Tạp chí Vật liệu và Xây dựng

Applications of digital technologies and artificial intelligence in automotive material durability assessment: Potential and future trends

Nguyễn Đức Quý — 2025-12-28

Amid the automotive industry’s rapid shift toward electrification, autonomous driving, and sustainability, inspection and durability assessment of automotive materials are becoming increasingly critical to ensure safety, optimize performance, and reduce production costs. Traditional experimental methods—mechanical testing (tension, compression, fatigue, impact) and non-destructive testing (ultrasonic, X-ray, magnetic)—are widely used but still have limitations, including high cost, lengthy execution time, and difficulty in accurately predicting material behavior under real operating conditions. The remarkable advances in digital technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) have opened new avenues for this field. Numerical simulation tools such as computer-aided engineering (CAE), the finite element method (FEM), and digital twins enable more accurate prediction of material responses under diverse loading scenarios. In parallel, machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) have proved effective in processing large datasets, recognizing material microstructures, and detecting damage from images or sensor signals. This paper provides an overview of recent research on the application of digital technologies and AI to durability evaluation of automotive materials, while comparing analogous applications in the construction sector to extract cross-disciplinary lessons. On this basis, the paper discusses key advantages, remaining challenges, and proposes future directions, aiming toward intelligent, automated, and sustainable material inspection systems.

Status of Energy Consumption and Energy Efficiency Solutions in Cement Clinker Production in Vietnam

Phan Văn Quỳnh — 2025-12-28

The Vietnamese cement industry has a large production capacity and plays an important role in national socio-economic development. However, it is also one of the most energy-intensive and greenhouse-gas-emitting sectors in the industrial field. This study aims to assess the current status of energy consumption—including both thermal and electrical energy—in clinker production in Vietnam. Survey results from cement plants show that the average thermal energy consumption is approximately 824 kcal/kg clinker, while the average electrical energy consumption is about 61.8 kWh/t clinker. Large-capacity production lines that have implemented integrated energy-saving measures and waste heat recovery (WHR) systems demonstrate significantly lower energy consumption compared to smaller and older-technology plants.

Structural shape optimization of deep-water bridge pile groups

Nguyễn Trường Chinh — 2025-12-28

This study analyzes the wave-induced response of piles and pile caps. After examining the influence of pile length, three optimized foundations were proposed with the aim of reducing the free length of piles, and corresponding finite element models were established to compare their wave-induced responses. The results show that the displacement at the pile cap increases with pile length until the cap emerges above the water surface, while the internal forces at the pile base also increase accordingly. Introducing an intermediate connection along the pile can reduce its free length and improve the wave-induced response of the foundation, except for shear forces. A stiffer connection demonstrated better effectiveness in enhancing the stability of the foundation. These findings provide a useful reference for optimizing pile foundations of deep-water bridges.

Assessing the potential application of solar energy solutions for an office building assumed to be built in 07 climate zones in Vietnam

Nguyễn Đức Lượng — 2025-12-28

This study analyzes and evaluates the potential application of solar energy solutions (roof-mounted solar panels and building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems) for an office building assumed to be built in 07 different climate zones in Vietnam including the Northwest region (zone I), the Viet Bac midlands - mountains and Northeastern region (zone II), the Northern Delta region (zone III), the North Central region (zone IV), the South Central region (zone V), the Central Highlands region (zone VI) and the Southern region (zone VII). Accordingly, the energy use intensity of the office building constructed in 07 climate zones is evaluated using energy simulation tools under different scenarios: the baseline scenario (without applying solar energy solutions) and energy saving scenarios (with applying solar energy solutions according to different cases). The results of energy simulation under different scenarios generally showed that the application of rooftop solar panel solutions or BIPV for office buildings has the potential to produce a large amount of electricity to meet the energy demand of the office building. Especially, when combining rooftop solar panels and BIPV systems, the energy savings of the office building are very large and in some cases the amount of electricity produced from solar energy solutions completely meets the energy demand of the office building. When considering different climate zones, the results of energy simulations indicated that the energy savings of office buildings applying rooftop solar panel or BIPV are also different and one of the reasons is the difference in the total number of sunshine hours per year in localities/climate zones.

