Construction Management & Engineering Masters Theses

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Assessment of Owner Risk Associated with Airport Capital and Maintenance Projects
(North Dakota State University, 2013) Ehiemere, Chidozie
The thesis produces a risk management process that effectively determines risk and its effects on commercial airport owner activities. To achieve this goal, the thesis reviewed these objectives: 1) Determination of major risks in the US commercial aviation industry; 2) Assessment and analysis of these risks in US commercial facilities; and 3) Producing risk dynamic in a project cycle associated with airport owner activities. The owner of airport facilities faces multiple risks in planning, design & construction of commercial airports. Literature on airport risk and damages was reviewed and used to produce a survey sent to select facilities in the USA. Survey feedback was analyzed utilizing the probability impact matrix, risk ranking equations and normal descriptive statistics. Results of this analysis produced a top 10 risk list for project objectives affected by noted risks and a general top 20 risk list assigned to a project cycle risk dynamic.
Characteristics of Concrete Building Units Containing Crushed Waste Glass
(North Dakota State University, 2013) Anna, Ahmad Shaker
"Glascrete" the term used for concrete in which all the aggregates or part of it are substituted by crushed glass. Glass is the only material that can be recycled many times without changing its properties; these properties making it an ideal material in concrete. The goal of this research was to evaluate the compressive and splitting tensile strength of concrete mixes containing different glass aggregate replacement up to 20 % by volume of sand; with and without admixtures. 144 cubes and 144 cylinders were prepared with different admixtures then tested for compressive and splitting tensile strength. The results indicate that the addition of glass replacements from 5% to 20% by volume of sand; led to 3.8% - 10.6% decrement in compressive strength and 3.9% - 16.4% decrement in tensile strength comparing with 21-day of control mix. However, the use of mineral admixture improved the mixes properties at all ages.
Characterization of Interfacial Bond Strength in Fiber Reinforced Cementitious Composites by a Modified Pullout Method
(North Dakota State University, 2017) Chada, Rajender Reddy
This document entails the research work carried out to propose a new method for quantifying the interfacial bond strength in fiber reinforced cementitious composites. A modified pullout test has been designed to determine the interfacial bond parameters for natural fibers with cementitious system, and were repeated for artificial fibers for comparison studies. Steel, polypropylene, and wheat straw fibers were tested with the modified pullout method. Surface roughness studies were conducted on the same fibers to establish a relationship between the roughness index of fibers and corresponding bond strengths evaluated from the new method. Also, standard single fiber pullout tests were conducted for steel and polypropylene fibers. The pulled-out fibers were further analyzed using scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectroscopy in conjunction. Peel test, an experimental study was also discussed in this research.
Characterization of Properties of Mortars Containing Clay Brick Aggregate
(North Dakota State University, 2017) Zhang, Wanting
Recycling clay brick becomes extremely urgent with the demolishment of residential buildings, and the most common processing option of clay brick waste is buried in landfills which lead to serious environmental pollution. Meanwhile, the process of recycling clay brick is immature and there is limited knowledge and standards of recycling clay brick waste. This thesis reports an experiment to test physical and mechanical prosperities of clay brick aggregate (CBA). Mortar specimens were conducted by using different prewetting times, replacement rates and water/cement ratios. Absorption and water-releasing abilities were discussed; compressive strength and flexural strength were conducted for strength test. Flowability and internal humidity tests were also presented. The results demonstrated that mortar specimens with 30% of replacement rate of CBA, and 0.28 of water/cement ratio of mixes present the optimal workability. By comparing with recycled concrete aggregate (RCA), CBA also showed satisfactory performance in the mortar specimens.
A Comparative Life Cycle Assessment Study of Wood and Steel Materials at Project End-of-Life Stage
(North Dakota State University, 2021) Bi, Bin
The disposal of construction and demolition waste will have an impact on the environment. However, the currently limited research on the end-of-life stage waste is too general lacking separation and comparison of different material types. This study focuses on the end-of-life stage to assess two primary construction materials (wood and steel) and an office building, used as a case study. This study is performed applying life cycle assessment (LCA) and used Athena software to assess the impact of both materials. The software quantifies the environmental impact of two materials into nine categories, including Global Warming Potential, Acidification Potential, etc. The results of this study show that steel generates more impact than wood on the environment. In the future, the results of this study can provide valuable information about the environmental impact of wood and steel materials to reduce the environmental impact at the end-of-life stage.
