Maryam Ehteshamzadeh, Taghi Shahrabi and Mirghasem Hosseini
Aims to investigate the inhibitive effect of the new series of Schiff base molecules, namely, N, N′‐ethylen‐bis(salicylidenimine) [S1], N, N′‐isopropylen‐bis(salicylidenimine…
Abstract
Purpose
Aims to investigate the inhibitive effect of the new series of Schiff base molecules, namely, N, N′‐ethylen‐bis(salicylidenimine) [S1], N, N′‐isopropylen‐bis(salicylidenimine) [S2] and N, N′‐Ortho‐phenylen acetyl acetone imine, (2‐hydroxy Benzophenone imine) [S3] on corrosion of copper during acid pickling treatment in 1 M HCl solution. Effects of concentration and temperature on the inhibition efficiencies of the selected Schiff bases have been studied systematically.
Design/methodology/approach
All inhibition experiments were conducted on copper sample in 1 M HCl solution. Weight loss measurements were carried out according to the ASTM standard procedure. Polarization curves and impedance spectra were carried out in a three‐electrode cell assembly connected to an EG&G potentiostat M273 and frequency response analyzer M1025.
Findings
Results obtained revealed that the studied Schiff bases act predominantly as cathodic inhibitors. The variations in inhibition efficiencies mainly depend on the type and nature of the inhibitors. Polarization and ac impedance measurements carried out at different concentrations of studied Schiff bases revealed that these compounds are adsorbed on copper surface and the adsorption obeys Langmuir adsorption isotherm. From the adsorption isotherms, the values of equilibrium constant, Kads, and the free energies of adsorption, ΔGads, were calculated. The associated activation energy of corrosion and other thermodynamic parameters such as enthalpies and entropies have also been determined.
Practical implications
The presence of high efficiency and low cost inhibitors is essential in acid pickling treatments for protection of copper and lowering of acid consumption. In comparison with conventional copper corrosion inhibitors such as benzotriazole, this result would be considered as a step forward in determination of new corrosion inhibitor.
Originality/value
This paper reveals that Schiff bases can be successfully used for protection of copper surface in acid pickling solutions.
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Ali Rahimian, Keivan Sadeghzadeh, Saeed Reza Mohandes, Igor Martek, Patrick Manu, Maxwell Fordjour Antwi-Afari, Sajjad Mirvalad and Ibrahim Odeh
Following the job demands-resources theory, this study investigates the role of female managers in enhancing employee well-being in terms of psychological health via workplace…
Abstract
Purpose
Following the job demands-resources theory, this study investigates the role of female managers in enhancing employee well-being in terms of psychological health via workplace resources.
Design/methodology/approach
To accomplish this objective, we conducted a comprehensive literature review to identify key IPS. Subsequently, a fuzzy-based algorithm was employed to prioritize these skills. Following this, we developed an algorithm based on Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) to predict the quality of workers’ IC. The efficacy of the XGBoost model was assessed by applying it to three real-life construction projects.
Findings
Upon application of the model to the case studies, we made the following conclusions: (1) “Leadership Style,” “Listening,” “Team Building” and “Clarifying Expectations” emerged as significant skills and (2) the model accurately predicted workers’ IC quality in over 78% of the cases. This algorithm has the potential to preempt interpersonal conflicts, enhancing job-site productivity, team development and human resources management. Furthermore, it can guide construction managers in designing IPS training programs.
Originality/value
This study contributes to the existing knowledge by addressing the crucial connection between IPS and IC quality in construction projects. Additionally, our novel approach, integrating fuzzy logic and XGBoost, provides a valuable tool for IC prediction. By identifying significant IPS and offering predictive insights, this research facilitates improved communication and collaboration in the construction industry, ultimately enhancing project outcomes.
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Maryam Ehteshamzadeh, Taghi Shahrabi and Mirghasem Hosseini
In this paper, the main aim is to study the synergistic effects of alkanethiols upon inhibition of Schiff bases, N,N′‐ethylen‐bis and N,N′‐ortho‐phenylen‐bis in 0.5 M sulphuric…
Abstract
Purpose
In this paper, the main aim is to study the synergistic effects of alkanethiols upon inhibition of Schiff bases, N,N′‐ethylen‐bis and N,N′‐ortho‐phenylen‐bis in 0.5 M sulphuric acid solutions.
Design/methodology/approach
Measurements were carried out in a three‐electrode cell assembly connected to the corrosion measurement system using software for Tafel polarization. Impedance measurements were carried out at open circuit potential using an electrochemical interface and frequency response analyzer at frequencies from 100 kHz to 10 MHz.