Assessment of economic efficiency of silicate coat production technology process in Vietnam conditions

Vũ Văn Phong — 2025-12-28

Assessment of economic efficiency of the production technology of Silicate Paint is one of the important and necessary factors for the market economy of the materials industry in general and the paint industry in particular today. The improved Silicate Paint production technology helps to increase the protective and decorative effect while reducing costs and making it safer for human health. The authors use the imperfect capital market analysis method with specific investment project problems to evaluate the economic efficiency of the Silicate Paint production process in Vietnam. Indicators of the net future value (NFV) and composite rate of retur (CRR) are used for the assessment. The results of the problem will support the correct assessment of the economic efficiency that the Silicate Paint production process brings, which is the basis for promoting the transfer of paint technology in Vietnam, towards a manufacturing industry produce clean materials that protect the environment and aim to develop a sustainable construction industry in Vietnam.

Microplastics in drinking water source: Current situation and solutions

Phạm Văn Tới — 2025-12-28

Microplastics have been detected in oceans, seas, and freshwater bodies worldwide in recent years; however, limited research has focused on their concentrations in daily drinking water and on the technologies available to remove them in order to protect human health. Drinking water treatment processes—such as sedimentation, coagulation, and membrane filtration—help reduce the concentration of microplastics, but significant challenges remain regarding their effectiveness. Therefore, this article summarizes current knowledge on microplastics in drinking water sources, highlights treatment solutions that have been applied worldwide, and discusses the challenges involved in implementing these technologies to improve treatment efficiency.

The role of encaustic cement tiles in the development of non-fired construction materials in Vietnam

Trần Thị Thanh Tuyền — 2025-12-28

Vietnam is promoting a national strategy for the development of non-fired construction materials to reduce environmental impacts and achieve sustainable development goals. In this context, handcrafted cement encaustic tiles—a decorative material produced from cement and stone powder without firing—have shown significant potential in terms of environmental efficiency and aesthetic–cultural value. While extensive studies have been conducted on industrial non-fired construction materials such as cement blocks, autoclaved aerated concrete, and lightweight panels, no systematic research has analyzed the role of handcrafted encaustic tiles within Vietnam’s green material framework, particularly concerning the technical–energy–cultural indicators in relation to green building standards. Using policy analysis, literature synthesis, and field surveys at tile manufacturing facilities, this study clarifies the technical, environmental, and heritage values of encaustic tiles in the context of Vietnam’s green transition. The results reveal that non-fired production enables a 40–60% reduction in CO₂ emissions and 60–70% energy savings compared with fired clay bricks, while maintaining compressive strength between 20–25 MPa and high reusability. Accordingly, the study proposes a “Green Cement Tiles Framework” that integrates modern technology with traditional craftsmanship, thereby enhancing the position of this heritage material within Vietnam’s non-fired construction materials ecosystem and contributing to circular economy practices in the construction sector.

Numerical Investigation of punching shear behavior of reinforced concrete flat slab with openings

Nguyễn Quang Sĩ — 2025-12-28

Reinforced concrete (RC) flat slabs are widely used in modern civi buildings due to their flexibility in architectural layout, rapid construction, and cost efficiency. However, these slabs are susceptible to sudden brittle failure, particularly when openings are located near columns or walls. This study evaluates the punching shear capacity of RC flat slabs with openings in accordance with ACI 318 – 19, Eurocode 2, and BS 8110 – 1997, and compares the calculated results with previously published experimental data. Subsequently, a finite element (FE) model was developed in Cast3M to simulate the punching shear behavior of the slabs. The model exhibited good agreement with experimental observations in terms of load–deflection curves, load–strain relationships, and failure patterns. The results indicate that openings adjacent to the column significantly reduce the slab’s punching shear strength, while moving the openings farther away can increase the capacity by up to 15%. Moreover, slabs with circular openings demonstrated approximately 10% higher punching capacity compared to those with square or rectangular openings of equivalent area.

