Construction Management & Engineering

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Research from the Department of Construction Management & Engineering. The department website may be found at https://www.ndsu.edu/construction/

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Achieving a Sustainable Concrete Design and Construction
(North Dakota State University, 2010) Agrawal, Ankush Satishchandra
Concrete is one of the key materials in the construction industry. But today, the use of concrete and its production has become a matter of environmental concern throughout the world. This statement is true especially for the manufacturing process of cement. One of the major problems is emission of CO2 gas into the atmosphere during the manufacturing of cement. Every ton of concrete produced leads to emission of one ton of carbon dioxide gas. Hence replacement of cement by alternative materials has been investigated by many researchers. In the past, fly ash has been the most common replacement. This study, however, suggests replacing all the major components of concrete to the extent that would satisfy the standard strength requirements. This paper focuses on the development of a sustainable or green concrete and proposes a set of tools for a sustainable concrete design and construction. Many researchers have been trying to replace one component of concrete to make it more sustainable. Discussion in this paper will not only give a direction to produce more sustainable concrete but also eco-friendly concrete, thus addressing the two important issues of economy and environmental friendliness simultaneously. Defining the idea of sustainability with respect to the concrete and construction industry and doing a literature search on similar grounds was the first step taken towards completion of this research. The findings in the literature search made a survey necessary. This survey was done to have an idea of sustainability from the experts in the construction and cement industry. The survey was done by sending a questionnaire to concrete experts, engineers, designers and contractors to get their ideas for green concrete and its usage in the industry. The findings of the literature survey and inferences from the survey results made the generation of the proposed sets of tools possible. The concrete and the construction industry can achieve an overall sustainability by complete utilization of tools proposed in the paper. Strict usage of these tools will not only ensure environmental sustainability but will also satisfy the ends of economic and social aspects of sustainability.
Causes of Construction Delays for High Rise Buildings: a Quantitative Comparison between the USA and India
(North Dakota State University, 2010) Billa, Arun
High rise buildings are complex, high risk, and multi-contractor projects which make them prone to construction delays. Delays can lead to time overrun, affect the total project duration and the total cost, and could result in litigation. Most construction schedules are deterministic and do not include the uncertainty and risk inherent in the diverse activities which constitute the construction project. Generally, high rise buildings are expensive undertakings and a schedule overrun could lead to significant time and money losses. Therefore, a high rise project manager must be able to estimate the potential delays and eliminate them if possible in order to reduce their impact on the success of the overall project. The research study identified 42 possible construction delays through the literature study and grouped them into six categories according to their source and relevance. These groups include: general delays related to project, owner, contractor, consultant, resource, and miscellaneous delays. A questionnaire was developed to investigate severities of the identified six delay categories; in addition, some questions about project details, critical effects of delays, and most responsible people for the delays were added to ascertain more information from the survey. The questionnaire was sent to pre-identified construction professionals of the high rise construction industry all over the United States and India. The individual analysis of each country shows that change orders, given by the owner during construction, is the most severe cause of delay for the USA, followed by severe weather conditions, as well as mistakes or errors in design and drawing documents. For India, the most severe cause of delay is the lack of communication and coordination among all parties involved in the construction, followed by improper construction methods and payment delays by the owner. The comparative analysis of two countries shows that there is a difference between the results and demonstrates that the presence of construction delays and their effects are more often and severe for India than the USA. It also shows that consultant related delays and miscellaneous delays are more severe for the USA than India and vice versa for the rest of the delay categories (general, owner, contractor, and resource related). All the participants of the two nations agreed that time overrun and cost overruns are the critical effects of construction delays, followed by disputes and arbitration. The present research study also includes the recommendations made by the survey participants.
