25 Articles Published

1. RETRO-CLAD DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT OF ALTERNATIVE RETROFITTING STRATEGIES FOR EXISTING BUILDING ENVELOPES, UTILIZING RECYCLED-PAPER PREFABRICATED CLADDING AND SHADING SYSTEMS

Authors: ADONIS CLEANTHOUS , MARKELLA MENIKOU , NINA ELIASSIDES

Abstract: The research tackles the urgent issue of upgrading existing buildings‟ envelopes in order to comply with current codes and regulations (European and local) concerning energy performance. The proposition involves the design and development of alternative retro fitting strategies for existing building envelopes utilizing recycled paper prefabricated cladding and shading systems. The project is titled “RETRO-CLAD” and stands for Retrofitting Cladding. Currently the already built environment outweighs the newbuilt. Most existing buildings do not conform to expected energy standards. The “RETRO-CLAD” research aims to provide vital information to relevant local authorities and organizations in order to consider strategic planning of action, updating building codes and general shifting the emphasis on the already built rather than the new-build. There is currently virtually no policy in place for upgrading existing buildings for energy performance. The “RETRO-CLAD” utilizes low

Keywords: retroffitting, building, cladding, shading, architecture, building components, prefabricated, components, recycled, paper

Pages: 1 - 7 | DOI: 10.15224/978-1-63248-150-4-22

2. OPTIMIZATION OF SUPPLY TRAINS IN TUNNEL BORING OPERATION USING TUNNEL BORING MACHINES

Authors: JIRAWAT DAMRIANANT

Abstract: A large drainage-tunnel with an inside diameter of 5 m will be constructed in Bangkok using tunnel boring machines (TBM) by the end of 2018. One of the most challenging problems in this operation is how to determine the number of supply trains containing muck cars for the muck evacuation process during the boring. This paper presents an optimization of the number of the supply trains employed in the project so that the operation of the train fleet will be well synchronized with that of the TBM. Petri Net-based models and their simulation are used as the means for the optimization. The COSMOS simulator, which is reliable software for running Pet Net-based models, is used for the simulation. The simulation results indicate that the optimal numbers of supply trains are 2, 3, 4 and 5 for the tunnel lengths of 0-0.9, 0.9-2.7, 2.7-4.5 and 4.5-5.5 km, respectively. The analysis of these results also offers the numbers and the locations of the double track positions for each interval of the tu

Keywords: optimization, simulation, model, operation, tunnel, boring, supply train, TBM

Pages: 8 - 12 | DOI: 10.15224/978-1-63248-150-4-23

3. NUMERICAL SIMULATION OF TRANSVERSE THERMAL EXPANSION OF FRP BARS EMBEDDED IN CONCRETE SLABS

Authors: ALI ZAIDI , HIZIA BELLAKEHAL , RADHOUANE MASMOUDI , SAMIA LARDJANE

Abstract: The thermal behavior is one of the main drawbacks of fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) bars embedded in concrete due to the significant difference between the transverse coefficient of thermal expansion of FRP bars and that of concrete. This difference generates a radial pressure at the FRP bar/concrete interface under high temperatures, and may cause splitting cracks within concrete. This paper presents a numerical study using ADINA finite elements software to predict transverse thermal strains in glass FRP (GFRP) bars and concrete cover of GFRP bars-reinforced concrete slabs submitted to a temperature increase varied from -50 to +60°C and having a ratio of concrete cover thickness to FRP bar diameter varied from 1.3 to 2.8. The transverse thermal strains, at FRP bar/concrete interface and at external surface of concrete cover, obtained from the numerical model are compared with those obtained from the analytical model and experimental tests.

Keywords: Numerical simulation, Concrete cover, FRP bars, Slab, Temperature, Transverse strains, Cracking temperatures

Pages: 13 - 17 | DOI: 10.15224/978-1-63248-150-4-24

4. EFFECT OF SPATIAL SOIL VARIABILITY, INCLINE OF SLOPES AND SEISMIC STIMULATION ON PERMANENT SEISMIC SLOPE DISPLACEMENT.

