Work

Reusable timber modular buildings, material circularity and automation: The role of inter-locking connections

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: As sustainability becomes a central concern in construction, the industry witnesses a significant surge in the adoption of material circularity principles, reflecting a new approach to resource management. Although mass timber construction holds significant potential for end-of-life (EoL) material circularity due to its natural materials and prefabrication , conventional connection systems hinder material reuse. Integrating interlocking techniques into modular construction could enhance circularity and enable future autonomous construction. This paper summarises design-for-reuse (DfR) strategies focusing on connection design for rapid assembly and disassembly of Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) modules. These strategies can promote innovative connections with enhanced material circularity, which were illustrated through a recently proposed conceptual interlocking connections (MOD-IT). Additionally, a comparative cradle-to-cradle Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) evaluates the environmental impact and circularity potential of timber modular buildings using this connection system. The study underscores the pivotal role of strategic connection design in achieving a closed-loop system in timber construction. This advancement fosters sustainability by improving efficiency, adaptability, reusability , and autonomy in the construction process .

Source: Journal of Building Engineering

DOI: 10.1016/j.jobe.2024.110965

Authors: Zhengyao Li, Konstantinos Daniel Tsavdaridis, Assel Katenbayeva

Institutions: University of Leeds, University of London, City, University of London, City St George's, University of London

Language: English

Topic: BIM and Construction Integration

Subfield: Building and Construction

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Responsible consumption and production, Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Sustainable cities and communities

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,320