Study on the use of bottom ash from waste incineration plant as an aggregate component for the concrete production

Nguyễn Văn Tuyến — 2025-12-28

This study aims to evaluate the feasibility of using bottom ash from a waste incinerator plant as fine aggregate to replace natural sand for the production of concrete in practical applications. In this study, bottom ash to sand ratios (BA/S) were 0%, 10%, 20% and 30% by weight. The effects of different bottom ash contents on the technical properties of concrete mortar, such as compressive strength, flexural strength, water absorption, and drying shrinkage, were evaluated according to the instructions of the current Vietnamese standards. These results prove that heavy metal indicators in the source of bottom ash from the municipal solid waste incineration plant showed that the values were below the threshold levels specified in QCVN 07:2009/BTNMT. Therefore, the bottom ash can be considered safe for use as a fine aggregate to replace natural sand in concrete production. The results indicated that replacing 30% of natural sand with bottom ash by weight meets the requirement of current Vietnamese standards and M20 concrete standard, which can be practically used in the construction field. Further studies on the influence of bottom ash when replacing sand aggregate on the properties of concrete when the natural sand replacement content is greater than 30% are needed.

Research on the contribution of construction projects in applying BIM to economic growth at Hanoi

Lê Minh Thoa — 2025-12-28

The era of global digital transformation booming and the Vietnamese construction industry constantly facing pressure to improve quality, reduce costs and optimize project progress, the application of Building Information Modeling (BIM) has become a strategic and urgent factor. Decision No. 258/QD-TTg on the application of BIM in projects using state capital and public investment capital has clearly shown that the construction industry needs to grasp and deploy this digital technology right from the early stages of the investment process. BIM is a comprehensive workflow that allows the integration of all relevant data from design, construction to operation and maintenance of buildings. Thereby, all information is digitized and stored in a unified manner, helping stakeholders to coordinate closely, minimize errors, and improve transparency and efficiency in decision making. Research on construction projects applying BIM to economic growth in Hanoi.

Giới thiệu tiêu chuẩn sơn Silicat

Vũ Thị Duyên — 2025-12-28

Standard specifications and test methods of "Silicate paint" is built on the basic of reference forigen standards were JG/T 26 standard of China and JIS A 6909:2014 standard of Japan. In this standard, the paint is classified into two classes according to the end, each class with properties with differently requirements.

Normalizing bid discount rates in construction procurement by package scale and contract duration in Ho Chi Minh city

Lê Thị Thanh Trâm — 2025-12-28

This paper proposes a two-dimensional normalization framework for bid discount rates in civil-works procurement along package scale (S) and contract duration (T). Using a dataset of 201 construction packages in Ho Chi Minh City (2023-2024), we stratify observations by tertiles to form an SXT matrix and compile P25-P50-P75 percentile benchmarks for each cell. The methodology combines robust statistics (median, interquartile range) with the Kruskal-Wallis test and epsilon-squared (ε²) effect size to ensure inferences that are stable under skewness and outliers. Results show that, when each dimension is examined in isolation (S or T), differences in the distribution of discount rates are statistically insignificant with very small effect sizes; by contrast, clear interactions emerge in the S×T space: some configurations (e.g., large packages with moderate duration) exhibit higher discounts, whereas others (e.g., small packages with long duration) display lower discounts. Based on these estimates, we develop S×T reference tables that classify observed discounts into “low-typical-high” states consistent with the package configuration. The resulting percentile benchmarks by scale × duration provide owners with an objective basis for evaluation and anomaly detection in discount levels, while offering contractors a market reference to optimize bidding strategies by package configuration, balance risk-return, and position competitive capability.

Evaluation of thermal power plant slag and basalt for cement production according to European standards

Lê Văn Tiến — 2025-12-28

In the context of the cement industry under pressure to reduce CO₂ emissions, the use of mineral additives has emerged as an important strategy for lowering clinker content and improving the long-term durability of cement. However, the European standard EN 197-1 does not include provisions for some mineral additives that are widely used in Vietnam, such as bottom ash from coal-fired power plants and basalt. Therefore, investigating the incorporation of basalt and coal bottom ash as mineral additives in cement within the EN 197-1 framework is crucial for overcoming current obstacles to the use of these materials, particularly since Vietnam is developing its national cement standards to align with EN 197-1. This paper presents the results of evaluating the properties and suitability of several sources of coal bottom ash and basalt (materials currently used by Vietnamese cement plants) as mineral additives for the production of CEM II Portland composite cement in accordance with EN 197-1. All experimental data in this study were obtained from the Vietnamese Ministry of Construction research project RD 17-24.

