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Optimizing Concrete Flooring And Framing Systems
Presentation Script:
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Today I'm excited to delve into a crucial aspect of construction that impacts not only our immediate budgets but also the environmental footprint we leave behind - concrete flooring and framing systems.
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In the realm of construction, adherence to code is paramount. Safety factors, such as 1.5 for loads and materials, are required to be considered, resulting in a hefty 2.25 multiplier. For instance, a concrete slab designed for a 100 kg load must resist a force 225% greater, incurring significant costs, time, and carbon emissions. However, beyond code, inefficient designing of flooring and framing systems can escalate this burden to a staggering 300% to 400% of the actual load.
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The construction industry, boasting a $6.4 trillion economy in 2020, is anticipated to swell to $14.4 trillion by 2030. Alas, it contributes a substantial 38% to global emissions. Recognizing this, my research aims to align with evolving industry priorities - reducing carbon emissions, cost, and construction time by optimizing concrete flooring and framing systems in multistory residential buildings.
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To illustrate the tangible impact of our work, let's consider a hypothetical scenario: a 10-story residential building with a 30x30m grid, totaling 900m² per floor. A mere £1/m² and 1 kg of CO2/m² difference between two slab systems would result in a staggering £9000/m² and 9000 kg of CO2/m² difference. The potential divergence could even escalate to £40/m² and 30 kg of CO2/m² difference between systems.
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The methodology employed in this research is comprehensive. It commences with a thorough literature review, evaluating various systems, weighing their pros and cons. An impact assessment follows, assessing their effects on cost, carbon, and time. The subsequent implementation and structural analysis phase which involves a real-world case study in Qatar, to implement the best systems found in literature review in an actual design of a multistory residential building in Qatar bridging academic findings with practical construction scenarios and advancing sustainable practices in multistory residential construction.
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Post-case study, a diligent data collection and analysis phase will compare the optimal design of case study with existing multistory residential building designs. The conclusive phase encompasses reporting, conclusions, and recommendations, providing actionable insights into the most sustainable concrete systems for multistory residential buildings. Preliminary indications suggest that a two-way slab might emerge as the optimal system for a sustainable future.
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In essence, this research is not just an academic undertaking but a concrete step toward reshaping how we construct our buildings, with an eye on both efficiency and environmental responsibility. Thank you
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