Dynamic modeling and model predictive control of wire mesh tension in multi-wire sawing of natural stone slabs

Albedo and thermal behavior of aged urban surfaces: Evidence from in situ measurements

In this study, ground blast furnace slag (GBFS) and waste volcanic rock dust (RD) produced in a natural stone processing plant were used as binders. The binders were activated with Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH) and Sodium Silicate (Na2SiO3) to produce two types of concrete: alkali-activated concrete without fibers (AAC) and alkali-activated concrete with fibers (FAAC). In the production of concrete, steel and polyester fibers were used separately and hybrid at 0.25%, 0.50%, 0.75% and 1.0% by volume and a total of 117 15x15x15 cm cube specimens were produced. The mechanical properties of the specimens were evaluated by concrete surface hardness, ultrasonic pulse velocity and concrete compressive strength tests at 3, 7 and 28 days. The results obtained using non-destructive test methods were matched with concrete compressive strength values using various empirical formulas. Calculated concrete compressive strength values and actual concrete compressive strength values were compared using data analysis method. As a result, it was observed that there was a very significant correlation between the experimental compressive strength and the combined method in which 7-day surface hardness and ultrasound transmission rate were used together to calculate the compressive strength.

Overburnt brick aggregate (OBBA) has lower strength and durability relative to natural stone aggregate (NSA). This study evaluates the impact of nano-chemicals on the characteristics of cement-stabilised OBBA base course layers. Mixtures SACN.25, SACN.5, SACN.75 and SACN1 containing 0.25 to 1 kg/m3 of nanocompounds, respectively, were used for surface treatment. Based on California bearing ratio and unconfined compressive strength testing results, SACN1 was ascertained as the optimal mixture. The X-ray diffraction analysis indicates that calcium-silicate-hydrate and kaolinite minerals enhance the strength and cohesiveness of the SACN1 mixture, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy analysis confirms that organosilane creates water-resistant alkyl siloxane layers, enhancing the durability of road surfaces. Flexural and durability testing confirm that SACN1 provides sufficient strength and resilience against environmental variations. Moreover, the SACN1 mixture complies with the standard values prescribed by India’s Ministry of Rural Development and the Indian Roads Congress requirements. Consequently, OBBA can serve as a substitute stone aggregate in road building when modified with nanochemicals. A Random Forest-based machine learning (ML) framework was employed to model the non-linear relationship between mix constituents and performance parameters and to perform multi-objective optimisation. The ML results successfully identified the optimal nano-modified mix that maximised strength and stiffness while minimising permeability, showing strong agreement with experimental observations.

The envelope of buildings is subjected to external environmental actions, particularly those linked with hygrothermal actions, which could represent an important conditioning factor for their sustainability, especially due to the risks of the corresponding reduction of performance and durability. The conservation and renovation of heritage buildings is a multifaceted and intricate operation, which could entail a management approach that systematically connects the diverse valences and uses information technology required to perform the complex task of heritage building conservation. An approach to the management and conservation of heritage buildings with the use of information technology is presented here, particularly with an initial description of the basic factors influencing moisture presence and surface recession/cracking in the vertical envelope of buildings and their respective impacts on durability. In the following, examples are presented of moisture presence and surface recession/cracking in the vertical envelope of buildings with natural stone (laterite) masonry walls and buildings with reinforced concrete elements and infill masonry walls. Subsequently, the presence of moisture in the vertical envelope of buildings and the consequent risk of water penetration, growth of organic materials and deposition of pollutants (salts) due to the impact of climate factors are analysed. Surface recession or cracking in masonry walls of the vertical envelope of buildings and the risk of their increase due to the impact of climate factors are evaluated. In the following, methods for the systematization of the analysis of the main anomalies of the vertical envelope of buildings and their causes are discussed. A general definition of the basic methodology for the systematization of the analysis of the risk of climate factors and anomalies in masonry walls of the vertical envelope of buildings and their causes is presented, aiming at the development of studies on the sustainability of buildings. Next, the systematization of climate factors with an impact on buildings is discussed as well as the systematization of the characteristics of masonry elements and of anomalies/causes in the building’s vertical envelope. Then, the prevention of the increase of cracking and moisture presence due to the impact of climate factors is discussed. Finally, important issues related to the quality of construction and management of the impact of environmental risks due to climate change in unreinforced masonry (URM) infill walls for minimizing their economic costs are presented.