Authors: ALAMANIS NIKOLAOS , DAKOULAS PANOS

Abstract: The parameters of shear strength, even within the same soil layer, will vary from point to point as a result of the natural heterogeneity of the materials. Stochastic methods have been introduced to calculate the uncertainty and spatial variability of soil parameters [1]. As opposed to deterministic methods, probabilistic methods allow the selection, based on the specifications of each project, of an acceptable risk level. Moreover, such methods are consistent with the concept of risk parameters of soil vibration and constitute their extension at the fault indicators level, being directly related to the performativity of constructions [2]. The main objective of this paper is to investigate the effect of spatial variability of soil, the slope of the banks and of seismic excitation on permanent seismic displacements [3]. The calculation of permanent displacements within probabilistic frames is achieved by combining the Local Average Subdivision (LAS) algorithm introduced by Fenton and Va

Keywords: slope incline, uncertainty, stochastic methods, spatial variability, seismic stimulation, permanent seismic displacement.

Pages: 18 - 24 | DOI: 10.15224/978-1-63248-150-4-25

5. AXIAL LOAD TESTS ON LARGE DIAMETER BORED PILES IN VERY DENSE SANDS

Authors: NABIL FATHY ISMAEL

Abstract: With increased population and economic development, many towers and high rise buildings are being constructed in Kuwait city. The large applied loads required the construction of deep pile foundations or piled raft systems. For one structure consisting of 60 stories and 3 basements, large diameter bored piles were employed. The axial capacity in tension and compression, and the load transfer mechanism were examined by field tests. Testing included one tension test on a 0.8 m diameter, 20 m long bored piles, and a compression test on a 1.5 m diameter, 35 m long pile. The piles were installed in very dense sands below the water level and testing was carried out to failure. Other tests included borings to 70 m deep, sampling and Standard Penetration Tests. Laboratory tests were carried out to determine the basic soil properties included gradation, and plasticity tests for soil classification. From the pile load test results, the side friction, and base resistance were determined and corre

Keywords: bored piles, axial load tests, very dense sands, side friction, base resistance.

Pages: 25 - 29 | DOI: 10.15224/978-1-63248-150-4-26

6. AN ANALYTICAL HIERARCHY PROCESS OF DELAY CAUSES IN HIGHWAY CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS IN IRAN

Authors: KIYANOOSH GOLCHIN RAD , SOO YONG KIM

Abstract: Recently, the highway construction projects in Iran have been confronted with delay, terminated, or postponed for several years. Although widespread studies have been investigated, regarding to delay issue in developed and developing countries, however, only few studies addressed in Iran. Due to the importance of delay issue and lack of sufficient studies regarding to this topic in Iran, this study aimed to first, discover the most significant causes of delay in highway construction projects, second; prioritize, and rank the critical factors, in order to highlight them for highway construction projects authorities. A verified questionnaire prepared and distributed among the experts in the construction projects of Iran. The valid collected data analyzed by Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) to uncover the underlying structure of variables and reduce the number of them. Moreover, Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), as one of the prevalent decisions making tools, applied to prioritize and

Keywords: component, formatting, style, styling, inser

Pages: 30 - 32 | DOI: 10.15224/978-1-63248-150-4-27

7. NUMBER AND SIZE OPTIMIZATIONS OF WELLS TURBINE BLADES VIA FEM

Authors: IBRAHIM KUTAY YILMAZCOBAN

Abstract: Wells turbine can be described with the continuous movement of the turbine blades for a mandatory one direction by bidirectional air flow to supply a nonstop electric power. For the present study, finite element simulations were performed after the pilot experimental studies, to optimize the number and size of the blades to evolve the efficiency. Two dissimilar wells blade system was preferred out of three, while different combinations are considered during the numerical approximation. For the diverse air velocities, tangential force and pressure characteristics were evaluated using the numerical fluid dynamics approximation. Eventually, the simulation results were compared with the pilot experiments and concluded with an eligible overlap via satisfactory convergence of the FEM code.