Findings
Results obtained revealed that at high concentrations, each of the investigated Schiff bases and 1‐dodecanethiol (DT) were good inhibitors when added separately to the corrosive media. The decrease in corrosion rate was associated with an increase in their concentrations. It was found that the presence of DT together with Schiff bases in corrosive medium increased inhibition effect, especially at low concentrations. Synergistic effect is discussed from viewpoint of their co‐adsorption. The adsorption of combined inhibitors was found to follow Langmuir isotherm. Thermodynamic calculations revealed that adsorption of combined inhibitors had a physical nature.
Research limitations/implications
In order to improve further the performance of Schiff bases and identifying their synergistic effects with other additives it is suggested that some more researches on other Schiff bases with other alkanethiol molecules must be done.
Practical implications
The results of this paper can be used for acid cleaning of carbon steel in which suitable inhibitor systems with the highest efficiency is required.
Originality/value
This paper reveals that the presence of DT molecules in solution encourage the adsorption of Schiff bases by facilitating the electrostatic co‐adsorption of Schiff base molecules through a synergistic effect.
Mehran Oraee, M. Reza Hosseini and David J. Edwards
The purpose of this paper is to present a quantified model for influential factors in the collaboration process in Building Information Modelling (BIM). BIM-based Construction…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to present a quantified model for influential factors in the collaboration process in Building Information Modelling (BIM). BIM-based Construction Networks (BbCNs), which comprise teams of specialist organisations engaged to execute BIM-related activities, have become the centrepiece of collaboration in construction projects. In BbCNs, however, a lack of effective collaboration among teams remains a major barrier to receiving the full benefits of BIM. Despite this importance, the role of influential factors in collaboration in BbCNs has remained somewhat esoteric in nature in various previous studies, in which the present study attempts to address this gap.
Design/methodology/approach
To develop the quantified model for collaboration in BbCNs, primary empirical data was collected from a questionnaire survey of BIM experts in the construction industry. This data was subsequently analysed through the Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) technique using SmartPLS software as a viable and robust package for PLS-SEM analysis.
Findings
Quantification of associations to collaboration in BbCNs reveals that unlike the common beliefs espoused in previous studies on collaboration in BbCNs, the lack of BIM-related tools and technologies is no longer the key concern of effective collaboration in BbCNs. Instead, ethical and managerial factors including “ethical approaches”, “liabilities” and “BIM manager role” were found to be in need of more attention for effective collaboration in BbCNs.
Practical implications
Through presenting the first quantified model for collaboration in BbCNs, findings provide a point of reference for practitioners for coaching and managing teams. So too, the findings can be translated into a set of guiding principles for the world of practice for enhancing collaboration in BbCNs.
Originality/value
This paper makes a significant contribution to the field by quantifying the factors that impact collaboration within BbCNs settings. It meticulously assesses the degree of influence wielded by these factors and provides empirical numerical evidence to demonstrate that the lack of BIM tools and software is comparatively less concerning in fostering collaboration within BbCNs when contrasted with human-related factors. This original contribution surpasses prior qualitative evaluations by introducing a systematic framework for ranking and comparing other influential factors, thereby advancing relevant theoretical constructs into the realm of quantitative analysis.
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M. Reza Hosseini, David John Edwards, Tandeep Singh, Igor Martek and Amos Darko
The construction industry faces three emergent developments that in all likelihood will transform the industry into the future. First, engineering project networks (EPNs), in…
Abstract
Purpose
The construction industry faces three emergent developments that in all likelihood will transform the industry into the future. First, engineering project networks (EPNs), in which teams collaborate on projects remotely in time and space, are transforming global construction practices. Second, as a major consumer of resources and significant producer of green-house gases, construction is under pressure to reduce its carbon footprint. Third, the construction industry presents as one of the least socially sustainable work environments, with high job dissatisfaction, skewed work–life balance and over representation of depressive and mental disorders. It is incumbent on the industry to reconcile these issues. Specifically, what scope is there to shape the evolution of EPNs towards a configuration that both promotes sustainability generally, and enhances quality of work-life issues, while at the same time continuing to apprehend the economic dividends for which it is adopted? As salient as this question is, it has not been broached in the literature. Therefore, this study aims to survey the extent to which EPNs align with the sustainability agenda, more broadly, and that of employee work-place satisfaction, more specifically.
Design/methodology/approach
A literature review of current knowledge of these concerns is explored and a summative assessment presented.
