Artículos (Estructuras de Edificación e Ingeniería del Terreno)

URI permanente para esta colecciónhttps://hdl.handle.net/11441/24701

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Optimized workflow for high-resolution urban microclimate modeling
(MDPI, 2025) Díaz-Borrego Algaba, Julia; Escandón Ramírez, Rocío; Alonso Carrillo, Alicia; Estructuras de Edificación e Ingeniería del Terreno; Construcciones Arquitectónicas I
Modeling urban microclimates is essential for assessing thermal comfort and the urban heat island (UHI) effect, particularly in the context of climate change. The UHI intensifies thermal discomfort, increases energy demand, and exacerbates health risks during extreme heat events. Accurate urban modeling is crucial for evaluating microclimatic conditions and developing effective mitigation strategies. However, traditional 3D modeling approaches often lack the efficiency and precision required to capture complex urban morphologies and integrating key environmental elements such as vegetation. This study presents an optimized workflow for large-scale 3D urban modeling that combines open-source geospatial data with programming and parametrisation tools to enhance the accuracy and scalability of urban studies. The methodology applied in Seville comprises data acquisition, processing, and modeling to produce a high-resolution urban environment model. Using Grasshopper and the ShrimpGIS plugin, spatial datasets of buildings and urban vegetation are processed to create a high-fidelity model. The resulting model is structured for integration into environmental analysis tools such as Ladybug Tools. This integration enables the direct assessment of design choices and morphological relationships for climate resilience, facilitating a detailed evaluation of urban microclimates and climate adaptation strategies. This approach provides urban planners and researchers with a replicable, efficient methodology to support evidence-based decisions for climate-responsive urban development.
Experimental characterization of Mode I fracture toughness of the undisturbed Guadalquivir Blue Marl: Effect of suction
(Elsevier, 2023-12) Olivares Rodríguez, Pablo; Aranda Romero, María Teresa; Vázquez-Boza, Manuel; Durand Neyra, Percy; Reinoso Cuevas, José Antonio; Estructuras de Edificación e Ingeniería del Terreno; Mecánica de Medios Continuos y Teoría de Estructuras; Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (MICIN). España; Junta de Andalucía; Universidad de Sevilla
Fracture Mechanics is an extensively developed discipline for a wide range of materials used in scientific and engineering applications. However, the thorough understanding and characterization of fracture phenomena in many soil and rock-type materials are still under development. This work aims to characterize the suctiondependent fracture response in undisturbed clay soils, which will lead to identifying a ductile–brittle behavior threshold. The undisturbed condition will provide information on the behavior of the soil in its natural state. For this purpose, a new experimental procedure is presented in order to obtain a closed-form relationship between mode I fracture toughness (𝐾Ic) and a suction range (𝛹) for the Guadalquivir blue marl. In order to achieve this objective, an experimental campaign was carried out using a series of semi-circular specimens subjected to the three-point bending test with different suctions. The corresponding loading–displacement curves from the tests are qualitatively analyzed to identify the fracture response of this material, and the linear regression technique is used to finally obtain the desired relationship. Current results show that an increasing value of suction increases both the maximum load and the stiffness, yielding a more brittle behavior associated with an increase in 𝐾Ic. Finally, an alternative expression for the determination 𝐾Ic with respect to that proposed by Kuruppu and coauthors (Kuruppu et al., 2013) is presented, which involves the explicit inclusion of the suction variable for the more brittle behavior, limited by the threshold found. This provides a new perspective on how moisture content affects the fracture mechanics of clays
Seismic performance of a masonry tower under non-linear methods
(Elsevier, 2025) Romero-Sanchez, Emilio; Requena García de la Cruz, María Victoria; Morales Esteban, Antonio; Estructuras de Edificación e Ingeniería del Terreno
Masonry towers were usually designed by only considering the gravitational loading and without seismic design criteria. They are generally characterised by a slender geometry, which makes them highly vulnerable to horizontal loading. Hence, assessing their seismic performance is particularly important in earthquake-prone regions, such as the Iberian Peninsula, to properly preserve them. Given that, this paper aims to analyse the failure and the damage expected under different seismic loadings of the Giralda tower. The building is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in southern Spain in a region of a moderate seismic hazard. A detailed 3D finite element model of the tower has been developed based on the macro-mechanical approach. As a novelty, the numerical model calibration has been completed by means of a sensitivity analysis performed on the constitutive laws of masonry walls and their strength criteria at panel scale. Real ground motions have been used and scaled considering the code response spectrum and different return periods. The seismic safety of the tower has been carried out considering the performance-based method and the drifts limits. The results showed significant differences in the location of the damage depending on the type of analysis conducted. Static analyses show that the damage will be concentrated at the shaft of the tower whereas dynamic ones have shown that the upper body of the tower will present greater damage. Particularly, for a return period of 975 years, the upper bodies of the tower could collapse.
