Construction Industry Research Articles

Phosphate's second life: Upcycling phosphogypsum and clay by-product through acid geopolymer technology

The present study explores the repurposing of large amounts of phosphoric acid by-products, specifically phosphogypsum (PG), by evaluating its effectiveness as a precursor in acid-activated geopolymer technology. Geopolymers were elaborated using PG and calcined clays, activated with phosphoric acid. The research focused on evaluating the mechanical properties and microstructure of these geopolymers after a 28-day curing period. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed the formation of new crystalline phases, including brushite, newberite, and berlinite. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy confirmed the presence of P-O and Si-O-Al bonds, indicative of successful geopolymerization. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging demonstrated a dense, cohesive microstructure in optimized samples. Based on the response surface methodology, the study identified optimal conditions for maximum compressive strength: 28.83% PG content, 14.39mol/L phosphoric acid concentration, and a curing temperature of 72.45°C. This optimized formulation produced a dense, cohesive microstructure with a notable compressive strength of 21.46MPa. The leaching test confirmed that no harmful substances were released from the geopolymer samples. These results suggest that PG can be effectively recycled through geopolymer technology for use in the construction industry.

A novel blockchain-based system for improving information integrity in building projects from the perspective of building energy performance

Global population growth has long been intertwined with environmental concerns and sustainable development. The building sector, a significant energy consumer worldwide, contributes substantially to total energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. With the projected global population projected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050, building energy consumption is expected to rise continuously, emphasizing the need to optimize energy performance for environmental sustainability. Despite efforts by many countries to formulate energy conservation objectives and strategies, empirical evidence reveals a substantial disparity between designed and actual building energy consumption, known as the building energy performance gap (BEPG). This gap poses a significant challenge to energy conservation efforts, and the lack of information integrity is a significant contributor to this gap. To address the challenge of inadequate information integrity in building energy projects, this research proposes an innovative solution based on blockchain technology. By utilizing blockchain's decentralized, transparent, and tamper-resistant nature, the proposed model aims to enhance information transmission mechanisms among stakeholders. Ten key energy-related stakeholders and various information flows within building projects are identified. Based on this, an exploratory architectural information management model incorporating blockchain technology is developed. The model features functionalities such as data recording, retrieval, transmission, and incentive mechanisms to ensure data immutability and reliable access security. Through a case study, the model's performance is evaluated in terms of storage cost, latency, and privacy, demonstrating significant time savings in uploading and transferring files. The proposed blockchain-based model offers a feasible solution to the challenges of inadequate information integrity in building energy projects, promoting collaboration and accurate information transmission. This model contributes to improving project outcomes and advancing sustainable development in the construction industry.

Dynamic Capabilities in Digital Transformation: A Systematic Review of Their Role in the Construction Industry

Dynamic Capabilities in Digital Transformation: A Systematic Review of Their Role in the Construction Industry

Experimental investigation on the post-fire mechanical properties of YSt-355FR (0.1 % Mo) low-alloyed fire-resistant steel

Fire-resistant steel (YSt-355FR (0.1 % Mo)) has become the most utilized structural steel due to its superior performance at elevated temperatures compared to traditional structural steel at both the material and structural levels. However, its performance after exposure to fire remains questionable. This study investigates the post-fire performance of cold-formed fire-resistant steel at the material level. A total of 132 steel coupons and 84 Charpy test specimens were exposed to temperatures ranging from 100°C to 1000°C. These temperature-exposed steel coupons were subjected to four different cooling conditions: furnace cooling (FC), air cooling (AC), water-jet cooling (WJC), and water cooling (WC). Tensile tests were performed on the cooled steel coupons to obtain post-fire stress-strain curves, from which the residual mechanical properties were determined. Charpy impact tests were also conducted on the cooled steel specimens to obtain impact energies and identify the fracture patterns. Key observations regarding the post-fire behavior of fire-resistant steel in terms of strength, deformability, stiffness, and toughness parameters were made. Both the exposure temperature and the cooling condition significantly influence the post-fire performance of fire-resistant steel. Fire-resistant steel demonstrates superior post-fire behavior compared to traditional structural steel. Constitutive equations were proposed to predict the mechanical properties of fire-resistant steel under various post-fire conditions, and a sound reliability analysis was performed to examine the reliability of the predicted design parameters compared to the test results. The findings presented in this paper are significant as no prior investigation has assessed the post-fire performance of fire-resistant steel; thus, they may encourage the steel construction industry to prefer fire-resistant steel over traditional structural steels and promote the reuse of temperature-exposed fire-resistant steel for sustainable construction.

