Acta Scientiarum Polonorum. Architectura

Complex heat exchange in brake friction pairs

2024-03-27T10:53:50+00:00

In the article, the following issues are considered: general principles of complex heat transfer in friction pairs of brake devices; radiant heat exchange from the rough surfaces of the metal friction elements of the brakes; the combined action of the fields of thermal conductivity and radiation in the metal friction elements of the brakes. The role of the thermal and dynamic boundary layers resulting from air-washing of metal brakes with open friction pairs and their effect on cooling is discussed. A new relationship between the Biot and Nusselt criteria is shown, which is presented in the form of thermal resistances of the surface and near-surface layers of the brake pulley rim. A comparison of the combined action of the fields of thermal conductivity and radiation in the metal friction elements of the brakes showed that the radiation efficiency is 1.5–1.7 W·m^–2 times higher than the thermal conductivity. Radiation efficiency is the ratio of the power of the heat flux to the unit area through which the heat flux passes.

Development of advanced solar panel technologies in buildings – A review

2024-03-27T10:53:45+00:00

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.

Bridge management systems: an overview and comparison

2024-03-27T10:53:34+00:00

Bridges are one of the key elements of the transportation infrastructure of each country, and the reliability of the entire transportation network depends on their functioning. Maintaining bridges in proper technical condition is the main task of bridge management, for which more and more countries use bridge management systems (BMS). This study is devoted to comparing different BMS, reviewing the main functions and modules and determining the perspectives of development and implementation of the latest technologies in BMS. The analysed bridge management systems were compared by functions such as storage of bridge passport data, initial information on the bridge condition, assessment of the bridge condition, forecasting of the bridge condition and consideration of different maintenance strategies. Some systems are distinguished by the fact that they can predict future bridge condition, offer optimal maintenance strategies and take into account losses not only for the operation of structures, but also for transportation. Prospects for the development of BMS were also identified: the use of neural networks, the introduction of building information modelling (BIM) and the Internet of Things (IoT).

Visualisation in architecture – opportunities and threats

2024-07-04T09:35:13+00:00

Development of computer technology, computing power of graphics cards and processors allows, with the use of appropriate software, to create extremely realistic three-dimensional images. The effects of generated visualisations can be difficult to distinguish from real photos of objects. Architects often verify the fulfilment of design goals based on a rendered digital image. Unfortunately, designers are often not fully aware of the limitations and simplifications of the tools used to create visualisations. An uncritical approach to the presented results may lead to design errors. This article presents the possibilities of visualisation in selected computer programs used by architects and cases in which correct visualisation is possible only with the use of specialised software. The article pays special attention to the possibility of errors in the visualisation of architectural lighting.

Opportunities of building tall and green – an overview from a European perspective

2024-06-30T11:56:13+00:00

The purpose of the article is to answer the question of whether a tall building, throughout its entire life cycle, can be sustainable. A literature review and online searches were conducted in order to gather data on the impact of environmental trends on chosen aspects of tall European building design. The conducted analyses confirm the hypothesis that the European approach considers sustainable aspects and can be the basis for general guidelines for the construction of green tall buildings, ensuring that the tall building’s location, floor areas and heights are functionally justified. Despite the demanding climate conditions, high-rise buildings are designed using bioclimatic solutions and take the use of passive phenomena and a reduction in the operating time of mechanical systems into account. The necessary technical infrastructure uses highly efficient, energy-saving equipment and solutions. Obtaining energy from renewable sources is present in architectural solutions but not very popular – these technologies are still growing and gaining importance.

Common good in the urban context – insights from theoretical frameworks

2024-12-10T13:11:31+00:00

The objective of the study is to analyse the role of the concept of common good in the contemporary field of urban studies. Through an interdisciplinary literature review, the basic explanation of the concept or common good is presented with a focus on common good in the urban environment. This work examines how urban commons became significant in scientific and public debates, translatable into tangible projects. The research results prove the academic and policy discussions focus on urban commons both in theoretical and engaged implementation of experiments in local urban governance. The notion of common good in the urban context, applied in territorial governance practices as commons, has an expanded international geographical reach, popularised within theoretical and more empirical approaches. The findings reveal a correlation between the discourse on urban commons and the proliferation of thematic debates and models; grassroot projects, demonstrating varied impacts by local social, cultural and policy contexts. In conclusion to the study of consecutive contemporary theories, the need to provide accurate elaboration on an urban commoning framework can be stated. This is a gap to bridge for enabling practical sustainable applications.

