/library/oar/handle/123456789/70123 2025-11-15T20:04:04Z 2025-11-15T20:04:04Z /library/oar/handle/123456789/140263 2025-10-17T12:25:20Z 2024-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Geopolymer alkali activated concrete based on industrial by-products Abstract: A geopolymer concrete can be produced through alkali activation, using industrial by-products including waste limestone. The production process can be optimised to enhance the mechanical properties of the material, while reducing the environmental impact of the geopolymer concrete. The aim of this research is to develop a new sustainable construction material by eliminating cement as a binder and utilising instead limestone-based waste materials through alkali activation. Additionally, the research aims to optimise the production process to achieve the target mechanical properties of geopolymer concrete [...] Description: M.Eng.(Melit).

2024-01-01T00:00:00Z /library/oar/handle/123456789/140259 2025-10-17T12:29:30Z 2024-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: The durability of reconstituted limestone containing excavation waste Abstract: Waste generation in the construction industry is an increasing issue in the Maltese Islands, excavation waste being the largest contributor. ‘Soll’, which is a form of Lower Globigerina Limestone, is considered excavation waste since it is not used as a building material, given its low durability aspect. The durability and strength properties of reconstituted limestone containing ‘Franka’ was investigated in 2013. There was a need to investigate the durability and strength properties for reconstituted limestone containing ‘Soll’, to evaluate the potential for turning such excavation waste into a building material. This study investigates the durability and strength aspects of reconstituted limestone, in which compaction loads applied to it vary [...] Description: M.Eng.(Melit.)

2024-01-01T00:00:00Z /library/oar/handle/123456789/133262 2025-03-18T11:03:05Z 2024-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: The effect of variabilities in the manufacturing tolerances on the ultimate flexural capacity of steel beams Abstract: Steel fabrication involves the production of large, complex welded assemblies of rolled steel products, inherently leading to dimensional variations due to high-temperature processes used in manufacturing and joining. The purpose of this research is to examine the validity and safety of the tolerance tables established by the Eurocode (EN10034: 1993) in terms of the ultimate flexural capacity of the beam. Both geometric properties and material properties have been treated as random variables. With the Monte Carlo Simulation, 2000 realistic and randomised combinations were produced in order to compare the randomised moment capacity with the nominal plastic moment capacity. The analysis began with a comprehensive test in which all variables were randomised. This initial test provided the probability of failure for all beams under realistic conditions. Subsequent tests were conducted with certain variables held constant at their nominal values to assess the influence of each random variable on the plastic moment capacity. Further detailed analysis involved three purposely selected beams—specifically IPE80, IPE360, and IPE750x173—chosen for their varied section depths. The results from these tests were depicted in scatterplots, which facilitated the visual identification and understanding of any trends previously noted in the general analysis. Through the in-depth analysis, it was concluded that the flange thickness is the most critical dimensional property across all section sizes. Additionally, a highly important controlling factor is the variability of the yield stress. In fact, the in-depth analysis demonstrated that the effect of the remaining three-dimensional variables on the plastic moment capacity varies by section size. Specifically, the geometric properties, such as section height and width of section, have a diminishing influence as the section size increases, while the impact of web thickness on the probability of failure becomes more pronounced with larger section sizes. Description: M.Eng.(Melit.)

2024-01-01T00:00:00Z /library/oar/handle/123456789/133021 2025-03-11T08:37:00Z 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Examining the relationship between emotional intelligence and conflict management on a construction site Abstract: This research study investigates the relationship between emotional intelligence, frequency of conflicts, and the preferred conflict management strategies on a construction site within the context of the local construction industry. The objective of the study was to showcase how emotional intelligence not only benefits individuals but also exerts a positive influence on conflict resolution skills within the context of construction projects. To achieve this, a quantitative descripto-explanatory approach was employed, involving an online questionnaire distributed to local construction professionals who have on-site work experience. Descriptive statistics, a series of one-way ANOVA tests, and correlation analysis was performed on the data to obtain the required information to answer the research questions and test the research hypothesis. The findings indicate that the current overall level of emotional intelligence is average, professionals encounter a moderate amount of conflicts, and the current preferred conflict management strategy is collaboration. The findings also indicate that professionals with a higher emotional intelligence tend to encounter less conflict on-site and they use a collaborative strategy to resolve conflicts. This research study contributes to the field of construction by highlighting the positive impacts that emotional intelligence has on conflict management. Future research should explore the effects of emotional intelligence on other dynamics required for a successful project such as team performance and job satisfaction. Description: M.Eng.(Melit.)

2025-01-01T00:00:00Z