Copper slag (CS) was considered a major by-product produced from the copper refining industry, which estimates about 2.2 to 3 tons generated during the production of every one ton of copper. At the same time, continuous dumping and improper disposal of this byproduct have led to serious environmental problems, especially due to the leaching of heavy metals into soil and water. This review carefully studies the potential of CS as a sustainable construction material through a clear distinction of its performance, especially when used as a fine aggregate and as a supplementary cementitious material (SCM). Due to the presence of higher content of iron and silica, higher hardness, and very low water absorption, it was found that CS helps in improving the density and durability of concrete. When used as a fine aggregate, CS enhances workability, strength, and durability at an optimum level of about 40%, mainly due to better particle packing and reduced pore connectivity. On the other hand, when used as an SCM, CS contributes to long-term strength through pozzolanic reactions and the formation of C–S–H gel, but its replacement level should be limited to about 20% to avoid loss of early-age strength caused by reduced alkalinity. In terms of durability, the use of CS can reduce water absorption by up to 60%, lower chloride penetration, and improve resistance to sulfate attack. Environmental Life Cycle Assessment studies show that CS can reduce global warming potential by about 12–19% and also decrease overall energy consumption. Statistical validation using multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) and separate regression modeling with an R2 value of about 0.965, which supports these optimum replacement levels up to 40% for fine aggregate and 20% for cement, providing a good balance between strength, durability, environmental benefits, and cost. Overall, this review shows that CS is a valuable and multi-functional material that supports circular economy practices when used with a proper mix design based on specific applications.
Construction industry is a major contributor to global energy consumption and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, accounting for nearly 40% of the total. This review explores the role of energy-efficient buildings in mitigating environmental impact, conserving resources and improving occupant well-being. It highlights sustainable design strategies, including passive and active systems, advanced insulation and renewable energy integration, to minimise energy use. The study also examines innovative materials such as green roofs, phase-change materials and recycled components to reduce embodied energy (EE). Global case studies demonstrate the transformative potential of energy-efficient buildings in enhancing urban sustainability and resilience. Additionally, economic and social benefits such as lower operational costs, improved indoor environments and increased property value are discussed. Despite challenges like high initial costs and technological complexities, energy-efficient buildings play a crucial role in achieving global sustainability goals.
Developing a new type of building material is essential for reducing the carbon footprint of cement in sustainable concrete. This study aims to investigate Ferrock, synthesized from industrial waste, as a partial replacement for cement in concrete. Ferrock was incorporated at dosage levels of 10–50
Despite the commercialization of several promising technologies for removing organic contaminants from wastewater, industries still face challenges in removing both the organic and heavy metals. In this research, PVDF is combined with biopolymer chitosan (CS) and polyaniline (PANi), a conducting polymer known for its nitrogen-containing functional groups, which bind to heavy metal ions. It was observed that the addition of CS and PANi has altered the roughness of PVDF due to hydrophilic nature of CS and PANi allowing the membrane to trap more water, thereby aiding it in the removal of heavy metals. The permeate flux and sulfamethazine removal showed that the membrane modified with CS & PANi showed a better removal, exhibiting a lesser fouling characteristic when compared with the pure PVDF membrane. Moreover, from Hermia's model, we were able to evaluate membrane effectiveness, and it was observed that the complete pore-blocking model aligns more closely with the experimental data compared to the other models examined. The heavy metal removal studies proved that almost 95 % of heavy metals (lead and cadmium) were removed from the bulk solution in the CS, PANi modified PVDF membrane with higher PANi concentration, whereas for pure PVDF membrane, less than 15 % has been achieved. This research aims to offer a more effective solution for wastewater treatment by targeting heavy metal contamination, contributing to cleaner water and environmental sustainability.
Weak clayey soils in construction are considered problematic due to their high compressibility and low bearing capacity. This study proposes an environmentally friendly replacement for conventional soil stabilizers through the use of geopolymer (GP) containing Cashew Nut Shell Ash (CNSA) to improve soil characteristics. In this study, the CNSAGP was compared with lime-stabilized soil for unconfined compressive strength (UCS), durability, and improved microstructure. The experimental outcomes showed that 9 M + CNSAGP with 4% CNSA provided a UCS of 1900 kPa, which was higher than the lime-stabilized soil (6% lime with 4% CNSA) at 1400 kPa. Durability test results revealed that the CNSAGP-treated sample had better protection against water damage with a strength loss of about 18%, while the lime-treated sample had a strength loss of about 25%. Thermal stability analysis showed that CNSAGP had lower LOI values compared to lime-stabilized samples (0.17% at 900 °C), which indicates CNSAGP’s heat resistance. Microstructure analysis revealed that CNSAGP-stabilized soil was less porous, the microstructure being denser because of reactions of aluminosilicate and pozzolanic activity. Moreover, it affected the soil’s alkalinity, making it better, and improved Atterberg limits, which affected the plasticity and workability. These findings show that CNSAGP is a long-lasting and eco-friendly means of soil stabilization with higher strength, thermal stability, and durability than traditional methods and can be used in engineering.
