Concrete Structural Re-Usability

AI Quick Summary

The re-use of building components is gaining popularity due to its undeniable environmental benefits. Specifically, significant reductions in CO2 emissions and material consumption can be achieved by reusing structural elements such as steel beams and concrete components. While the reuse of steel beams is already common practice, the same cannot be said for concrete elements. This is primarily because of challenges related to variations in concrete quality, rebar placement, and connections. In this project, we aim to take initial steps towards assessing the feasibility of reusing concrete in large-scale structures. Enabling its structural re-use would meet the need by landlords and architects to implement large scale reuse.Addressing this challenge requires a two-pronged approach. Firstly, Büeler Fischli Bauingenieure, a civil engineering firm, will conduct theoretical calculations to estimate the overall potential for reusing concrete structures. Concurrently, ZHAW IKE will plan, design, and construct a 1:1 mock-up using concrete slabs sourced from demolition sites by Eberhard Bau AG. By integrating theoretical calculations and simulations with real-world construction insights, we can generate valuable data and firsthand experiences to advance the use of reused concrete components in low-emission structures. This project contributes to the development of the future concrete reuse Nest unit, a three-floor structure scheduled for installation at Nest starting in 2027.Facilitating the structural re-use of concrete holds the promise of substantial reductions in GHG emissions, while also paving the way for a new material stream from this abundantly available resource. Despite its potential benefits, large-scale applications of structural re-use for concrete remain largely unexplored. As part of the booster initiative, we plan to conduct theoretical estimations alongside the construction of a real-scale prototype, aimed at generating interest and securing additional funding for the future Nest Unit. To secure third-party funding, we intend to approach the prefabricats industry, recognizing the significant potential for re-use concrete elements to integrate seamlessly into existing business streams within this sector.

Project Idea Metadata

• Project Idea Name: Concrete Structural Re-Usability
• Date: 3/14/2024 12:58:57 PM
• Administrators:
  • Veronica Contucci

Project Idea Description

The re-use of building components is gaining popularity due to its undeniable environmental benefits. Specifically, significant reductions in CO₂ emissions and material consumption can be achieved by reusing structural elements such as steel beams and concrete components. While the reuse of steel beams is already common practice, the same cannot be said for concrete elements. This is primarily because of challenges related to variations in concrete quality, rebar placement, and connections.

In this project, we aim to take initial steps towards assessing the feasibility of reusing concrete in large-scale structures. Enabling its structural re-use would meet the need by landlords and architects to implement large scale reuse.

Addressing this challenge requires a two-pronged approach. Firstly, Büeler Fischli Bauingenieure, a civil engineering firm, will conduct theoretical calculations to estimate the overall potential for reusing concrete structures. Concurrently, ZHAW IKE will plan, design, and construct a 1:1 mock-up using concrete slabs sourced from demolition sites by Eberhard Bau AG. By integrating theoretical calculations and simulations with real-world construction insights, we can generate valuable data and firsthand experiences to advance the use of reused concrete components in low-emission structures. This project contributes to the development of the future concrete reuse Nest unit, a three-floor structure scheduled for installation at Nest starting in 2027.

Facilitating the structural re-use of concrete holds the promise of substantial reductions in GHG emissions, while also paving the way for a new material stream from this abundantly available resource. Despite its potential benefits, large-scale applications of structural re-use for concrete remain largely unexplored. As part of the booster initiative, we plan to conduct theoretical estimations alongside the construction of a real-scale prototype, aimed at generating interest and securing additional funding for the future Nest Unit. To secure third-party funding, we intend to approach the prefabricats industry, recognizing the significant potential for re-use concrete elements to integrate seamlessly into existing business streams within this sector.