In this article, the possibility and the pertinence of using 3D printed polymeric materials for models in modal tests on shaking tables were recognized. Four stages of the research have been linked: The material properties investigation, the field experiment on the modal properties of the reinforced concrete chimney (a prototype), the shaking table tests on the modal properties of the 3D printed polymer model of the chimney, scaled according to the similarity criteria, and the numerical calculations of the FE model of the 3D printed mockup. First, the investigation of the properties of 3D printed polymer materials revealed that the direction of lamination had no significant effect on the modulus of elasticity of the material. This is a great benefit, especially when printing models of tall structures, such as chimneys, which for technical reasons could only be printed in a spiral manner with the horizontal direction of lamination. The investigation also proved that the yield strength depended on the direction of the lamination of the specimens. Next, the natural frequencies of the chimney, assessed through the field experiment and the shaking table tests were compared and showed good compatibility. This is a substantial argument demonstrating the pertinence of using 3D printed polymer materials to create models for shaking table tests. Finally, the finite element model of the 3D printed polymer mockup was completed. Modal properties obtained numerically and obtained from the shaking table test also indicated good agreement. The presented study may be supportive in answering the question of whether traditional models (made of the same material as prototypes) used in shaking table tests are still the best solution, or whether innovative 3D printed polymer models can be a better choice, in regard to the assessment of the modal properties and the dynamic performance of structures.

The launch of the first finish line in Warsaw was a great event that significantly alleviated the capital's traffic problems, but it also resulted in the emergence of new problems. One of them is the vibrations produced by passing trains in the tunnel next to residential buildings. The problem appeared "with some delay", after approximately two years of operation of the new Metropolis type wagons (previously only Russian - made wagons were used). The residents of Niepodległości street were the first to find out about it. There where after a series of articles in the local press there was a need to identify the cause of the troublesome vibrations. The basis for all assessments and analyzes of the impact of vibrations on buildings and people staying in them are vibration measurements carried out appropriately. Also, forecasts of such impacts and assessment of the environmental impacts of dynamic investments depend on the results obtained from vibration measurements carried out ad hoc in a given case or collected in measurement databases. Thus, the results of monitoring the impact of vibrations on the environment, the results of the above - mentioned assessments and analyzes are significantly dependent on the reliability of the results obtained from vibration measurements. Obtaining reliable measurement results requires the use of specialized equipment for measuring building vibrations in the low - frequency range, and those performing such measurements should have specialized knowledge and experience in performing vibration measurements in buildings. The aim of the research was to determine the impact of metro trains on buildings located in Warsaw at Niepodległości street together with an assessment of these impacts on buildings and especially people in buildings. In this publication, the author presented the results of his own research conducted over the years in the Warsaw metro, as well as the origins and selected results of the continuous vibration monitoring system implemented in the Warsaw metro.

The construction sector is a significant contributor to energy consumption and emissions. With the steady increase in the cost of energy carriers and the costs of energy production, the cost for consumers is also increasing. Therefore, the search for solutions capable of reducing energy consumption by increasing the energy efficiency of building structures, in particular the use of prefabricated timber-frame technology, is ongoing. Recent energy supply uncertainties and high costs necessitate the pursuit of green solutions. Timber construction, especially prefabricated timber-frame technology, holds promise due to its renewability and energy efficiency. However, housing estates built using this technology often lack service infrastructure, like shops, crèches, kindergartens, and offices, affecting resident comfort. This study proposes a methodology to select the optimal utility function for a residential building in such an estate, thus enhancing living conditions. The building’s potential new functions—a shop, nursery, or office—were evaluated based on economic criteria, thermal comfort, building airtightness, energy efficiency, and vibration comfort. The analysis indicates that converting the building into a shop requires the least capital investment, making it the most economically beneficial option.

Bus and tram traffic in urban environments generates mechanical vibrations that can threaten both the structural integrity of buildings and the well-being of residents. The intensity of these effects is determined by many factors, including the quality of roads or tracks, the type of vehicles used, the distance of buildings to vibration sources, and the speed of their travel. The question is, can speed have a decisive influence on the generation of ceiling vibrations and the comfort of its residents? The operation of buses and trams can cause significant discomfort, especially in residential areas located in the immediate vicinity of roads and tram tracks. Such disturbances can negatively affect the quality of life, causing sleep disorders, increasing stress levels, and reducing concentration or productivity. The presented work shows the results of experimental studies on vibration comfort in buildings, specifically regarding the speed of passing trams and buses.