Determining the coordinates of unmanned aerial vehicles

2024-12-03T10:58:57+00:00

The purpose of the work was to develop a method for determining unmanned aerial vehicles’ (UAVs) coordinates, trajectory and parameters of their spatial movements by means of kinematic projection. The paper analyses the use of technologies for determining coordinates and spatial movements of aircraft trajectories. The principle of the kinematic scheme of fixing moving objects by means of orthogonal and kinematic design has been developed. The principle scheme of determining UAV coordinates by kinematic projection was studied. The theoretical mathematical dependencies of the determination and calculations of the coordinates of spatial movements of unmanned aerial vehicles have been practically verified. The main object of research in this work was the theory of kinematic design as a means of graphically displaying the patterns of spatial movements of objects. The subject of the study was the specific features of searching and recording the trajectories of spatial movements of unmanned aerial vehicles in order to determine the coordinates of their instantaneous location in space. In the process of conducting theoretical and experimental research, methods and techniques of physical and mathematical modelling of fast-moving processes and mathematical statistics of analysis and classification of their results were used. The basis of the experimental study was the theory of mapping coordinates and trajectories of spatial movements of moving objects by means of graphic geometry when combining classical orthogonal design with dynamic features of kinematic design. For an objective assessment of the results of the theoretical and experimental study of the dynamics of objects moving in space, the classical theory of research planning with a mathematical apparatus for processing their results was used. Graphical models of UAV coordinate fixation were made with the use of computer technology and the AutoCAD graphic editor software.

Influence of microstructure size on temperature distribution in biperiodic composite

2024-08-30T15:32:24+00:00

In this work, the problem of heat conduction in a biperiodic composite consisting of two constituent materials was analysed. To average the discontinuous coefficients in the heat conduction equation, which arise from the heterogeneous structure, the technique of tolerance modelling was applied. The finite difference method was then used to solve the resulting system of equations and to determine the distribution of the unknowns. The finite difference method algorithm was implemented in Maple 2019 software. The main objective of the analysis was to investigate the influence of the composite’s microstructure size on the distribution of the unknowns, facilitated by the tolerance model equations derived through the tolerance modelling technique. The study demonstrated how the number of composite cells, and consequently the cell size, affects temperature values and their fluctuations under selected boundary conditions.

Hydraulic conductivity tensor of anisotropic soils: the impact on seepage flow

2024-03-27T10:53:38+00:00

Natural or artificial changes in soil stratigraphic-plane (i.e., the deposition of soil and sediments into distinct layers) orientation can cause variations in hydraulic conductivity in different direction. Hydraulic conductivity must, therefore, be considered – in this case – as a nondiagonal, full tensor to appropriately represent the effect of the orientation of soil stratigraphic planes on the seepage flow pattern. This paper introduces the derivation of the formula for the three-dimensional nondiagonal hydraulic conductivity full tensor calculation in terms of azimuth and vertical angles. Furthermore, two-dimensional numerical simulations of the seepage flow beneath a concrete dam are presented to demonstrate the need to account for the nondiagonal elements of the hydraulic conductivity tensor in anisotropic soils of varying degrees of stratigraphic tilt with respect to the coordinate system.

Fostering sustainable urban development: integrating school areas to support the city’s green-blue infrastructure

2024-03-27T10:53:52+00:00

The effects of the climate crisis disproportionately affect people living in densely populated urban areas, presenting a major challenge for the 21st century. Urban administrators face a significant challenge in implementing sustainable development goals into practice, especially within the constraints of the current infrastructure. This paper evaluates how school zones – characterised by a significant amount of biologically active areas – are integrated into the city’s infrastructure to support the multiple uses of natural resources that improve urban living standards. A comprehensive analysis of current legislation, a review of the scientific literature, and a case study of selected schoolyards and school campuses, and renovations of these types of sites over the past decade focus on the evolution of school grounds and the formulation of green spaces and green-blue infrastructure. The paper’s conclusions outline the possibilities embedded in the evolution of schoolyards in the pursuit of sustainable development functioning and a list of the potentialities of urban ecological initiatives.

