite element modeling (FEM) of boxed-flange connections in CFS C-sections under tensile loading, using WELSIM software to simulate structural behavior. The research validates FEM results against experimental data, performs a parametric study on steel thickness and number of screws, and compares failure modes to optimize connection design. The findings indicate that increasing steel thickness and screws enhances load-bearing capacity and delays failure onset. The FEM model predicted a yield load of 24.23 kN for 1.00 mm thick connections with 4 screws, closely matching the experimental result of 23.50 kN. For 0.75 mm thick connections with 2 screws, the FEM model predicted 6.87 kN, compared to the experimental 7.00 kN. These results validate the efficiency of numerical modeling for structural optimization.
Cold-formed steel, finite element modeling, tensile performance, boxed-flange connection, WELSIM simulation
Heritage Building Maintenance Practices: The Case of Muzium Diraja Kedah (MDK)
Maintaining heritage buildings requires a well-structured maintenance management system to ensure their continued usability and cultural significance. The Muzium Diraja (MDK) in Alor Setar, Kedah, an important historical landmark, faces several maintenance-related challenges, including financial constraints, limited access to original building materials, and a constrained maintenance budget, which affect the effectiveness of ongoing maintenance activities. This study investigates the current maintenance practices adopted at the museum using a qualitative case study methodology. Information was obtained through in-depth interviews with seven key personnel selected through purposive sampling, representing conservation, development, monument-related agencies, and the Public Works Department (JKR). The analysis identifies critical weaknesses in several key aspects of maintenance management, including organizational structure, asset management, maintenance strategies, workforce capabilities, financial provision, and documentation practices. Based on these findings, the study proposes targeted improvement measures, including the adoption of a structured maintenance management system, the implementation of proactive and planned maintenance strategies, the enhancement of technical skills among maintenance personnel, sufficient financial allocation, and systematic record-keeping. These measures are intended to support the sustainable preservation of the Muzium Diraja Kedah and safeguard its heritage value for future generations.
How Heat Waves Influence Project Performance in the Construction Industry?
Heat waves in Southeast Asia are becoming increasingly common and intense, posing substantial challenges for the construction industry. As the heat waves are predicted to increase in the future, they will certainly impact construction project performance, specifically in terms of cost, time, and quality. This paper aimed to analyze the impact of heat waves on these project performances. A questionnaire survey using Microsoft Forms was used to gather the data. This paper focuses on 200 respondents from Grade 6 (G6) and Grade 7 (G7) contractors in Johor Bahru, Johor. The findings show the interrelated effects on time, cost, and quality. The productivity of workers decreased as they required a longer time to rest, which led to delay issues. Additionally, exposure of the material to heat and workers' focus on work influence the poor quality of the project. The heat forcing in additional safety measures and heat-related illnesses necessitate more labor, further escalating project costs. Therefore, the paper concludes that heat waves influence construction in Malaysia through an increased duration cost and risk of project completion associated with quality.
Prediction of Damage Severity in Steel Bridges Using Natural Frequency Data and Artificial Neural Networks
Steel bridges are essential to transportation systems and must be regularly inspected to guarantee their robustness and safety. Conventional methods of identifying damage are subjective and time-consuming, frequently depending on manual inspections. This study aims to overcome these limitations by using Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs), which are sensitive to changes in mass and stiffness caused by damage, to predict the severity of damage in steel bridges based on natural frequency data. This research proposes a new method for detecting damage in steel girder bridges by integrating natural frequency data with ANNs. This vibration-based fault detection method addresses the shortcomings of traditional approaches by employing natural frequency as a dependable indicator of structural irregularities. An ANN model was trained and validated using an extensive dataset that included natural frequency data from experimental modal analyses conducted under various damage conditions. To assess the model's accuracy in predicting the severity of damage, its performance was studied on a different dataset. The findings indicate that ANNs can effectively analyze frequency data to accurately predict the severity of damage, reducing the reliance on manual inspections. In addition to improving the effectiveness of structural health monitoring systems, this strategy supports the robustness and safety of steel bridge infrastructure. Overall, the findings demonstrate that ANNs trained using modal curvature data provide a reliable and effective solution for early damage detection in steel girder bridges, substantially improving safety and operational performance. This novel approach advances the field of structural health monitoring and offers a valuable means of preserving the integrity of critical infrastructure, including steel girder bridge systems.
