Abstract This study analyses the thermal behaviour of a new lightweight gypsum material, developed in line with the principles of the circular economy, which has reduced the thermal conductivity of these compounds by up to 30.4%. Similarly, the contribution of these compounds to the energy efficiency of LSF walls with steel structures in different configurations has been examined, including thermal break strips to mitigate the thermal bridge effect. The thermal resistance of the walls has been analysed using 2D numerical simulations, which have demonstrated the positive impact of these various solutions on improving the energy efficiency of LSF systems.
Abstract This study developed a simplified method to evaluate the fire resistance of composite slabs with steel decking protected by a novel steel shield. A numerically validated model, incorporating experimental data, demonstrated that the steel shield increases insulation failure time by approximately 25% (criterion I) and significantly reduces temperatures in critical zones. New empirical coefficients (b i c i ) were calibrated for use with the EN 1994‐1‐2 simplified method, enabling accurate prediction of the thermal and structural behaviour of this system. Mineral wool insulation provided even superior performance. The research offers a practical design tool for engineering more efficient and fire‐safe composite slabs.
Abstract An effective strategy to mitigate seismic risk and enable the use of ventilated façades in seismic regions, while taking advantage of their high energy efficiency, consists of implementing retention or containment systems that prevent the detachment and fall of façade components during a seismic event. This study presents an experimental testing program conducted on masonry infill panels constructed within a steel frame mounted on wheels, simulating ventilated brick façades. A façade containment system is evaluated with the aim of enhancing seismic safety and reducing the risks associated with the use of ventilated façades in seismic‐prone areas.
Abstract The European CONNECT4C project is focused on the development of innovative steel joints that boost the reusability of steel buildings from the design stage. These joints include demountable column splices, adaptable moment‐resisting joints, and modular pinned connections. The CONNECT4C system also features an optimized modular grid that eases the decision‐making process while allowing for remarkable flexibility. This paper showcases the CONNECT4C system using a practical application. A small demonstration building is first designed with the system's philosophy, then disassembled and, subsequently, reassembled, modifying the spans and floor heights using the same basic elements (beams, columns, and connections). The paper focuses only on geometrical adaptability, including a description of the components' capabilities that make it possible, highlighting the large level of adaptability of the system and its potential for reuse.
Abstract The paper provides an overview of state‐of‐the‐art heuristic approaches to modelling and predicting atmospheric corrosion. Focus is given to the importance of high‐quality, realtime input data for achieving accurate and reliable models. Techniques for monitoring environmental and corrosion data are described. Finally, the paper presents a new project combining a novel sensor system with a data‐driven predictive model.
Abstract Machine Learning (ML) is increasingly applied to evaluate the fire performance of steel‐framed buildings, from predicting material behaviour at elevated temperatures to estimating member resistance and system‐level collapse. Recent advances include interpretable models, physics‐informed methods, and emerging surrogate strategies that embed engineering knowledge into data‐driven learning. This review summarizes existing methods and datasets, highlights challenges related to generalizability and uncertainty, and identifies future research needs such as standardized benchmarks, rigorous validation, and integration into design codes. The advantages and limitations of current approaches are discussed, and recommendations are provided to advance ML‐based fire safety design in steel‐frame structures.
Abstract This paper presents a new approach to industrial modular structures, based on the concept of off‐site prefabrication and structural testing with the primary goal of minimizing on‐site construction time and enhancing alignment precision in accordance with aerospace industry requirements. The study details the manufacturing, pre‐assembly, painting, logistics, and on‐site assembly processes of the modular structure, as well as their influence on the design and detailing phases. The conclusions highlight the main advantages and challenges of the approach and suggest directions for future developments, particularly regarding sustainability.
Abstract This paper presents a methodology for the analysis and application of modular façade systems in buildings, taking into account the deformations of the primary structure throughout its service life. A real case study is used to evaluate vertical and horizontal deformations induced by permanent actions, variable actions, thermal effects, and seismic loading. The study highlights the need to ensure compatibility between these deformations and the façade system, proposing solutions such as dimensional allowances, dedicated movement joints, and phased installation strategies. The results demonstrate that accurate prediction and proper accommodation of structural movements are essential to guarantee the functional performance, durability, and safety of modular façade systems.