Keywords: FEM, turbine blade, optimization, efficiency

Pages: 33 - 36 | DOI: 10.15224/978-1-63248-150-4-28

8. A STUDY ON THE APPLICATION OF WAVELET PACKET TRANSFORM IN LOW-STRAIN PILE INTEGRITY TEST

Authors: HYEONG JOO KIM , JOSE LEO MISSION , PETER REY DINOY , TAE WOONG PARK

Abstract: Nonlinear amplification of velocity signals in lowstrain integrity tests is typically done in order to enhance weak echoes and to superimpose any peak reflections. However, unraveling hidden information within signals obscured by noise may sometimes fail when using the conventional method. Therefore, a pile defect identification system is presented in this study based on nonlinear amplification and wavelet packet transform (WPT). After the conventional nonlinear amplification method is applied, the signals are decomposed by WPT in which the detection of the feature parameters from the presence of any geometric or material defects may easily be identified. To serve as a guide in the interpretation of the various characteristics of peak wave forms that are associated with defects, diagnostic rules are presented in this study. In addition, a parametric study was performed using the finite element method and results have shown that the identification method based on WPT can be a useful too

Keywords: diagnostic rule, pile defects, wavelet packet transform, nonlinear amplification method

Pages: 37 - 41 | DOI: 10.15224/978-1-63248-150-4-29

9. THE INFLUENCE OF NUMBER OF CFRP LAYERS ON THE CFRP/CONCRETE BOND BEHAVIOR

Authors: AMMAR I AL MAABREH , WASIM S. BARHAM , YASMEEN T OBEIDAT

Abstract: The influence of number of CFRP sheet layers on bond strength between CFRP sheet and concrete was investigated by conducting double shear type pullout test. A total of eighteen concrete prisms were examined with different number of CFRP layer and maximum aggregate size. One, two and three layers of CFRP sheet were used. The experimental results indicate that the number of layers affect the bond strength. When the number of layer increases the bond strength increases beyond a certain value. Therefore, the number of layer is another factor that causes the CFRP sheets not to be fully utilized.

Keywords: CFRP layers, bond strength, bond behavior, concrete, slippage

Pages: 42 - 45 | DOI: 10.15224/978-1-63248-150-4-30

10. STUDY ON THE EFFECT OF WAVINESS GUIDE RAIL ERROR ON THE PRECISION OF LINEAR ROLLER BEARINGS

Authors: TONG VAN CANH , SEONG-WOOK HONG , SUN-WOONG KWON

Abstract: Linear bearings are widely used to sustain positioning systems for machine tools. A linear bearing consists of a linear guide rail, rolling elements, and a carriage. For most positioning systems employing linear bearing, the guide rail error is closely related to the precision of the systems. In this study, the motion accuracy of linear roller bearings (LRBs) on the guide rail with vertical waviness error were investigated. To obtain the displacement of the carriage on the erroneous guide rail, a simulation model considering the contact surface deformation between the roller and carriage and between the roller and rail was developed. A flexible body model considering the carriage deformation due to contact load was also considered. The guide rail error was assumed to be harmonic with the period of consecutive clamping bolts because of bolt fastening to clamp the guide rail on the base. The contact loads of the LRBs were calculated with varying the amount of guide rail waviness error us

Keywords: linear roller bearing, carriage, guide rail, static deformation, contact load

Pages: 46 - 49 | DOI: 10.15224/978-1-63248-150-4-31

11. CONCRETE CHARACTERIZATION THROUGH DIGITAL IMAGE PROCESSING TECHNIQUES

Authors: BARONETTO CARLOS , BEGLIARDO HUGO , FORNARI JAVIER , OSHIRO ANGEL , POSITIERI MARIA

Abstract: the concrete quality evaluation is defined by the statistical processing of the resistance values obtained from the rupture test specimen (potential strength), or samples (real strength). In certain occasions, when the methods above mentioned are not possible or in order to get extra information, mainly on-site, it is common to use nondestructive testing (NDT). Lately, taking advantage of photography cameras and the growing capacity and processing speed of computers, strength evaluation and concrete deformation measuring procedures have been developed based on no-contact techniques consisting of images record, their subsequent digital processing and their treatment through algorithms of computing engineering. This paper s suggests developing, based on new techniques, a classification model of conventional concrete based exclusively on the shooting of images and the subsequent proceeding of the characteristics deduced from their digitalization. The images come from tests and/or witnesse