Comparing Cooling of Warm Mix to Hot Mix Asphalts
(North Dakota State University, 2015) Ahmed, Syed Owais
Warm mix asphalt (WMA) is increasingly being tried in highway paving in the United States. Apart from environmental benefits, WMA is being considered useful in projects involving long haul distances and late season paving operations due to its material characteristics and the rate of cooling during field compaction. This thesis investigates whether WMA cools at a slower rate than hot mix asphalt (HMA) to offer more compaction time. Following an indirect investigative approach, comparative analysis of field observations with software predicted values for two paving projects was carried out. The results indicated that some types of WMA cool at a slower rate than HMA and would allow a longer period of compaction time to achieve the same density as HMA. The findings presented here can be informative to the asphalt paving industry in considering WMA for use in long haul, nighttime, and late season paving.
Conceptual Cost Estimation Models for Bridge Projects
(North Dakota State University, 2021) Essegbey, Adikie Esinam
Conceptual cost estimating is typically completed early in the project lifecycle when little design work has been completed. Because little information is known at this early stage, the estimate usually deviates substantially from the actual construction cost. Therefore, the objective of this research is to develop a conceptual cost estimate model for bridge infrastructure projects. In this study, a systematic literature review and meta-analysis of Mean Average Percentage Errors (MAPEs) of cost models was undertaken to identify the various cost estimation methods, the input variables that have adopted in the development of models and determine the impact of cost estimation method on the accuracy of cost prediction. The research study utilized regression analysis, decision tree and random forest methods for cost prediction of Wisconsin bridges. A comparison of the three models that were developed revealed that random forest cost estimation method yielded better cost prediction.
Conceptual Cost Estimation of Highway Bid Items Using Geostatistical Interpolation
(North Dakota State University, 2021) Awuku, Bright
Challenges associated with ensuring the accuracy and reliability of cost estimation of highway bid items, especially during the conceptual phase of a project, are of significant interest to state highway agencies. Even with the existing research undertaken on the subject, the problem of inaccurate estimation of highway bid items still exists. A systematic literature review was performed to determine research trends, identify, categorize the factors influencing highway unit prices, and assess the performance of conceptual cost prediction models. This research proposes a geographic information system (GIS)–based methodology that leverages vast historical bid data for unit-price estimation and the robust GIS capabilities with consideration of the effects of project-specific location and variations due to cost escalation on different bid items. A comparison of the three spatial interpolation techniques operationalized in this research revealed that disjunctive and empirical Bayesian kriging models led to more accurate cost prediction than ordinary kriging algorithms.
Contractor Prequalification Practices in Bangladesh
(North Dakota State University, 2013) Molla, Mohammad Mofigul Islam
Like many developing economies, the construction industry in Bangladesh is vital to its economic development and growth. However, the Bangladeshi construction industry is plagued by unethical practices, sub-standard construction work, and the inability of local contractors to partake in internationally funded (lucrative) contracts (as general contractors). A contractor prequalification process is proposed to address the problems facing the industry. In this work, an extensive literature review was used in combination with research surveys, statistical analyses of the literature and survey results, and the analytical hierarchy process to develop sets of factors and criteria pertinent to contractor prequalification/selection. A five-level framework involving regulatory verification, project-specific validation, performance evaluation, state-of-the-art best practices, and capacity assessment was developed to address the problem. This research developed innovative practices that could be used for the prequalification of contractors in Bangladesh and a method for implementing a recommended system for evaluating and prequalifying contractors.
Developing an Image Capture Specification for Future Building Modifications
(North Dakota State University, 2018) Hussain, Syed Basim
In the construction industry, images taken by cameras have been used to extract information for a number of purposes. However, a review of the literature suggests that there is an absence of specifications regarding the equipment, the method by which the images are to be taken, as well as the method to retrieve and store these images. The purpose of this research is to formulate specifications for capturing images at construction sites to be used later, using an 'appropriate' camera. The research has concluded that any camera available in the market can be used to take these images using the specifications for capturing such images developed as a result of this study.