Pre-design analyses of the mutual relationship and location of multi-family buildings using the example of the architectural and spatial concept at Długosza 22a in Warsaw

2024-03-27T10:53:40+00:00

When designing multi-family buildings on plots that have not yet been developed, an important element is their location and its careful preparation. Pre-design analyses allow for the simulation of various solutions in order to select the most advantageous location of individual volumes and accompanying spaces. Appropriate arrangement of architecture and other land development functions helps to meet a number of formal and legal requirements, but also provides an opportunity for effective and comfortable living in a future multi-family development. The aim of the study is to show the possibilities offered by pre-design analyses in terms of sunlight and the organisation of space between buildings. Another goal is to outline the benefits of performing such analyses. Thanks to them, it is possible to use compromise in design solutions when it turns out that individual variants of a building location have better or worse properties, or certain conditions are mutually exclusive. The results were presented in the form of variants, presenting various land development solutions and relating directly to the previously conducted analyses. The analyses presented in the article allow for precise formulation of conclusions, and their selection is justified by the possibility of transparent and graphical interpretation of the algorithms performed during design.

Transformational green sustainable concepts in the field of infrastructure

2024-03-27T10:53:42+00:00

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.

The cyclical nature of dualistic trends in urban design. Historical analysis of the creative attitudes of selected masters over the centuries

2024-03-27T10:53:47+00:00

In this article, the authors raise issues of dualistic solutions in urban design and city development. It should be noted at the outset that the very concept of duality is not obvious and is inherently ambiguous. The numerous definitions that exist are very general. We can distinguish several disciplines and scientific areas where the concept of dualism occurs or can appear. At the same time, the definition of each of these phenomena will be different, depending on the area in which it occurs. Hence, the authors have made a far-reaching reduction in the types of dualisms, narrowing the area of research to the creative attitudes of urban planners, philosophers of space, artists, and architects in historical terms. The aim of the search for dual features in spatial forms is to find the key to a better understanding of the laws governing urban planning and urbanisation processes. Verification of opposites and dual characteristics takes place on three levels: community, form, and function. The urban conditions that occur contribute to the creation of new qualities and new spatial forms, which help redefine the city and its development. The paper is based on the thesis that dualism is a permanent feature of spatial solutions (a recurring feature) across the spectrum of history.

The BREEAM, the LEED and the DGNB certifications as an aspect of sustainable development

2024-05-08T07:39:35+00:00

Some of the most significant problems of industrialised countries are increasing consumerism, the growing demand for more and more energy and other natural resources, and the depletion of non-renewable sources. The visible consequences are environmental pollution and global warming. To address these issues, there is growing pressure on the use of alternative energy sources, the use of natural resources and the introduction of new technologies. The use of multi-criteria building certification systems, which evaluate their performance, is becoming increasingly common in the building industry. The BREEAM, the LEED, and the DGNB are among the most popular methods for assessing sustainable architecture, and they project management tools. The main task of the article was to define and describe the impact of documents related to sustainable development certificates on contemporary design and living and working conditions, as well as to demonstrate the relationship between the quality of architecture and environmental protection. Another goal is to indicate how dynamically the number of certificates issued in Poland is increasing. The study used the necessary research methods: analysis and criticism of applicable documents and literature, as well as an intuitive method based on personal experience. The scope of the work includes a discussion of the most frequently obtained certificates: the BREEAM, the LEED, and the DGNB, the achievements of which prove the use of solutions conducive to sustainable development.

The strength of complex compressed reinforced concrete structures utilising hollow concrete blocks

2024-05-14T19:31:54+00:00

Structures in which elements from different materials work together are successfully used in various combinations. Recently, new, effective construction materials and products have appeared. In complex or multi-component structures, elements made of materials with different physico-chemical or strain-strength characteristics should be sensibly combined for joint work. The more fully the properties of the components’ materials are utilised, the more efficient the design itself is. By analysing global practice, it can be seen that small concrete blocks have become widespread. The use of masonry made of hollow concrete blocks in modern construction differs from traditional ones in that the void area (up to 70%) makes it possible to create complex high-strength load-bearing structures by filling them with monolithic reinforced concrete. This also enables speeding up the construction process itself and reducing the cost of work on the construction site. The purpose of the study was to examine the strength of centrally compressed columns composed of hollow blocks and concrete filling with different transverse and longitudinal reinforcements, as well as to improve their calculation methodology. Experimental studies of centrally compressed columns, with different percentages of reinforcement using hollow concrete blocks as permanent formwork, have been carried out. The article presents the results of the research on strength, but the results of the strain studies were not included in this work. The proposed method of calculating complex constructions can be applied in design practice. A good correlation was observed between the experimental results and the results of the analytical model.