Finite Element Modelling Approaches for Assessing Column Stability in Heritage Structures: a Case Study of the Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba
(MDPI, 2025) Requena García de la Cruz, María Victoria; Gómez Sánchez, José Carlos; González de León, Isabel; Morales Esteban, Antonio; Estructuras de Edificación e Ingeniería del Terreno
This study has investigated the structural and seismic performance of monolithic stone columns in the historical Mosque–Cathedral of Córdoba, with a focus on the earliest section constructed during the reign of Abd al-RahmanI (VIII century). An advanced 3D finite element (FE) model has been developed to assess the effects of geometric imperfections and component interactions on the stability of columns under both vertical and horizontal static loading. Three distinct modelling strategies have been employed in OpenSees 3.7.1, incorporating column inclination and contact elements to simulate mortar interfaces. Material properties have been calibrated using experimental data and in situ observations. The gravitational analysis has shown no significant damage in any of the configurations, aligning with the observed undamaged state of the structure. Conversely, horizontal analyses have revealed that tensile damage has predominantly occurred at the lower shaft. The inclusion of contact elements has led to a significant reduction in lateral resistance, highlighting the importance of accounting for friction and interface behaviour. Column inclination has been found to have a significant influence on failure patterns. These findings have highlighted the critical role of detailed modelling in evaluating structural vulnerabilities. Such features are generally included in the numerical modelling and evaluation of heritage buildings. Consequently, they can contribute to a better understanding of the seismic behaviour of historic masonry structures.
Experimental analysis of diagonal compression and splitting tests for the characterization of shear and tensile behavior of adobe masonry
(Elsevier, 2020-07) Rodríguez Mariscal, José Daniel; Ma, Qiaoyu; Solís Muñiz, Mario; Mecánica de Medios Continuos y Teoría de Estructuras; Ministerio de Economía y Competitividad (MINECO). España
This paper presents a study on the structural behavior of traditional raw earthen masonry (adobe). Shear behavior and tensile strength are analyzed from diagonal compression and splitting tests. Consistent results of the tensile strength are obtained from splitting and diagonal compression tests. The assumption of a pure shear strain state in diagonal compression tests is validated from the analysis of the full strain field measured by using a Digital Image Correlation system. Different estimators for the shear modulus are analyzed. The authors recommend a tangent modulus value between 1/3 and 2/3 of the shear strength for structural design purpose. Results from previous research works are compared and analyzed. Values of tensile strength, shear modulus and the ratio tensile/compressive strength are in good agreement.
Is evaporative cooling an efficient solution for ensuring air quality and thermal comfort in overheated classrooms in a dry Mediterranean climate?
(Elsevier, 2026-01-01) Aruta, Giuseppe; Escandón Ramírez, Rocío; Calama-González, Carmen María; Ascione, Fabrizio; Suárez, Rafael; Estructuras de Edificación e Ingeniería del Terreno; Construcciones Arquitectónicas I; TEP999: HABITAE: Habitabilidad, Acondicionamiento y Energía en Arquitectura
A large percentage of school buildings in Mediterranean climates that rely solely on natural ventilation face critical issues related to indoor overheating and poor air quality. Despite the severity of these challenges, there is limited research quantifying the problem and exploring viable cooling solutions that align with nearly zero-energy building (nZEB) standards. This study aims to fill that gap by presenting a case study on the environmental performance of a classroom with a direct evaporative cooling system. The school is located in southern Spain, a region characterised by a hot and dry Mediterranean climate. The primary objective is to assess whether such a system can ensure both thermal comfort and adequate indoor air quality during periods of overheating. Based on on-site monitoring data, an EnergyPlus simulation model was calibrated and validated. This model was then used to test a range of current and future climate conditions, as well as different ventilation strategies, including natural ventilation and evaporative cooling with different air change rates. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of the direct evaporative cooling system compared to conventional natural ventilation, reducing overheating hours by up to 26% and lowering indoor temperatures by as much as 6 °C.
