Owing to the high absorption capacity of recycled aggregate (RA), it is crucial to accurately measure its saturated-surface-dried water absorption (W_SSD), which largely affects an effective water-to-binder ratio of recycled aggregate concrete. In this study, existing measurement methods for the W_SSD of RA are extensively reviewed, including Wiping, Slumping, Centrifugation, Infrared, Evaporation, Airflow drying, Conductivity, Pycnometer, Hydrostatic balance, and Extrapolation. In particular, the physical principles and operability of these methods are emphasized. It was determined that the accuracy of all test results was not satisfactory. For example, the water in pores with an open-ended direction that was opposite to the centrifugal force could largely be retained. In Airflow drying, the temperature change was significantly delayed. In addition, in Hydrostatic balance, RA would pre-absorb water before determining the initial reading. Therefore, several suggestions for optimizing these methods are presented, such as the combination of Evaporation and Airflow drying, the liquid selection in Hydrostatic balance, and the addition of a tiny mixer in each centrifuge tube. In summary, this review facilitates the development of an accurate and convenient method for measuring the W_SSD of RA.

This study investigates the optimization of urban ventilation in Zhao’an Old Town, Fujian, through the integration of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations and field measurements. The findings underscore the critical roles of spatial layout indicators, such as the Frontal Area Index (FAI), Opening-to-Facade Ratio (OFR), and Building Volume Density (BVD), in influencing wind flow and thermal performance. The FAI was identified as the most influential factor in shaping airflow, while the OFR and BVD highlighted the importance of open spaces and balanced building density for natural ventilation and thermal comfort. Practical strategies, such as optimizing building orientations, increasing facade permeability, and leveraging natural cooling elements like the Dongxi River, are proposed to address ventilation challenges while preserving the town’s cultural and historical integrity. Unlike previous studies, this research combines CFD simulations with summer field measurements to provide a highly accurate and contextually relevant evaluation of wind flow dynamics in compact urban environments. By systematically analyzing the interplay between urban morphology and ventilation efficiency, this study offers actionable recommendations for improving outdoor comfort in heritage settings. The outcomes serve as a valuable reference for sustainable urban planning, contributing to the development of strategies that balance environmental performance with the preservation of Zhao’an Old Town’s unique cultural heritage.