This study examines the bioclimatic design of a 40-story residential tower in Barcelona. It aims to reduce CO₂ emissions through passive strategies while ensuring thermal comfort in a Mediterranean climate with 65 % average humidity and 1650 kWh/m² of annual solar irradiance. The project utilizes a composition of voids and solids to optimize seasonal solar gain. To achieve this, it employs tools such as Revit, Rhino and Climate Consultant 6.0, alongside psychrometric analyses, natural lighting simulations and passive ventilation studies. Through iterative modeling, the building’s volume was optimized to improve thermal and energy performance. The results demonstrate that year-round comfort is achieved without complex mechanical systems by leveraging natural ventilation, internal heat gains, and appropriate solar control. Specifically, overhanging 1.2 m blinds block 60 % of solar radiation in summer and allow 20 % in winter. Additionally, automated louvers increase visual comfort by 40 % and reduce energy consumption for lighting by 35 %. To streamline this process, the study proposes an integrated digital workflow combining BIM modeling, psychrometric analysis, daylight simulations and adaptive solar control strategies. Ultimately, this project serve as a replicable model for high-rise residential buildings in Mediterranean climates, demonstrating how bioclimatic design can be effectively integrated into contemporary architecture.
Mortar is widely used in construction, particularly in plastering and masonry applications, because to its simplicity, availability and low cost. However, its performance deteriorates in aggressive environments, motivating the search for effective enhancement strategies. This study investigates the incorporation of nanoalumina (Al₂O₃) into mortars produced with Type HS and Type N hydraulic cements available in Ecuador, evaluating its effects on mechanical, microstructural and economic performance. A controlled experimental program was conducted using mortar mixtures with nanoalumina contents of 0.25 %, 0.5 %, 1.0 % and 1.5 % by cement weight, considering two particle size ranges (10-15 nm and 150-500 nm). A total of 372 specimens were prepared and tested following standardized procedures. The experimental design was analyzed using multifactor ANOVA, to determine significant differences among mixtures. Compressive strength, water absorption and permeability tests were performed, complemented by microstructural characterization using SEM, TEM, EDS and XRD techniques. The results indicate that nanoalumina reduces workability (flow) as its content increases, while significantly enhancing compressive strength at 28 and 56 days. The optimum performance was observed at 1 % nanoalumina, as higher dosages promoted particle agglomeration and reduced efficiency. Although nanoalumina improves the overall mechanical and microstructural properties of mortar, its high cost per cubic meter limits large-scale application in Ecuador. Therefore, its use is recommended for specialized applications requiring enhanced durability and performance.
Rapid urbanization in Lahore has significantly increased the amount of municipal solid waste, creating an urgent need for solutions that convert waste into low-carbon energy. This study evaluates the hybrid anaerobic digestion of organic fraction and steam gasification of refuse-derived fuel (RDF) as a waste-to-hydrogen pathway. To quantify environmental impacts, a life cycle assessment using the ReCiPe 2016 Midpoint/Endpoint method was carried out. In addition, scenario modelling was used to study the substitution of grid electricity with PV power, while a techno-economic assessment estimated investment metrics, capital and operating costs and revenue streams. The global warming and terrestrial ecotoxicity are the highest burdens as indicated by the midpoints (climate burden ≈ 1.47×10^2 kg CO₂-eq, ecotoxicity burden on terrestrial ecosystems ≈ 56 kg 1,4-DB-eq per 1000 kg functional unit), while the principal burdens identified by the hotspot analysis are the steam gasification processes (≈34.9 % of climate burden) and the anaerobic digestion processes (≈12.61 %). By using scenario modelling, including photovoltaic integration, the climate impact was reduced to ≈ 9.40×10^1 kg CO₂-eq, and fossil resource depletion and particulate emissions were significantly decreased, while some material burden was shifted upstream. The results of the techno-economic analysis showed that the project is feasible. The capital investment was estimated at $159 600, while the annual operating cost was around $130 028. Annual revenue was estimated at approximately $230 611, resulting in a positive profit. In addition, the net present value (NPV) exceeded $1 000 000 and the payback period was estimated at about....