Development of Sustainable Construction Material From Fly Ash C
(North Dakota State University, 2016) Shrestha, Monisha
Environmental issues caused by the production of Portland cement have necessitated its replacement by waste materials like fly ash which has been proven to be quite beneficial environmentally and economically. Therefore, this research project was focused on the development of sustainable construction materials using 100% of high-calcium fly ash with KOH based alkaline solution. Experimental work was conducted to determine concrete properties like compressive strength, flexural strength, setting time, and slump. In the phase I of the research, CNTs were also used to study its effect on geopolymer mortar. The results derived from the experiments show that mortar and concrete made with 100% fly ash C needs alkaline solution to reach properties established by Portland cement concrete. However increased amount of KOH generates heat making the concrete to set faster without forming a proper bond. Furthermore, the addition of CNTs makes the mortar sturdier than the one without CNT.
Effects of Nano Silica and Basalt Fibers on Fly Ash Based Geopolymer Concrete
(North Dakota State University, 2018) Abu Bakar, Asif
Emission of carbon dioxide gas has been a source of major concern for the construction industry. To curb this emission, geopolymer concrete has been deemed as a potential alternative in the recent studies. Previous research also indicates that silica and fibers provide strength benefits to ordinary Portland cement concrete OPC. This study was undertaken to recognize the benefits of adding silica and basalt fibers in Class F fly ash based geopolymer concrete and comparing it with OPC concrete. One OPC and four Geopolymer mixtures were prepared. The results show a tremendous potential of using geopolymer concrete in place of OPC concrete with Nano silica proving to be the most advantageous. Nano silica provided 28% increase in compressive strength, 8% increase in resistivity when compared with normal Fly ash based geopolymer concrete. The SEM analysis of geopolymer concrete indicates that nano silica improved the compactness of concrete providing a dense microstructure.
Environmental Information Modeling: An Integration of Building Information Modeling and Geographic Information Systems for Lean and Green Developments
(North Dakota State University, 2016) Ezekwem, Kenechukwu Chigozie
Building Information Modeling (BIM), used by many for building design and construction, and Geographic Information GIS System (GIS), used for city planning, contain large spatial and attribute data which could be used for Lean and green city planning and development. However, there exist a systematic gap and interoperability challenge between BIM and GIS that creates a disjointed workflow between city planning data in GIS and building data in BIM. This hinders the seamless analysis of data between BIM and GIS for lean and green developments. This study targets the creation of a system which integrates BIM and GIS system data. The methods involve the establishment of a novel Environmental Information Modeling (EIM) framework to bridge the gap using Microsoft Visual C#. The application of this framework shows the potential of this concept. The research results provide an opportunity for more analysis for lean and green construction planning, development and management.
Geostatistical Interpolation and Analyses of Washington State AADT Data from 2009 – 2016
(North Dakota State University, 2019) Owaniyi, Kunle Meshach
Annual Average Daily Traffic (AADT) data in the transportation industry today is an important tool used in various fields such as highway planning, pavement design, traffic safety, transport operations, and policy-making/analyses. Systematic literature review was used to identify the current methods of estimating AADT and ranked. Ordinary linear kriging occurred most. Also, factors that influence the accuracy of AADT estimation methods as identified include geographical location and road type amongst others. In addition, further analysis was carried out to determine the most apposite kriging algorithm for AADT data. Three linear (universal, ordinary, and simple), three nonlinear (disjunctive, probability, and indicator) and bayesian (empirical bayesian) kriging methods were compared. Spherical and exponential models were employed as the experimental variograms to aid the spatial interpolation and cross-validation. Statistical measures of correctness (mean prediction and root-mean-square errors) were used to compare the kriging algorithms. Empirical bayesian with exponential model yielded the best result.
Identification of Factors Contributing to Traffic Fatalities in the United States
(North Dakota State University, 2015) Kaur, Dharminder
Traffic accidents not only cause injuries and deaths but also result in significant property and economic losses. With annual 40,000 lives lost in United States and $80 billion in economic losses, research in minimizing accidents is a major priority. This research identified and ranked factors that reduce traffic fatalities and determined their relative importance. A total of 93 factors were identified and ranked into seven major categories through a systematic literature review. A questionnaire was sent to the State Departments of Transportation, and the responses were coded and analyzed using a relative importance index, rankings and percentages. The systematic literature review and survey results indicated that agencies should direct resources toward the highest-ranking factors to achieve better safety performance. Efforts should be made to improve infrastructure and influence road-user behavior towards safer habits. Laws and policies are vital to maintaining good road-user behavior, which could leads to lower traffic fatalities.