The Role of Adaptive Reuse in Revitalizing Abandoned Buildings in Malaysia
In the context of urban development constraints, adaptive reuse of abandoned buildings in Malaysia presents a promising opportunity. While abandoned buildings contribute to significant economic and environmental challenges, they also hold considerable potential for revitalization through adaptive reuse projects. This study explored the key factors influencing the adaptive reuse of buildings and the challenges encountered in such initiatives. The primary aim was to examine the role of adaptive reuse in revitalizing abandoned buildings in Malaysia. Employing a Delphi study approach, data was collected from industry professionals through a questionnaire survey, which identified the factors and challenges associated with adaptive reuse projects. The study revealed several key consideration factors, including government incentives, originality, actors in decision-making, environmental and architectural merit, and social interest. Additionally, it highlighted critical challenges, such as maintenance issues, building code compliance, constraints in building performance, complications arising from multiple ownership, and uncertainties regarding renovation processes. The findings provide valuable insights and recommendations for policymakers, developers, and urban planners, advocating for a sustainable urban development model that leverages adaptive reuse to enhance economic resilience and environmental preservation in Malaysia. The study's limitations include a narrow focus on the Malaysian context and the reliance on expert opinions, which may not fully capture the perspectives of all stakeholders. Future research could address these limitations by broadening the scope to include more diverse perspectives and exploring additional case studies in different regions.
Tensile Performance of Box-Sleeve Cold Formed Steel Connection
This study focused on the box-sleeve connection in the flange section of cold-formed steel C-sections. The research addressed the limited use of cold-formed steel compared to hot-rolled steel, emphasizing the need to study its tensile strength. The objective was to determine the tensile strength of box-sleeve connections with self-tapping screws and to analyze failure modes. Twelve samples were tested, divided into two thicknesses (0.75 mm and 1.00 mm), with each thickness having six samples. Three samples per thickness used two screws, while the other three used four screws. Tensile tests measured the ultimate load for each configuration. For the 0.75 mm thickness, the average ultimate load was 6–8 kN with two screws and 12–14 kN with four screws. For the 1.00 mm thickness, the average ultimate load was 12–14 kN with two screws and 20–25 kN with four screws. The results showed similar performance between 0.75 mm with four screws and 1.00 mm with two screws. The study concluded that both thickness and the number of screws significantly influence the tensile strength of the connection.
Labour Productivity for External Works Construction: Case Study in Kluang, Johor
The construction industry in Malaysia faces persistent productivity challenges, including a shortage of skilled labor, high worker turnover, and equipment inefficiencies, which lead to project delays, reduced output, and compromised quality. Accurate labor productivity data is critical for optimizing workforce allocation, scheduling, and resource utilization; however, the lack of such data hinders effective decision-making. This study evaluates labor productivity in external infrastructure projects, focusing on roadworks, drainage systems, and sewerage systems in Kluang, Johor. Using direct measurement methods, productivity rates across various tasks were assessed, and the impacts of factors such as site conditions, weather disruptions, and workforce experience were analyzed. The findings highlight the positive influence of skilled labor and appropriate equipment on productivity, while adverse weather and site-specific challenges were identified as significant contributors to inefficiencies. Effective site management was found to be a key determinant of improved labor productivity and adherence to project timelines. Recommendations include workforce training, enhanced site management practices, and optimized labor allocation to mitigate delays, improve productivity, and deliver competitive project outcomes.