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is becoming increasingly important for the maritime logistics industry's competitive advantage while simultaneously enhancing its social accountability. The objective of this research is to assess how the CSR practices of container shipping companies in Turkey affect customer satisfaction and loyalty among customers of foreign trade services. Using the theoretical framework of Social Exchange Theory (SET), a quantitative research methodology was employed, and an online survey was administered to 165 export companies (n=165) that are members of the Aegean and Marmara Exporters' Associations. The survey data were analysed using correlation and regression analyses and ANOVA. The statistical findings support the conclusion that CSR significantly improves both customer satisfaction and commitment (p < .05). The regression analyses showed high explanatory power. In addition, the ANOVA tests demonstrated that significant differences exist across industries (for example, fisheries and animal products, textiles, minerals, and natural stone) and company size, with large companies perceiving companies' CSR efforts more favourably than do small or medium-sized companies. Therefore, these findings demonstrate that adopting sustainable-oriented CSR initiatives will create strong customer engagement and serve as a key differentiator at the strategic level in Turkey's container shipping industry.

Utilizing the Theory of Architectural Vernacularism by Amos Rapoport (1982), this research aims to analyze the architectural local elements of Jesus Catholic Church’s Sacred Heart in the village of Fohoeka, Regencu of Belu, East Nusa Tenggara. The objective of the study is to explore church architecture’s local elements (structure, symbol, form, orientation, material) that manifest the local community’s spiritual and cultural values. The methodology of the research applies a qualitative-descriptive method encompassing document analysis, documentation, observation, and interviews. The findings uncover four cultural values major elements of Tetun or Belu community in accordance with Vernacular Architecture Theory by Amos Rapoport (1982): (1) local natural stone used in the wall structure symbolizing nature sacredness and faith strength manifested in the ritual construction tradition; (2) symbolizing communal and divine protection, roof shape that is semicircular adopted from lopo traditional house inverted roof; (3) local wood application for the interior respecting Tetun cosmology sacred materials; (4) six pillars in ornaments Tais woven fabric incorporating church structural strength with communal responsibility. In general, these findings are in line with Bhabha's (1994) concept of cultural hybridity, in which cultural identity is not understood as a static and exclusive entity, but rather as the result of a process of negotiation and dialogue between cultures that produces new forms that do not lose their authenticity.

Marmara Marble is a versatile natural stone renowned for its aesthetic appeal, structural resilience, and enduring architectural application and cultural significance over centuries. Originating from ancient Proconnesos, this stone has achieved the status of a universal heritage material, as evidenced by its incorporation in monuments such as Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace, and the Blue Mosque, all recognized within the UNESCO World Heritage framework. This study provides a comprehensive assessment of Marmara Marble in the context of the Global Heritage Stone Resource (GHSR) designation. Geological and petrographic analyses are integrated with experimental data on its physical and mechanical properties. These findings are interpreted in conjunction with its historical continuity in architectural use and the legacy of both ancient and modern quarries. The preservation of its aesthetic and structural characteristics over time, along with its current sustainability potential, positions Marmara Marble as a scientifically and culturally significant candidate for GHSR recognition. This article contributes to the documentation and interdisciplinary interpretation of natural stone heritage, providing a scholarly basis for the global recognition of a geologically local resource.

Natural stone not only endures; it records cultural memory. Bakırköy Küfeki Stone, a Miocene biosparitic limestone, historically quarried near present-day Bakırköy where is a district in Istanbul, and as the relevant lithology is most commonly found within the boundaries of this district, the stone has been named accordingly underpinned the architectural fabric of Istanbul’s Historical Peninsula (UNESCO World Heritage Site), spanning the Roman and Ottoman eras (e.g. city walls, aqueducts, major churches and mosques). Rapid urbanization has removed access to the original quarries. As a result, recent restorations have often substituted lithologies that mimic color/texture but differ in provenance and engineering behavior, which may hasten decay and compromise authenticity. This study assesses Bakırköy Küfeki Stone as a Global Heritage Stone Resource (GHSR) nominee by documenting its historical use, quarry distribution, geological context, and by characterizing mineralogical–petrographic, geochemical, and physico-mechanical characteristics (XRPD, WD-XRF, density, water absorption, porosity, uniaxial compressive, tensile, and abrasion strengths, frost resistance). Findings indicate a calcite-dominated, porous stone that is workable when freshly extracted yet hardens with time, a behavior consistent with its long service life but also with observed deteriorations such as erosion, dissolution, black crust (gypsum) formation, granular disintegration, and biological colonization under humid, polluted urban atmospheres. We discuss weathering pathways, restoration outcomes, and risks posed by non-equivalent replacements. To sustain both material integrity and urban identity, the paper proposes identifying and qualifying new sources that match the original stone potentially in Türkiye (e.g. Çanakkale) and in abroad using standardized testing and performance-based acceptance criteria. Formal GHSR recognition would, in turn, support better sourcing, documentation, and conservation planning across Istanbul’s heritage assets.