Introduction to the new standard system on specifications and test methods for masonry units

Nguyễn Minh Quỳnh — 2025-12-28

Masonry units are fundamental construction materials that directly influence structural durability and quality. The previous Vietnamese standard system (TCVN) was limited, focusing mainly on traditional products, lacking consistency, and omitting key performance indicators such as frost resistance, moisture expansion, and soluble salt content. To address these gaps and align with international practices, the Ministry of Construction developed two new standards: TCVN X771 – Specifications and TCVN X772 – Test Methods. These were adapted from EN 771 and EN 772 with reference to ASTM and ISO, and validated through laboratory testing in Vietnam. TCVN X771 comprises six parts specifying requirements for major masonry types, while TCVN X772 includes nineteen test methods ensuring consistency and applicability. Verification results confirmed the feasibility and reliability of new indicators. The introduction of these standards not only overcomes shortcomings of the previous system but also establishes a solid scientific and regulatory basis, thereby improving product quality, ensuring structural durability, and fostering international integration of Vietnam’s construction materials industry.

The effect of manufactured sand on some properties of concrete

Phan Văn Quỳnh — 2025-12-28

This study investigates the effects of different types of manufactured sand (limestone manufactured sand, granite manufactured sand, and basalt manufactured sand) as a replacement for river sand on several properties of concrete, including mixing water demand, slump retention, density, compressive strength at 7 and 28 days, and flexural strength at 28 days. The results indicate that concrete incorporating manufactured sand generally exhibits higher compressive and flexural strengths compared to that made with river sand, with the improvement being most pronounced for granite and limestone manufactured sands. In contrast, concrete with basalt manufactured sand shows lower early-age strength but improved performance at 28 days. However, replacing river sand with manufactured sand reduces workability and slump retention, while increasing the water demand due to the angular particle shape and higher fine content. Among the manufactured sands, granite sand produces the highest compressive strength (R₂₈ = 67.85 MPa for M400 mix), limestone sand also provides a significant strength enhancement, whereas basalt sand tends to reduce workability and increase water demand, though it still satisfies the required strength of structural concrete.

An experimental study on the effects of steel fiber type and content on the tensile properties of ultra-high-performance concrete

Đặng Văn Phi — 2025-12-28

Ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) is a construction material characterized by exceptional mechanical properties, particularly high compressive strength and long-term durability. However, its crack resistance beyond the elastic limit remains limited. The incorporation of steel fibers has emerged as an effective approach to enhance the tensile performance and post-cracking ductility of UHPC. This study investigates the influence of fiber types and volume contents on the tensile behaviors of UHPC through experiments using three types of steel fibers (smooth, twisted, and hooked fibers) at volume fractions of 0.5%, 1.0%, and 1.5%. Results indicate that the initial tensile strength at first cracking is not significantly affected by fiber type or content. However, as the fiber content increases, there is a significant enhancement in post-cracking strength, tensile strain capacity, and energy absorption. Notably, twisted and hooked-end fibers outperform smooth fibers due to their superior mechanical interlocking with the cementitious matrix. These findings highlight the critical role of fiber geometry and dosage in optimizing the tensile performance and overall mechanical behavior of UHPC under tensile loading.