Rate of Productivity for Bore Pile Construction: A Case Study in Shah Alam
This study investigates the productivity rate of bore pile construction at a site in Shah Alam, focusing on identifying factors influencing efficiency. Bore pile construction productivity is critical to project success, yet comprehensive data remains limited. This research measures production rates and analyzes factors such as equipment performance, worker efficiency, soil conditions, and weather. Utilizing site observation methods, data on bore pile depths ranging from 900 mm to 2000 mm was meticulously recorded. The analysis revealed variations in productivity rates based on pile size and identified bottlenecks in equipment availability and weather disruptions. These findings highlight the importance of effective equipment management, proactive construction planning, and optimized resource allocation to minimize delays and enhance operational efficiency. Overall, this study provides practical recommendations for improving bore pile construction productivity and serves as a valuable reference for contractors, project managers, and researchers in geotechnical engineering.
Exploring The Impact of Depression Among C&S Engineer at Construction Industry
This study investigates the prevalence, contributing factors, and impact of depression among civil and structural (C&S) engineers within Sarawak’s construction industry. Depression, a critical mental health concern, is closely associated with diminished workplace safety performance, productivity, and overall well-being. Data were collected from 220 respondents through structured surveys, incorporating instruments such as the Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire (CMDQ) and Likert-scale assessments. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and regression techniques. The results indicate that multitasking demands, tight project deadlines, and physical fatigue are major contributors to depression, which was primarily reported at mild to moderate levels. Regression analysis revealed a strong relationship between depression and safety performance, with depression accounting for 95.9% of the observed variability. Additionally, symptoms like mental fatigue and musculoskeletal discomfort compound workplace challenges. These findings underscore the urgent need for targeted mental health support, ergonomic interventions, and policy reforms to enhance both employee well-being and safety outcomes in the construction sector.
Productivity Assessment in Roofing and Wall Painting Works Using Direct Observation Methods at Construction Site
The productivity of the construction industry is influenced by factors such as labour management, worker welfare, and coordination. However, challenges like inadequate training and poor resource allocation can hinder productivity, especially in tasks like roofing and wall painting. This study investigates worker productivity at two sites, RTM Building and Gapam Mosque in Melaka, focusing on roofing (914.2 m² and 136 m²) and wall painting works (2560.7 m² and 1015 m²). Using direct observation over two months, the study recorded average productivity rates of 40.88 m²/h for roofing and 18.65 m²/h for wall painting. Roofing showed higher productivity due to simpler material application and less detailed work. Factors such as task delays, insufficient resources, and uneven labour distribution were identified as key productivity barriers. By addressing these challenges and optimizing skilled labour, the study highlights ways to improve productivity and enhance construction project outcomes.
The Effect of Hot Water Treatment on Oil Palm Empty Fruit Bunch Fibre on Tensile Strength and Cement-Fibre Hydration Rate
The oil palm industry generates substantial waste, including oil palm empty fruit bunch (OPEFB) fibres, which are underutilized despite their potential in sustainable construction. This study examines the effects of hot water treatment 1, 2, and 3 hours at 100°C on the tensile strength and hydration rate of OPEFB fibres in cement composites. Results showed that 2 hours of treatment achieved optimal tensile strength (910 N/mm²) and hydration rate (41.4°C), improving fibre-cement bonding. SEM analysis confirmed effective removal of surface impurities. Hot water treatment offers a sustainable approach to enhancing OPEFB fibres for eco-friendly construction materials.
Investigating The Role of Sustainable Practices in Construction Materials Handling: A Pathway Towards SDG Integration
This research explores the integration of sustainable practices in construction materials handling to enhance sustainability and support the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The study aims to identify current barriers in construction materials handling practices to pinpoint inefficiencies and areas ripe for improvement in sustainability, determine the potential benefits of implementing sustainable practices in construction materials handling on the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and propose strategies for integrating sustainable practices into construction materials handling processes effectively.. Using quantitative data collection and analysis, the study reveals that sustainable materials handling practices lead to cost savings (mean = 4.06) and that insufficient regulatory support is a major barrier (mean = 4.0). Enhanced reputation (mean = 4.15) and prioritizing green building certifications (mean = 4.19) are highlighted as key benefits and strategies, respectively. Reliability analysis shows Cronbach's Alpha values between 0.835 to 0.916, indicating good to excellent reliability, with an overall value of 0.888. These findings emphasize the need to address regulatory barriers and focus on green certifications to foster sustainable practices in construction materials handling, aligning the industry with SDGs.