Rapid urban expansion in Andean cities has intensified the need for sustainable retaining systems capable of performing under complex geotechnical and environmental conditions. In this context, gabion retaining walls have emerged as a flexible and permeable alternative to conventional rigid retaining structures. However, previous studies have generally focused on structural performance alone, with limited integration of economic and environmental criteria into a unified sustainability framework. This study evaluates the performance of gabion retaining systems through a multi-criteria approach integrating structural, economic and environmental dimensions. A quantitative case study was conducted in Santa María de Cotocollao neighborhood in Quito, Ecuador. There a 5 m-high gabion retaining wall was designed and analyzed under representative Andean urban geotechnical conditions. Structural stability was assessed using classical Rankine active earth pressure theory under drained conditions, including safety factor verification against overturning and sliding. Economic performance was evaluated through a comparative unit-cost analysis against reinforced concrete and cyclopean retaining walls. Meanwhile, environmental performance was assessed qualitatively considering local material sourcing, reduced transportation requirements, permeability benefits, and lower cement consumption. The results indicate that the gabion wall achieved satisfactory structural performance, with safety factors of 2.16 against overturning and 1.61 against sliding, exceeding conventional minimum design requirements. Compared with traditional retaining systems, gabions demonstrated cost reductions of up to 50 %, mainly due to the use of local materials and simplified construction procedures. Additionally, the reduced use of cement and the permeability characteristics of the system suggest lower environmental impacts and improved adaptability to differential settlements.....
Biohydrogen is increasingly recognized as a promising alternative to fossil fuels for meeting global energy demands and addressing climate change. Hydrogen is recognized as an environmentally friendly energy carrier but it needs to be proven by LCA. In this paper, the environmental impacts of hydrogen were evaluated by using Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of both biological and thermochemical routes. The midpoint impacts of global warming potential (GWP), eutrophication potential, acidification plus energy demand (ADER), system boundaries (SB), functional unit (FU) and allocation are presented. Existing literature and reported cases from industries were employed as LCIA data sources. Sensitivity analysis was also applied to validate uncertainty and regional differences. Based on LCIA, it was found that biohydrogen routes have lower GWP compared to conventional fossil fuel hydrogen production. The environmental impact still depends on where it is produced, what kind of raw material is used and how efficient the technology is. Valorization of waste and optimization of processes were found to be the key influential steps to better the LCIA of biohydrogen production. Lastly, more contextual and dynamic LCA approaches are needed to support future technology applications. The methodology for LCIA of biohydrogen needs to be agreed upon internationally. More comprehensive studies that combined environmental, economic, and social impact assessments are also required. Future research should focus on expanding data availability, refining impact models and embedding life cycle thinking into energy policy frameworks to fully realize the environmental benefits of biohydrogen.
This study evaluates the effect of nanochitin (NQ) derived from shrimp shells as a bio-based nanomaterial in cement mortars for masonry applications. Unlike previous research that focused on chitin from other sources, this study specifically synthesizes NQ from shrimp shell waste and evaluates its incorporation into the physical, mechanical, and microstructural properties of cement mortars. NQ was obtained through oxidation processes followed by mechanical homogenization. NQ was characterized using EDS, SEM, TEM, XRD, and AFM techniques. The results revealed a chemical composition consistent with NQ and residual compounds of calcium and phosphorus. The sand and cement were characterized according to ASTM and NTE INEN standards. A standard GU-type and N-type cement mortar was designed for comparison with mixtures incorporating 0.25%, 0.50%, 0.75%, and 1.00% NQ (replacing the weight of the cement). Fresh-state tests showed a reduction in workability in all mixtures. However, it was necessary to adjust the water-cement ratio in the GU-type mortars. The optimal partial cement replacement percentages were 0.50% NQ for GU-type mortars and 0.25% for N-type mortars. Although compressive strength at 28 days decreased by 6% and 3% compared to the standard, workability was not compromised. However, the strengths obtained exceeded the minimum requirements of the NTE INEN 2518 standard for Type S and Type N mortars by 128% and 104%, respectively. The results demonstrate the technical feasibility of incorporating NQ into cementitious matrices while maintaining adequate mechanical performance and workability, and support the use of shrimp shell waste in construction materials.