Hygrothermal and mechanical characterization of novel hemp-lime composites with enhanced consistency

Hemp-lime composites have captured attention in the construction industry due to their sustainability and excellent hygrothermal performance. However, variability and inconsistent performance have hindered their widespread adoption. This research introduces a novel approach to improve the uniformity and hygrothermal characteristics, aiming for reproducibility and consistency comparable to traditional insulation materials. This method included (1) reducing hemp particle size to coarse (1.33 mm), medium (0.92 mm), and fine (0.72 mm) particles; (2) maximizing the hemp proportion to 70 % by weight; and (3) standardizing dry density using vibration techniques. The findings indicate dry density variability reduction in all samples, with a coefficient of variation ranging from 0.16 % to 2.36 %. The hygrothermal analysis demonstrates enhanced insulation and moisture-buffering properties, along with reduced directional disparity in thermal conductivity (1.2–6.8 %) compared to the control sample, particularly in samples with fine particle sizes. Thermal conductivity was within the range of 0.0535–0.0667 W/m K, considerably lower than previously reported values. Also, a positive correlation is observed between moisture-buffering and hemp ratio, indicating that higher hemp ratios in the composite lead to increased moisture capacity, with moisture buffer values of 2.47, 2.28, and 2.12 g/m² RH corresponding to the binder-to-hemp ratio of 30:70, 40:60, and 50:50 by weight, respectively.

Effect of quaternary binder slag-based geopolymer slurries on mechanical durability and microstructural properties of green prepacked composites

This study conducts a detailed investigation into the effects of slag-based quaternary binder geopolymer slurries on the physico-mechanical properties, high temperature resistance, and microstructural characteristics of prepacked composites. This research employs a strategic combination of aluminosilicate precursors, including metakaolin (MK), pumice powder (Pum), and perlite powder (Per), which are blended with slag in varying mix proportion to identify and optimizing the composite’s performance. In the key finding reveal that samples containing 20 % of MK achieved superior performance, displaying the lowest porosity and water absorption rates. The oven-dry density of the mixtures demonstrated a marked improvement with the inclusion of MK, increasing from a range of 2150–2230 kg/m3 in 0 % MK mixture to 2250–2350 kg/m3 in those with 20 % MK. Post heat curing, the compressive strength peaked at 31.12 MPa in the mixture comprising 20 % MK, 20 % pumice, and 10 % perlite; however, this strength reduced to 11.92 MPa when subjected to a temperature of 600℃. In high temperature resistance tests, the combination of 20 % MK and 10 % perlite resulted in a minimal mass loss of 4 % at 600℃, indicating a robust resistance to thermal degradation. Furthermore, the 24-h water capillary absorption displaying lowest water absorption rates. This study provides a critical advancement in the use of natural pozzolans for developing high-performance, slag based geopolymer slurries. The enhanced high-temperature strength and reduced water absorption underscore the potential of these materials to deliver durable and sustainable solution for the construction industry, particularly in application requiring superior thermal resistance and longevity.