In recent years, the global energy landscape has been undergoing a significant transformation, with renewable energy sources gaining prominence. Among these, solar energy has emerged as a leading ‘green energy’ option, particularly in India, which is at the forefront of this renewable energy revolution. This article focuses on the increasing relevance of solar energy, underlined by the widespread adoption of solar power in various sectors, including residential, commercial, and industrial. The centrepiece of this solar energy boom is the solar panel, primarily installed on commercial buildings, which harnesses solar energy and converts it into electrical power. These panels are composed of a network of solar cells, each crafted from layers of silicon, phosphorous, and boron, meticulously arranged to optimise energy absorption and conversion. The paper delves into the technological progress in the field of solar panel systems, emphasising their growing integration in different types of buildings. It discusses how these advancements not only enhance energy efficiency but also contribute significantly to the development of a more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy future. The article presents a comprehensive overview of the current state of solar panel technology and its potential implications for shaping a greener energy landscape.
In recent years, civil engineering has increasingly embraced communication tools for automation, with sensors playing a pivotal role, especially in structural health monitoring (SHM). These sensors enable precise data acquisition, measuring parameters like force, displacement, and temperature and transmit data for timely interventions to prevent failures. This approach reduces reliance on manual inspections, offering more accurate outcomes. This review explores various sensor technologies in SHM, such as piezoelectric, fibre optic, force, MEMS devices, GPS, LVDT, electromechanical impedance techniques, Doppler effect, and piezoceramic sensors, focusing on advancements from 2019 to 2024. A bibliometric analysis of 1468 research articles from WOS and Scopus databases shows a significant increase in publications, from 15 in 2019 to 359 in 2023 and 52 in 2024 (and still counting). This analysis identifies emerging trends and applications in smart sensor integration in civil and structural health monitoring, enhancing safety and efficiency in infrastructure management.
Green cement concrete is an environmentally friendly variant of concrete manufactured using industrial waste. This sort of concrete has the potential to have a lower environmental impact than traditional concrete production while also providing a more durable and cost-effective alternative. This article offers experimental work on using industrial waste in green cement concrete, which is advantageous because it minimizes the amount of garbage transported to landfills along with dry geopolymer. According to this study's findings, industrial waste can lower production costs because it is typically less expensive than traditional resources and the amount of energy required to manufacture concrete because it is often lighter than conventional materials. Dry geopolymer is a substance formed from silica, alumina, and calcium. Because of its excellent resistance to water and other factors, this material is ideal for use in green cement concrete. Furthermore, dry geopolymer green concrete is lighter than regular concrete, lowering the energy required to manufacture the concrete. Green cement concrete made from industrial waste and dry geopolymer is an excellent way to reduce the environmental impact of traditional concrete production. It is also more durable and less expensive than typical concrete, making it a perfect solution for various construction applications.
In this comprehensive study, we explore the multifaceted world of green sustainable construction, highlighting innovative techniques and materials. This article presents an insightful exploration of green sustainable construction, focusing on the crucial aspects of architectural design, judicious material selection, and the adoption of optimal structural designs. Through comprehensive literature research supplemented by practical examples, it highlights several innovative construction methodologies that are at the forefront of green sustainable development. These include the use of lightweight framing, cladding systems, autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC), rammed earth, and straw bale construction, each contributing uniquely to environmental sustainability. The study brings to light the looming issue of raw material scarcity due to excessive exploitation, urging for sustainable material management in construction. It stresses the urgency of implementing effective pollution control measures within the construction sector, asserting that such practices are not just beneficial but essential for environmental conservation and sustainable development. This research contributes significantly to the field by providing a foundation for future exploration and advancements in sustainable construction practices.
This study’s main objective was to assess a newly built magnetorheological hammer for use in core and ultrasonic probe velocimetry (UPV) testing to determine the compressive strength of RC. By reusing or recycling existing materials, reinforced concrete has been found to reduce building costs and have a smaller negative impact on the environment. On the other hand, well-established techniques for determining material strength without breaking it include magnetorheological hammer and core testing. This study set out to determine the compressive strength of RC using the suggested methodology and compare the results to those attained using 150 mm core specimens. To do this, three different types of concrete were created. The OPC, river sand, and natural aggregate (crushed granite) were used to make concrete. These concrete mixtures, which contained aggregates no larger than 20 mm, were poured in order to evaluate a newly designed magnetorheological design using UPV, core, and hammer methods. Using this multi-faceted strategy, correlations between UPV, core testing, and magnetorheological (MR) hammer were also obtained. These results are more encouraging than those from the rebound hammer test, which showed that it was impossible to anticipate with any degree of accuracy the compressive strength of the RC.