A quantitative assessment of distribution and accessibility of service facilities in the buffer zone of Ben Thanh – Suoi Tien Metro line 01

Phạm Chánh Toàn — 2025-12-28

Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) is one of the key strategies for promoting sustainable urban development. Beyond providing significant benefits for mobility, metro systems exert a strong influence on the surrounding development areas, with an impact radius of up to 2 km. The Ben Thanh – Suoi Tien line is the first metro route in Ho Chi Minh City, playing an essential role in shaping travel behavior, enhancing land use and service values, and advancing sustainability. This study aims to apply two main groups of indicators, land use and accessibility to stations - to evaluate 14 stations along the Ben Thanh – Suoi Tien Metro Line. Data were collected through two primary methods: field video recording and survey questionnaires. The study employs correlation analysis, the K-means clustering algorithm, and radar charts to analyze the characteristics and potential relationships among observed variables. The findings reveal that the 14 stations are classified into two clusters, each exhibiting distinct features in terms of development levels and accessibility. This research contributes an important perspective to the implementation of future urban planning strategies.

Solutions to mitigate operational carbon emissions in office buildings

Nguyễn Thị Huệ — 2025-12-28

The development of net-zero carbon buildings has been implemented in many countries around the world towards achieving the goal of net-zero emission in the construction industry and/or building sector. To mitigate carbon emissions for buildings, it is necessary to simultaneously implement solutions to minimize emissions of embodied carbon and operational carbon. This study has conducted surveys and evaluated the current status of energy consumption of building technical systems (ventilation, air conditioning; lighting; pumping...) in office buildings as well as the efficiency of applying energy-saving solutions in office buildings in Vietnam. Based on these results, the study has proposed some solutions to minimize energy consumption and carbon emissions during the operation of office buildings.

Investigation of the pullout behavior of multiple steel fibers embedded in concrete

Tăng Văn Lâm — 2025-12-28

This study evaluates the pullout behavior of multiple steel fibers in concrete through pullout tests with fiber quantities of 1, 4, and 16. The specimens were prepared to clarify the influence of fiber number on bond strength, stress transfer mechanisms, and crack development at the fiber-concrete interface. The results indicate that as the number of fibers increases, the average bond strength per fiber tends to decrease, primarily due to the redistribution of interfacial stresses and the overlapping of neighboring cracks. In particular, the single-fiber specimen exhibited the highest pullout resistance per unit fiber, whereas specimens with multiple fibers exhibited a significant reduction. Nevertheless, increasing the number of fibers enhanced the overall energy dissipation capacity, attributed to more complex crack interactions. The findings provide valuable experimental evidence for characterizing the bond mechanism of steel fibers in concrete and support the optimal design of fiber-reinforced concrete for practical structural applications.

Study on solutions and calculation methods for underpass structures

Nguyễn Thị Quỳnh Như — 2025-12-28

At present, Vietnam has no specific standards or regulations for the calculation of diaphragm wall structures in underpasses. This work is mainly carried out by foreign experts or based on standards from Russia, the United States, Japan, and others. However, differences in geological and hydrogeological conditions require further studies to select and adapt appropriate calculation methods to the local context. Therefore, within the scope of this study, several solutions and calculation methods are reviewed and evaluated to propose their applicability to Vietnam’s conditions.

Seismic response analysis of precast slab-on-pile bridge

Nguyễn Trường Chinh — 2025-12-28

In this study, the seismic performance and energy dissipation capacity of slab-on-pile joints were investigated using numerical modeling. The results indicate that the static curve of the tubular pile under low-cycle lateral loading is complete and demonstrates good energy dissipation capacity. Under the action of random seismic excitations, the displacement of the slab-on-pile structure in one direction reached 0.023 m, which satisfies the code requirements. The improved slab-on-pile joints were applied in the nonlinear dynamic time-history analysis of the bridge structure.

Analysis of the Causes of Poor Communication among Stakeholders in High-Rise Building Projects in Ho Chi Minh City

Nguyễn Thị Tuyết — 2025-12-28

This study focuses on analyzing the causes of poor communication among stakeholders in high-rise building projects in Ho Chi Minh City. Based on previous research and expert opinions, the study identified 30 causes. Using the Relative Importance Index (RII) method, the study recognized the five most prominent causes of poor communication, including: “Inaccurate communication of project information,” “Inaccurate construction instructions/technical information,” “Ineffective planning and coordination among stakeholders,” “Lack of mutual understanding among stakeholders,” and “Poor quality of technical drawings.” The findings provide a basis for stakeholders to clearly identify the causes of poor communication, thereby proposing solutions to improve communication effectiveness and minimize negative impacts on project performance.