Keywords: Concrete, digital proceeding, images, quality

Pages: 50 - 56 | DOI: 10.15224/978-1-63248-150-4-32

12. TIRE DYNAMICS DEFLECTION ASSESSMENT FROM IMU MEASUREMENT

Authors: NARAWITH PHITCHART , PORNPORM BOONPORM

Abstract: One important objective of vehicle suspension design is Safety, considering road holding performance in terms of its cornering, braking and traction. In this sense, we are interested in studying the tire deflection since it relates to how good the road holding is via the variation of normal tire load. We apply the full car suspension model with some measured or estimated parameters as reference model. Vehicle body’s accelerations and angular rates are measured. The sprung mass displacement, body roll and pitch angle can be calculated and compared to the measurement values. The errors and error gradients are derived and then adjusted via gain update estimation consulting the fuzzy logic rules in order to corrected parameter. Finally suspension deflection and tire deflection are predicted via our algorithm. The results are in accordance with the physical meaning and subjective assessment by experienced driver.

Keywords: vehicle kinematics; full car suspension model; tire deflection; parameters tuning

Pages: 57 - 61 | DOI: 10.15224/978-1-63248-150-4-33

13. NUMERICAL MODELLING OF LARGE DIAMETER MONOPILES SUPPORTING OWT-HEAD STIFFNESS ASSESSMENT IN NONHOMOGENEOUS SOILS

Authors: DIANA-IOANA MORARIU , AMAR BOUZID DJILLALI

Abstract: Many countries are now planning to build new wind farms with high capacity up to 5MW. Consequently, the size of the foundation increased. This kind of structures are subjected to fatigue damage from environmental loading mainly due to wind and waves as well as from cyclic loading imposed through the rotational frequency (1P) through mass and aerodynamic imbalances and from the blade passing frequency (3P) of the wind turbine which makes their behavior dynamically very sensitive. That is why natural frequency must be determined with accuracy in order to avoid the resonance of the system. This paper presents a numerical procedure which combines the finite element method based on the 2D discretization in the radial plane and the Fourier series based on expansion of displacements and forces in the circumferential direction. Firstly analytical expressions of stiffnesses of foundations with large diameter embedded in soils with different stiffness profile are established. Secondly and in ord

Keywords: Offshore Wind Turbines; Semi-analytical FE analysis; DNV/Risø; Monopiles foundations; Natural frequency.

Pages: 62 - 66 | DOI: 10.15224/978-1-63248-150-4-34

14. NANOINDENTATION INVESTIGATIONS OF ELECTRODEPOSITED ON STEEL SUBSTRATE CORROSION-PROTECTIVE ZINC COATING, ADDITIONALLY IMPROVED BY CR III CONVERSION LAYER

Authors: D. GUERGOVA , D. STOYCHEV , N. BOSHKOVA , ROUMEN IANKOV , SABINA CHERNEVA

Abstract: The protective Zn coatings on steel substrates are preferable because the zinc layers play a role of “sacrificial coatings” due to their more negative electrode potential compared to steel substrate. Besides, their protective ability strongly depends from aggressive nature of environment, which determines the need of additional efforts. Vastly improvement of the chemical stability and protective ability of the Zn coatings give the additional treatments aiming the formation of “finishing“ conversion layer with desired chemical-resistant composition on the Zn surface influencing against corrosion attack. Having in mind the chemical nature of the conversion layers, it is possible to predict the improvement of the chemical and mechanical properties of the system “Conversion layer”/”Zinc coating”/”Steel substrate”. The present study shows the results obtained concerning the indentation modulus and indentation hardness of the Cr III conversion layers and their dependence

