Project R-16216

Title

Data-Informed Condition Assessment of Reclaimed Building Components (Research)

Abstract

Structural design standards play a crucial role in the resource consumption and environmental impact of the built environment. A significant barrier to the circular transition in construction is the current lack of integration of circular strategies in these standards. There is a need for standardized, knowledge-based procedures for the condition assessment and determination of the reuse potential of reclaimed structural components. This research stay addresses this gap by developing a robust framework to enable the confident reuse of reclaimed structural elements. The core focus involves translating and applying expertise in Value of Information (VoI) analysis and Bayesian inference to optimize their condition assessment. By developing methodologies to maximize the benefit of available information, this work will enable confident reuse strategies, integrated in risk-informed, multi-parametric design frameworks. Ultimately, this will guarantee compliance with structural performance requirements while significantly minimizing material use, life-cycle costs, and greenhouse gas emissions.

Period of project

07 April 2026 - 29 May 2026