The influence of excavation support construction on the settlement of adjacent structures

2024-06-26T09:25:09+00:00

The paper presents an examination of the subsoil settlement in the neighbourhood of a deep excavation with particular reference to the excavation support construction method. Analysis was carried out for a selected deep excavation with a residential building in the vicinity. The most used technologies were considered, i.e., sheet pile walls, soldier pile walls, bored pile walls, and diaphragm walls. A total of 14 wall variants were examined to investigate the differences that certain characteristics have on the surrounding area. The impact of excavation support was assessed for two anchorage level schemes, taking into account three excavation phases. On this basis, the settlement profile next to the excavation wall was determined, and the settlement of the adjacent building was calculated. A key factor identified was the trench wall support scheme. Furthermore, a strong correlation was found between the stiffness of the wall and the maximum settlement observed.

Promoting environmental sustainability in construction: exploring implemented solutions through case studies

2024-09-10T08:30:58+00:00

It is imperative to take pro-ecological actions that are beneficial to health, as well as adopt sustainable development practices in the face of the current environmental challenges facing humanity. It is crucial that environmental protection is implemented by all people on Earth, because the future is worrying – especially for what will be left for future generations. Green building solutions are being implemented worldwide, but not always in an appropriate manner. All green architecture integrates sustainable development and conservation, regardless of location. This article summarises and characterises the concept of the 6E (economic, energy-efficient, ecological, elastic, aesthetic, ergonomic) ecological building concept and the 3R (reduce, reuse, recycle) principle. It also presents an analysis of two ecological buildings in Poland. The first is a wooden building located in the village of Podgać, which serves as an example of combining modern design and ecology. It was built in harmony with nature and blends in with the natural environment of the forest. A half-timbered house in the village of Jarzębia Łąka is the second example where traditional construction, modern technical solutions and environmental protection come together. The presented project examples were examined in terms of ecological building principles and then compared with the 6E concept and the 3R principle. This paper presents a comprehensive study of two distinct eco-friendly building structures. The investigation covers technical characterisation, compliance with the 6E concept, comparison of ecological efficiency, and conclusions with recommendations. The Dom Baby Jagi [Baba Jaga House] in the village Podgać showcases a harmonious blend of simplicity, functionality, and economy, utilising wood with insulation for year-round habitation. It integrates renewable energy sources and rainwater harvesting, contributing to its ecological sustainability. Meanwhile, the half-timbered building in Jarzębia Łąka employs clay-straw bricks for construction, emphasising economic and environmental benefits with vapour-permeable walls and efficient insulation. Both structures exemplify ergonomic design, eco-friendly construction practices, and aesthetic integration with their natural surroundings. These findings underscore the importance of incorporating environmentally conscious solutions in modern architecture to address contemporary environmental challenges and promote sustainable development.

A comparative analysis of landfill practice between Poland and Indonesia

2024-12-12T15:39:42+00:00

This research addresses the global challenge of waste management (WM) by comparing landfill management practices in Poland (Radiowo landfill) and Indonesia (Kebon Kongok landfill) to define the differences in landfill WM systems and analyse the main challenges in implementing effective landfill management WM systems in Poland and Indonesia. The data was analysed by employing the rapid impact assessment matrix (RIAM). The analysis focused on three critical areas: gas management, leachate management and landfill reclamation. The results showed that the Polish landfill demonstrated high efficacy, particularly in leachate management with water quality impact (96), gas emissions control with methane extraction (96) and site reclamation for site restoration (96). For these purposes, the landfill uses advanced leachate treatment technologies and drainage systems. Conversely, Indonesian landfill practices show severe inefficiencies, with negative scores in almost all sectors. The lowest score was in leachate management with water quality impact (–48), gas emissions with air quality impact (–48) and site reclamation in community space development (–48). The study contributes to the sustainable waste management discourse, providing actionable insights for policymakers and environmental managers.