Abstract Modular construction offers clear advantages over traditional building methods, including shorter construction times, reduced on‐site labor, improved quality control, and lighter structural systems. Despite these benefits, concerns remain regarding the thermal and acoustic performance of modular solutions, particularly those based on lightweight steel framing, which are widely used in residential and commercial buildings. This study investigates the thermal and acoustic behavior of steel‐framed modular wall systems, with particular emphasis on airborne sound insulation and heat transfer performance. The adopted methodology follows relevant ISO standards, notably ISO 10140 for acoustic testing, as well as applicable national technical regulations. The baseline analysis compares conventional modular wall configurations with optimized solutions incorporating commercially available products, such as acoustic studs, high‐performance boards, and enhanced thermo‐acoustic insulation layers. Key performance indicators, including sound reduction (R) and thermal transmittance (U), are evaluated through a comprehensive assessment framework. The results aim to identify improvement strategies that can be readily integrated into existing industrial manufacturing processes without compromising system efficiency or modularity. Overall, this work seeks to provide practical guidance for the development of modular construction systems with improved thermal and acoustic comfort, supporting the broader adoption of more effective and sustainable building solutions.
Abstract The paper presents emblematic modern architectural projects that use innovative steel structures. These projects often involve complex, unconventional geometries. Steel enables ambitious architectural forms without sacrificing performance or constructability. Case studies include an egg‐shaped office, advanced skylights, and intricate façades. The structural design is shown as an active part of the architectural concept. Steel's versatility, strength, and precision make it ideal for such challenges. Digital tools like parametric modelling and BIM supports collaboration and efficiency. Overall, the paper highlights steel as both structure and defining architectural identity, reviewing also the relationship between engineers and architects.
Abstract In recent years, the Irish government has increasingly promoted Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) as a means to alleviate the national housing crisis. This paper investigates ‘cradle to site’ embodied carbon emissions for 2D Light Gauge Steel (LGS) exterior load‐bearing wall panels used in residential construction. To more accurately reflect Irish prefabricated systems, this assessment utilizes Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) for products typical of the Irish construction market, and uses Geographic Information System (GIS) analysis of the Irish road system to model transport distances to the construction site.
Abstract This study presents a full‐scale experimental study on a Tuned Liquid Damper (TLD) for vibration control of slender steel towers. A 25 m prototype tower was subjected to ambient excitation, harmonic forced vibration, and free‐decay tests. The results show up to a sixfold increase in structural damping compared to the uncontrolled configuration, with an effective logarithmic decrement of 4% in the optimal case. Empirical data capture the nonlinear behavior and support the validity of established TLD design models, with close agreement between analytical predictions and measurements. These findings demonstrate the technical feasibility of circular TLDs as an effective solution to reduce wind‐induced vibrations in slender structures.
Resume The Honestino Guimarães Bridge, designed by Oscar Niemeyer in Brasília and opened in the mid‐1970s, features a steel‐concrete composite structure in its central span. Consequently, this research work investigates the structural fatigue damage utilising the HL‐93 standard fatigue vehicle and dynamic vehicle‐structure interaction via computational models and the hot‐spot stress method. A finite element model and submodel, developed using the ANSYS software, simulated traffic ranging from 150.000 to 175.000 heavy vehicles per year, incorporating an applied growth rate. The results demonstrated that increased vehicular flow significantly reduces the service life of the bridge's central span in the critical scenario, particularly under conditions of poor pavement quality.
Abstract The present paper reports a collaborative work between the structural glass group at the University of Coimbra and stakeholders from the Portuguese glass construction sector, under GF‐Seismic project [1] and associated research [2‐4]. The referred work aims to characterize the behaviour of point fixed glass façades when subjected to seismic action, which correspond to a knowledge gap impacting efficient and optimized design of such façades. The paper presents the global structure of the project and a short overview of the workplan and main conclusions. A comprehensive report of the work can be found at [1‐4].