Sustainable practices, Construction Materials Handling, Sustainable Development Goals, Construction industry
Mechanical Performance Analysis of Interlocking Compressed Earth Bricks with Various Kenaf Fiber Length for Sustainable Construction Material
This study examines the influence of kenaf fiber length on the mechanical properties of Interlocking Compressed Earth Bricks (ICEB). A 1:3:2 mix ratio of cement, soil, and sand with 0.75% kenaf fiber and stabilizer was used, and total KF-ICEB for this study is 54 brick were tested with 5 different kenaf fiber lengths (20mm, 30mm, 40mm, 50mm, 60 mm) to analyze their impact on strength and durability. Compressive strength results showed that all bricks did not pass the minimum requirement of 2.8 N/mm² for non-load-bearing applications. Flexural strength peaked at 1.91 MPa after 28 days of curing for 50 mm KF-ICEB, but the curing process revealed suboptimal hydration and bonding. Water absorption tests indicated 24.21%, exceeding the 15% baseline, indicating poor fiber distribution at 20 mm and optimal water retention at 50 mm 18.9%, closer to the control. However, uneven mixing caused clumping of fibers, which likely affected the bricks’ overall quality and performance. The findings suggest the need for improved mixing methods and optimized ratios to maximize ICEB strength and durability.
Investigation of Circular Construction Waste Management (CCWM) Practices in Malaysia
This research investigates the adoption of Circular Construction Waste Management (CCWM) practices in Malaysia, focusing on the environmental and economic challenges posed by construction waste. The study aims to identify key challenges, determine effective waste management practices, and propose sustainable solutions to enhance resource efficiency. A quantitative survey was conducted with data analyzed using SPSS for reliability and descriptive insights involving 130 construction personnel such as those engineers, project managers, main contractors, construction manager, site consisting of workers, and supervisors. The findings reveal that the high cost of recycled materials mean value 4.85 are the most critical barriers to adopting circular economy principles. Among the recommended practices, the "3R" approach Reduce, Reuse, Recycle emerged as the highly effective practice with the highest mean value of 4.89. By adopting these practices, stakeholders can reduce environmental impacts, improve resource efficiency, and achieve a more sustainable construction industry.
Energy Absorption Study of Concrete Incorporating Spent Garnet Subjected to Low-Velocity Impact Loads
Several researchers examine the concept of mitigating the impact during collisions between vehicles and concrete barriers, such as enhancing the energy absorption capacity of the barriers. As a result of this matter, this issue demands the use of sand, potentially resulting in the exploitation of natural resources. Hence, this study was utilizing waste material such as spent garnet (SG) as a partial fine aggregate replacement under low-velocity impact loads in order to predict the energy absorption produced from concrete containing SG. SG was used as a partial fine aggregate replacement using 0%, 10%, 20% and 30% of SG percentage. This study experimentally examines the compressive strength of sample which yielded at 43.5 MPa, 41.3 MPa, 42.1 MPa and 40.7 MPa for SG0, SG20, SG30 and SG40 respectively. The optimum percentage was chosen, and the block specimens were prepared for low-velocity impact test. All 12 block specimens were tested under a low-velocity impact test with fix velocity at 2.43 m/s. The results reveal that SG20 indicates ideal crater since the crater diameter almost same as diameter for nose hemispherical projectile used in this study which is 40 mm. The penetration depth for block specimens are 1.74 mm, 1.79 mm, 1.76 mm and 1.84 mm for SG0, SG20, SG30 and SG40 respectively. Thus, the results in penetration depth shows by the increment of SG content in the concrete mix produce higher penetration depth. In term of energy absorption, the result was directly proportional to penetration depth which the higher penetration depth produces higher energy absorption. Thus, the 20% SG mixture demonstrated the most promising result between compressive strength and energy absorption. This indicates that incorporating 20% SG into concrete barriers has significant potential for improving their performance, making them more effective in mitigating the impact of vehicle collisions and reducing the risk of fatalities.