In-Depth Analysis of Texas Accidents Using Data-Mining Techniques and Geo-Statistical Analyst Tools
(North Dakota State University, 2018) Islam, Faiz ul
Traffic accidents have been a consistently growing problem in the United States. The road-safety issues have not been completely resolved and pose danger to people driving on the roadways. This research used various approaches and techniques to evaluate and analyze the Texas State traffic-accident dataset profoundly and meticulously. Data-mining techniques were used to analyze the accident dataset for Texas statistically, and information were collected. The resulting information from the analysis suggested that the city of Houston, Texas, was the point of persistent accidents and accounted for most accidents in all Texas cities. Therefore, Houston was analyzed further by using the geostatistical and geo-analyst tools in ArcGIS. The Geostatistical Analysis tools including Space-Time identified the key hotspot locations within the city to study the overall behavior, and developed prediction maps from the kriging tool. A similar approach can apply to other parts of Texas and any location in the United States.
Insulation in Windows Using Resin & Aerogel Mixture
(North Dakota State University, 2019) Pujar, Priyanka Mallikarjun
Insulation materials are essential in building construction; this study proposed to use one such material called silica aerogel, which is known for its excellent thermal properties, and a UV acrylate resin that has been formulated to mix with the aerogel. In this experiment, existing methods of aerogel insulation are discussed and a novel method is investigated. U- value and R- values were obtained by LHICD (i.e., Laser Heating Infrared Camera Detecting method), and K - values were calculated using an equation for 0%, 22.5% and 45% volume of aerogel. The study suggests that using aerogel and resin coating on windows could help to improve the insulating properties of windows. i.e., low thermal conductivity and high thermal resistivity. The results obtained demonstrate that as we increase the percentage volume of aerogel in window coating, the window’s thermal conductivity decreases, and the thermal resistance increases.
Integration of Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Prefarbication: A Boost to Lean Principle Envrionment
(North Dakota State University, 2016) Goyal, Manisha
Lean construction, adapted from manufacturing, is focused on reducing waste, customer satisfaction and continuous improvement. However, its Last Planner System (LPS) lacks the automation needed to manage complex projects. On the other hand, Building Information Modeling (BIM) is capable of developing models that are compliant with LPS planning levels and faster visualization of errors. Prefabrication encourages just in time delivery while benefitting from BIM model capabilities. The objective of the study is to establish a framework to integrate Last Planner system with BIM and Prefabrication. Literature study and survey inferences were used to identify the potential to integrate. The framework aims to develop smooth workflows and an up-to-date LPS, boosting lean environment. It could be significant to the users of both BIM and prefabrication by having the potential to manage and coordinate progressive BIM models and less variable workflows for prefabrication.
The Mechanics of Bonds between Concrete and FRP Plate using Three Parameter Elastic Foundation Models
(North Dakota State University, 2013) Che, Linjing
Traditional metallic materials lead steel-reinforced concrete structures to a durability problem due to its low value of resistance to corrosion. The superior performances of FRP, including the high resistance to corrosion, the flexible and complex shapes… give it a big advantage. However, premature failure due to debonding of adhesives between concrete and reinforcing materials is the major concern for all types of reinforcement containing FRP plate reinforcement. This thesis gradually develops three elastic foundation models, which are mainly derived from the solution of superficial stress in the foundations-soil system. The one-parameter Winkler’s elastic foundation model is simple and easy. The two-parameter elastic foundation model thinks over the interfacial shear force of the joint bond. And the three-parameter foundation model additionally considers the adhesive layer’s transverse displacement to meet the boundary condition of zero shear stress. Finite element analysis (FEA) is used to compare with the proposed three foundation methods.
Numerical Simulation and Structural Optimization of Composite Rigid Frame Bridge
(North Dakota State University, 2017) Xie, Yanmei
A composite rigid frame bridge replaces a certain portion of the concrete middle span of a bridge with a section of the steel girder. While the steel span improves the bending moment distribution of the rigid frame structure, it increases the stress level of certain cross-sections of the girder. There is little research reporting the effects of the addition of the steel span on the layout and structural design. This research studies the influence of the steel span on the structural behavior of the rigid frame bridge and conducts the structural optimization regarding the steel span ratio, curve order of the girder’s bottom line, and height-to-span ratio using the bending strain energy as the objective function. Finally, this study develops the computer program for structural analysis of composite rigid frame bridge structure using MATLAB, which can be used for advanced structural optimization.

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Browsing Construction Management & Engineering Masters Theses by browse.metadata.department "Construction Management and Engineering"