NDSU Theses & Dissertations

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Research performed to achieve a formal degree from NDSU. Includes theses, dissertations, master's papers, and videos. The Libraries are currently undertaking a scanning project to include all bound student theses, dissertations, and masters papers.

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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.
Feasibility Study for Building Information Modeling (BIM) Education at the Community College
(North Dakota State University, 2015) Bawinkel, Daniel Vincent
With limited time and minimal skill sets of students at the community college, it is challenging to integrate new course material into a two-year degree or technical certificate in Building Construction Management while maintaining course structure that the construction and related industries value. This paper studies the feasibility of adding BIM components to the Building Construction Management program at Rock Valley College. Research was conducted through development of a pilot BIM course, surveys of industry and educational professionals, and a review of post-secondary institution. After studying the current state of BIM education in the United States, literature and survey data were analyzed. Analysis suggests that the program can incorporate BIM topics into course material. This inclusion of BIM skills will assist with successful student placement into the construction industry. The regional construction market is ready to embrace BIM technology. Study limitations are further discussed in the paper.
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.
Identification of the Root Causes of Construction Accidents: Method-Related Causes
(North Dakota State University, 2014) Chintalapudi, Venkata Siva Ganesh
Safety in construction is a problem that has been gaining increased attention in recent years. Although lots of research is being done to address different aspects of improving safety, the challenge remains in narrowing the focus by identifying specific problems. This study attempts to find problems in safety by collecting data from construction sites and performing an analysis. The data collection involved obtaining 205 incident investigation reports from a number of refinery and thermal power plant sites that belonged to the same contracting firm. Out of the 205 incidents, 120 were attributed to root causes that were method related. A software model is proposed, with the aim to reduce a considerable amount of effort and time spent writing method statements. Very few activities are covered, and the most important advantage is that the method statement can be implemented more efficiently with accurate data, design and accessibility within the standards.
Implementing Building Information Modeling (Bim) at AEC Firms in India
(North Dakota State University, 2014) Nanajkar, Aarti
The Indian Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry is still at the very infancy stage with the adoption of Building Information Modeling (BIM) to improve the design, construction, and facility management of construction projects. Therefore, several issues about data acquisition and management arise during the design creation and development of a construction project due to the complexity, ambiguity, and fragmented nature of the Indian construction industry. This paper suggests a strategy for India’s AEC firms to successfully implement BIM in their current working processes. The research method involves studying the current state of BIM knowledge in the Indian construction industry along with the online survey used for data collection regarding the problems faced by the Indian AEC firms. These data were analyzed using inferential statistics to discover effective ways to introduce BIM by India’s AEC firms. Based on the analysis, a roadmap for the transitioning steps is developed for use.
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.

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