Conceptual Cost Estimation of Highway Earthwork Construction in Iowa Using Spatial Statistical Modeling
(North Dakota State University, 2022) Hitsanu, Martha Sebsibe
Estimating cost at the conceptual phase of highway earthwork construction projects is challenging owing to the limited amount of information present at the initial stages. Methods that have been applied in the past to perform such estimates are regression, mathematical equations, artificial intelligence, and others. The objective of this research is to use two spatial statistical methods – indicator kriging and empirical Bayesian kriging – together with exponential, whittle, and k-Bessel semi-variograms to build an appropriate model to predict highway earthwork construction cost at the conceptual stage. Iowa Department of Transportation provided the data for the study. The cross-validation results were used to compare the performance of the kriging algorithms. It was observed that the exponential semi-variogram showed better performance for both types of kriging when they were analyzed separately. However, indicator kriging results were more accurate than empirical Bayesian kriging when they were compared for the same type of semi-variogram.
Developing a Framework for Sustainable Design/Build/Own Buildings
(North Dakota State University, 2010) Gore, Alexander Keith
The objective of the research paper was to investigate the development of a workable framework for Sustainable Design/Build/Own buildings. Research from case studies, a literature review, and a design exercise was completed to form this framework. Currently certification programs have been slow to infiltrate small-to-medium markets. In this study, it was found that the current sustainability assessment guides can be improved by reorganizing information to reflect the driving factors of time and cost as well as by increasing access to information with the abundant sources of videos, on line guides, and internet references in a more approachable manner.
Developing an Interactive Model to Integrate Human Expertise with Building Information Modelling (BIM) Software
(North Dakota State University, 2022) Ahiable, Cyril
Considering the significant amount of time and money wasted yearly in fixing errors caused by miscommunication and inadequate information on project sites, relaying the knowledge of field experts through design software may reduce communication-based conflicts in projects. This study aimed at creating a model to integrate human field expertise in the construction process with BIM software and also explored strides made in a similar regard. The study also explored the various strides made in human expertise integration. Basement construction in Fargo-North Dakota was the construction scenario selected for scrutiny in this study. Surveys and in-person interviews were conducted with local contractors to ascertain valuable recommendations on basement construction in Fargo. Information from these contractors was validated and coded into two concept models to offer warnings and recommendations on the assessed basement construction activities to help Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) professionals with construction processes required before and during construction.
Development of a High-Efficiency, Cost-Effective Ground Source Heat Pump System for Single-Family Houses
(North Dakota State University, 2021) Hu, Xiaoou
Multi-Source Heat Pump systems are intended to achieve a high system efficiency through the combined or alternate use of two or more sources for a heat pump. This thesis entails the research work to develop a hybrid Ground Source Heat Pump (GSHP) system integrated with a dry cooler with vertical underground loops for single-family houses. TRNSYS is used to verify the feasibility of this integrated system, so as to optimize the control strategy and quantify the energy and energy cost savings. The primary objective is to demonstrate the improved system efficiency of the GSHP through the combined use of a dry cooler in a single-family house under the eight ASHRAE-defined climates. The results indicate that the integrated system would not be an optimal option for houses located in cold climates, but it is feasible to be implemented in hot/warm areas to increase system efficiency at low cost.
Environmental and Economic Outlook of Construction and Demolition Waste Management Practices in a Mid-Sized City
(North Dakota State University, 2022) Boateng, Simon Boadi
Construction and demolition waste (CDW) left at landfill sites increases the burden on landfills, which are increasingly becoming scarce and costly to operate. In North Dakota, CDW generated is disposed of at the Fargo landfill. This practice may hamper the realization of value from construction and demolition waste. Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Life Cycle Costing (LCC) was used to evaluate the benefits of two CDW management scenarios. The study found that a 75% reduction in the CDW sent to the landfill can reduce the environmental burden by 35%. Furthermore, replacing raw materials with recycled materials creates net environmental savings by preventing the production of raw or virgin materials. This practice can reduce the environmental burden by 25% while generating an income of $61/ton for the city. The results of this study provide information on the value of recycling CDW and serve as a basis for decision-makers to rethink CDW waste management practices in North Dakota.
