Design of detailed connections in order to enable future reuse of structural elements, focusing on the effects that the design choices have on the CO2 emissons
Master Thesis at PE Teknik & Arkitektur
Background
Sustainability is one of the most urgent issues for today’s society, needing intelligent solutions for material and resource use. Only a fraction of dismantled structures are being recycled, regardless of material type, and this highlights the need for a reevaluation of traditional practices, which often prioritize efficiency and cost-effectiveness over potential future reuse.
Acknowledging the industry’s substantial contribution to global carbon emissions, primarily from material production, transportation, and energy-intensive construction processes, there is a growing emphasis on sustainable construction practices.
In recent years, the significance of designing intricate steel connections for the future reusability of structural elements has surged, driven by an increased focus on sustainability within the construction industry. Designing connections for easy disassembly and reuse not only extends material lifespan but also reduces the overall environmental impact of projects, aligning with broader sustainability goals and promoting circular economy principles in construction.
The pivotal question that arises is: How can we proactively pave the way for this transition and create a future where such practices become the norm? What measures can we put in place to ensure that reusability becomes an integral part of our design ethos, fostering a sustainable and thriving construction industry?
The pictures are from a reuse project that PE Teknik & Arkitektur did in Malmö
Aim
The aim of the thesis is to study connections in steel and optimize component choices with regard to enabling the disassembly of steel/wood elements, as well as evaluate the steel connection itself in terms of its capacity in relation to its climate impact. This is to enhance today’s steel connections in relation to the climate declarations.
Method
The method will be elaborated by the student or students. the following parts can be integral part of the project:
- Literature review on various types of steel connections.
- Investigate methods for disassembling different types of elements.
- Provide a summary of the climate declaration and analyze how the choices
made by designers impact the resulting CO2 emissions. - Evaluate and reflect on the load-bearing capacity of a connection in comparison to its climate impact.
Additional information
- This is a thesis project for one or two individuals.
- We might also consider involving a supervisor from Tibnor or Stena Steel regarding the reuse of steel elements.