A Comparative Study on the Behaviour of Various Methods of Curing Concrete

Abstract: The properties of cement-based products, especially their durability, are predominantly influenced by curing, since it has a remarkable effect on the hydration of the cement. Proper curing of cement-based products is crucial to obtaining design strength and maximum durability. The curing period depends on the type of cement works, the purpose for which it is to be used and the surrounding atmosphere, namely temperature and relative humidity. Curing is designed primarily to maintain the moisture, by avoiding the loss of moisture from the period in which it is gaining strength. Curing may be applied in a number of different processes and the mass appropriate means of curing may be directed by the site or the construction method. In this critique, a paper struggle has been made to understand the working and efficiency of curing system which are generally adopted in the construction industry and compared with the standard water curing method.

Comprehensive Analysis of Implementing Robotics in the Indian Construction Industry

Implementing robotics in the Indian construction industry presents a significant opportunity to address longstanding challenges such as labour shortages, project delays, safety concerns, and quality inconsistencies. As India's urbanization accelerates, the demand for faster, safer, and more efficient construction processes is growing. This comprehensive analysis explores the potential benefits, obstacles, and strategies associated with adopting robotics in India’s construction sector. Key drivers include increasing automation trends, government initiatives like "Make in India," and the global shift toward smart infrastructure. However, challenges such as high initial investment, a fragmented industry structure, and the need for skilled operators and technicians could hinder widespread adoption. The analysis also highlights the role of robotics in enhancing productivity, reducing construction costs, and improving worker safety through a cost-benefit analysis, ultimately paving the way for more sustainable and advanced construction methodologies in India.

The effect of the digital economy on carbon emissions in China's construction industry: evidence from spatial econometric analysis.

Carbon emission reduction in the construction industry is vital for realizing sustainable development, and the development of the digital economy plays an important role in this process. The impact of the digital economy on reducing carbon emissions in the construction industry is empirically explored through econometric analyses on a sample of panel data from 30 provinces in China from 2012 to 2021. The empirical results show that developing a digital economy can significantly reduce the construction industry's carbon emission intensity. Additionally, this impact has a significant spatial spillover effect and can benefit the neighboring regions. The mechanism test shows that the digital economy can reduce carbon emissions by improving the technological level of the construction industry. Moreover, the inhibiting effects of the digital economy on carbon emissions in the construction industry vary across different regions. They are more pronounced in the eastern and western regions of low coal-consuming regions. These findings offer valuable insights for policymakers to help drive the deeper integration of the digital economy with the construction industry and facilitate its transition to low-carbon development.

Heat-resistant concretes based on cement binders and waste from the metallurgical industry

The main direction of the development of heat-resistant concrete production is the use of new materials, ensuring mechanization and industrialization of construction, increasing the performance characteristics of refractory compositions, reducing material consumption, introducing waste-free technologies in the production of concrete with increased physical and mechanical characteristics under prolonged exposure to high temperatures on cement binders and waste from the metallurgical industry and reducing environmental pollution. A significant environmental impact on the environment is exerted by large-tonnage technogenic waste produced by JSC «Aluminum of Kazakhstan» – bauxite sludge obtained by processing bauxite into alumina containing 42.7% Fe2O3. The prospects of its application as a filler in heat-resistant concretes are considered, which makes it possible to increase the physico-mechanical and thermal characteristics. The composition and properties of this waste and the change in the properties of heat-resistant concrete during the introduction of filler have been studied. Reactive alumina has been studied, which is 99.9% submicron alumina with a very low content of Na2O oxide. It is shown that the properties of concrete change after the introduction of iron-containing waste in the amount of 5% and reactive alumina – 37.5% and 38.8%. Their volumetric weight, control strength, and other properties are increased. The improvement of physical, mechanical, and thermal characteristics depends on the structure and neoplasms in the obtained samples. Samples of heat-resistant concrete were analyzed using electron probe X-ray spectral qualitative and quantitative microanalysis and X-ray fluorescence spectrometry and it was shown that the iron-alumina waste contributes to the compaction of the structure due to its resistance to delamination and has increased fluidity at low humidity in the cementing mass. For further investigation of the physical-thermal characteristics, depending on the structure and neoplasms in the obtained samples, a petrographic method using a polarization microscope in transmitted and reflected light is required.