The Impacts of A-76 on the Personnel of Air Force Civil Engineering Squadrons
(North Dakota State University, 2010) Pauly, Adam Preston
The Office ofM:magement and Budget Circular A-76, revised 2003, is changing the manning of civil engineering squadrons throughout Air Force Air Education and Training Command. Although the circular is attempting to make the most efficient organization for budget purposes, it is important to see how manning will change as a result. The objectives of this paper were to evaluate what types of performance outcomes were occurring within the A-76 competitions within Air Education and Training Command and also to see how these decisions were forming the personnel changes within the organization. Three separate databases were utilized: one for personnel data retrieval, one for A-76 data retrieval, and one to research the history of contracts involved. The types of competition outcomes were analyzed and compared with how manning had changed over the same period of time. It was found that there were only two A-76 studies within AETC since the 2003 revision: Keesler AFB and Sheppard AFB. Both of these studies had resulted in a performance decision in favor of the private contractor for base operation services, those which include general building maintenance and grounds keeping, as well as utility and power management. When investigating the personnel outcomes, it can be inf erred that A-76 performance decisions definitely have an impact on personnel changes within the organization. As to what those changes are, it appears that when the decision is in favor of a private contractor, civilian and enlisted engineers are negatively affected, where the effects on officer engineers and the enlisted squadron as a whole are not so straightforward. This paper helps to define the changes occurring in today's Air Force as a result of fewer airmen available. The results may be useful to policy makers, squadron commanders, and those mterested in contracting with the Air Force.
Influence of Paste Quality Constituents on Drying Shrinkage
(North Dakota State University, 2020) Affum, Benjamin
The paste system of concrete materials often holds the “DNA” to understanding their potential mechanical properties. As drying shrinkage and related cracking remains a top concern for the service life of concrete, this paper explores the effect of paste quality on drying shrinkage. The semi-adiabatic calorimetry, restrained, and unrestrained shrinkage of concrete made with 15 different cementitious materials were studied. Cementitious blends included fly ash, slag, silica fume, metakaolin, zeolite and limestone as paste volume was kept constant across mixes. Results showed that the rate at which the paste system allowed free water to dissipate at early ages may have dictated the extent of drying shrinkage. Higher cement replacement with limestone improved the tensile capacity of concrete which resulted in better drying shrinkage cracking resistance. High tricalcium aluminate and alkali contents in cements were found to be drivers of early age shrinkage and potential cracking at later stages in concrete
Investigating the Effect of Temperature and Lighting on Learning Performance of Students Using Physiological Responses
(North Dakota State University, 2022) Pradhan, Surakshya
Temperature and lighting level are relatively important parameters of indoor environment in a university classroom because they affect students' learning performance. Previous research primarily focused on analyzing students' learning performance, ignoring the learning process involved and the impact of physiological reactions to their learning environment. This study investigates the learning process as well as the influence of students' sensations/comfort and physiological responses. Experiments were carried out in a university classroom with 17 students performing cognitive tests while wearing an EEG headset and an ECG wristband at different temperatures (20-23°C, 23-26°C, 26-29°C) and lighting levels (100-300 lux, 300-600 lux,600-900 lux). The results showed brighter light improved concentration, while neutral temperature was important for working memory, and a comfortable environment and emotional state were important in increasing motivation for better learning performance. The findings can be used to develop an IEQ management plan that will contribute to improve the learning environment.
