• Soft Skills

This course will provide a comprehensive overview of strategies, theoretical framework, and methods to conceptually design structures with a focus on reducing embodied carbon.  Through hands-on exercises, real-world examples (given by invited industrial experts), and interactive discussions, the students will consolidate their understanding of the topic.

 By the end of the course, students will be able to conceptually design steel, reinforced concrete and timber structures, and understand techniques and methods for reducing embodied carbon. They will also develop proficiency in incorporating appropriate design strategies, materials, and maintenance practices to enhance the safety, durability, and sustainability of structures.

Furthermore, students will learn to analyze and consider the societal impacts, environmental sustainability, and safety considerations that play a crucial role in the decision-making process of structural design. They will recognize the significance of adhering to relevant codes, regulations, and best practices within the field of structural design.

Students will enhance their communication and collaboration skills by working on group projects, case studies, and presentations related to life-cycle driven structures. They will be able to effectively communicate technical information, analysis results, and design recommendations to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. They will be encouraged to stay updated with the latest advancements in structural engineering, emerging technologies, and industry practices, and equipped with the skills to adapt to future challenges and contribute to the ongoing improvement of life-cycle driven structures.

When the students successfully complete the course, they will be able to:

• Compare the structural characteristics of major structural materials (masonry, wood, steel, reinforced concrete) and justify the choice in the project in terms of structural safety, value, and sustainability.
• Explain the differences between different load-bearing structural systems materials (moment-resisting frame, load-bearing walls, braced and hybrid systems) characterized by the different construction materials to withstand vertical and horizontal loads (wind, earthquake).
• Relate the choice of structural materials and that of the load-bearing system to obtain an effective structure from the design point of view, compatible with the architectural project, with the environment and sustainable in terms of resources.
• Justify the choice of the most suitable structural system for a specific project, merging structural safety, economy and sustainability items.
• Decide the preliminary dimensions of the structural layout in plan and elevation to obtain a robust, easily constructible, economical and environmentally sustainable structure made of steel, timber and reinforced concrete.
• Apply a preliminary Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to estimate the embodied carbon of the structural frame in a building project.
• Critically review the design performed by other students
• Communicate the final project through the production of conceptual and technical drawings, a concise written description and effective oral communication skills.

1) Introduction

• Architect's, structural engineer’s and contractor’s roles in conceptual design of life-cycle driven structures
• Definition and significance of embodied carbon in structural design
• Environmental impacts of construction materials

2) Conceptual Design of Steel, Reinforced Concrete, and Timber Structures

• Key design principles for steel, reinforced concrete, and timber structures
• Differences between different load-bearing structural systems materials (moment-resisting frame, load-bearing walls, braced and hybrid systems) characterized by the different construction materials to withstand vertical and horizontal loads (wind, earthquake).
• Case studies highlighting exemplary conceptual designs in each material category

3) Strategies to balance the structural performance and embodied carbon during conceptual structural design

• Overview of sustainable design principles and their application in structural engineering
• Life cycle analysis for structures
• Design for disassembly and adaptability
• Use of recycled and reclaimed materials
• Lightweight and innovative construction techniques
• Strategies for enhancing the sustainability of glass facades
• Design considerations for sustainability and long-term performance
• Incorporating life-cycle analysis into architectural decision-making

4) Life-cycle driven structures in practice

• Case studies showcasing successful integration of life-cycle thinking in architecture
• Collaboration with architects, engineers and contractors for optimized designs
• Practical examples of life-cycle driven structural engineering.

• SDG11 - SUSTAINABLE CITIES AND COMMUNITIES
• SDG12 - RESPONSIBLE CONSUMPTION AND PRODUCTION
• SDG13 - CLIMATE ACTION

Considering the increasing awareness on the climate change impact reduction and circular economy, life cycle assessment will be a crucial part of the course to achieve safe, durable and minimum waste structural systems both for new buildings and the rehabilitation of the existing ones.

The assessment will show how much the students achieved the expected learning outcomes of the course. The final mark will be based on a case study report (to be realized as a group work during the whole semester) and a final written exam.

(previous editions are also ok)