A Newly Bio-Based Material for the Construction Industry Using Gypsum Binder and Rice Straw Waste (Oryza sativa)

Construction is one of the economic sectors with the greatest influence on climate change. In addition to working procedures, the primary carbon footprint is attributed to the choice of materials and the energy required for their manufacturing. The underlying idea of this study is to minimize the effects and offer new solutions to emerging problems in the quest for materials that can be deemed as natural, such as gypsum (calcium sulphate dihydrate) and rice straw (Oryza sativa). The acquisition of these materials involves a lower carbon footprint compared to the conventional materials. It is well known since ancient times that gypsum and cereal straw can be used in construction, with numerous examples still available. Cereal straw is one of the oldest construction materials, traditionally combined with earth and occasionally with certain binders, with it continuing to be employed in construction in many countries to this day. This work showcases the feasibility of producing stable prefabricated elements from straw waste with construction gypsum, addressing a significant environmental concern posed by the alternative of having to burn such materials. In this study, for the proposed bio-based material, specific tests, such as thermal conductivity, flexural and compressive strength, and fire resistance, were carried out to evaluate the principal physical and mechanical characteristics for different compositions of water, gypsum, and straw fiber samples. The results highlighted the good performance of the proposed materials in order to spread their use in the green building industry. The addition of straw fibers improved, in different ways, some important physical characteristics of these components so as to diminish environmental pollution and to obtain better material performance. The tests highlighted the different behaviors of the proposed material with respect to the different cuts of the straw and as well as the water/gypsum ratio; this is not very well understood and probably depends on the micro structure of the straw fibers. The blocks with raw straw showed a significant improvement in the breaking mechanism (1775.42 N) compared to the blocks with cut straw (712.26 N) when subjected to bending tests, and their performance in compression tests was also acceptable. Additionally, a very interesting reduction in thermal conductivity was achieved by incorporating rice straw (0.233 W/mK), and high fire exposure times were obtained, with gypsum preventing the spread of ignition in any type of fiber.

Relationship network of safety management elements in the construction industry under the perspective of resilience

PurposeConstruction safety resilience is gradually gaining attention in the field of engineering construction as a new management concept and way to improve safety performance. However, how to cope with the dilemma of the unclear relationship of construction safety resilience elements at the practice level and promote the harmonization of construction safety goals and resilience enhancement paths has become an urgent challenge for safe construction.Design/methodology/approachThis study analyzes the components of construction safety resilience elements. A relationship network model of construction safety resilience elements is developed by using the social network analysis method. The location and influence of each element in the network and the interrelationships among the elements are explored in depth.FindingsThe findings reveal a robust interconnection among the elements of safety resilience in the construction industry. Key components such as safety behavior, risk prevention and control mechanisms, disaster prevention and mitigation technologies as well as information technology, are positioned at the core of the network. Notably, safety behavior exerts the most significant influence over the other elements, serving as the linchpin of safety management in the construction industry. Moreover, the interplay among safety resilience elements in the construction sector can alter the structure of the relationship network.Originality/valueThis study adopts the social network approach to solve the problem that it is difficult to quantitatively analyze the elements of construction safety resilience and their interrelationships and to clarify the interactions among the core elements, which can help to further assist the construction project manager to continuously optimize safety resilience and improve construction safety.