Keywords: nanoindentation, mechanical properties, corrosion-protective zinc coatings, conversion layers

Pages: 67 - 71 | DOI: 10.15224/978-1-63248-150-4-35

15. HOW UP SO DOWN

Authors: DENES JOO

Abstract: In continuation of the Terrestrial Projections of the Cosmic Environmental Connections [1], it’s detailed the European Continental Territory, inside it focusing on the Central European Area. The unsuccessful functioning of the Hybrid European Union is shoring up the pressing necessity for a normal environmental-territorial, humansocial and economical efficient reorganizing of Europe, with a synergic functioning based on cosmic principles, namely corresponding to the cosmic structure and functioning organized around the Constellation Draco (Carpathian Mountains) [2], with the Nebula NGC 6543 called „Cat’s Eye” inside, as Ecliptic Pole (the Rosia Poieni Peak in the West- Carpathians, Romania).

Keywords: Terrestrial, Projections, Cosmic, Environmental Connections

Pages: 72 - 75 | DOI: 10.15224/978-1-63248-150-4-42

16. ROAD FATALITIES IN KARNATAKA (INDIA): NEED OF SAFE SYSTEM APPROACH TO ROADS AND DRIVERS TRAINING

Authors: B.L. SWAMI , RAJ R.D. KIRORI , SANKLAP SWAMI

Abstract: India had reported 150,785 road fatalities in year 2016 and its Karnataka state appeared at 4th rank with 11,133 road fatalities in 44403 road crashes. Age group below 35 years is at most risk with 59 percent share in fatalities in Karnataka. Road engineering is a major road safety issue as Karnataka National & State Highways reported 65 percent of the state road fatalities. Road junctions are critical locations from safety point of view which claimed 3313 lives, 30 percent of fatalities. Drivers killed in road crashes in Karnataka were 32 percent of fatalities (3587 drivers). It is a matter of grave concerns that 32 percent drivers-killed were young drivers below 25 years age. At this age decision making capacity in critical conditions is biologically in developing stage. The facts identify need of strengthening the system of drivers’ training. Drivers’ fault was reported in 88 percent fatal road crashes in Karnataka. Investigations solely blame drivers in most road crashes and si

Keywords: road injuries, road safety engineering, safe system approach, pedestrain safety, drivers training, enforcement

Pages: 76 - 76 | DOI: 10.15224/978-1-63248-150-4-43

17. MODELING OF THE STATIC DEFLECTION OF POSITIONING TABLE SUPPORTED BY MULTIPLE LINEAR ROLLER BEARINGS

Authors: HYEON-IL OH , JUN-HO HEO , SEONG-WOOK HONG , SUN-WOONG KWON

Abstract: Positioning tables supported by linear bearings are adopted for various machines such as material handling robots and machine tools. The accuracy of positioning tables is acknowledged to be essential for the machines employing the positioning tables. For instance, deflection of a positioning table for a machine tool during operation affects the machining accuracy for the machine tool. Thus, it is of great importance to accurately predict the deflections of the positioning tables in the design process. However, the deflections of positioning tables supported by multiple linear roller bearings (LRBs) are not easy to estimate because of the complicated characteristics of LRBs with regard to the system configuration and applied load. In this study, the static deflection of a large positioning table containing a number of LRBs was investigated. To this end, an improved simulation model for the deflection of a LRB subjected to vertical load was employed. The static deflection model of a LRB

Keywords: positioning table, linear roller bearing, static deflection

Pages: 77 - 77 | DOI: 10.15224/978-1-63248-150-4-44

18. PERFORMANCE OF FRP-JACKETED RC COLUMNS UNDER AXIAL-FLEXURAL LOADING

Authors: AHMAD SOMAN , HANAN AL NIMRY

Abstract: This article presents the results of an experimental investigation of the behavior of circular reinforced concrete columns strengthened with fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) sheets under the combined action of axial loads and bending moments. Test parameters included the absence/presence of FRP jackets, fiber orientation and stiffness of the jacket. Test results proved that the investigated FRP strengthening schemes can be efficiently used to enhance the load-carrying capacity and deformability of eccentrically loadedcolumns. When compared to the FRP hoop confined columns, the inclusion of an axial FRP sheet was found to have negligible effects on the axial column resistance however, the longitudinal fibers increased both the axial and flexural rigidities of the strengthened columns. Using an axial FRP sheet confined by two hoop FRP sheets enhanced the columns' rotational capacities allowing them to absorb eccentric loads with increasing lateral deflections.

