Journal of Information Technology in Construction

This work presents research concerning the numerical assessment of two previously measured temperatures due to firebrand accumulation on surfaces, which was determined in former thermal experimental campaigns. A 3D numerical model using thermal transient non-linear analysis is used to validate the thermal outputs of these two previous experimental campaigns, and therefore, corroborating the previous temperature vs. time curves created with a prescribed flux in the firebrand accumulation area. The firebrand thermal heat transfer to the plane surface is simulated using convection and radiation film conditions, in which a 3D non-linear, time-dependent finite element simulation is used. Then, the previous proposed standard firebrand accumulation curve, ISO 834, and external fire curve are numerically compared with the results from previous firebrand accumulation curves in a wood corner wall. Finally, the merit assessment of the proposed standard firebrand accumulation curve shows a visible improvement, which has low values and is in accordance with the experimental results in the temperature field distribution of firebrand accumulation onto a contact surface. It is fair to argue that it constitutes a point to search for an efficient design for structures at elevated temperatures due to firebrand accumulation.

This paper presents a study based on new fireproof design guidelines for dwellings against the impact of wildfires. The main objective is to present the results from the surveys of the large wildfires of 2017 in Portugal, identifying vulnerabilities in dwellings that may result in spot ignitions when exposed to wildfires. Utilizing the information gathered from these surveys, it is possible to recommend fire resistance and reaction class requirements using European indoor fire standards and adapting them to suit wildfire conditions. The study focuses on classical dwellings predominantly located in high-risk fire zones within the wildland–urban interface. These assessments have the potential to generate new fireproof construction recommendations employing traditional materials commonly found in the European construction industry.

This work presents a state-of-the-art review of existing fireproof construction guidelines for dwellings against wildfires. The most important wildfire-proof construction guidelines and codes for dwellings are presented, and these are later associated with existing fire engineering chapters associated with building codes. It was concluded that the variability in this subject is very high, and the approach to classifying the thermal effects in construction still lags behind scientific consensus. Moreover, the constructive requirements depend severally on the country’s building code when assessing the fireproof requirements for wildfire. Moreover, the thermal actions of wildfires in dwellings are presented and compared with classical ISO-834 standard fire curves, in which the maximum equivalent fire exposure time can range from 2 to 4 h depending on the country’s code. The key contributions of this work consist of (i) thoroughly disseminating codes and guidelines to promote scientific discussion in order to advance the wildfire fireproof standards dedicated to WUI; (ii) emphasizing the void in current codes in order to promote conversation between future researchers.

The tender evaluation process in the procurement for construction works, aligned with regulations such as the European Directive 2014/24/EU, faces various constraints, increasingly acknowledging the impact of digitalization, particularly through Building Information Modeling (BIM). Therefore, a thorough BIM-integrated multi-criteria decision analysis approach is vital to fairly select the best contractor for the job and ensure project success. Despite its significance, the literature remains scarce, particularly in addressing BIM-related and value-focused constraints for construction tender evaluation. This research introduces a comprehensive and value-focused method integrating BIM criteria through Multicriteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) supported by the Measuring Attractiveness by a Categorical Based Evaluation Technique (MACBETH), which is applicable to both the public and private sectors, serving as a reference guide for contracting authorities to assess and select the best tender for BIM-based construction works contracts. For this purpose, the following methodology was adopted: 1) conducting an extensive literature review; 2) carrying out interviews with construction experts to identify BIM-integrated evaluation criteria and performance descriptors; 3) creating an adapted MCDA construction tender evaluation framework supported by MACBETH; 4) performing a real-world case study to demonstrate the proposed evaluation framework; 5) discussing its application and limitations, along with considerations for future research. The study demonstrated the practicality of the proposed framework through a case study, showing that a value-based approach can significantly improve project outcomes compared to traditional methods. While acknowledging the potential of the BIM methodology, the impact of BIM-specific criteria on contractor selection was found to be less significant than expected. In conclusion, this work addresses current limitations, such as the absence of BIM-integrated assessment guidelines in the European Directive 2014/24/EU and ISO 19650. It outlines a value-focused MCDA approach for evaluating tenders for construction works contracts, supported by MACBETH for structuring the decision problem and building the evaluation model. The contribution to the body of knowledge lies in providing a robust framework that enhances the evaluation process in BIM-based construction works contracts and offers practical insights for contracting authorities.

This paper presents investigations concerning the thermal firebrand reaction due to its accumulation in the top of ceramic roof tiles, commonly applied to the exterior of dwellings in southern Europe. A large-scale fire experiment is conducted, wherein firebrands are placed above the tiles and temperature readings are taken from multiple layers of the building components. The selection of materials for the roof layer assembly was based on recommendations for either fire resistance or high temperature behaviour. The test follows the fire setup recommended in the California Building Code for firebrand deposition. This investigation will allow for a more accurate verification of the firebrand reaction in the roof, including the type of ignition, the creation of smoke and droplets, and even their mechanical ability to withstand elevated temperatures.