Abstract Modular construction has emerged as an innovative solution that accelerates construction schedules, improves quality, and reduces environmental impact compared to traditional construction. By manufacturing components in a controlled environment and subsequently assembling them on site, this approach promotes industrialisation, efficiency, precision, and waste reduction. The R2U | Modular Systems project develops three‐dimensional steel modular systems aimed at transforming the construction sector in Portugal from a conventional model to an industrialised, efficient, and sustainable one. The project focuses on the global behaviour of modular buildings and on innovative inter‐modular connections, which are crucial for the stability, strength, adaptability, and rapid reuse of modules. This paper presents the fundamental concepts of the R2U structural system, highlighting its potential for sustainable, adaptable, and reusable construction practices, and promoting the widespread adoption of modular solutions.
Abstract The Component Method (CM) from EN 1993‐1‐8 is a well‐known approach to evaluate the resistance and stiffness of steel joints by dividing them into components. While the Column Web in Compression (CWC) component has been widely studied for conventional steel, its behaviour in High‐Strength Steel (HSS) remains underexplored. Within the European project CONNECT4C, an experimental test was conducted for the CWC component in HSS. Thereafter, a 3D finite element (FE) model was developed and calibrated. Finally, numerical results and analytical predictions from Eurocode 3 were assessed against experimental results.
Abstract This paper presents an integrated experimental and numerical study of laminated glass beams reinforced with prestressed steel cables. The aim is to evaluate how prestressing modifies the brittle behavior of glass, improving load‐bearing capacity and residual performance after fracture. Six full‐scale laminated glass beams were tested under four‐point bending: three simple specimens without reinforcement and three reinforced beams with high‐carbon steel cables, inducing a controlled prestress. Prestressed beams achieved up to 88% higher load capacity and more than twice the deformation capacity compared with simple laminated beams. Failure transformed from a sudden brittle event into a more progressive, ductile‐like sequence. A finite element framework was developed in Abaqus/Explicit, incorporating constitutive models for glass, the interlayer, and prestressing steel. The behavior of glass was modeled using both the Concrete Damage Plasticity (CDP) model and the Johnson–Holmquist‐2 (JH‐2) model. The CDP approach proved computationally efficient and accurate in reproducing experimental load‐deflection curves and fracture sequences, while JH‐2 showed limitations for bending‐dominated, tension‐driven failure. The results demonstrate that steel‐cable prestressing is a viable strategy to enhance the safety and serviceability of laminated glass structures, and that the CDP‐based model provides a reliable tool for design optimization.
Abstract Point‐fixed glass façade systems (PFGFS) are widely used in modern architecture for their transparency and aesthetic appeal, yet their in‐plane drift capacity remains poorly understood. This paper presents full‐scale experimental results on 3x3 grid of laminated glass panels subjected to quasi‐static cyclic loading for two connection types. Results showed a progressive damage sequence starting with sealant softening and bolt rotation, followed by joint shear and glass fracture at in‐plane drift ratios near 2%. Both façades retained post‐fracture stability, with the laminated interlayer preventing panel fallout. Bolt rotation and washer yielding contributed to energy dissipation and drift tolerance beyond code limits.
Abstract In the last few years, new production methods and techniques have made it possible to realise large‐format cladding elements for ventilated façades. However, the adoption of this technology has not been followed by scientific knowledge, leaving gaps and hidden pitfalls. This paper, presenting the first results of a broader research project, aims to provide a comprehensive review of the current state of the art and the emerging trends in this research area, highlighting opportunities and constraints. A range of cladding materials and fixing solutions is presented, with a focus on production methods, properties and limitations. Furthermore, operational procedures for the transportation, handling and installation are discussed.
Abstract Hybrid connections that combine Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) with conventional steel offer new opportunities for enhancing structural performance and design flexibility, while also addressing some limitations of traditional welding in restricted or complex geometries. A parametric framework supported by finite element analysis is employed to investigate how variations in component geometry influence stress distribution and strain uniformity. The work underscores the potential of WAAM to advance structural connection design and supports its integration as a viable technique within modern structural engineering practice.