Earthquake analysis of clusters of the most appropriate partition
(Springer Nature, 2024) Morales Esteban, Antonio; Scitovski, Rudolf; Sabo, Kristian; Grahovac, Danijel; Ungar, Sime; Estructuras de Edificación e Ingeniería del Terreno
In our paper, we propose the most appropriate partition to depict the seismogenic zones of an active seismic region.To do so, the earthquake data considered are the location and magnitude. To determine three ellipsoidal layers of shallow, intermediate, and deep earthquakes, we switch from the geoid to a solid ball model and solve an appropriate multiple concentric sphere detection problem. Considering the Iberian Peninsula region, by using the Mahalanobis incremental algorithm with the help of the Mahalanobis area index and Mahalanobis minimal distance index, we first determine the most appropriate partition of earthquake positions, consisting of as compact and mutually separated clusters as possible. The result shows four clusters representing the main seismogenic zones of that area. In each of these clusters, we analyze some important earthquake properties, notably the hypocentral depths—a less researched property. Furthermore, we show how to generate a smooth surface best fitting the hypocenters in the considered area, and since the data contain many outliers, for that purpose we use the moving least absolute deviation method. In addition, for each cluster of the most appropriate partition, we ponder the question of estimating the Gutenberg– Richter’s b-value. To avoid the known drawbacks mentioned in the literature for estimating the b-parameter in the Gutenberg–Richter law, we propose the estimation of parameters a and b by using the least absolute deviation method. We also found that the hypocenters are notably deeper in the southwestern Iberian Peninsula and the Azores-Gibraltar fault zone, where the largest earthquakes take place. Finally, one should emphasize that the hypocenters study proposed in this research demonstrated that the most hazardous zone encompasses the most deep focuses. The CPU-time required for all calculations has been moderate. The methodology, used in this work, could easily be applied to other seismological areas, for which we list our freely available Mathematica-modules.
Using FastTest PlugIn for the design of remote and hybrid learning environments to improve the engineering skills of university students
(Wiley, 2023) Huerta Gómez Merodio, Milagros; Fernández Ruiz, Manuel Alejandro; Requena García de la Cruz, María Victoria; Estructuras de Edificación e Ingeniería del Terreno
Research on improving engineering skills in students advocates for high-quality teaching practices as well as the implementation of digitally enhanced management systems, such as e-Learning. Furthermore, COVID-19 led to several changes in education, such as switching drastically from face to face to emergency remote and later hybrid teaching. This study has focused on the proposal, the application and the evaluation of a new e-Learning teaching method. FastTest PlugIn has been used for the creation of large sets of questions, to develop parameterised and individualised exercises in Moodle. The method has been applied since COVID-19, considering different types of teaching: completely remote, hybrid and face to face. It has been implemented in some courses of the bachelor's and master's degree in engineering at the University of Cadiz (Spain). The academic performance and students' feedback on the method have been obtained. During remote teaching, students presented lower scores than before the pandemic. However, as students became familiar with the method and at least face-to-face exams were carried out, the scores and students' perception of the difficulty of the courses improved. The main novelty of this method is the reliability of creating different exercises for a consistent level of difficulty; the ability to avoid dishonest actions of students; and the time saved by instructors, as exercises are automatically corrected. This study provides the advantages and benefits of digitally enhancing university teaching. Furthermore, it is the first to investigate the integration of FastTest PlugIn to enhance teaching quality and engineering skills.
