11. Changes of permeability of nonwoven geotextiles due to clogging and cyclic water flow in laboratory conditionsAnna Miszkowska, Stanislav Lenart, Eugeniusz Koda, 2017, original scientific article Abstract: The use of geotextile filters has been a common application in geo-environmental and geotechnical engineering for decades. The purpose of the present paper is to assess the influence of artificial physical clogging and cyclic water flow on the water permeability characteristics of nonwoven geotextiles used commonly in filter and drainage systems. Despite many studies examining the behavior of soil-geosynthetics, the mechanism of physical clogging is not fully understood yet and remains incompletely defined. Artificial clogging and cyclic water flow tests have been conducted according to a procedure created by the authors. Three nonwoven geotextiles and silty sand were employed in the test series. Hydraulic properties of the tested geosynthetics were determined according to the ISO standard. Filter design criteria are also discussed. The paper also presents the changes of water permeability characteristics due to clogging and cyclic water flow. The results show significant decrease of water permeability coefficients of the tested nonwoven geotextiles after artificial clogging and under cyclic water flow. Furthermore, the clogging mechanism was observed and confirmed by three-dimensional computed tomography. Keywords: nonwoven geotextile, clogging, cyclic flow, permeability, soil Published in DiRROS: 14.08.2024; Views: 146; Downloads: 100
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12. Monitoring copper corrosion in bentonite by means of a coupled multi-electrode arrayTadeja Kosec, Miha Hren, Andraž Legat, 2017, original scientific article Abstract: This work focuses in monitoring the corrosion processes on copper in a slightly saline environment under oxic conditions, which simulated the first part of high-radioactive waste disposal in bentonite. Besides coupled multi-electrode arrays (CMEA), also electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurements were implemented. It was expected that this combination of methods would define the general corrosion rate, as well as the spatio-temporal evolution of anodic and cathodic processes. Anodic currents measured by CMEA showed that the corrosion rates decreased with time. Since maximum anodic activity switched between the electrodes, this situation was not individually valid for all the electrodes. At the end of exposure, different spectroscopic techniques were applied in order to identify the modes of corrosion and types of corrosion products. Uneven general corrosion without evident pits was indicated. Keywords: copper, bentonite, saline groundwater, coupled multi electrode array, corrosion Published in DiRROS: 14.08.2024; Views: 181; Downloads: 124
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13. Lightweight aggregates made from fly ash using the cold-bond process and their use in lightweight concreteAna Frankovič, Violeta Bokan-Bosiljkov, Vilma Ducman, 2017, original scientific article Abstract: Aggregates made from fly ash have been developed by means of the cold-bonding process, with the addition of Portland cement as a binder at (10, 20, and 30) % of mass fractions, and by pouring the mixtures into moulds. After curing for 28 d the samples were processed into aggregate by crushing and sieving. An aggregate containing a weight percentage of 10 % of cement was additionally produced by pelletization on a granulating plate. The density, water-adsorption capacity, porosity, compressive strengths, and frost resistance of the samples were determined. The aggregates prepared by both routes were then used to make concrete samples, whose properties were then compared to those of conventional concrete made using limestone aggregate. The compressive strength of the concrete made with the granulated aggregate reached 16.0 MPa after 28 d, whereas that of the concrete made with crushed aggregate amounted to 24.1 MPa, and that of the conventional concrete was 34.6 MPa. Keywords: fly ash, lightweight aggregates, density, compressive strength, frost resistance Published in DiRROS: 14.08.2024; Views: 151; Downloads: 116
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14. An evaluation of marine sediments in terms of their usability in the brick industry : case study Port of KoperPatrik Baksa, Franka Cepak, Rebeka Kovačič Lukman, Vilma Ducman, 2018, original scientific article Abstract: A dredging process is essential for the development of harbours and ports, allowing the functional daily operation of the port. The management of dredged material represents a worldwide challenge, especially considering unwanted deposition of material. Because of their chemical, petrographic, mineralogical and homogeneity composition, marine sediments could represent an appropriate raw material for the brick industry, particularly for the production of clay blocks, roofing and ceramic tiles. In this study dredged material from Port of Koper was tested for such use, thus various analyses were carried out in order to determine