Application of Artificial Neural Networks to Identify Earthquake-Induced Structural Damage in Residential Buildings
Structural damage in residential buildings can significantly compromise the safety of occupants, reduce the structural integrity of the building, and shorten its overall lifespan, potentially leading to costly repairs, decreased property value, and increased risk during natural disasters such as earthquakes or storms. Traditional methods for assessing structural damage primarily depend on manual inspections, which are not only time-consuming and labor-intensive but also susceptible to human error, subjectivity, and inconsistency. These limitations can lead to delayed detection of critical issues, inaccurate assessments, and increased risk of overlooking hidden or early-stage damage, ultimately compromising the effectiveness of maintenance and safety measures. By employing a comprehensive dataset that includes a range of structural characteristics and damage indicators, this study trains a neural network model to identify and learn patterns linked to structural damage. This study investigates earthquake-induced damage in different structural components of residential buildings, employing hundreds of feature sets including building height, number of floors, earthquake intensity, damping ratio, crack location, and material properties to train and validate a network for damage prediction. The performance of the ANN is evaluated, demonstrating superior accuracy and efficiency. The results highlight the potential of ANNs to revolutionize structural health monitoring by providing rapid, cost-effective, and reliable damage assessments, thereby enhancing preventative maintenance and mitigating risks associated with structural failures.
An Investigation into Strength Prediction of Columns Strengthened with CFRP Using Artificial Neural Networks
This study presents an investigation into the strength prediction of columns strengthened with Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) using Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs). The research aims to develop a reliable predictive model for estimating the ultimate load-carrying capacity of CFRP-strengthened columns by considering key influencing parameters. A dataset comprising numerical results was used to train and validate the ANN model. The selected input parameters included column length, column diameter, steel tube thickness, concrete compressive strength, steel yield strength, CFRP ultimate tensile strength, CFRP thickness, and the number of CFRP layers. The ultimate axial strength served as the output parameter. The developed ANN model demonstrated high accuracy in predicting the column strength, capturing the nonlinear relationships among the variables effectively. The results confirm that artificial neural networks can serve as a powerful tool for structural strength prediction, reducing the need for extensive experimental testing and offering valuable insights for engineering design and assessment.
A Study on The Current Practices of Safety and Health by Contractor in The Construction Industry at Sarawak
The Occupational Safety and Health (Amendment) Act 2022 expanded the scope of Malaysia's Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994 to include all workplaces, emphasizing stricter safety regulations and penalties. Despite this, the construction sector, particularly in rapidly urbanizing Sarawak, remains high-risk, significantly contributing to occupational fatalities. This study aims to assess current safety and health practices among contractors in Sarawak's construction industry and propose improvements. Focusing on Sri Aman, Sibu, and Bintulu, data were collected through questionnaires and observations, analyzing management, social, and risk control aspects. Findings reveal that while safety practices are implemented, further improvements are essential to enhance worker well-being and safety stewardship in the region.