The Caupicho ravine, located in the southern sector of Quito, is a transition zone between urban and agricultural areas characterized by a marked susceptibility to extreme hydrometeorological events. The maximum flows generated by intense rainfall represent a latent threat to surrounding communities. Therefore, the objective of this study is to highlight the need to implement improved earthen dam infrastructure using Totora as a biomaterial in order to store temporary retention volumes, reduce downstream damage, and mitigate the risks associated with flooding. A comparative hydrological analysis ArcGIS (HEC-GeoHMS and HEC-GeoRAS) is carried out, based on extreme statistics, with the results showing that the most significant events correspond to return periods of between 50 and 100 years. However, historical records show that in the Lucha de los Pobres Baja neighborhood, floods occur approximately every five years, generating negative economic effects and compromising social resilience. Based on vulnerability mapping, scenario modelling and the identification of the most exposed areas, it is concluded that the implementation of earthen rafts is a key input for risk management and territorial planning, where the delimitation of areas designated for evacuation and rescue is proposed in order to strengthen community response.
The present article addresses adaptive reuse as a densification strategy with the aim of stopping the depopulation that exists in Latin American historical centers. The study focuses on the 10 de Agosto pedestrian axis of the city of Loja, which registers 89 inhabitants in 4999 m², below the recommended index of 175 inhabitants/0.5 ha. The methodology is developed in 3 phases: 1. Definitions and contextualization of adaptive reuse as a densification strategy in existing homes, 2. Diagnosis, census and selection of homes with lower density, pedestrian axis 10 de Agosto: the sample consisted of three homes based on three criteria: demographic (two uninhabited and one with 3 inhabitants), spatial (areas greater than 400 m²) and morphological (with central and/or rear yard), and 3. Project Intervention and Validation of results. As a result of the research, it is determined that the interventions in the 3 selected homes, applying adaptive reuse strategies such as structural modulation, creation of yards, compaction of wet areas and location of vertical circulations, allow us to increase the built area between 40 % and 123 % and increase the population from 3 to 88 inhabitants in the intervened homes. In this way, it is possible to raise the housing density index of the pedestrian Axis from 89 to 175 inhabitants/0.5 ha, reaching the recommended indicator, thus it is concluded that adaptive reuse promoting mixed use, is an effective, valid and relevant strategy for housing densification and strengthening social cohesion in historic centers.
This article presents a comprehensive methodological proposal aimed at brand design and strategic brand management, using as a case study the academic outreach project between the University and the agricultural associations registered under the Decentralized Autonomous Government of Pichincha, distributed across its eight cantons. The proposed methodological approach is based on the active participation of graphic designers in collaborative processes with local communities, generating spaces for knowledge exchange, co-creation, and capacity building. This process seeks to develop a graphic system composed of visual identity, packaging, and a distinctive visual style that enhances the positioning of agricultural products in local and regional markets, integrating productive, cultural, and territorial attributes. This interaction not only promotes the recognition of ancestral knowledge and community practices but also enables social innovation processes driven by design. Thanks to its adaptable structure, the proposal is replicable in rural contexts. Its methodology, based on participatory design, contextual diagnosis, and the integration of local cultural narratives, can be adjusted to diverse productive and sociocultural dynamics. This flexibility enables its implementation by local governments and non-governmental organizations, aligning brand management with sustainable development goals and fostering a design culture committed to social transformation and communicational equity.