Application of the maturity model for collaborative scheduling for construction projects

PurposeThis paper introduces the weighting, analysis and validation method used in the development of the Maturity Model for Collaborative Scheduling (MMCS). The scoring and ranking process introduced by the MMCS fills a gap in the literature by supporting the selection of collaborative scheduling (CS) practices that yield more weight toward the achievement of higher maturity levels in the development and implementation of CS. The ranking process can then be used during pre/post project execution to track collaborative scheduling in practice against the model’s weighting and provide the project team with constructive feedback and actionable steps for reaching the next highest level of collaboration.Design/methodology/approachThe MMCS, which focuses on five pillars (key areas of interest for CS) and related swim lanes (specific attributes), covers a broad range of areas in the construction industry and was coded into a survey. The relative weights of pillars and swim lanes were then established using the Delphi method with the group of subject matter experts (SMEs), analyzed using multi-objective decision analysis (MODA) and validated using 241 answers to a survey with questions drawn from the MMCS, including organizations across the industry in the United States.FindingsThe project scoring defines bounds for bronze, silver and gold levels of collaboration in scheduling. Project evaluations can then be used to identify areas for continuous improvement and enhanced collaboration. We offer recommendations and best practices for project improvement.Originality/valueTwo original contributions resulted from this work: (1) a method to elicit weights based on a combination of Delphi, MODA and survey methods was used to develop and validate a scale with three different maturity levels to support the use and continuous improvement of CS practices and (2) a validated model was used to assess the maturity level of CS in construction projects alongside specific recommendations to move upward in terms of maturity. In practice, project leaders can use this model to assess project performance, advance the project’s maturity and guide continuous improvement efforts for enhanced collaboration.

How does psychosocial safety climate affect safety behavior in the construction industry? A cross-level analysis

IntroductionThe unsafe work of construction workers directly contributes to frequent accidents in workplaces. However, the factors influencing the safety behavior of Chinese construction workers are not yet clear.MethodsData from 381 construction workers were analyzed to test our hypotheses.This study aimed to investigate the impact of psychosocial safety climate (PSC) on safety behavior through a cross-level model, focusing on the mediating role of psychological resilience and the moderating effect of safety-related stress.ResultsThe results indicated that (1) PSC was positively associated with psychological resilience and safety behavior; (2) psychological resilience mediated the relationship between PSC and safety behavior; (3) the link between PSC and safety behavior was negatively influenced by safety-related stress; and (4) all three sub-dimensions of safety-related stress moderated the effect of PSC on safety participation.DiscussionThese findings elucidate the mechanisms underlying the connection between PSC, psychological resilience, safety-related stress, and safety behavior from a multi-level perspective. Additionally, strategies for enhancing the safety behavior of construction workers were discussed.

Are migrant workers at greater risk of workplace deaths? A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract Background Globally, 170 million individuals migrate for work. Yet, evidence on their mortality risk remains unclear. Our aim was to synthesize global evidence on migrant worker mortality risk compared to local workers and to identify the multiple intersecting social determinants of mortality. Methods We conducted a systematic review of peer-reviewed literature which reported on mortality outcome of migrant workers. Studies published between 1 Jan 2000 to 17 Jan 2023 in English were searched in MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, and Ovid Global Health. Meta-analysis using random effects model was used to calculate pooled estimates and narrative synthesis was used to develop a data-driven framework on intersectional social determinants. Results Out of 11,495 identified records, 44 were included, of which 11 were pooled in meta-analyses. The combined migrant worker death count was 44,338, with data from 16 countries, including migrants from agriculture, construction, and service industries. Compared to local workers, migrant workers had a higher risk of fatal occupational injury (pooled RR = 1.71, 95%CI: 1.22-2.38, I² = 99.4%), and a lower risk of all-cause mortality (pooled RR = 0.94, 95%CI: 0.88-0.99, I² = 90.7%). Key social determinants associated with increased mortality risk were either migration-related (e.g. lower language proficiency, undocumented status) or labour-related (e.g. precarious employment, labour migration policies) interacting over migrant workers’ life course. Conclusions As the largest evidence synthesis to date, these findings indicate that migrant workers have higher fatal occupational injury rates than local workers, indicating the need for tailored protections for migrant workers. These data confirm that the all-cause mortality advantage observed in migrant populations applies to the working population. Future interventions should be designed to address both migration- and labour-related determinants of migrant worker health. Key messages • Migrant workers have a higher risk of workplace fatality despite being generally healthier than local workers, explained by structural determinants such as precarious employment. • Future interventions must address migration- and labour-related social determinants of health at structural levels, such as extending labour protection laws to migrant workers.