Enhancing Assessment Practices with Moodle: a Comprehensive Study on Teachers’ Use of Different Question Types and the Impact of FastTest PlugIn
(MDPI, 2024) Huerta Gómez Merodio, Milagros; Requena García de la Cruz, María Victoria; Estructuras de Edificación e Ingeniería del Terreno
This study investigates the evolution of online assessment practices through Moodle, a leading Learning Management System (LMS). It explores Moodle’s array of question types alongside the transformative impact of FastTest PlugIn (FTP) on educators’ assessment methods during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. This research examines the efficacy of various question types and import formats for large-scale question elaboration. Surveys have been conducted before and after developing courses to train educators on FTP. By analysing trends before and after adopting FTP, the study aims to gain insight into how educators from different universities and disciplines have adapted their assessment strategies among technological advancements. The introduction of FTP has significantly simplified question creation and integration within Moodle. The study also highlights differences in assessment practices between STEM and non-STEM disciplines. Surveys indicate that, following the FTP training course, the use of all question types has increased: Matching (35%), Missing Word (39%), and Cloze (22%). This work provides a comprehensive overview of current LMS trends and Moodle’s evolving role in educational technology. It emphasises the impact of technological advancements, such as FTP, on assessment practices and aims to offer actionable insights for enhancing online assessments
A multi-scale stratigraphic-HBIM-GIS method for the characterization of structures in heritage sites
(Elsevier, 2025) López-Ortiz, Elena; García-Jiménez, Iván; Dong, Jianfei; Pineda Palomo, Paloma; Estructuras de Edificación e Ingeniería del Terreno
The implementation of Stratigraphic analysis in HBIM (Heritage Building Information Modelling), and the combination with GIS (Geographic Information Systems) is an active field of research that needs deeper knowledge and exploration. This work focuses on approaching this especially necessary translation of architectural and archaeological heritage into ‘as-built’ digital models that reliably represent and identify the characteristics of both the studied objects and their context. For this purpose, a novel multi-scale and multidisciplinary method is proposed to provide an integrated Stratigraphic-HBIM-GIS model. The 3D representation is developed in a specific open-access software that allows for: the interrelation of information from different data sources, its continuous upgrade, and its use from various expertise fields. The method has been validated by applying it to a singular Roman hydraulic structure located in the Archaeological Ensemble of Baelo Claudia (Cádiz, Spain), the Punta Paloma aqueduct (Chorrera section). It has been obtained the following valuable results: development of a GIS database of an archaeological ensemble, the identification of stratigraphic units and its implementation in a digital model associated with archaeological, architectural and historic data, the definition of possible vulnerability factors, and cross-referenced graphic information regarding historic data, archaeological excavation and context features. This method could be applied to enable the digitalization of archaeological and heritage structures, to valorize them from different frameworks, and also as a useful tool within preventive conservation works.
Application of MS Excel and FastTest PlugIn to automatically evaluate the students' performance in structural engineering courses
(Wiley, 2024) Huerta Gómez Merodio, Milagros; Requena García de la Cruz, María Victoria; Estructuras de Edificación e Ingeniería del Terreno
Background: In recent years, the method of assessment in universities has been rapidly changing, shifting from entirely in‐person evaluations to a blended evaluation approach (b‐Learning). Purpose: To effectively implement this type of assessment, it is necessary to create numerous similar problems with different data sets. In structural engineering courses, this entails a significant amount of work for the lecturers. Therefore, this work introduces a novel teaching and evaluation strategy leveraging technology to automate tasks, aiming to enhance student monitoring and alleviate lecturer workload. Method: The digital platform Moodle has been used combined with the FastTest PlugIn to create computer coding to develop different problems. These problems, maintaining consistent structures but varying data, served both instructional and evaluative purposes in two structural engineering courses. As a novelty, these problems are automatically evaluated and created following the coding routine created. Some drawbacks have been identified while applying the method. Scientifically validated quizzes have been used to assess the efficacy of the method in engaging students and enhancing their confidence and satisfaction. Results: Findings suggest that while initial setup requires additional time, the investment pays off in the grading efficiency, benefiting educators and students alike. The method has facilitated the creation of additional exercises for practice, and the inclusion of automatically corrected diagrams was appreciated by students. The results have indicated that this method has improved the motivation, attention, and confidence among students, leading to significant enhancements in academic performance, up to 40%. Conclusions: This methodology has achieved positive responses from students. Hence, it is concluded that the time invested in developing structural