21st-century cities must adapt to the challenges posed by population ageing. The soundscape plays a key role in shaping overall comfort in public spaces; however, its evaluation is complex due to the multiple factors involved, including the physical properties of sound, contextual conditions, and listeners’ individual characteristics. This study aims to examine the relationship between soundscape perceptions in older adults and measured sound levels, to identify the factors associated with these perceptions, and to determine older adults’ sound preferences in open public spaces. A mixed-methods approach was applied, combining sound-level measurements with interviews conducted among senior visitors in three public spaces in Madrid. Data analysis included statistical tests such as chi-square and Spearman correlation. The results indicate that perceived noise among older adults is not correlated with measured sound levels. Age, location, and season were identified as the main factors associated with noise perception. Mechanical sounds generated by traffic were rated as the most unpleasant. Despite sound levels exceeding international standards, most participants considered the overall acoustic environment to be pleasant. This tolerance may be physiologically related to age-related hearing decline and psychologically to adjusted expectations; however, prolonged exposure to high sound levels may still pose health risks. Further research is needed to guide the design of comfortable and inclusive public spaces through soundscape planning, thereby contributing to improved quality of life.
CALL FOR PAPERS – EÍDOS JOURNAL ISSUE NO. 28: “RESILIENT URBANISM AND BLUE-GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE FOR SUSTAINABLE CITIES” The EÍDOS Journal, published by the Faculty of Architecture and Urbanism at Universidad UTE, invites researchers, academics, professionals, and specialists to submit original manuscripts for its thematic issue focused on the architectural and infrastructural dimensions of contemporary urban environments. This issue aims to examine how blue-green infrastructure (BGI), resilient urban systems, and integrated planning tools strengthen the performance, structure, and spatial quality of cities. The approach prioritizes architectural, territorial, and infrastructural perspectives—emphasizing technical, spatial and operational criteria over purely ecological narratives. Suggested Thematic Areas • Blue-Green Infrastructure as Structural Urban Systems – urban drainage networks, mobility corridors, water–landscape integration as functional infrastructure. • Urban Resilience through Planning and Design – strategies for flood management, drought adaptation, seismic risk, and controlled urban expansion. • Mobility Networks and Structural Connectivity – public transport systems, intramodality, pedestrian and cycling infrastructure. • Territorial Planning and Contemporary Urban Models – controlled densification, metropolitan growth, polycentric development. • Architectural Design and Public Space as Urban Infrastructure – civic buildings, linear parks, multi-scalar urban articulations. • Technologies for Urban and Territorial Analysis – GIS, flow modeling, remote sensing, urban simulation tools. • Urban Management and Policy Instruments for Infrastructure-Based Planning – regulatory frameworks, land-use policy, territorial governance. • Materials, Construction Systems and Technical Solutions in Urban Contexts – street design, structural components, lightweight urban infrastructure. Important Dates • Call opens: January 1, 2026 • Submission deadline: March 15, 2026 • Publication date: July 1, 2026 Author Guidelines • Length: 5,000–7,000 words • Accepted language: English • Recommended structure: • Title • Abstract • Keywords • Introduction • Materials and Methods • Results and discussion • Conclusions • References (APA 7th), It is mandatory to use reference managers such as Mendeley, EndNote, or Zotero to ensure automated citations and references. Originality Policy • The maximum allowed similarity index is below 20%. • The use of artificial intelligence tools must strictly comply with the journal’s editorial policy, which requires that any automated assistance be clearly declared and used solely as support, without replacing the intellectual authorship of the manuscript. • All submissions will undergo a double-blind peer-review process, ensuring impartiality, academic rigor, and the scientific quality of the evaluated content. Submission Manuscripts must be submitted exclusively through: https://revistas.ute.edu.ec/index.php/eidos/index Contact: eidos@ute.edu.ec Editor-in-Chief: Dr. Majid Khorami EÍDOS Journal Faculty of Architecture and Urbanism Universidad UTE