Optimizing the Utilization of Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the AEC Industry: ChatGPT Prompt Engineering and Design

Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) holds significant potential for revolutionizing the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry by automating complex tasks such as construction scheduling, hazard recognition, resource leveling, information retrieval from BIM, etc. However, realizing this potential requires a strategic approach to ensure effective utilization and maximum benefit. This paper presents guidelines for prompt design and engineering to elicit desired responses from ChatGPT, a Generative AI tool, in AEC applications. Key steps include understanding user intent, leveraging model capabilities, and optimizing prompt structures. By following these guidelines, stakeholders in the AEC industry can harness the power of Generative AI to improve construction scheduling processes, increase project efficiency, and ultimately drive innovation and growth in the industry. Several illustrative examples on construction scheduling and hazard recognition are provided to demonstrate the methodology proposed in this research. It is concluded that Generative AI, when effectively utilized, significantly enhances project scheduling and hazard recognition capability in the AEC industry with minimal error.

Machinability characteristics study on hibiscus rosa-sinensis reinforced polymer composites using soft computing techniques

Abstract Understanding the drilling behaviour of composite materials is crucial for optimizing their manufacturing processes and enhancing their applicability across various industries. In this study, the drilling process of Hibiscus Rosa-Sinensis Polymer matrix composites is investigated due to the significance of investigating such advanced and sustainable composite materials for their potential applications. Hibiscus Rosa-Sinensis Fibers are extracted and processed from the outer bark of the hibiscus plant, are incorporated into polymer matrices in varying weight percentages (0 Wt%, 10 Wt%, 20 Wt%) to form discontinuously reinforced polymer composites. Samples with uniform dimensions of 150 × 75 × 15 mm, are used for the drilling operation using Ace Micromatic DTC-400 instrument. The project focuses on analysing the influence of key drilling input parameters such as Spindle speed, Feed rate and HRS (Hibiscus Rosa-Sinensis) Fiber weight percentage on the Thrust Force (N) and Torque (N-m) generated during drilling operations. Taguchi’s Design of Experiments with L27 orthogonal array is used to systematically optimize the input parameters to gain insights into the drilling behaviour of these composite materials. Further a second order mathematical model has been generated for Thrust Force and Torque using Response Surface Methodology (RSM). Thrust Force and Torque during drilling are measured using 9257 BA KISTLER Dynamometer coupled with DynoWare 2825 A software. The findings of this study not only contribute to a deeper understanding of the drilling process but also hold significant implications for industries reliant on composite materials. From aerospace to automotive sectors, where lightweight and durable materials are essential, to construction and renewable energy industries seeking sustainable alternatives, the application potential of hibiscus Rosa-Sinensis Fiber-reinforced composites is vast. By elucidating the intricate dynamics of drilling operations on these materials, this research paves the way for enhanced manufacturing processes and the development of advanced composite structures tailored to meet the demands of diverse industrial applications.

A hybrid conceptual procurement framework for BIM uptake to enhance buildings' sustainability performance in the Jordanian public sector