if the dredged material is environmentally friendly and suitable for use in the brick industry. These included: chemical analysis, mineralogical analysis, particle size analysis, chloride content analysis and tests of firing in a gradient furnace. Furthermore, tests of mechanical properties, as well as tests of the frost-resistance of the samples were carried out. On the basis of the primary analyses and samples prepared in a laboratory, it was confirmed that marine sediments from the Port of Koper, without any additives are only conditionally suitable as a source material for producing brick products, because without additives they exhibit too much shrinkage on drying and firing, as well as high water absorption, this can be improved by the incorporation of suitable additives, for example, virgin clay or other suitable waste material. The approach described herewith can also be followed to assess sediments from other ports and rivers regarding its potential use in clay brick sector. Keywords: dredge marine sediment, recycling, clay bricks, mechanical properties, chemical analysis Published in DiRROS: 14.08.2024; Views: 146; Downloads: 74
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15. Efficiency of FRPU strengthening of a damaged masonry infill wall under in-plane cyclic shear loading and elevated temperaturesPetra Triller, Konrad Kwiecień, Arkadiusz Kwiecień, Uroš Bohinc, BogusŁaw Zając, Marcin Tekieli, Magdalena Szumera, Theodoros Rousakis, Vachan Vanian, Ahmet Tugrul Akyildiz, Alberto Viskovic, 2024, original scientific article Abstract: This paper presents results of in-plane shear tests carried out at the ZAG laboratory in Ljubljana (Slovenia) on a RC frame with masonry infill made of clay blocks (KEBE OrthoBlock). The frame was loaded with constant vertical loads at the top of the columns and then by gradually increasing horizontal cyclic loads at the top beam level. Acquired forces and measured displacements allowed capturing hysteretic behavior for determination of dissipation energy. In addition, two Digital Image Correlation (DIC) systems, Aramis and the CivEng Vision, were used to visualize the behavior of the tested specimens, with an emphasis on computing locally required information about the behavior of highly deformable interfaces. Three types of specimens were tested in-plane: the reference specimen in form of plain RC frame, the reference specimen with constructed masonry infill without any strengthening and the specimen, previously damaged and then strengthened on both sides using glass mesh bonded to the infill and the RC frame using flexible adhesive made of polyurethane matrix (Glass Fiber Reinforced PolyUrethane - GFRPU system). The strengthening process, allowed the specimen to withstand additional cyclic loads, reaching a maximum drift of 3.6 % without serious damage disqualifying the structure from further exploitation. The GFRPU strengthening system was found to be highly effective in preventing infill collapse of damaged masonry infill wall during in-plane loading. Additionally, the results of extended thermal analysis of PU are presented as polymers are, in general, a material, poorly resistant to heat. However, the analyzed PU manifested stable properties up to 200 degrees Celsius, which makes this material promising in civil engineering applications at elevated temperatures. Keywords: masonry blocks, damaged infill, fiber Reinforced PolyUrethane, external composite strengthening, in-plane shear, thermal tests, DIC measurements Published in DiRROS: 14.08.2024; Views: 143; Downloads: 104
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16. Tailoring the crystalline and amorphous phase ratios of TiO2 through the use of organic additives during hydrothermal synthesisNejc Rozman, Andrijana Sever Škapin, David Maria Tobaldi, Goran Dražić, Peter Nadrah, 2024, original scientific article Abstract: The photocatalytic properties of TiO2 are primarily determined by its crystallinity and crystalline phase ratios. To improve the photocatalytic properties of TiO2, greater control over the formation of crystalline and amorphous phases during synthesis is therefore required. In this study, we demonstrate how the addition of minute amounts of three organic compounds (isopropanol, acetone and acetic acid) during hydrothermal treatment affects the amorphous and crystalline phase ratios: the addition of isopropanol or acetone accelerates the phase transition from anatase and brookite to rutile, whereas the addition of acetic acid inhibits the transformation of anatase to rutile, increasing the content of amorphous phase compared to samples where no organic compound was added. We show that the combination of the organic compound added, along with the duration of the hydrothermal treatment, can be used to tailor the phase composition of TiO2, so as to obtain either: i) TiO2 with a high content of both rutile and amorphous phase, ii) TiO2 with a high rutile content and iii) TiO2 with different ratios of all four phases, when the duration of synthesis is short (2–4 h). The materials synthesized exhibited high photocatalytic activity (in most cases higher than P25), which is attributed to the beneficial phase composition and high specific surface area. Keywords: sol-gel processes, X-ray methods, chemical properties, TiO2, photocatalysis Published in DiRROS: 14.08.2024; Views: 155; Downloads: 167