Keywords: RC columns, axial-flexural loading, confinement, FRP-jacketing, deformation capacity, toughness

Pages: 78 - 81 | DOI: 10.15224/978-1-63248-150-4-45

19. TEMPORARY WORKS DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION ERGONOMICS

Authors: JOHN SMALLWOOD

Abstract: Temporary works designers influence construction ergonomics directly and indirectly. The direct influence is because of design, details, and method of connecting, and depending upon the type of procurement system, supervisory, and administrative interventions. The indirect influence is because of the type of procurement system used, prequalification, project duration, partnering, and the facilitating of pre-planning. A questionnaire survey was administered among attendees attending an inhouse support work designer and supplier ‘designing for construction ergonomics’ workshop. The following constitute the salient findings. Quality, is more important to the respondents’ organisation than construction ergonomics, and project health and safety (H&S). A range of temporary works design related aspects impact on construction ergonomics, and the respondents’ organisation considers / refers to such aspects frequently, and on a range of design, procurement, and construction occasions. Ex

Keywords: construction, design, ergonomics, temporary works

Pages: 82 - 86 | DOI: 10.15224/978-1-63248-150-4-46

20. AN EXPERIMENTAL STUDY OF THE SHEET HYDROFORMING PROCESS

Authors: FLORIAN PEREIRA , FLORIN SUSAC , VIOREL PAUNOIU , VIRGIL TEODOR

Abstract: Hydroforming of aluminum sheets is a plastic deformation process largely used in automotive industry. Among the different hydroforming processes, the Flexform is the one in which the punch is replaced by a fluid cell. This cell consists of a rubber membrane that is filled with a controlled pressure fluid that will deform the sheet in the tool. A rigid die is used for obtaining the shape of the workpiece. For obtaining a sound product a balance between the pressure fluid and the blank material and geometry must be assured. The paper presents experiments carried out for analyzing the influence of the die geometry, the blank thickness and the fluid pressure toward the product accuracy, in terms of thickness and shape variations. The results will be useful in process modeling and in estimation of hydro-deformability of aluminum sheets.

Keywords: sheet hydroforming, unconventional sheet metal forming, flexforming, deep drawing

Pages: 87 - 90 | DOI: 10.15224/978-1-63248-150-4-47

21. PARAMETRIC STUDIES ON DRILL STRING DYNAMICS DRILL MUD DAMPING EFFECTS WITH DRIVE SPEED VARIATION

Authors: BALACHANDRAN BALAKUMAR , MERYEM KANZARI , MOHAMMED ALQARADAWI

Abstract: Complicated behavior of oilwell drill string with both torsional and lateral whirl vibrations are explored numerically and experimentally within this paper. A modified Jeffcott rotor model with attention to drill string and outer shell interactions is developed. Drill mud drag forces within a thin annular film surrounding the vibrating rotor are considered. With respect to the rotation speed drill mud damping effect on drill string behavior is studied. Numerical efforts are compared to experimental studies conducted with laboratory scale drilling system. The results obtained suggest that the drill mud dynamics are highly related to the drive speed and rotor deflection. The findings of this work are relevant to the understanding of hydrodynamic mass of drill muds on drill string dynamics and schemes for controlling them.

Keywords: drill string dynamics, drilling mud, modified Jeffcott rotor, lateral whirl.