PurposeA large portion of the public building projects in Jordan suffers from sustainability performance issues. Therefore, this research aims to develop a hybrid procurement framework to enhance the implementation of BIM in the Jordanian public sector for better sustainable building performance. This study also aims to identify the influence of procurement factors on BIM adoption and usage in the public sector in Jordan and to provide a holistic picture of recent research on technology acceptance and adoption in the construction industry.Design/methodology/approachA qualitative approach was adopted using semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders (n = 12) in Jordan to explore procurement routes issues facing the adoption of BIM and to find proposed measures. Then, the findings of the interviews analysis using conventional content analysis and literature review were used based on a problem-solving approach to develop a hybrid conceptual procurement framework for BIM uptake to enhance the sustainability of building performance. Subsequently, semi-structured interviews were conducted to validate and refine the proposed conceptual procurement framework.FindingsIt was revealed that the deployment of unfavourable construction procurement approaches represents a major hurdle towards BIM implementation. Though essential for enhancing BIM implementation, it is revealed that a fundamental change from the common Design bid build (DBB) to more collaborative procurement approaches remains infeasible in view of the realities that govern the construction industry. Moreover, this study has found the key procurement approach challenges for effective BIM implementation.Research limitations/implicationsResearch is limited to the public sector in Jordan and further qualitative and quantitative testing of the conceptual procurement framework is needed to adjust the framework before large-scale testing.Originality/valueThe developed conceptual procurement framework is the first of its kind and draws a set of procurement approach remedies for the Jordanian public sector to foster the implementation of BIM.

Is blockchain cost-effective in construction project management? A systematic review from the perspective of transaction cost

PurposeBlockchain technology (BCT) is considered a promising tool to improve the productivity of construction project management. Existing research has studied its potential costs and benefits for the construction industry. However, the potential costs and benefits of BCT failed to be compared as actual costs and benefits of specific applications for stakeholders. To fill this gap, this study seeks to analyze the cost-effectiveness of BCT-based applications in construction project management.Design/methodology/approachThis study is conducted with a customized systematic literature review based on transaction cost theory to enable qualitative comparison. With a deliberately designed structure confining extraneous variables, the costs and benefits of BCT-based applications are identified and compared. The inherent dependent relations of processes and the evolution relations of functions are identified. The cost-effectiveness of blockchain adoption is then analyzed.FindingsSeven functions and six challenges are identified within five processes. The result suggests all identified functions are cost-effective except for manual instruction (coding smart contracts manually). The smart contracts require explicit definition and logic to be effective. However, the construction projects essentially require the institution to be flexible due to unpredictability. The adoption of smart contracts and corresponding additional requirements can increase the transaction cost of bounded rationality.Research limitations/implicationsAs manual instruction is fundamental to realize other functions, and its advanced substitute relies on its broad adoption, its cost-effectiveness must be improved for applications to be acceptable to stakeholders. The establishment of a universal smart contract model and a universal, legitimate and efficient database structure are recommended to minimize the cost and maximize the effect of applications.Originality/valueThis study contributes to the knowledge by providing a comprehensive analysis of BCT adoption’s cost-effectiveness in construction project management. The adopted review structure can be extended to analyze the qualitative benefits and challenges of management automation in the early stages.

VEIDEA: A Comprehensive Framework for Implementing Building Information Modeling-Based Value Engineering Within a Common Data Environment in Construction Projects

The Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry faces significant global challenges, including frequent project delays, budget overruns, and inadequate stakeholder collaboration. To address these issues, Value Engineering (VE) and Building Information Modeling (BIM) have been increasingly used in large-scale, complex construction projects. Although many studies highlight the benefits of integrating VE with BIM, its full practical potential has not yet been realized. This study aims to investigate the integration of VE and BIM within a Common Data Environment (CDE) to improve decision making and project outcomes. A comprehensive framework was developed, consisting of four interconnected modules: (1) Creating the CDE, (2) Developing the BIM Model, (3) Implementing Value Engineering, and (4) Conducting a Value Engineering Study. Central to this framework is the introduction of the VEIDEA” data bank, a structured system based on the OmniClass classification, which stores and organizes VE ideas. Additionally, the framework incorporates the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) to automate the evaluation phase, assisting designers and VE teams in making data-driven decisions on design alternatives. Empirical results from a case study of an office building show significant cost savings, with a 20% reduction in reinforced concrete (RC) slab costs and a 39% reduction in flooring material costs. These findings demonstrate the potential for integrating VE and BIM to enhance cost-effectiveness and overall project performance. This study offers a novel approach to optimizing project collaboration, decision making, and efficiency in the AEC industry.