Türkiye’s recent increasing popularity in the global natural stone market necessitates accurate and reliable predictive modelling of its export performance to support national economic stability and sectoral planning. In addition, the highly dynamic nature of global trade, coupled with fluctuations in domestic economic factors, introduces significant complexity and non-linearity, thereby challenging traditional linear prediction approaches. Accordingly, this study addresses this gap by applying a power-law-based multiple nonlinear regression (MNLR) framework to empirically model Türkiye’s natural stone exports (NSE). The developed MNLR model integrates five critical macroeconomic indicators as independent variables, namely gross domestic product (GDP), unemployment rate (UP), interest rate (IR), exchange rate (ER) and inflation (INF). To evaluate the reliability and predictive performance of the model, well – known error indicators—including root mean square error (RMSE), relative root mean square error (RRMSE), correlation and determination coefficients (r and R2), and variance inflation factor (VIF)—are employed. Moreover, the most influential indicators affecting NSE performance are identified. The results demonstrate that the proposed model, based on the MNLR approach, can serve as an effective analytical tool for assessing nonlinear relationships, supporting strategic decision-making, informing policy and investment strategies, and enhancing the competitiveness of Türkiye’s natural stone sector in global markets.

Preservation of cultural heritage is one of the most important tasks in the modern world. But time is inexorable and destruction of structures is inevitable, especially if they are in aggressive conditions. This article considers the possibility of conservation and protection of such architectural elements as natural stone finishing and mosaic panels. Design solutions are proposed that will allow with minimal financial costs to carry out work on temporary, and if necessary, long-term strengthening of structures. At the same time, the proposed solutions allow using them to hold in the design position or fix mosaics, which in any other cases is impossible and requires a complete re-laying of the panel. Such materials as transparent organic glass, plates and corners made of stainless materials and chemical anchors are used as fasteners. Their use does not require highly qualified workers and complex equipment. At the same time, the following tasks are achieved: preservation of the appearance, fixation of the entire structure and safety of operation.

Robotic spraying of building exterior walls is an important pathway towards construction automation and intelligent development. However, unclear spraying mechanisms and improper matching of process parameters often result in inconsistent coating quality in natural stone paint applications. This study proposes a mechanism-oriented method to investigate the influence mechanism of process parameters by integrating statistical analysis and machine learning. On-site robotic spraying experiments were conducted to collect coating quality data under different combinations of sliding table speed (v), spraying distance (s), screw pump speed (n) and atomization pressure (pw). Macroscopic statistical analysis was used to quantitatively evaluate the main effects of process parameters on coating central thickness (d), thickness variance (sd) and effective spray width (w). Harmony search-optimized support vector regression (HS-SVR) models were then developed to predict coating quality indicators. Based on these models, interaction effect diagrams were constructed to analyse parameter coupling effects. The results show that v is the dominant factor influencing d, sd and w. Lower v and shorter s improve d and w, while higher v combined with lower n enhances sd. This study provides a theoretical basis for intelligent parameter configuration in robotic exterior wall spraying.

Abstract The growth of tourism in Bali, especially in Canggu, has led to increased visitor numbers and traffic problems. To address these issues, sea transport options like GoBoat have been suggested, but inadequate port infrastructure, particularly at Kedonganan Port, raises safety concerns. This study focuses on designing a breakwater using tetrapods to enhance safety and support both fisheries and tourism in the port. The methodology includes analyzing various environmental data, numerical modeling, and assessing stability and costs. Findings show that the main wind direction is from the west at 11.45 m/s, resulting in wave heights of 2.56 m. A comparison of manual and numerical wave transformation results was consistent. The breakwater is designed with 1-ton tetrapods and 100 kg of natural stone, ensuring stability. The optimal southeast layout reduces wave energy in the harbor to below 0.3 meters. The estimated cost for building the breakwater is IDR 257 billion. The study concludes that the breakwater is viable and suggests conducting ecological impact assessments and socio-economic evaluations in the future.