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17. Scoring system for technical evaluation of technologies for remote monitoring of bridgesMogens Saberi, Kevin McPherson, Fengqiao Zhang, Anna Arvidsson, Simon Fjendbo, Carl van Geem, Maja Kreslin, Andrej Anžlin, 2024, published scientific conference contribution Abstract: Transportation infrastructure demands reliable, cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and safe solutions. It is, therefore, crucial to leverage both the knowledge gained from current practices and the potential offered by emerging technologies. This paper uses the scoring system approached in the INFRACOMS project to offer a framework for asset managers and technology providers to identify areas of improvement and make informed decisions regarding selecting and implementing remote condition monitoring solutions. We focus on two technologies for bridges, like bridge weigh-in-motion and digital inspection and centre around four areas: data analysis, visualisation and integration and potential for practical decision-making. Technologies are evaluated based on their intended use, acknowledging that some may have multiple applications due to novel sensor installations or data interpretation/visualisation methods. Consequently, a technology may undergo multiple appraisals within this system. We showcase the benefits of the scoring system, alignment with specific use cases, and potential for broad applicability. Keywords: bridge, remote monitoring, scoring system Published in DiRROS: 14.08.2024; Views: 209; Downloads: 95
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18. Challenges of implementing bridge weigh-in-motion on a century-old steel-riveted railway bridgeDoron Hekič, Mirko Kosič, Jan Kalin, Aleš Žnidarič, Andrej Anžlin, 2024, published scientific conference contribution Abstract: This study explores the challenges and methodologies involved in implementing bridge weigh-in-motion (B-WIM) system on a century-old steel riveted railway bridge. A unique aspect of this study, funded by the EU H2020 Shift2Rail Joint Undertaking, was the adaptation of B-WIM systems to the specific constraints of railway bridges since, traditionally, this technology is used to collect heavy gross vehicle loading data on road bridges. The paper details the experimental setup on an old steel-riveted railway bridge, including sensor placement and calibration processes. It highlights the complexities encountered, such as differences in bridge response due to passenger and other type of trains. It introduces the system calibration strategy using known axle loads from passenger locomotives. The study provides insights into the structural response of old steel bridges under traffic loads, contributing valuable data to the field of railway bridge monitoring and maintenance. Keywords: bridge, B-WIM, bridge Weigh-in-Motion system, numerical model updating, bridge response measurements, railways Published in DiRROS: 14.08.2024; Views: 114; Downloads: 94
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19. Load testing of the first stress ribbon bridge in SloveniaĐorđe Đukić, Doron Hekič, Mirko Kosič, Rok Vezočnik, Andrej Anžlin, Andrej Štrukelj, Marjan Pipenbaher, Tomaž Weingerl, 2024, published scientific conference contribution Abstract: Paper presents selected results of the diagnostic load testing of a newly-built footbridge in Novo Mesto, Slovenia. The bridge is significant as the first bridge in Slovenia being built with the stress ribbon technology. The diagnostic load testing took place in March 2023 and comprised of three-stage static load testing, dynamic testing with a light truck driving over artificial obstacles, and measurement of ambient vibrations. The consistency between the actual response of the bridge and the response of the finite element (FE) model, used in the design, was evaluated by comparing vertical displacements from the static load testing, natural frequencies and mode shapes. The comparison of the results indicates a satisfactory agreement between the measurements and the response of the FE model, confirming the appropriateness of the employed FE model. Keywords: bridge, bridge response measurements, stress ribon, load test Published in DiRROS: 14.08.2024; Views: 105; Downloads: 94
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20. High-resolution Pan-European forest structure maps : an integration of earth observation and national forest inventory dataJukka Miettinen, Patricia Adame, Radim Adolt, Iciar Alberdi, Oleg Antropov, Ólafur Arnarsson, Rasmus Astrup, Ambros Berger, Jón Bogason, Gherardo Chirici, Luka Krajnc, Mitja Skudnik, 2024, complete scientific database of research data Keywords: uneven-aged forest, lidar data, canopy height model, voxels, canopy height diversity Published in DiRROS: 13.08.2024; Views: 142; Downloads: 520
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