Integrating Theory and Practice in Engineering Education: a Cross-Curricular and Problem-Based Methodology
(MDPI, 2025) Huerta Gómez Merodio, Milagros; Requena García de la Cruz, María Victoria; Estructuras de Edificación e Ingeniería del Terreno
Engineering education often struggles to connect academic content with the real-world skills demanded by industry. Despite the inclusion of teamwork, collaborative learning, and leadership training in engineering curricula, many graduates remain unprepared to deal with complex and professional challenges. This study presents a cross-curricular, practice-oriented methodology designed to strengthen the integration of theoretical knowledge and professional competencies among engineering students. The method has been implemented in the degree in Industrial Design and Product Development Engineering at the University of Cádiz. Students engaged in a realistic design task—developing an outdoor clothesline system—requiring the application of content from Materials Science, Structural Analysis, and Computer-Aided Design. Digital tools such as MILAGE LEARN+ (for gamified content review) and MindMeister (for concept mapping) have been integrated to promote autonomous learning and interdisciplinary thinking. The methodology has also been designed to improve transversal skills such as initiative, communication, and teamwork through collaborative and student-led project development. The approach has been evaluated through pre- and post-intervention surveys, informal feedback, and internship outcomes. The results showed a 40% reduction in students reporting difficulty retaining theoretical content (from 78% to 38%) and a 29% increase in self-perceived autonomous learning. The proportion of students feeling unprepared for professional environments dropped from 73% to 34%. Those experiencing anxiety when facing real-world problems has been reduced from 92% to 57%. Students have also reported greater motivation and a clearer understanding of the practical relevance of the academic content. These findings suggest that structured interdisciplinary challenges, when supported by blended learning tools and authentic design problems, can significantly improve student readiness for professional practice. The proposed methodology offers a replicable and adaptable model for other engineering programs seeking to modernize their curricula and foster transferable and real-world skills.
Ultrasonic Evaluation of Mechanical Properties in Heritage Buildings Constructed with Córdoba Freestone
(MDPI, 2025) Zapico Blanco, Beatriz; Rodríguez Mariscal, José Daniel; Solís Muñiz, Mario; Estructuras de Edificación e Ingeniería del Terreno; Mecánica de Medios Continuos y Teoría de Estructuras
This study characterises the natural stone used in the Great Mosque of Córdoba (Spain) and establishes correlations to enable non-destructive, in situ assessment of the mechanical strength of the material. Quarry ashlars of the same biocalcarenite were tested to determine bulk density, ultrasonic wave propagation velocity (UWPV), and mechanical properties from uniaxial compression, splitting tension, and three-point bending tests (over 100 specimens). The stone showed no significant anisotropy or specimen size effects within the investigated ranges. Reference mechanical values were obtained, with a mean uniaxial compressive strength of about 6 MPa. A strong linear correlation was found between UWPV and compressive strength (R2 ≈ 0.86), supporting the use of ultrasonic testing to estimate compressive strength on site. In addition, flexural strength can be also estimated since it correlated strongly with compressive strength (R2 ≈ 0.95); in contrast, the correlation with tensile strength was moderate (R2 ≈ 0.31). The results provide validated relationships for Córdoba freestone that improve the reliability of ultrasonic tests for providing valuable information for structural analysis, maintenance, and conservation strategies for heritage buildings constructed with this kind of stone. The proposed approach offers a practical pathway for damage-free evaluation of mechanical performance in historical masonry.
Improvement of the Pseudo-Dynamic Testing Method for Buildings that are Seismically Protected by Means of Dissipative Devices
(Taylor & Francis, 2025) Zapico Blanco, Beatriz; Molina Ruiz, Francisco Javier; García Diéguez, Marta; Zapico Valle, José Luís; Estructuras de Edificación e Ingeniería del Terreno
The pseudo-dynamic method enables seismic testing of large-scale models by applying slow, varying forces, but it can introduce strain rate effects, especially significant for materials like rubber or silicon. This paper addresses silicone fluid viscous dampers and proposes a correction strategy developed by the European Laboratory for Structural Assessment to extend the method’s applicability. The strategy includes two novel algorithms: a linear filter and a neural network-based correction, both optimized with experimental data. Validation tests showed that these new methods outperform the previous linear correction, with the neural network-based approach being the most accurate and versatile.