Landfill reclamation using the example of the municipal waste disposal plant in Puławy – a case study

2024-12-20T19:12:51+00:00

Landfilling remains a dominant method of waste disposal worldwide, largely due to inadequate waste management frameworks, despite efforts to promote recycling and reuse. As populations and consumption levels grow, waste generation continues to increase, highlighting the need for effective waste management solutions. Landfills are sites where waste undergoes various physical, chemical and biological transformations, making the implementation of safety measures, leachate collection and gas recovery systems critical. This article presents a case study of the reclamation of the Puławy municipal landfill, which has been in operation since 1998. The reclamation process involved extensive steps such as forming the landfill body, securing the slopes, constructing a degassing layer, implementing a sealing layer and applying a cover layer. These measures were crucial in mitigating the negative environmental impact of the landfill, reducing harmful emissions and improving local groundwater quality. The results of the Puławy municipal landfill reclamation include reductions in leachate and gas emissions, improvements in air/groundwater quality and the transformation of the site into a green space that provides recreational opportunities for the community. This reclamation project serves as a model of responsible waste management and community involvement, demonstrating how degraded landfills can be transformed into valuable public resources. The article also discusses the broader implications of landfill reclamation, noting both the positive and negative aspects. Benefits include environmental protection, resource recovery, enhanced biodiversity and improved quality of life for local communities. However, challenges such as the long-term monitoring and maintenance of reclaimed sites and the financial costs associated with reclamation efforts are also considered. This study also underscores the importance of landfill reclamation in the process of shaping and promoting environmental sustainability, as well as addressing modern waste management challenges.

Integrating building information modelling (BIM) into construction: innovations, challenges, and global perspectives

2024-12-12T15:39:40+00:00

The contemporary construction industry is undergoing transformative changes driven by pervasive digitalisation, with building information modelling (BIM) emerging as a pivotal innovation. This paper explores the imperative of incorporating BIM into every new construction project, emphasising its potential to enhance collaboration, streamline processes, and foster innovation. Through a comprehensive analysis of BIM’s application in Poland and globally, the review of current literature assesses various software tools and compares BIM methodologies with traditional construction practices. The paper also identifies opportunities and challenges associated with integrating emerging technologies in the construction sector. The findings emphasise the necessity of adopting BIM to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance project outcomes. BIM technology has undeniably become an elementary component of the process of creating and managing information about a construction project throughout its life cycle, used in architecture, engineering, and construction management.

The main strength material parameters of deformable cement adhesives

2024-06-11T05:56:21+00:00

The deformable cement adhesives types C2S1 and C2S2 are usually used to glue ceramic slabs onto so-called critical substrates (other than concrete), including under changing weather conditions. The declared strengths of these adhesives attached to substrates can be found in the manufacturer’s standards and declarations. The use of cement adhesives on surfaces other than concrete or in other applications, such as a lightweight heated floor system (LHFS), should meet safety standards. To determine this, basic strength parameters for deformable adhesives, which have not been specified until now, need to be set. For this purpose, many analyses were performed, such as tensile and compressive strength tests, as well as the measurement of displacements in the thermal chamber, using, for example, digital image correlation and extensometric techniques. It was possible to define the main strength parameters of deformable adhesives, such as Young’s modulus (E), Poisson’s ratio (ν) and linear thermal expansion coefficient (α). These multiple measuring techniques were able to authenticate the obtained results, determining the maximum compressive strength of deformable adhesives, as well as longitudinal and transverse deformations. The research material parameters E, ν and α can be used for the calculation of LHFS with a heating coil, as well as for other building partitions or on critical substrates (different from concrete), using some of the many numerical methods available.

An analysis of the suppression of a pair of odd and even temperature fluctuation in an area occupied by a two-phase one-directional periodically layered composite

2024-05-17T19:13:45+00:00

The study concerns a heat conduction problem in a two-phase, one-directional periodically layered composite (commonly referred to as a laminate). The model is strictly related to considerations regarding continuous media and was introduced by Professor Czesław Woźniak. The basis for the study is a re-formulation of the heat conduction model for composites, referred to in the literature as the extended tolerance heat conduction model. The model equations consider coefficients responsible for the intensity of exponential and rotational suppression of boundary fluctuations of a temperature field in a limited area or in a half-space occupied by the composite. The study investigated the dependence of the suppression intensity of boundary fluctuations on the geometrical and material properties of the composite. Three special cases of pairs of interacting boundary fluctuations were analysed.