Silicosis, the most common form of pneumoconiosis, results from the inhalation of respirable crystalline silica dust, which is defined as silicon dioxide particles small enough to penetrate lung tissue (<5 μm). Once considered a historical occupational disease primarily affecting miners, silicosis is reemerging among workers who process engineered stone countertops because of the higher silica content of engineered stone compared with natural stone materials (often termed engineered stone pneumoconiosis). The authors discuss imaging features of engineered stone silicosis based on a cohort of patients employed as engineered stone countertop workers in Southern California, one of the largest cohorts in the United States. Historically, silicosis has been described as predominantly chronic silicosis with upper lung-predominant small solid nodules with or without fibrosis, occasional accelerated silicosis, and rarely, acute silicosis. In the engineered stone worker patient cohort described in this article, accelerated silicosis and atypical imaging features at presentation (such as diffuse centrilobular-predominant nodules, superimposed ground-glass opacities, lower lung or cavitary large opacities, and concomitant infections) were more common than expected, which contributed to the initial underdiagnosis and misdiagnosis of silicosis. Furthermore, many patients demonstrated relevant extrapulmonary disease, such as cardiovascular and autoimmune disease. The radiologist plays a pivotal role in recognizing silicosis and including it in their differential diagnosis at patient presentation. Early diagnosis is crucial to prevent further exposure, since silicosis is currently considered incurable. The authors highlight the imaging findings of silicosis to raise awareness among radiologists about this emerging occupational lung disease. ©RSNA, 2026.

ABSTRACT Mineralogical and textural characterization of the natural stone in Cádiz Cathedral reveals a diverse range of carbonate lithologies with varying fabrics, porosity and decay susceptibility. The white oolitic limestone was identified as the most vulnerable material, particularly in upper structural elements such as vaults and roofs. Results confirm a significant marine influence on weathering processes, evidenced by the ubiquitous presence of halite, trona, gypsum, and nesquehonite across all lithologies and mortars. These salts drive granular disintegration, exfoliation, and crust formation. Their origin is attributed to a combination of marine spray, capillary rise, and the historical use of brackish water in mortar preparation. Analysis of pink crusts and saline efflorescences indicates complex interactions between environmental factors, atmospheric pollutants, and previous restoration materials. Mortar samples display high heterogeneity; modern interventions notably utilized Portland-type cements and historical pigments like lead white, which are often incompatible with original substrates. In the short term, the integration of microclimatic sensor networks with materials analysis will facilitate data-driven decision-making for the building’s preservation and, continued sampling will be essential to monitor salt dynamics in response to shifting temperature and humidity trends associated with climate change and the influx of tourists to the monument.

This study presents the fabrication and optimization of eco-efficient epoxy composites reinforced with ground natural stone fillers, namely pebble, sandstone, and marble, at loadings of up to 15.6 wt.%. Low content of a bio-based modifier, modified castor oil (MCO ≈ 0.5 wt.%), is incorporated to improve filler dispersion, processing behavior, and matrix-filler interfacial compatibility. The composites are designed to enhance mechanical, thermal, and dielectric performance using low-cost, abundant, and environmentally sustainable constituents. An experimental optimization approach is employed to evaluate and optimize bulk density, Shore D hardness, thermal conductivity, dielectric constant, and tensile strength. The results demonstrate that pebble-reinforced composites exhibit the highest tensile strength (≈30 MPa) and surface hardness (≈82 Shore D), which are attributed to the angular morphology and high intrinsic rigidity of pebble particles. Marble-filled systems show superior thermal stability, with residual mass increasing from approximately 2.5 wt.% for neat epoxy to over 11 wt.% at 550 °C, owing to the thermally stable calcium carbonate phase. In contrast, sandstone-reinforced composites exhibit the lowest dielectric constant (≈3.2), indicating enhanced electrical insulation capability. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) results confirm that the epoxy network structure is preserved upon filler incorporation, while MCO promotes improved interfacial interactions through physical interactions. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) reveal enhanced thermal resistance, reduced microvoid formation, and improved filler-matrix adhesion at optimal filler contents of approximately 3.5 wt.%.