Findings
To the best of the authors’ knowledge, as the first in its kind, the study brings to light that EPNs go a long way towards facilitating economic objectives, part way towards realising ecological and sociological objectives but make hardly any impact on improving employee work satisfaction.
Originality/value
This paper examines an entirely novel area that has not been studied yet. Future research should take up this finding to determine how EPNs may be further adapted to accommodate these wider necessary objectives.
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Dania Batool, Qandeel Malik, Tila Muhammad, Adnan Umar Khan and Jonghoon Kim
Multilevel inverters play a major role in the development of high-power industrial applications. In traditional low-level inverters (e.g. 2-level), the switching frequency is…
Abstract
Purpose
Multilevel inverters play a major role in the development of high-power industrial applications. In traditional low-level inverters (e.g. 2-level), the switching frequency is restricted and the harmonic spectrum of the system is hard to meet power requirements. Similarly, high-level inverters consist of a large number of switches, complex modulation techniques and complex hardware architecture, which results in high power loss and a significant amount of harmonic distortion. Furthermore, it is a must to ensure that every switch experiences the same stress of voltage and current. The purpose of this paper is to present an inverter topology with lower conduction and switching losses via reduced number of switches and equal voltage source-sharing technique.
Design/methodology/approach
Herein, the authors present a cascaded multilevel inverter having less power switches, a simple modulation technique and an equal voltage source-sharing phenomenon implementation.
Findings
The modulation technique becomes more complex when equal voltage source-sharing is to be implemented. In this study, a novel topology for the multilevel inverter with fewer switches, novel modulation technique, equal voltage source-sharing and Inductor-Capacitor-Inductor filter implementation is demonstrated to the reduce harmonic spectrum and power losses of the proposed system.
Originality/value
The nine-level inverter design is validated using software simulations and hardware prototype testing; the power losses of the proposed inverter design are elaborated and compared with the traditional approach.
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Javad Bakhshi, Hamed Golzad, Igor Martek, M. Reza Hosseini and Eleni Papadonikolaki
This study aims to investigate the complexity factors associated with BIM-enabled projects. BIM has been widely promoted as a potential solution to numerous challenges that hinder…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to investigate the complexity factors associated with BIM-enabled projects. BIM has been widely promoted as a potential solution to numerous challenges that hinder productivity in construction projects, owing to its numerous advantages. Nevertheless, it is crucial to acknowledge the heightened complexity it introduces to project workflows, stakeholder coordination and information management.
Design/methodology/approach
This study employs the Delphi method to identify and extract complexity factors specific to BIM-enabled projects. A panel of industry and academic experts is engaged to discern and prioritise these factors based on their expertise and knowledge.
Findings
The study reveals a comprehensive list of 34 complexity factors that significantly impact BIM-enabled projects. Among the most influential factors are laws and regulations, variety of procurement methods, technical capabilities of teams, project manager competence, information transfer capacity, range of project deliverables and diversity of project locations. The findings highlight the importance of these factors and emphasise the need for proactive and adaptive management to navigate their impact and achieve positive project outcomes.
Originality/value
This study introduces the DEBACCS framework, a metric-based model designed to understand and evaluate complexity within BIM-enabled projects. DEBACCS stands for seven key dimensions: diversity, emergence, belonging, autonomy, connectivity, context and size. These dimensions represent essential aspects for gauging project complexity. By applying the concept of complexity from project management to BIM, the study offers valuable insights for practitioners and researchers. It provides a unique perspective on the challenges and considerations associated with implementing and managing BIM in construction projects. The findings have practical value for practitioners, enabling them to better understand and address the implications of complexity in BIM-enabled projects, ultimately leading to improved project outcomes.
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Mehran Oraee, M. Reza Hosseini, David Edwards and Eleni Papadonikolaki
The purpose of this paper is to present a modified model for collaboration in BIM-based construction networks (BbCNs). Though BIM is increasingly adopted and implemented across…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to present a modified model for collaboration in BIM-based construction networks (BbCNs). Though BIM is increasingly adopted and implemented across the construction industry, the problems associated with the lack of collaboration among teams in BbCNs remain a major hindrance to reaping the full potential of BIM. Previous studies have been conceptual in nature. This paper, therefore, attempts to modify and validate existing conceptual models that describe collaboration in BbCNs.
Design/methodology/approach
To modify the conceptual model for collaboration in BbCNs, qualitative data through semi-structured interviews with BIM experts in the industry were collected and analysed using qualitative methods including the use of NVivo software.