A comparison of professional liability of architects in Poland and Sweden

2024-06-02T06:49:20+00:00

In Poland, the title of architect is a regulated profession, and many parameters must be met in order to obtain a construction license in the architectural specialty. On the other side of the Baltic Sea, in Sweden, where being an architect is also a regulated profession, the responsibility of this profession presents itself differently. The comparison of Poland and Sweden in terms of architectural professional liability aims to analyse how the architectural design process can influence the quality of architecture and the relationship between the architect and investor. By analysing these relations, one can observe the tendencies in architectural styles and the cost of building. The comparison of these two countries is based on the analysis of granting the architectural title and the required education. Another important factor in the comparison is the matter of liability. In Poland, an architect has civil responsibility, while in Sweden, an architect does not. The fact that the same architect works throughout all phases of the project in Poland allows for better implementation of the designer’s assumptions. In contrast, in Sweden, where phases of the project circulate between different architects, the creator of the concept has marginalised control over the end result. These differences have a big impact on the quality of architecture in general.

Increasing the durability of large-calibre cannon barrels through strengthening them by surface plastic deformation

2024-09-13T12:02:20+00:00

The paper presents a technology for strengthening the internal surface of the bore of cannon and tank barrels through surface plastic deformation. It is recommended to carry out the strengthening treatment in two stages: firstly, ball peening of the inner working surface of the barrel with hardened steel balls; secondly, application of a heat-resistant hard alloy coating using deforming bodies made of the VK6 alloy. It was established that as a result of this strengthening treatment, residual compressive stresses are formed in the near-surface layer of the bore material, its surface microhardness increases, and the resistance of the metal in the working surface of the barrel against burnout and cracking improves. Overall, the resistance of the barrel material to wear during cannon shots increases. A design of the strengthening device for this treatment has been developed. It consists of a cylindrical hardener with deforming bodies, an electric drive motor and a torque transmission mechanism from the motor shaft to the hardener. During the strengthening treatment, the device is moved along the channel of the cannon barrel, allowing the hardener to roll over the processed inner surface of the barrel and peen its material. The provided strengthening thickness is 0.15–0.20 mm, while the thickness of the applied hard alloy coating is up to a 100 μm.

Laboratory studies on the effects of oil pollution on soil properties

2024-08-20T09:25:00+00:00

Soil pollution is one of the world’s most debated and widespread environmental issues. In particular, oil spills pose a significant global threat, with an environmental impact only slightly below that of radioactive contamination. This study conducted laboratory tests on the granulometric composition and consistency limits of soil samples artificially contaminated with engine oils. Three different types of engine oils were added to the soils in proportions of: 2.5%, 5% and 10% by dry weight of the soil sample, respectively. The trends in changes of the parameters determined due to pollution were evaluated. The study included a comparative analysis of the results of studies on the parameters of polluted soils carried out in Polish and foreign scientific centres. For silty sand (siSa), the content of the clay fraction decreased from an initial 7% to a range of 1–3%. For clayey sand (clSa), the content of the clay fraction decreased from 13% to a range of 1–7%. The plastic limit (PL) was 13.24% for siSa and 16.42% for clSa. The tested soils contaminated with engine oil were classified as non-plastic. The liquid limit (LL) for siSa and clSa was around 21%. The LL of siSa decreased from 21% to 15% due to contact with all types of engine oils. For clSa, the LL decreased to a range of 10–14%, depending on the type of engine oil. The results of this study highlight the engineering importance of understanding soil behaviour under oil contamination, which is crucial for assessing the stability and safety of structures in contaminated areas and for designing effective remediation strategies.

