Zhong, Y; Ling, F Y Y and Wu, P (2017) Using multiple attribute value technique for the selection of structural frame material to achieve sustainability and constructability. Journal of Construction Engineering and Management, 143(2): 04016098, ISSN 0733-9364
Abstract
Selecting appropriate structural materials to meet economic sustainability, environmental sustainability, and constructability performance can be a challenge as these parameters are not mutually exclusive. This study therefore aims to build a model for the selection of structural frame material that integrates economic sustainability, environmental sustainability, and constructability considerations. The research method is through a detailed investigation of 39 construction projects. Data were collected from archival records and interviews with 148 project participants. From the data, importance weights and performance levels of two structural materials - reinforced concrete (RC) and structural steel (SS) - are determined. It is found that SS-framed buildings outperform RC-framed buildings in the aspects of environmental sustainability and constructability, while RC-framed buildings have better economic performance. Furthermore, environmental sustainability and constructability performance are perceived to be of significantly lower importance than economic sustainability. Using the multiattribute value technique, a model to assist in the selection of structural material was constructed and tested. The major contribution of this paper is the development of a mathematical model that calculates the structural frame material (SFM) score based on an integrated consideration of economic sustainability, environmental sustainability, and constructability. The model is recommended to clients and designers to assist in the selection of structural frame materials in the concept and preliminary design stage.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | constructability; economic sustainability; multiple attribute value technique; reinforced concrete; structural material; structural steel; sustainable construction |
| Index terms: | interview, mathematical model, sustainable construction, construction project, reinforced concrete, preliminary design, environmental sustainability, designer, economic sustainability, investigation, constructability, structural frame |
| Subjects: | economic analysis, building materials, profession, data collection methods, mathematical modelling, health safety and environment, production management, sustainable construction, architectural elements, design practice, construction integration |
| Topics: | Health and Safety, Business Strategy, Construction Materials, Project Management, Research Practice, Roles and Professions, Sustainability, Design Practice |
| Descriptive scope: | 5 PCTEA |
N.B. Descriptive scope is a count of how many of the five facets of empirical research are indicated by the words used in title, abstract and keywords. It is not intended as a judgement on the research; merely a count of the kind of word we would expect to indicate Phenomenon, Concepts, Theoretical framing, Empirical techniques, Analytical techniques. If all five are present, then a code of “5 PCTEA” will indicate this. If you feel the coding for this record is questionable, we welcome discussion around the terms we matched or the way we categorized them. The facet you would expect may not be coded, or a facet may be coded inappropriately. This can also bear on a larger question, of which facets should be treated as defining in construction management research. Please get in touch, and we will look at it. More details here