Findings
The proposed model includes influential factors and their sub-factors to collaboration in BbCNs, as well as considering their indicators. Findings reveal that several overlooked concepts, particularly unfavourable BIM contractual arrangements, act as the root causes of the unwillingness of team members in BbCNs to engage in collaborative efforts.
Research limitations/implications
The study's findings must be viewed in light of several limitations. First, the interviewees in this study were based in Australia hence their perceptions of BIM collaboration are reflective of the sociotechnical setting of BIM-enabled projects in this country. Also, the findings are based on the perception of experts in the field, rather than analysis of performance measures or quantitative assessment of associations among collaboration outcomes and various factors. This, however, provides the field with fertile grounds for future research.
Practical implications
The study benefits researchers by shifting the collaboration discourse in BIM-enabled projects from technology-related issues to the people and contractual-related domains. Moreover, the developed qualitative model provides industry professionals with a point of reference to improve collaboration on BIM-enabled projects.
Social implications
The study benefits researchers by shifting the collaboration discourse in BIM-enabled projects from technology-related issues to the people and contractual-related domains. Moreover, the developed qualitative model provides industry professionals with a point of reference to improve collaboration on BIM-enabled projects.
Originality/value
Arguments provided in this study highlight the necessity of considering the contractual arrangement of BIM-related projects and foster the willingness of team members to collaborate. This can be addressed using clear and comprehensive BIM execution plans and clearly explaining the role of BIM managers in the process.
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Serdar Durdyev, M. Reza Hosseini, Igor Martek, Syuhaida Ismail and Mehrdad Arashpour
The purpose of this paper is to quantify the barriers to the use of integrated project delivery (IPD), as assessed by 115 construction professionals in Malaysia.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to quantify the barriers to the use of integrated project delivery (IPD), as assessed by 115 construction professionals in Malaysia.
Design/methodology/approach
Barriers recording highest citation amongst researchers worldwide were collated in the form of a conceptual model. This model was validated via a partial least squares structural equation modelling technique.
Findings
Findings advance the body of knowledge on IPD by providing original insights into the nature of key barriers, quantifying the relative importance of each barrier.
Research limitations/implications
Despite the above-mentioned contributions, and before drawing any conclusion, it is prudent to acknowledge limitations, particularly the chosen research approach in focusing on the Malaysian context. Therefore, caution must be exercised in direct application of findings to other contexts; research findings should be seen through the lens of moderatum generalisations (see Payne and Williams, 2005).
Practical implications
Apart from contributions to the body of knowledge, for the world of practice, conditions impacting a transition to IPD are discussed, with a recommendation for change management through a tested mechanism like the European Corporate Sustainability Framework.
Originality/value
Being the first empirical study undertaken to quantify the relationship among the identified barriers and IPD, the present study contributes to the field by addressing the gap in IPD research in Malaysia, as an exemplar of a developing country; it creates knowledge to inform further improvements in project performance through facilitating IPD use. The study also offers insight to construction stakeholders in other developing countries for tackling issues that hinder the adoption of an IPD approach, and it also points to major barriers such that resources for tackling barriers may be allocated properly.
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Adriana AnaMaria Davidescu, Eduard Mihai Manta, Andrei Pisică and Diana Popa
Digitalization can drive the sustainable development of society and industry. However, a lot of the opportunities are tightly related to the risks. This chapter investigates how…
Abstract
Digitalization can drive the sustainable development of society and industry. However, a lot of the opportunities are tightly related to the risks. This chapter investigates how academic performance in terms of scientific publications at the intersection of digitization, sustainable development, and industry brings added value to the research field. The analysis focuses on the academic papers that research the relationship between digitalization, sustainable development, and industry, analyzing comparatively two primary academic databases, Scopus and Web of Science (WoS). To do that, two samples of scientific publications were investigated. The first sample comprised 703 documents indexed in WoS, while the second was formed by 566 documents indexed in Scopus. The analyzed period for WoS is 1996–2022, while for Scopus is 2000–2022. The empirical results indicated that the research field's primary issues include digitalization, digital transformation, the construction industry, sustainability, COVID-19, and innovation for both WoS and Scopus. The most relevant authors on this cross-cutting subject in the WoS database are Beier G., Aigbavboa C., and Kumar M. In contrast, in the Scopus database, we found Beier G., Ghobakhloo M., and Iranmanesh M. At the same time, the most typical journals are the International Journal of Production Research, Sustainability, and Computers in Industry for WoS and Sustainability, Journal of Cleaner Production, and Procedia CIRP for Scopus.