En la ciudad de México (CDMX) cada día son más recurrentes diversos accidentes que perjudican a pobladores que habitan dicha urbe, derivados del arbolado urbano existente, por ello la relevancia de ubicar y estudiar zonas donde ocurren ciertas problemáticas que ponen en riesgo la vida y el patrimonio de las personas. Las afectaciones más comunes son: caídas de árboles, lo cual afectaen diferentes proporciones la estructura de hogares; crecimiento de raíces horizontales, que fracturan banquetas y en ocasiones cisternas de unidades habitacionales; colapso de alcantarillado por caída de hojas en temporada de lluvias; afectación por enrollamiento de ramas en cables de telecomunicaciones o de electricidad, entre otras. La metodología utilizada permitió identificar cartográficamente a nivel de la alcaldía y con base en fotointerpretación, según las variables del Inventario de Áreas Verdes, la densidad de árboles muertos, la presencia de plagas forestales e incendios forestales, las posibles afectaciones múltiples originadas por algún tipo de arbolado, según información gubernamental existente en geoportales, específicamente del Gobierno de la CDMX y de la Comisión Nacional Forestal (Conafor); lo que ratifica lo anterior con datos periodísticos que relatan las diversas consecuencias por caída de árboles y otros elementos que perjudican a los habitantes. Como conclusión se identifica las alcaldías en donde se deberá instaurar una mayor protección civil ante las problemáticas antes mencionadas, incluso robusteciendo la metodología empleada, con mayor detalle cartográfico a futuro a nivel colonia o segmento de calle.
Resumen: En las dos primeras décadas del siglo XXI, la frontera México–Estados Unidos se ha consolidado como un espacio estratégico para la experimentación y aplicación de tecnologías avanzadas de vigilancia. Tras los atentados del 11 de septiembre de 2001, la gestión fronteriza de Estados Unidos priorizó la seguridad nacional y el control de la migración irregular, incorporando sistemas aéreos no tripulados (UAS) y plataformas de inteligencia artificial (IA) como pilares fundamentales de su estrategia. Este estudio analiza la evolución, implementación e impacto de estas tecnologías entre 2001 y 2025, a partir de informes de la Oficina de Aduanas y Protección Fronteriza (CBP), el Departamento de Seguridad Nacional (DHS), la Oficina de Responsabilidad Gubernamental (GAO) y literatura académica especializada. Asimismo, examina cómo estos sistemas reconfiguran el entorno construido y las dinámicas urbano-fronterizas al influir en la organización espacial de infraestructuras de vigilancia, corredores migratorios y zonas de amortiguamiento. Los hallazgos muestran que los UAS fueron adaptados a operaciones de vigilancia civil, ampliando la cobertura en áreas remotas. La integración de algoritmos de machine learning, sensores multiespectrales y redes 5G ha permitido cubrir aproximadamente el 80% de la frontera, con tasas de precisión cercanas al 95% en detecciones nocturnas. Entre los resultados clave destacan la reducción de los tiempos de respuesta a menos de 10 milisegundos y la mejora de las capacidades predictivas, aunque persisten limitaciones como la subutilización de datos (hasta un 70%), la saturación de servidores, la dependencia de contratistas privados y la existencia de falsos positivos (10–12%), además ......
This study analyzes the “Safe Pathways” programs implemented in Latin American cities as strategies to reframe public space through a lens of urban safety and gender equity. The main objective is to evaluate the effectiveness of these interventions in improving security, inclusion, and citizen appropriation of urban environments. The research is justified by the urgent need to promote more democratic and accessible cities in the face of structural violence and spatial inequality. A comparative and qualitative methodology was applied, combining critical theoretical review with the analysis of case studies in Mexico City, Bogotá, and Quito. Evaluation criteria included participatory design, urban management, policy relevance, and sustainability of the interventions. The results show that, although these programs have led to visible improvements in infrastructure and perceived safety, they face critical limitations: short-term implementation, lack of maintenance, unequal selection of intervention areas, and political appropriation of the initiatives. Nevertheless, promising practices were identified, such as civic technologies, community participation, and tactical urbanism. The study concludes that the success of these programs depends on their integration into sustained urban policy frameworks, civic education, and ongoing institutional commitment.