A Residential Construction Management Cognitive Apprenticeship Program
(North Dakota State University, 2010) Wagner, Heidi Em
Background The U.S. Bureau of Labor's Occupational Outlook Handbook states that faster-thanaverage employment growth is expected in construction management with job openings projected to exceed qualified applicants (2008). Increasing complexity of projects, including sophistication of technology and new laws for building standards, will boost the demand for specialized management personnel (U. S. Bureau of Labor 2008). Purpose Obvious locales for the recruitment and training of construction managers are construction management baccalaureate degree programs. Because these programs educate for an occupation, it is essential for them to be aware of what the industry requires of its workers. The purpose of this study was to enhance the current curriculum of B.S. programs by redesigning the internship, creating a cognitive apprenticeship in the form of a prospectus having the capacity to be implemented by the construction industry and educators. Scope/Method This residential construction management apprenticeship model employs a cognitive apprenticeship learning structure designed by Allan Collins, John Seely Brown, and Susan E. Newman and seeks to educate students in residential construction management methodology (1989). Jack H. Willenbrock's (1994) Management Guidelines for Growth Oriented Homebuilding Firms is used as the theoretical framework taught to students from which they can gain analytical proficiency of management methods. Conclusions A practical, three-phase progressive model for a Residential Construction Management Cognitive Apprenticeship Program (RCMCAP) has been developed. This model can be used by institutions of higher learning for a likely increase of the number and quality of graduates entering residential construction at managerial levels.
Social and Psychological Impact of Covid-19 Pandemic on Construction Projects
(North Dakota State University, 2022) Olatoye, Olugbemiga
As the construction workers were impacted during the Covid-19 period from social distancing to eventual lack of human interaction, it is necessary to understand the changed social and psychological states of construction workers to manage and improve their performance. This study aims to investigate the social and psychological impact of Covid-19 on the performance of construction projects. The survey was carried out by construction professionals including construction managers, superintendents, and laborers. It was found that anxiety and depression, and health risk concern changed significantly in the pre and post-pandemic period. The results also highlighted health risk concerns, sense of belonging, income equality, job stability, stress management, knowledge, and financial stability as the most impactful factors influencing the workforce's performance on construction projects. This study contributes to providing the managerial implications and guidance for improving the construction workforce including managers' and site laborers' performance in the post-pandemic period.
Stochastic Characterization, Simulation, and Analysis of Environmental (Precipitation and Temperature) Inputs into the M-E Design Framework
(North Dakota State University, 2010) Membah, Joseph, M.S.
The engineering design of pavements is a complex process requiring regular updating and calibration to produce durable and resilient road surfaces. To achieve this goal, research is conducted continuously to obtain input parameters which are used to produce advanced tools. Recently, an advanced pavement structural design tool termed the Mechanistic Empirical (M-E) Pavement Design approach was introduced to the engineering community. The M-E process employs issues about engineering, traffic, environmental factors, construction, and economics in the design and selection of appropriate types of road surfaces. Although the new M-E approach can result in improved designs, the approach does not address a design methodology for selecting the best pavement for a particular application. Currently, State Highway Agencies employ different procedures to design pavements based on empirical data collected in 1960s. The trials used data collected during two climatic seasons. Since then, a number of research initiatives have been conducted investigating issues such as soil characterization, traffic, and construction. However, none have focused on environmental issues which also provide inputs for the ME design framework. This research focuses on temperature and precipitation: two main environmental factors of concern. The M-E design approach uses traditional statistical analysis to compute the input parameters of sampling points which are often spread over a large geographic region and do not provide a representative sample. Because temperature and precipitation are composed of continuous data, geostatistics were employed to compute statistical parameters through stochastic characterization, simulation, and analysis.
The Suitability of Warm Mix Asphalt for Use in North Dakota
(North Dakota State University, 2011) Gullickson, Michael
Compared to hot mix asphalt (HMA), warm mix asphalt (WMA) offers several potential benefits, including reduced fossil fuel use and increased workability. The research presented in this paper examined the suitability of WMA for use in North Dakota, through review of previous research and experiences of North Dakota and other states, including those with similar weather to North Dakota. This review suggested that North Dakota and its neighboring states are looking to similar types of WMA to suit their varying needs. While more than one type of WMA may be suitable for use in North Dakota's climate, there could be some types that work better than others depending on aggregate sources, traffic volume and loads, and overlay versus new construction. North Dakota should continue to try various types of WMA and determine which additives or processes work best in the areas of the state's greatest need.

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