The impact of BIM and GIS on the efficiency of implementing construction projects

2024-08-09T07:40:24+00:00

The integration of building information modelling (BIM) and geographic information systems (GIS) plays a key role in modern civil engineering, improving the efficiency of construction project execution. This article focuses on specific aspects of this integration, such as spatial and engineering data management, spatial analysis, and optimisation of construction processes. Using the example of the Central Communication Port (Centralny Port Komunikacyjny – CPK) in Poland, it illustrates how BIM enables detailed digital representations of the physical characteristics of construction projects, supporting planning and management, while GIS provides tools for advanced spatial and environmental analyses. The integration of both technologies allows for precise representation of the spatial context, enhances resource management, reduces construction costs and risks, and supports interdisciplinary collaboration at various stages of the project. The article also discusses challenges, such as the lack of standardised data exchange procedures and the need for specialised training essential to acquire knowledge enabling full use the potential of BIM and GIS. The aim of the work is to analyse the impact of BIM and GIS integration on construction project management, with particular emphasis on data management processes and spatial analyses.

Environmental and architectural aspects of wooden construction: a comparative analysis of selected issues of single-family housing in Poland and Portugal n Poland and Portugal

2024-07-12T11:19:49+00:00

In the second half of the 20th century, it seemed that wooden architecture would be replaced by other, increasingly used technologies. Wood was primarily used in hybrid systems, rather than as the dominant construction and finishing material. However, the turn of the 20th and 21st centuries reversed this trend. There is now a growing interest in wooden structures and finishes. Wood is becoming a “fashionable” material. This shift is influenced by new technologies that provide innovative construction possibilities, as well as by new methods of protecting wood. Wood is a renewable, ecological material with a small built-in carbon footprint, making it easy to recycle and suitable for a circular economy. The aim of the study is to compare the features of wooden single-family houses in Poland and Portugal. The methods necessary for this purpose were employed: critical analysis, observation without intervention and case studies to compare contemporary architectural trends. The results of research on current trends in shaping wooden single-family architecture allowed for drawing conclusions regarding formal, functional and pro-environmental solutions.

Quantitative assessment of hydrological efficiency of rain garden design in the context of managing the volume and quality of storm effluent

2024-09-25T08:15:43+00:00

Rain gardens are a popular element of green infrastructure, often integrated into the sponge city concept to address stormwater management issues. Such structures perform three main functions: reducing the volume of water runoff from the catchment area, reducing peak flows in the drainage system, which is critical for preventing overloading of the sewer network, and improving water quality, which contributes to the preservation of groundwater. The design of rain gardens is based on specific requirements and characteristics that determine their construction and calculation methods to achieve optimal parameters, such as area and depth. Scientometric analysis shows that significant research contributions are made by different countries, but most existing rain garden systems are based on general recommendations, which can lead to problems in their operation. The purpose of the work is to develop a model for calculating the main parameters of rain gardens and methods for assessing their hydrological efficiency in order to improve their implementation in the urban environment. A numerical model for calculating the effective area of a rain garden is presented, which considers one rain event and excludes overflow. Methods are proposed for evaluating three key functions of rain gardens in the context of stormwater management: a method for determining runoff reduction, a method for estimating annual runoff reduction, a method for peak runoff reduction, and a method for estimating total pollutant reduction.

Seepage analysis of the Mamak Dam, Indonesia: a case study

2024-09-13T11:12:50+00:00

In general, the current performance evaluation of the Mamak Dam falls into the “fairly good” category, even in the aftermath of the earthquake event with a magnitude of 6.5 Mw in 2018. However, the presence of leakage on the downstream slope has become an issue that requires attention. This study analyses seepage using GeoStudio and Slide Rocscience software. The seepage rates obtained from instrument readings exceed those calculated by the GeoStudio and Slide Rocscience software. All the obtained seepage rate results do not surpass the maximum allowable seepage rate requirements. The most critical gradients are from flood water level cases in Saddle Dam-1 and Saddle Dam-2. They reached values of 0.35 and 0.34, which fall below the maximum hydraulic gradient.

Peculiarities of functional and planning organisation of university libraries

2024-09-03T10:05:15+00:00

A university library is something in which complex organisational processes take place, various functional areas are intertwined, and separate movement schedules coexist. If the library’s physical space does not provide appropriate conditions for individual and group work, quick and free access to information resources, or the possibility of using computers and copying equipment, such a library will be infrequently visited. All this determines the specifics of the library’s internal space organisation. To ascertain this, one needs to rethink its planning structure from the standpoint of possible functional development. That is why the essay’s objective is to highlight the main functional and planning elements of a modern library, the presence or absence of which directly affects the quality of its functioning.