Currently, the building industry is focusing on the requirement for high energy utilization. It is critical to optimize energy use by utilizing renewable resources. The use of phase-change materials in thermal energy storage systems is gaining popularity in passive applications for green buildings due to their innovative approach. The proposed work focuses on the incorporation of MWCNT additive sodium poly acrylate as PCM materials into the walls, panels, and roofs of passive structures, as well as the assessment of optimal energy consumption in green buildings via indoor environmental quality (IEQ). A novel framework was developed using the response surface method and the hill climbing technique to identify the most efficient use of energy output, charging time, and heat transfer rate based on the input phase such as input air condition temperature (25–28 °C), air conditioner flow rate (100–600 cfm) and relative humidity (35–55
Over the last few decades, there has been a significant awareness established to accept the idea of biotechnology in the field of construction. This growth in awareness has occurred tremendously. In today's world, the development of new building materials and processes that make use of biobased components, such as microorganisms and materials that are mediated by microbes, is an example of developing scientific technology. In general, building materials that are produced through the use of biotechnology, such as cement and grout, are seen as being environmentally benign, affordable, and sustainable. In contrast to traditional cementitious materials, bio-based cementitious materials has the potential to considerably contribute to a large role in reducing the negative impact that the building sector has on the surrounding environment. The purpose of this review work is to present a contemporary evaluation of biotechnology and biobased materials to assess existing developments and suggest new prospective routes for the advancement of construction biotechnology. Based on this study, it was observed that the inclusion of biotechnology can significantly increase the engineering behaviour of cement concrete and weak foundation soil. Hence, its was recommened to implement the idea of biotechnology as effectively in the building industry to obtain the major environmental and economic benefits it offers.
In the present work, a novel coordination polymer {[Cu(phen)(Tmdipy)(NO3)H2O](NO3) 2.5(H2O)}n (phen = 1,10-phenanthroline, Tmdipy = 4,4′- Trimethylenedipyridine), has been prepared and structurally determined by elemental analysis, IR, EPR, UV–visible and single-crystal X-ray crystallography. The complex crystallized in triclinic space group P -1, and the copper(II) shows a distorted octahedral geometry, with Jahn-Teller distortion occurring in the (4 + 2) CuN4O2 coordination sphere. The crystal structure evidences that the CP1 is formed of dinuclear [Cu(phen)(Tmdipy)(NO3)(H2O)]2 units weakly connected by nitrate anions giving rise to 1D polymeric chain structure. EPR measurement confirms about the distorted octahedral geometry of the complex. By using UV–Vis absorption, fluorescence spectroscopy, and cyclic voltammetric techniques, the binding studies of copper(II) complex with calf thymus DNA (CT-DNA) were investigated. Additionally, the gel electrophoresis method was used to examine the cleavage of pBR322 DNA by copper(II) complex and exhibited potent cytotoxic effects against human cell line (HepG2). Finally, magnetic properties, molecular docking studies and photoluminescence characteristics have been evaluated.
AbstractThis study comprehensively compares dynamic and static forces in reinforced concrete (RC) beams, utilising experimental and finite element analysis (FEA) methodologies. Experimental tests involve monotonic two-point loading of 1 m x 150 mm x 150 mm RC beams using a universal testing machine (UTM). Deflection measurements are taken at three distinct locations (S1–S3) using various sensors, including force resisting sensor (FRS), flex sensor (FLS), MEMS accelerometer, and Piezoelectric sensors. The experimental data is then compared with FEA results obtained through ANSYS 16.0 software. Additionally, dynamic analysis is conducted, and results are presented in 3D graphical format. Mode shapes and harmonic responses are analysed. The study further discusses the sensor outcomes that align closely with FEA results. Overall, this research provides valuable insights into the dynamic and static behaviour of RC beams and offers a robust validation approach through experimental and computational analyses.
