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Numerical Wavefield Simulation Methods for Ultrasonic Analysis in Civil Engineering

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Interpreting ultrasonic waveforms in civil engineering structures is inherently complex, particularly when tilted boundaries cause multiple reflections, mode conversions, and overlapping echoes. Wavefield simulations have become an essential tool for analyzing such complex signal behavior and supporting non-destructive testing (NDT) applications. This study focuses on evaluating the accuracy and computational efficiency of commonly used numerical simulation methods for ultrasonic wave propagation in civil engineering contexts. Challenges in Ultrasonic Waveform Interpretation Ultrasonic inspections of large civil engineering structures often involve heterogeneous materials and complex geometries that distort waveforms. Tilted interfaces and internal defects introduce signal interference that complicates interpretation. Accurate numerical simulations are therefore critical for understanding wave behavior, validating experimental measurements, and improving defect detection reliability...
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Sustainable Civil Engineering Applications of Non-Metallic Fractions of Waste Printed Circuit Boards (NMF-WPCBs)

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The rapid growth of electronic waste has made the recycling of non-metallic fractions of waste printed circuit boards (NMF-WPCBs) a pressing environmental challenge. Due to their complex composition, NMF-WPCBs are often landfilled or incinerated, leading to secondary pollution and loss of valuable resources. This review addresses the urgent need for sustainable reuse pathways by examining the potential of NMF-WPCBs as functional materials in civil engineering applications. Multiscale Composition and Material Characteristics NMF-WPCBs are composed of polymers, glass fibers, and residual fillers arranged in a multiscale structure that governs their mechanical and chemical behavior. Understanding these characteristics is essential for their effective integration into construction materials. The review analyzes their physical, thermal, and microstructural properties, which influence bonding, durability, and overall performance in civil engineering systems. Enhancement Methods and Theore...
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Sustainable Civil Engineering Applications of Non-Metallic Fractions of Waste Printed Circuit Boards

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  The rapid growth of electronic waste has intensified the environmental burden associated with improper disposal of waste printed circuit boards (WPCBs). In particular, non-metallic fractions of WPCBs (NMF-WPCBs) are frequently discarded or incinerated due to their complex composition, leading to secondary pollution and resource loss. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the potential for incorporating NMF-WPCBs into sustainable civil engineering materials as an effective strategy for waste valorization and environmental protection. Composition and Characteristics of NMF-WPCBs NMF-WPCBs consist of a multiscale composite of polymers, glass fibers, and residual fillers, which collectively influence their mechanical, chemical, and thermal behavior. Understanding these characteristics is fundamental for evaluating their compatibility with construction materials. The review examines the microstructural features and material properties that govern performance when NMF-WPCBs a...
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Applications of Geophysical Methods for Subsurface Characterization in Civil Engineering

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Subsurface characterization is a critical component of civil engineering projects, directly influencing the safety, design, and longevity of infrastructure systems. This paper presents a comprehensive review of geophysical methods applied to civil engineering site investigations, drawing insights from more than 75 peer-reviewed journal publications. The review emphasizes how geophysical techniques contribute to understanding subsurface conditions that are otherwise difficult or costly to assess using conventional intrusive methods. Geological Conditions in Engineering Site Characterization Civil engineering projects are often developed over complex geological settings, including fractured rock masses, soft soils, cavities, and heterogeneous strata. The reviewed studies demonstrate how accurate identification of these conditions is essential for foundation design, slope stability, tunneling, and groundwater assessment. Geophysical investigations provide non-destructive and spatially ...
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Quantum and Quantum-Inspired Computing in Civil Engineering: Foundations, Opportunities, and Future Directions

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Quantum computing is anticipated to revolutionize problem-solving by addressing computational challenges that are currently intractable for classical computers. While large-scale, fault-tolerant quantum computers are still under development, quantum-inspired computing techniques have already demonstrated practical advantages using classical hardware. Despite this potential, applications of both quantum and quantum-inspired computing within civil engineering remain limited. This study aims to establish a foundational understanding and encourage future exploration in this emerging research domain. Fundamental Principles of Quantum Computing Quantum computing operates on principles such as superposition, entanglement, and quantum interference, enabling parallel exploration of vast solution spaces. These properties make quantum algorithms particularly suited for optimization, simulation, and combinatorial problems that frequently arise in civil engineering, including structural optimiza...
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Heat Pipe Technology for Energy-Efficient Building Systems

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Building energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions pose critical challenges to global sustainability goals. As buildings account for a substantial share of total energy use, enhancing their energy efficiency is a research priority in civil and architectural engineering. Heat pipe technology, known for its high thermal conductivity and passive heat transfer capability, has emerged as a promising solution for improving the performance of building energy systems. This review focuses on recent research progress and applications of heat pipes in building systems. Heat Pipes in Solar Water Heating Systems In solar water heating systems, heat pipes are primarily employed to enhance heat collection and transfer efficiency. Research efforts have concentrated on optimizing thermal performance under varying solar radiation and climatic conditions. Advanced heat pipe configurations and working fluid selection have been shown to significantly improve system efficiency, enabling more stable...
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Transformer-Based Intelligent Defect Detection in Civil Infrastructure

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Detecting structural and functional defects in large-scale civil infrastructure during operational stages is critical for ensuring safety, serviceability, and sustainability. Traditional inspection methods are often labor-intensive, subjective, and inefficient for large-scale systems. With the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence, deep learning has emerged as a powerful tool for intelligent defect detection. Recently, Transformer-based self-attention models have gained prominence as effective alternatives to convolutional neural networks (CNNs), offering superior capability in modeling long-range dependencies and parallel computation. This research-oriented survey systematically explores the integration of Transformer architectures into civil engineering defect detection applications. Evolution from CNNs to Transformer Models Conventional CNN-based approaches have demonstrated strong performance in localized feature extraction for defect detection tasks; however, their limited...
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