Convocatoria de Artículos para la Revista EÍDOS Edición N.º 27: "Innovación, territorio y sostenibilidad: Nuevas perspectivas desde la Arquitectura y el Urbanismo” La Revista EÍDOS, publicación científica de la Facultad de Arquitectura y Urbanismo de la Universidad UTE, invita a investigadores, académicos y profesionales a presentar manuscritos originales para su edición número 27. Esta edición estará dedicada al análisis crítico y la reflexión sobre nuevas visiones para el territorio, la ciudad, la arquitectura y la construcción, abordadas desde un enfoque interdisciplinario, sostenible y con aplicación práctica. Áreas Temáticas Sugeridas: • Arquitectura, cambio climático y adaptación urbana • Regeneración de barrios y participación ciudadana • Tecnologías emergentes y construcción sostenible • Gobernanza territorial, políticas urbanas y resiliencia • Ciudadanía digital, diseño colaborativo y metaverso • Vivienda social, movilidad inclusiva y derecho a la ciudad • Patrimonio, identidad y arquitectura decolonial • Nuevos sistemas constructivos, eficiencia energética y economía circular en el entorno edificado Fechas importantes: • Apertura de convocatoria: 01 de junio de 2025 • Fecha límite de recepción de artículos: 15 de septiembre de 2025 • Publicación: 1 de enero de 2026 Directrices para los autores • Extensión: Entre 5,000 y 7,000 palabras (incluyendo resumen, tablas, figuras y referencias). • Idiomas aceptados: Inglés. • Estructura sugerida del manuscrito: • Título • Resumen (entre 230 y 250 palabras) • Palabras clave (mínimo 4, máximo 6) • Introducción y estado del arte • Materiales y métodos • Análisis y resultados • Discusión y conclusiones • Referencias (formato APA – automatizado por gestor de referencias) • Originalidad: Todos los manuscritos serán evaluados mediante herramientas de detección de plagio. El índice de similitud no debe superar el 20–25 %. En caso contrario, el manuscrito será rechazado o devuelto para su revisión. Envío de manuscritos: Los manuscritos deben enviarse exclusivamente a través de nuestra plataforma en línea: https://revistas.ute.edu.ec/index.php/eidos/index. Para más información, comuníquese con nosotros a través del correo electrónico: eidos@ute.edu.ec
El artículo analiza el papel de la infraestructura verde como estrategia clave para una planificación urbana sostenible en la parroquia Santa Clara, cantón Daule. A partir de un diagnóstico técnico-espacial, se evidenció una cobertura de áreas verdes públicas de apenas 2,9 m² por habitante, valor que contrasta con el mínimo recomendado por la OMS. Este déficit se asocia con una distribución desigual del verde urbano, deterioro del espacio público y fragmentación ecológica, factores que afectan la habitabilidad, la equidad territorial y la calidad ambiental del entorno. La investigación adopta un enfoque metodológico mixto, combinando herramientas de análisis territorial, cartografía temática, revisión normativa y estudio de casos comparados. Se identifican nodos (parques, plazas, vacíos urbanos) y enlaces (ejes viales, márgenes naturales) como componentes estructurantes de una red de infraestructura verde local, proponiendo un sistema basado en la multifuncionalidad, conectividad ecológica y resiliencia urbana. La propuesta incorpora además estrategias de gestión participativa, mantenimiento sostenible y educación ambiental para garantizar su operatividad a largo plazo. Los casos de Vitoria-Gasteiz, Medellín, Loja y Puerto Francisco de Orellana refuerzan la aplicabilidad del modelo. Como resultado, se plantea una hoja de ruta replicable para consolidar la infraestructura verde como herramienta de transformación territorial en contextos parroquiales con escasa provisión de áreas verdes. El estudio demuestra que integrar naturaleza y urbanismo desde una perspectiva multiescalar permite avanzar hacia ciudades más sostenibles, resilientes y centradas en las personas.