Pages: 91 - 95 | DOI: 10.15224/978-1-63248-150-4-48

22. EXPERIMENTAL INVESTIGATION ON EXHAUST EMISSION OF DIRECT INJECTION DIESEL ENGINE FUELLED WITH KARANJA METHYL ESTER, NEEM METHYL ESTER & DIESEL OIL

Authors: LOKESH PANDEY

Abstract: Engrgy crisis due to increase in vehicular use and power demand has led to search for an alternative fuel which is renewable and sustainable. The best possible substitute for diesel is biodiesel. With no or fewer modifications, Diesel engines can be made to run on biodiesel which leads to sustainable reduction in exhaust emissions. In this paper, investigations were carried out to study the exhaust emissions of diesel engine using ternary blends of Karanja methyl ester, Neem methyl ester and Diesel oil. A single cylinder, four stroke, water cooled diesel engine fitted with eddy current dynamometer was used. Initially the engine was run with Diesel fuel (B0) and then with ternary blends (B10, B20, B30, B40, B50). Exhaust emissions (CO, NOx and CO2) were measured by a flue gas analyzer. Test was conducted over entire range of engine operation at varying conditions of load. The experimental results prove that the ternary blends of Karanja methyl ester, Neem methyl ester and diesel oil can

Keywords: Biodiesel, Blending, Diesel engine, Karanja methyl ester, Neem methyl ester

Pages: 96 - 99 | DOI: 10.15224/978-1-63248-150-4-49

23. APPLICATION OF NANOCOMPOSITES OF SILICON BASE IN ECOLOGY AND ENERGY

Authors: STEFAN KARTUNOV

Abstract: The article presents results from the study 1722-M /2017, conducted in the Technical University of Gabrovo, BG. A Au/TiO2 composite consisting of a nanoparticle of gold (~ 15nm) in porous TiO2 is synthesized. The composite was made by applying nanoparticles Au first with a SiO2 layer and then coating the composite with a TiO2 layer. Applications of nanocomposites in ecology and energy are explored.

Keywords: Nanocomposites, Silicon base

Pages: 100 - 103 | DOI: 10.15224/978-1-63248-150-4-50

24. A CONCEPTUAL MODEL OF RISK MANAGEMENT FOR PREDICTING SUCCESS IN CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS

Authors: BERENGER YEMBI RENAULT , JUSTUS NGALA AGUMBA , NAZEEM ANSARY

Abstract: The recurrence of project failures in construction has tarnished the image of the construction industry globally. This development has been in part due to inefficient risk management which ineluctably leads to poor project performance. However, there is scarcity of investigative studies that consider factors predicting success in South Africa construction industry and in developing economies. The objective of the study is therefore to identify the variables of risk management that are predictors of project success. The work methodology included a literature search relating to risk management which enabled the identification of core variables relevant to the study using content analysis. The review spanned a decade and lustrum between January 2000 and December 2015 and was based on a combination keyword search in three databases namely;Science Direct, Taylor and Francis Online, and Emerald. Nine core variables were identified which are perceived to predict project success. These were: o

Keywords: Conceptual model, risk management, predictors, project success.

Pages: 104 - 110 | DOI: 10.15224/978-1-63248-150-4-58

25. ESTABLISHING THE RELATIONSHIP OF MONITORING AND REVIEW WITH PROJECT SUCCESS OF SMALL AND MEDIUM CONTRACTORS IN SOUTH AFRICA

Authors: BERENGER YEMBI RENAULT , JUSTUS NGALA AGUMBA , NAZEEM ANSARY

Abstract: Monitoring and review are very essential management tools for ensuring that project objectives in construction are fully accomplished and that the project remains on track. However, it appears that little research has been conducted in South Africa,on the relationship of monitoring and review with project success of contractor especially within small and medium contractors (SMEs). Hence, the current study aims to empirically establish this relationship at project level of construction SMEs. To achieve this aim, a structured questionnaire was used to collect data from SMEs who were conveniently sampled in the Gauteng province of South Africa. The data was analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23,computing inferential statistics. Empirical findings revealed that project success was positively influenced by monitoring and review. This was an indication that project monitoring and review in construction are important risk management practices that en

Keywords: contractor, monitoring and review, relationship

Pages: 111 - 116 | DOI: 10.15224/978-1-63248-150-59