European Journal of Engineering Science and Technology

Effect of Twin Circular Underground Voids on Bearing Capacity of Strip Foundations

Javad Mofidi Rouchi, Mohammad Amin Nozari — Tue, 02 Jan 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Underground voids can significantly alter the stress and strain conditions of the surrounding soil mass, consequently affecting the stability of buildings located on the surface. Numerous numerical and experimental methods have been employed to investigate the effects of voids on nearby structures. In this research, a mixed lower bound-finite element method is utilized to study the stability of strip foundations situated above twin continuous voids. The soil behavior is modeled using the Mohr-Coulomb yield function along with an associated flow rule. Three-noded triangular stress elements are used to mesh the stress field, considering stress discontinuities at the common edges of adjacent elements. The study assumes that the two voids are identical in terms of radius, distance from the footing centerline, and depth from the ground level. The primary geometrical parameters considered in the analysis are the location and radius of the voids, as well as the strength parameters of the soil. By investigating the changes in bearing capacity concerning these factors, practical charts are proposed to aid in understanding the stability of the foundation. The results of the current study reveal the existence of an unsafe zone beneath the foundations, where the impact of the twin voids on bearing capacity reduction can be significant. Understanding these effects is crucial for design and construction of structures in areas prone to underground voids and also to decide where to bore infrastructure tunnels in order to have minimum effect on stability of the above buildings.

Advancements in Building Deconstruction: Examining the Role of Drone Technology and Building Information Modelling

Chukwumaobi Ibe, Andreea Serbescu, Mohataz Hossain — Tue, 02 Jan 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Deconstructing a building with the help of drones and BIM (building information modelling) is becoming increasingly common as a more efficient, eco-friendly, and affordable alternative to the traditional techniques of building disassembly. This paper presents a systematic review following the methodology of Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) to investigate the role of drone technology and BIM in building deconstruction. A total of 10 studies were identified based on the integration of drone technology with BIM, all of which proved promising in enhancing the process of building deconstruction. The analysis of the 35 and 3 non-academic selected data reveals several key findings. Firstly, BIM is not commonly used in deconstruction or demolition processes, particularly in managing fixtures and fittings of buildings. Secondly, the adoption of deconstruction-oriented design methods and the use of drone technology can significantly reduce the negative environmental impacts of building demolition waste. Lastly, the limited implementation of design for deconstruction practices in the construction industry hinders the realisation of environmental, social, and economic benefits associated with this approach. Overall, this systematic review highlights the potential of drone technology and BIM in improving building deconstruction practices, while also identifying knowledge gaps and areas for further research and development on this topic.