The pavement condition index (PCI) is an inexpensive and simple method to evaluate pavement distresses. The main purpose of this study is to identify and evaluate pavement distress of Jalalabad highway using pavement condition index (PCI) to find a practical solution of road distress by suggesting different alternatives of treatment. The evaluation of pavement condition index (PCI) is carried out by visual survey pursuing ASTM D 6433. The highway is divided into A and B two sections, each section is divided into sample units, and the intensity of distress is evaluated in each sample unite. The results show that section A is in good condition with 70 PCI value and section B is in good condition with 59 PCI value. Based on the PCI values of the road sections, the necessary maintenance or rehabilitation procedure is suggested.
The development of composite materials for construction plays a critical role in advancing sustainable and high-performance engineering solutions. Cement, as a primary constituent of concrete, significantly contributes to global CO2 emissions, necessitating the exploration of innovative material alternatives. This study focuses on integrating graphene nanoparticles into conventional concrete to optimize its mechanical properties while reducing cement usage. Concrete mixes with a compressive strength of 21 MPa were prepared following the ACI 211 methodology, serving as the control. Optimized graphene-enhanced mixes were designed using Design-Expert V13 software to achieve superior nanoparticle dispersion and material performance. Characterization techniques, including Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), and X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), were employed to investigate the microstructural modifications and distribution of graphene within the cementitious matrix. Mechanical testing, including uniaxial compression, indirect tension, and flexural strength, indicated that graphene-enhanced concrete not only maintained but improved its mechanical integrity while significantly reducing the required cement content. The enhanced particle packing, microcrack bridging, and cohesive matrix properties attributed to graphene were pivotal in achieving these outcomes. This research highlights the transformative potential of graphene nanoparticles in composite materials engineering, presenting a sustainable and durable alternative for concrete applications. The findings contribute to the advancement of eco-friendly construction technologies and underscore graphene's role in next-generation cementitious composites for structural engineering.
As the global population continues to grow, the demand for affordable housing is rising. In response, the Malaysian government has called for a shift from traditional construction methods to Industrialised Building Systems (IBS) to improve construction quality and efficiency. IBS helps mitigate occupational safety and health risks, reduces reliance on skilled and foreign labor, and addresses related challenges. Despite recognising these advantages, the construction sector has been slow to adopt this innovative approach. This brief review identifies various barriers and motivators that influence the adoption of IBS within Malaysia’s construction industry. The main factors are high initial costs, the absence of established codes and standards, shortages of skilled IBS experts, and an underdeveloped supply chain.
La búsqueda de fuentes alternativas de materiales para innovar en la industria de la construcción está en constante evolución. Esto impulsa la exploración de métodos de síntesis que faciliten la producción local de materiales sostenibles, manteniendo altos estándares de calidad y reduciendo costos. Este estudio se centra en la identificación de una nueva fuente de nanopartículas de sílice capaz de mantener o mejorar las propiedades fisicoquímicas del hormigón de alta resistencia, en comparación con el producto comercial Aerosil 200, cuya disponibilidad es limitada. La nanosílice utilizada en esta investigación se obtiene de ceniza de cascarilla de arroz proveniente de la planta de molienda de arroz de Mocache, Los Ríos, Ecuador, mediante un proceso de síntesis química que produce nanopartículas de dióxido de silicio (SiO2). Estas nanopartículas reemplazan el 1.5 % del peso total del cemento en mezclas optimizadas de hormigón de alta resistencia. Los resultados de esta sustitución parcial han demostrado ser económicamente viables, con mejoras significativas en las propiedades mecánicas, especialmente en etapas tempranas, incluyendo la resistencia a la compresión, la resistencia a la tracción indirecta, el módulo elástico y el coeficiente de Poisson. Además, estas mejoras se han confirmado mediante análisis avanzados mediante microscopía electrónica de barrido (MEB), microscopía electrónica de transmisión (MET) y difracción de rayos X (DRX), que permiten un estudio detallado de la composición química, el tamaño de partícula y la microestructura del material.