Durability is one of the primary factors influencing the serviceability of a concrete structure. Out of which, the control of water penetration in concrete has become a challenge in the field of civil engineering. To increase the durability of concrete, numerous techniques have been developed to prevent water from penetrating it. In this study, nanotechnology has been utilized to determine the various possibilities of incorporating an additive into cement in order to produce a ready-mixed cement concrete that reduces water penetration once it has solidified. At various ages of concrete, various strength and durability-related physical parameters were evaluated. (i.e., three days, seven days, and twenty-eight days) with various proportions of additives, admixture, cement, FA, and CA. The efficacy of a reduction in water penetration using Nitobond SBR Latex monomer in concrete has been determined by plotting the test results on graphs. Comparing the concrete to conventional, OPC cement concrete allowed researchers to examine the efficiency and necessity of curing. The graphical representation of strength for both conventional concrete and waterproofed cement concrete reveals that the cube with 1.25
In the present work, a new ID polymeric Copper(II) coordination compound [Cu(bpy)(tridipy)(NO3)H2O]·NO3n has been synthesized using a bpy = 2,2′-bipyridine, tridipy = 4,4′- Trimethylenedipyridine) and it has been structurally characterized by elemental analysis, infrared (IR) spectroscopy, electronic paramagnetic resonance (EPR), ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy and X-ray crystallography. The compound was crystallized in a monoclinic system with space group P 21/n, a = 16.1662(8) Å, b = 16.2604(8) Å, c = 19.1248(9) Å, α = 90°, β = 104.342(2) ° and γ = 90°. Single crystal X-ray structural characterization has revealed the distorted octahedral geometry of the metallic centers and a zipper like polymer structure. The geometry optimization of the title compound was carried using Density Functional Theory. Quantum theory of atoms in molecules (QTAIM) approach was applied to study the nature of interactions between the ligand and metal ion in the studied compound. By using UV-Vis absorption, fluorescence spectroscopy, and cyclic voltammetric techniques, the binding studies of Copper(II) compound with calf thymus DNA (CT-DNA) were investigated. Additionally, the method of gel electrophoresis was used to examine the cleavage of pBR322 DNA by coordination compound.
Globally, solar energy has become a major contributor to the rapid adoption of renewable energy. Significant energy savings have resulted from the widespread utilization of solar energy in the industrial, residential, and commercial divisions. This review article comprises research conducted over the past 15 years (2008–2023), utilizing a comprehensive collection of 163 references. Significantly, a considerable focus is directed towards the period from 2020 to 2023, encompassing an extensive investigation into the latest developments in solar panel technology in civil engineering. The article examines the incorporation of solar panels into building designs and addresses installation-related structural considerations. In addition, the present review examines the applications of solar panels in terms of innovative infrastructure development applications of solar panels, such as photovoltaic parking lot canopies and photovoltaic noise barriers, which contribute to improved energy efficiency. It also emphasizes their role in water management systems, including water treatment plants, water pumping and irrigation systems, energy-efficient solar desalination technologies, and promoting sustainable water practices. In addition, this study examines how solar panels have been incorporated into urban planning, including smart cities and public parks, thereby transforming urban landscapes into greener alternatives. This study also examined the use of solar panels in building materials, such as façade systems and solar-powered building envelope solutions, demonstrating their versatility in the construction industry. This review explores the diverse applications of solar energy, which promotes sustainable practices in various industries. Owing to the ongoing research, solar energy holds great promise for a greener and cleaner future.
Sending alerts or warnings about ground tremors is known as an earthquake early warning system (EEWS). It is issued after the earthquake has already started to cause observable ground motion, setting it apart from the forecast. The interval between detection and the moment a user feels ground motion is known as the available warning time. Therefore, the potential warning window can be anywhere between seconds and minutes. Similarly to this, users must be able to act quickly because only seconds to minutes are available to collect, interpret, and transmit seismological data and warning signals. By reviewing previously published, high--quality literature, the review article offers clear insight into EEWSs and how they operate. This will support researchers in understanding the current technologies used to send signals to save lives from earthquakes at the appropriate time. The effects of earthquakes and how they have been tracked using EEWSs are also covered in the article.
In geotechnical engineering, soils that can shrink and swell quickly are always thought to be more sensitive than other types of soil. Most of the research on how to improve the engineering behaviour of expansive soil and make it more stable has already been done. The main goal of the project is to find a better way to treat large amounts of expansive soil with low-cost material and to analyse the modification of engineering properties of soil such as compressive strength and Atterberg limit. In this study, lab results on soils with a lot of space that were treated with cheap ingredients like lime and palm kernel ash are used. This study looks at the results of the unconfined compression test (UCC), liquid limit, plastic limit, shrinkage limit, and plasticity index for expansive clays mixed with different amounts of lime and palm kernel ash. Based on the result, it was found that the addition of 5% lime with 0.25% of PKA increased the UC strength of soil from 1418.17 kN/m 2 to 1537.97 kN/m 2 at 28 days of curing. Similarly, due to increase in the percentage of palm kernel ash with lime treatment has decreased the rate of atterberg limit except for the plastic limit. In the case of plastic limit, the addition of 0.25% of palm kernel ash was recommended. Finally, it was concluded that the addition of palm kernel ash with lime was advisable for minor soil stabilization work.