The Effect of Curing Process on Oil Palm Empty Fruit Bunch Fibre Cement Board Performance and Microstructure Appearance
This research investigates the potential of utilizing oil palm empty fruit bunch (EFB) fibres as sustainable materials for construction, addressing both environmental and industrial challenges associated with waste management in the palm oil industry. EFB fibres were processed through filtering to remove impurities, sun-drying to reduce moisture content, and hot water treatment at 100°C for 2 hours. These fibres were fabricated into cement boards (EFBCB) with a cement-to-fibre ratio of 3.5:1 and a target density of 1,300 kg/m³. The study examined the physical and mechanical properties of EFBCB across curing durations of 7, 14, and 28 days. Results for 7-day curing indicated moderate density and mechanical performance due to partial hydration. At 14 days, increased moisture evaporation and fibre bonding improved mechanical properties but revealed early microcracking. By 28 days, prolonged curing led to further porosity, reduced density, and microstructural degradation, impacting dimensional stability and mechanical integrity. Microstructural analysis using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) highlighted the evolving fibre-matrix interactions across curing periods. These findings emphasize the potential of EFB fibres as eco-friendly construction materials and the need to optimize curing durations for enhanced performance.
Dimensional Stability of Oil Palm Empty Fruit Bunch Fibre (OPEFB) Cement Board Over The Curing Period
Oil palm fruit bunch fibre bunch (OPEFB) is a byproduct of palm oil manufacturing. Empty fruit bunch (EFB) can be recycled into compost, renewable energy, and nutrients, reducing waste and making industry more environmentally friendly and cost-effective. Asbestos and synthetic fibre exposures pose health risks, particularly mesothelioma, due to their carcinogenic effects. Natural fibres offer a sustainable alternative with comparable mechanical properties, fire resistance, and crashworthiness. They can be used in cement composite materials for biodegradability, design flexibility, and sustainability. The ratio of mixed cement- fibre is set at 3.5:1, aiming for targeted density of 1300 kg/m³. The total number of samples is 9 samples empty fruit bunch cement board (EFBCB) with the dimensions size of 350×350×12 mm. To enhance the material’s properties, hot water treatment being used at 100°C for a duration of 2 hours for treating the EFB fibre. The testing was conducted at intervals of 7, 14, and 28 days of curing process. The results demonstrated notable declines in dimensional stability and mechanical performance over the curing period. The analysis of the dimensional stability of OPEFB fibre cement board (EFBCB) during the curing period revealed significant changes in both physical and mechanical properties. The results demonstrated how the reduction in thickness, density, and other physical changes impacted the dimensional stability and mechanical performance of the boards.
Oil Palm empty fruit bunch (OPEFB), Empty fruit bunch cement board (EFBCB), dimensional stability, physical and mechanical properties, thickness monitoring
Sugarcane Wasted Fibre as a Sustainable Sound Absorber at Different Thickness
Traditional sound absorption panels composed of synthetic materials are advantageous due to their efficacy in reducing noise levels. The utilisation of synthetic materials poses considerable health hazards and environmental issues that require urgent consideration. To reduce the adverse effects of synthetic materials, a feasible option is the utilisation of natural fibres, such as sugarcane bagasse. This study utilised sugarcane bagasse, along with gypsum powder and a bio-adhesive serving as a binder, to create panels of two distinct thicknesses (50 mm and 30 mm). The sound absorption performance was evaluated using an impedance tube test in accordance with BS EN ISO-10534-2:2001-transfer function method, spanning low to high frequencies. Moreover, the noise reduction coefficient is calculated using the formula to assess the sample's sound absorption capability. Results indicate that the sugarcane bagasse panel demonstrates favourable outcomes, particularly at lower frequencies for thicker specimens. The 50-mm-thick sample demonstrates peak sound absorption coefficients (SAC) of 0.82 at 400 Hz, but the 30-mm-thick sample attained a value of 0.69 at 800 Hz. Analysis of linear regression indicates that sound absorption performance enhances with increased sample thickness, as the 50 mm samples exhibit higher noise reduction coefficients (NRC) of 0.39, compared to the 0.36 coefficients of the 30 mm samples. The porous structure of sugarcane fibres enables the trapping of sound waves, hence facilitating noise reduction. switching from synthetic to natural fiber-based sound-absorbing panels, particularly those made from sugarcane bagasse, provides a feasible and sustainable approach to noise reduction across different sectors.