Mapping of seismic parameters of the Iberian Peninsula by means of a geographic information system
(Springer, 2018) Amaro Mellado, José Lázaro; Morales Esteban, Antonio; Martínez Álvarez, F.; Ingeniería Gráfica; Estructuras de Edificación e Ingeniería del Terreno
En este trabajo, los siguientes parámetros sísmicos, la magnitud máxima registrada, el valor b de Gutenberg–Ritcher y la tasa de actividad sísmica media (normalizada), AR, se han calculado para la Península Ibérica y alrededores. Se ha empleado un sistema de información geográfica para recopilar todos los datos, trabajar con diferentes sistemas geográficos y generar los mapas. Se ha considerado como entrada una versión mejorada del catálogo de terremotos del Instituto Geográfico Nacional de España. Debido a la evolución de la red de detección y la extensión del territorio, los valores de completitud deben sectorizarse para obtener valores b y valores AR fiables. Por lo tanto, se ha considerado un trabajo previo sobre regionalización.
Comparing seismic parameters for different source zone models in the Iberian Peninsula
(Elsevier, 2017) Amaro Mellado, José Lázaro; Morales Esteban, Antonio; Asencio Cortés, G.; Martínez Álvarez, F; Ingeniería Gráfica; Estructuras de Edificación e Ingeniería del Terreno
Seismical parameters of five seismogenic zonings for the Iberian Peninsula have been determined in this work. For that purpose, this research has two key goals. The first is to generate a seismic catalog. The second to calculate the seismical parameters of all the zones of the seismogenic zonings selected. The first key goal has been the creation of a catalog of earthquakes for the Iberian Peninsula and adjacent areas. First, the National Geographic Institute of Spain's catalog has been completed and reviewed with the information from other catalog reviews and specific studies. Second, all magnitude calculations have been homogenized. Third, all dependent data have been eliminated through declustering. Finally, the year of completeness for each magnitude has been considered. The Quaternary active faults database of Iberia has also been used as input data. All of this information has been integrated into a geographic information system. The second key aim is the calculation of the seismical parameters. The first parameter obtained has been the b-value. A method which considers different years of completeness in accordance with the magnitude has been used. Also, the annual rate of earthquakes per square kilometer has been calculated. Moreover, the maximum magnitude known that Quaternary active faults might generate and maximum magnitude recorded in the catalog have been determined. Finally, based solely on the statistical parameters obtained, a critical discussion of the seismogenic zonings of the Iberian Peninsula has been conducted. The results show that some zonings possess insufficient data for a proper calculation of the seismic parameters, from a statistical point of view.
LCP-GIS method for preventive conservation of heritage structures under wind action
(Elsevier, 2025-11) López Ortiz, Elena; Dong, Jianfei; Li, Shuang; Pineda Palomo, Paloma; Estructuras de Edificación e Ingeniería del Terreno; Universidad de Sevilla; TEP1002: Artesa Re_lab | Architecture + Structural Research
This work provides a new insight by combining LCP tools and GIS techniques to determine wind action flows that allows for identifying vulnerable areas in heritage structures under environmental risky conditions. The method is developed in a GIS environment by using an open-access software that enables transformation and management of environmental data as input layers, the application of assessment tools and open-access plugins to simplify the data processing, and the possibility of easily updating the data. From this LCP-GIS method, graphic representation of at-risk areas and vulnerable structures is obtained. The procedure has been validated by applying it to the Archaeological Ensemble of Baelo Claudia (Cádiz, Spain), a singular Roman city located in one of the windiest coastal areas of Europe. The main outcomes of this research are: (i) new application of LCP analysis for the assessment and simulation of wind flows which can be used to analyse complex heritage structures or sites; (ii) new method to evaluate environmental factors for heritage preventive conservation and risk mitigation; (iii) advances in rapid assessment methods to identify structural vulnerabilities under environmental conditions in large-scale heritage sites and structures; (iv) digital transformation of numerical data into graphical input layers within a GIS environment. The method can be extrapolated and applied in different heritage sites, as an efficient and accurate tool to enhance the resilience of at-risk structures.