Risk Assessment of Using Construction Materials in the Southwest Region of Vietnam – Proposed Solutions

Lê Hà Thiên Ấn — 2025-12-28

The Southwest region of Vietnam holds a particularly critical position in the nation’s socio-economic development, with substantial investments being directed towards transportation, civil, and industrial infrastructure. Nevertheless, its distinctive natural conditions—characterized by a fluvial landscape, humid tropical climate, recurrent saline intrusion, flooding, and severe storms—pose considerable challenges to the utilization and management of construction materials. This study examines the principal risks associated with construction materials in the region, including supply shortages, the detrimental effects of saline intrusion on structural durability and service life, constraints in the application of embankment soil, and the adverse impacts of natural hazards on both material quality and structural performance. On this basis, the paper proposes a set of management and technical measures, together with strategic orientations for the development of sustainable construction materials, with a view to enhancing resilience, prolonging structural longevity, and mitigating negative environmental impacts in the context of climate change.

Application of remote sensing and energy simulation to analyze the thermal performance of green roofs

Nguyễn Trường Ngân — 2025-12-28

In the context of rapid urbanization and increasing climate change, developing green solutions to mitigate the urban heat island effect has become urgent. Green roofs have emerged as a sustainable approach that improves microclimate conditions and enhances building energy performance. This study applies a combined approach of remote sensing and energy simulation to evaluate the thermal performance of green roofs in the central area of Ho Chi Minh City. Satellite imagery was processed to identify and classify green roofs, while an energy simulation model was established to analyze their impact on surface temperature and cooling demand. The results indicate that green roofs can reduce average surface temperature by 0.45 – 1.05 °C and save 0.55 – 1.66 kWh/m²/year of cooling energy, depending on roof type and vegetation density. The findings provide both scientific evidence and practical implications for the planning, design, and implementation of green roof solutions in Vietnamese urban areas.

Study on the development of CO2-absorbing non-fired bricks using fly ash from the waste-to-energy plant, coconut fiber and superplasticizer activators

Phạm Quang Đạo — 2025-12-28

The Greenstar waste-to-energy plant (Bac Ninh) generates more than 4.000 tons of fly ash annually, most of which is landfilled, causing resource wastage and environmental pollution. This study proposes the development of CO₂-absorbing non-fired bricks using a mixture of fly ash, ground granulated blast furnace slag, coconut fiber and a alkaline solution (NaOH, Na₂SiO₃) solution serving as a geopolymer activator. Mix proportions were designed according to Vietnamese standards (TCVN), followed by sample preparation and testing of physical–mechanical properties (compressive strength, flexural strength, bulk density, water absorption, porosity) as well as CO₂ uptake capacity. The results show that all brick samples met grade M100 with compressive strengths ranging from 12,7 to 14,5 MPa, smooth surfaces, low water absorption and reduced porosity (6,5–10,9%). Notably, hollow bricks produced with Mix-ID-04 absorbed an average of 12,5–14,2 g CO₂ per brick within 20–30 minutes of testing, attributed to the carbonation of Ca(OH)₂, fly ash and slag. This research demonstrates the feasibility of combining industrial waste and agricultural by-products to manufacture CO₂-absorbing non-fired bricks, contributing to greenhouse gas reduction, resource conservation and the pursuit of the Net Zero 2050 target.

Flexural tensile behavior of steel fiber reinforced concrete beams: Experiment and numerical model

Lê Gia Khuyến — 2025-12-28

The experimental and numerical modeling of steel fiber-reinforced concrete (SFRC) beams subjected to three-point bending according to EN 14651:2005 are presented in this paper. Smooth round copper-coated steel fibers (HF5913) with varying volume fractions (0%; 0,5%; 1% and 1,5%) were used in concrete beams with a compressive strength 60 MPa. The test specimens had dimensions of 150x150x550 mm. Experimental results showed that the flexural tensile strength of conventional concrete beams was approximately one-twelfth of their compressive strength. In contrast, steel fiber-reinforced concrete beams exhibited significantly higher flexural tensile capacity, reaching between one-ninth and one-sixth of the compressive strength, depending on the fiber content. These findings indicate that the incorporation of steel fibers into concrete considerably enhances its flexural tensile performance. The good agreement between the experimental results and the numerical simulations of the mechanical behavior of SFRC materials — based on the phase field method recently developed by our team — demonstrates the model's accuracy. Through this model, the flexural tensile behavior of SFRC was further analyzed and discussed.