Thermal exposure can substantially alter the hydric behaviour of carbonate stones, with direct implications for damage susceptibility and post-fire durability. This study provides a new perspective on hydric dynamics by analysing not only how water is absorbed, but also how it is retained and released after thermal exposure. Thirteen Portuguese carbonate lithologies (limestones, marbles, a breccia, and a travertine) were heated to 300 °C and 600 °C, and their hydric response was characterised through open porosity, bulk density, capillary uptake coefficients, drying rates, and total water absorption. Pore-size distribution analysis was used to assess the role of porosity and its spatial organisation in controlling these processes. Hydric susceptibility was further evaluated using time-based metrics describing the progression of both water intake and water release within each stone. Results reveal clear lithology-dependent responses, showing that thermal damage modifies pore geometry and connectivity in ways that distinctly affect both absorption and evaporation pathways. These findings deepen our understanding of thermally induced hydric behaviour and support more robust evaluations of damage susceptibility in fire-affected carbonate stones.

Abstract Natural stone industry generates large volumes of mineral waste, whose valorization in polymer composites through 3D printing remains limited. This study explores the feedstock properties, calibration, and mechanical performance of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) composites with limestone using screw-assisted material extrusion. Neat PLA and composite pellets were characterized by differential scanning calorimetry, rheometry, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. Thermal analysis indicated that limestone promoted heterogeneous nucleation at moderate filler loading, whereas excessive incorporation disrupted crystallization due to reduced chain mobility. Rheological analysis revealed shear-thinning behavior for all formulations, with viscosity increase with limestone addition at higher angular frequencies and suppressed terminal elastic response at high filler content. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy suggested minor structural changes without significant signs of compounding-related degradation. A three-stage calibration process on a retrofitted 3D printer established fused pellet fabrication (FPF) process conditions. Mechanical tests showed higher limestone content increased stiffness, reaching an elastic modulus up to 4.3 GPa for the composite containing 50 wt.% of limestone, while reducing ductility and strength, consistent with values reported for filament-based fused filament fabrication. Overall, this work demonstrates the feasibility of processing PLA/limestone composites via desktop-scale FPF and highlights the importance of formulation-specific calibration. The findings support the potential upcycling of mineral waste from the stone industry into value-added, eco-friendly materials for additive manufacturing.

Exposure to respirable and inhalable dust from engineered stone is linked to lung diseases such as silicosis and COPD, yet the physicochemical properties affecting epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) remain unclear. Here, 41 physicochemical properties were characterized across 30 dust samples and evaluated for associations with EMT progression in A549 lung epithelial cells after 24-h exposure. EMT was assessed using three hallmarks: E-cadherin downregulation, vimentin upregulation, and α-SMA upregulation. A hybrid feature selection strategy combining correlation filtering with LassoLarsCV reduced feature redundancy and improved model robustness. The selected features were modeled using optimized regressors (Extreme Gradient Boosting regressor for E-cadherin and Vimentin; Support Vector Machine for α-SMA), and SHAP analysis quantified each property's contribution. Crystalline silica emerged as the most influential factor, showing negative associations with E-cadherin and positive associations with Vimentin and α-SMA. In contrast, sodium-, aluminum-, and rutile-bearing components were associated with lower EMT progression, likely reflecting their occurrence within less reactive mineral phases than crystalline silica. Specific surface area and absolute ζ potential were positively associated with the EMT, indicating enhanced particle-cell interactions and surface-related signaling. These findings establish a framework for linking dust physicochemical characteristics to marker-specific EMT responses and demonstrate the effectiveness of interpretable machine learning for particulate toxicity assessment.

The high consumption of natural aggregates in concrete production has led to increased exploitation of natural resources, causing environmental degradation. At the same time, the natural stone industry, particularly Onyx stone processing, generates a significant amount of solid waste that has not been optimally utilized. This study aims to evaluate the effect of using Onyx stone waste as a partial substitution for coarse aggregate on the compressive strength of concrete cylinders and the aesthetic quality of concrete surfaces. A quantitative approach with a pure experimental method was employed. Concrete cylinder specimens with a diameter of 150 mm and a height of 300 mm were prepared with Onyx waste substitution levels of 0%, 10%, 20%, and 30%, with five specimens for each variation. Compressive strength testing was conducted at 28 days in accordance with SNI 1974:2011, while aesthetic aspects were evaluated through visual observation of the concrete surface. The results indicate that Onyx waste substitution of up to 10% does not cause a significant reduction in compressive strength compared to control concrete, with an average value of 28.16 MPa. However, substitutions of 20% and 30% result in statistically significant strength reductions. In terms of aesthetics, higher Onyx content enhances surface color variation and texture. Therefore, the use of Onyx stone waste is recommended as an alternative coarse aggregate up to a maximum level of 10% to achieve environmentally friendly concrete with adequate mechanical performance and improved aesthetic value.