Reducing Global Warming Potential in Cement Production: A Comparative Study of Slate and Marble Waste as Sustainable
(IOP Publishing, 2025) Silva Calderón-Morales, Bianca Rafaela; Costal, Glauber Zerbini; García Martínez, Antonio; Pineda Palomo, Paloma; García-Tenorio García-Balmaseda, Rafael; Estructuras de Edificación e Ingeniería del Terreno; Física Aplicada II; Construcciones Arquitectónicas I
This study evaluates the reduction of Global Warming Potential (GWP) in Portland cement production through the incorporation of industrial waste from marble and slate as supplementary cementitious materials. Partial clinker substitutions between 5% and 20% were analyzed, assessing mechanical performance through compressive strength tests and environmental impact using the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology. The results demonstrated that replacing 20% of clinker with waste led to significant reductions in CO2 emissions: 16.44% for marble and 15.72% for slate. Formulations with 10% and 15% substitution showed the best balance between mechanical performance and environmental impact, meeting regulatory resistance requirements. Transportation logistics proved crucial, with longer distances negatively impacting GWP. The study concludes that reusing these residues represents a viable strategy to mitigate the environmental impacts of the cement industry, aligning with the principles of the circular economy and promoting more sustainable construction practices.
Is There a Historical Relationship Between Urban Growth and Resilience Loss? The Case of Floods in Belo Horizonte (Brazil)
(MDPI, 2025) Salazar-Galán, Sergio; Granha Magalhães Gomes e Silva, Amanda; Sánchez Fuentes, Domingo; Mascort-Albea, Emilio J.; Urbanística y Ordenación del Territorio; Estructuras de Edificación e Ingeniería del Terreno; Junta de Andalucía
Reducing the negative effects associated with floods in cities constitutes one of the highest-priority contemporary social challenges on the global sustainability agenda. In general, most historical studies focus on the consequences, but not on the causes of the phenomenon, which is essential for moving towards sustainable and resilient territories. The aim of this research is to quantify the effect that urban expansion has exerted on floods, taking the city of Belo Horizonte as a critical and representative case study. To this end, an integrative, qualitative, and quantitative approach has been developed, based on previous studies and on distributed hydrological modelling for the period 1940–2024. The results show that urban growth has contributed to a 7%, 14%, and 21% increase in the first three quartiles of annual floods. Likewise, the increase in the magnitude and frequency of the floods is also attributable, since it is more noticeable in the events of higher frequency than in those of lower frequency, in a range from 15% to 7%. The above results show the way in which the application of quantitative knowledge derived from the environmental history is highly useful for decision-making regarding the measures required to increase resilience, considering the possible effects of climate change. Thus, the recovery of the infiltration capacity of the soil constitutes a priority measure to reverse the effect that urban growth has exerted on the hydrological cycle.
A GIS-based common data environment for integrated preventive conservation of built heritage systems
(MDPI, 2025-08-21) Hidalgo Sánchez, Francisco Manuel; Ruiz-Moreno, Ignacio; Canivell, Jacinto; Soriano-Cuesta, Cristina; Kada, Martin; Construcciones Arquitectónicas II; Estructuras de Edificación e Ingeniería del Terreno; Universidad de Sevilla; TEP018: Ingeniería del Terreno; TEP211: Conservación Preventiva del Patrimonio Construido
Preventive conservation (PC) of built heritage has proved to be one of the most efficient and sustainable approaches to ensure its long-term preservation. Nevertheless, the management of all the areas involved in a PC project is complex, often resulting in poor interaction between them. This research proposes a GIS-based methodology for integrating data from different PC areas into a centralised digital model, establishing a Common Data Environment (CDE) to optimise PC strategies for heritage systems in complex contexts. Applying this method to the pavilions of the 1929 Ibero-American Exhibition in Seville (Spain), the study addresses five key PC areas: active follow-up, damage detection and assessment, risk analysis, maintenance, and dissemination and valorisation. The approach involved designing a robust relational database structure—using PostgreSQL—tailored for heritage management, defining several data standardisation criteria, and testing semi-automated procedures for generating multi-scale 2D and 3D GIS (LOD2 and LOD4) entities using remote sensing data sources. The proposed spatial database has been designed to function seamlessly with major GIS platforms (QGIS and ArcGIS Pro), demonstrating successful integration and interoperability for data management, analysis, and decision-making. Geographic web services derived from the database content were created and uploaded to a WebGIS platform. While limitations exist, this research demonstrates that simplified GIS models are sufficient for managing PC data across various working scales, offering a resource-efficient alternative compared to more demanding existing methods.

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