Proposal for construction of items to meet the requirements of green urban drainage system in Hung Yen province

Lê Thị Mai Hương — 2025-12-28

In the context of climate change and rapid urbanization, the traditional drainage system in Hung Yen Province has revealed significant limitations, failing to meet the requirements for flood control and urban environmental protection. This paper proposes a management solution for the construction of an integrated green urban drainage system, comprising 18 components divided into four functional groups: (i) rainwater collection and on-site treatment; (ii) rainwater conveyance and drainage; (iii) flow regulation and dispersion; and (iv) ecological and landscape integration. The components were selected based on technical feasibility, effectiveness in controlling surface runoff, adaptability to the specific conditions of Hung Yen, and alignment with green urban development objectives. The distribution and integration plan ensures compatibility with existing technical infrastructure, with the main drainage direction toward the southeast, utilizing natural channels and low-lying areas. The study results indicate that this system can reduce flooding, enhance infiltration and rainwater reuse, while improving the microclimate and urban landscape quality. Based on these findings, the paper recommends a hierarchical approach to construction management, operation, and maintenance, encourages socialized investment, and aligns with relevant standards and sustainable urban development policies in the province.

Comparative analysis of the influence of construction methods and consolidation waiting time on the behavior of diaphragm walls in underground structures

Lê Đình Mạnh — 2025-12-28

In major urban areas of Vietnam, rapid economic development and population growth have caused surface space to become overloaded, promoting the trend of developing underground structures such as basements, underground parking lots, underground shopping centers, and underground transportation systems. However, the construction of these structures leads to the appearance of numerous large-scale deep excavations in complex geological conditions (weak soil, high groundwater level), posing significant technical challenges related to diaphragm wall stability and overall structural safety. This study applies the finite element analysis method using PLAXIS 2D software to simulate two common construction methods, Top-down and Bottom-up, under conditions that take into account time-dependent factors and the soil consolidation process. By performing staged construction analysis combined with a drainage mechanism, the study quantitatively evaluates the impact of the construction method and the consolidation waiting time between stages on the working efficiency and structural stability of diaphragm walls.

Technological solutions in inspecting and quality control of Aluminothermic welding, Flash butt welding, and other structures at urban railway projects in Vietnam

Nguyễn Anh Tú — 2025-12-28

Railway, or rail transport is a means of transportation, a factor of economic development, used for the transportation of goods as well as passengers. The transportation system which uses tracks and metal wheels (usually made of steel) mounted on the tracks, such as locomotives and carriages (This system is called a train). Rail transport has existed for a long time and is considered an important means of transport worldwide. Rail transport is also the fastest means of transport, reducing traffic congestion and environmental pollution. The railway system connects regions, economic impulse, trade, and tourism. The design, construction, quality assurance, and safety are extremely important factors to prevent incidents and disruptions during long-term operations. Therefore, quality control through the testing during the building operations of structural components as role very important. In this article, we present some testing methods for the quality control of Aluminothermic welding, as well as other tests in the railway project. The article discusses the principles, advantages, limitations, and actual application of these techniques.

Evaluating the impact of Metro line no. 1 on property prices in Ho Chi Minh city by using GIS-based Hedonic pricing model

