Work

Optimal multi-use cycle scenarios for temporary demountable modular building systems: An environmental sustainability perspective

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Currently, there is limited understanding of how many years and how many times building systems can be reused while remaining minimal adverse environmental impacts from a multi-use cycle perspective. This study aims to identify optimal multi-use cycle scenarios for a demountable modular unit that achieves minimal environmental impacts. Multi-objective optimization was conducted to determine the optimal number of use cycles and the duration of each cycle, focusing on minimizing both environmental cost and residual value. Six Pareto-optimal scenarios were identified to minimize both the environmental costs of embodied and operational carbon emissions and residual value. They are [5-yr, 5-yr], [5-yr, 25-yr], [10-yr, 25-yr], [15-yr, 25-yr], [20-yr, 25-yr], and [25-yr, 25-yr], implying that the optimal number of use cycles is two. The finding serves as valuable insight for developing end-of-life planning strategies that promote the sustainable reuse of demountable modular building systems.

Source: Developments in the Built Environment

DOI: 10.1016/j.dibe.2025.100727

Authors: Yang Yang, Bowen Zheng, Calvin Luk, Ting Wang, Albert Ping-chuen Chan

Institutions: Oxford Brookes University, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Shanghai Institute of Technology

Language: English

Topic: BIM and Construction Integration

Subfield: Building and Construction

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

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

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,230