Nguyễn Lâm Quỳnh Trâm — 2025-12-28

Transportation infrastructure projects play a crucial role in promoting economic development, improving quality of life, and enhancing social welfare, particularly in urban areas. In line with this trend, Metro Line No. 1 Ben Thanh - Suoi Tien is expected to significantly transform travel behavior, contribute to the restructuring of urban space, and increase property values along its corridor. This study aims to evaluate the impact of Metro Line No. 1 on residential property values in Ho Chi Minh City, in the context of its commercial operation scheduled for December 2024. A dataset of 356 observations was collected from online real estate platforms within a 1.5 km buffer along the metro line. This paper employs a semi-logarithmic Hedonic Pricing Model combined with Geographic Information System applications to calculate spatial variables. The results indicate that the model demonstrates a relatively good explanatory power, with approximately 62% of the variation in property prices explained by the independent variables. Structural characteristics, neighborhood amenities, and accessibility to public transportation have positive effects on property values, while distance-related variables exhibit negative effects. Notably, property values increase significantly as the distance to metro stations decreases, confirming the capitalization effect of Metro Line No. 1 on the urban real estate market of Ho Chi Minh City.

Strength, carbonation, and microstructure of CO2-cured unfired building blocks: effect of curing conditions

Lê Văn Quang — 2025-12-28

The reduction of CO₂ emissions in the construction industry has become an urgent requirement in pursuit of sustainable development goals. In this context, CO₂ curing of concrete emerges as a promising technological solution, contributing both to greenhouse gas sequestration and to product quality enhancement. This study focuses on evaluating the effectiveness of CO₂ curing on cement-based non-fired building blocks (NBB) grade M15 and manufactured by vibration-pressing technology. Experiments were conducted under varying curing conditions, including CO₂ pressure (2 bar) and exposure durations (6, 12, 18, and 24 hours) at ambient temperature, compared to traditional water-cured control samples. The evaluated parameters include compressive strength at 3, 7, and 28 days; flexural strength; water absorption; carbonation depth; and microstructural characteristics analyzed via SEM and XRD. The results show that CO₂-cured samples achieved 33–61% higher compressive strength at 3 days and 16–23% higher at 28 days compared to the control. Water absorption decreased from 11.3% to 8.5%, while carbonation depth reached up to 18 mm after 24 hours of curing. XRD analysis revealed strong formation of calcite and vaterite phases, while SEM images indicated a denser microstructure with pores filled by carbonation products. CO₂ curing is thus a feasible solution to improve the quality and durability of the grade M15 NBBs, while simultaneously contributing to greenhouse gas mitigation in building material production.

Urban Tree Life Cycle and Its Recycling Potential into Sustainable Wood Materials in Le Van Tam Park, Ho Chi Minh City

Nguyễn Văn Nhàn — 2025-12-28

Urban trees play a vital role in mitigating greenhouse gas emissions, regulating microclimates, and enhancing quality of life. However, in Ho Chi Minh City, dozens of trees are removed each year due to disease, aging, or infrastructure requirements, generating a large amount of biomass that remains underutilized. This study employs the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) framework to evaluate the recycling potential of biomass from removed trees in Le Van Tam Park. Survey data from 473 trees indicate that an average of 40 trees are cut down annually. Using the OpenLCA software, the study estimates the potential reduction in CO₂-equivalent emissions and energy savings achievable through recycling the biomass into materials such as plywood or public furniture. The recycling value chain is analyzed by tree species and trunk diameter classes, covering stages from collection and classification to product design. The findings propose a tripartite collaboration model involving urban tree management agencies, recycling enterprises, and research institutions, along with an integrated policy framework linking urban planning, material standards, and low-carbon strategies. The study contributes a novel approach to life-cycle-based urban tree management and promotes circular economy development in the context of rapid urbanization in Vietnam.

Digital Transformation in the Construction Industry: Lessons from Several Country Worldwide

Trần Trung Kiên — 2025-12-28

In the context of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, digital transformation has become an inevitable development trend, with far-reaching impacts on most sectors, including the construction industry. Researching and learning from international experiences in digital transformation is essential for developing strategies suitable for the specific context of Vietnam’s construction sector. By collecting documents and analyzing the digital transformation experiences in the construction industries of key countries such as Singapore, the United Kingdom, and the United States, this paper proposes several lessons that can be applied to Vietnam’s construction industry. To accelerate digital transformation process, Vietnam's construction industry should focus on establishing supportive mechanisms and detailed policies; investing in training and enhancing digital skills for the workforce, undertaking strategic technology investments, fostering a digital culture and developing a comprehensive digital ecosystem.