Nemzetközi Építéstudományi Konferencia – ÉPKO
ojs.emt.ro XXIV. Nemzetközi Gépészeti Konferencia
Erdélyi Magyar Műszaki Tudományos Társaság (EMT) - Építészeti Szakosztálya
The use of AI in the probability of achieving concrete quality in batching plants
Concrete quality control in Romania remains a deterministic, reactive process: compressive strength is verified exclusively through destructive 28-day cube tests, precluding real-time intervention during construction. The current SonReb-based NDT standard (NP 137-2014) was calibrated predominantly on Portland cement (CEM I) concretes; applied to modern CEM II/III blended cements, it introduces strength estimation errors of ±25–35%, rising to ±15–30 MPa at low curing temperatures. This paper presents a doctoral research plan that integrates four data-source layers – SCADA batching data, ERA5 climatic variables corrected by local IoT sensors, SonReb NDT measurements, and destructive laboratory compression tests (324 cubes, DoE 3×3×6×6) – into a four-tier machine learning architecture (XGBoost → residual ANN → MC Dropout → Conformal Prediction), delivering a hybrid predictive system with a mathematically guaranteed ≥90% confidence interval Objectives: RMSE < 3.8 MPa, R² > 0.90, CI-coverage ≥ 90%.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ferenc-Zoltán SIMÓ, Zoltán KISS, Attila PUSKÁS https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Analysis of MHD nanofluid flow conditions in a counter-rotating porous medium
We investigate the effect of a magnetic field perpendicular to the flow direction on a nanofluid flowing through a porous medium. We derive the governing equations of the model, taking into account heat transfer mechanisms and the thermophysical properties of the suspension as boundary conditions. We reduce the resulting partial differential equations to a system of ordinary differential equations, for which we obtain a numerical approximate solution using the bvp4c method. We illustrate the effect of the parameters on the flow process using figures.
Copyright (c) 2026 Simon Waswa WEKESA, Winifred Nduku MUTUKU, Krisztián HRICZÓ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Effect of Subsequent Interventions on the Structural Behaviour of a Baroque Roof Structure
Historical timber roof trusses are statically indeterminate structures with multiple nonlinear properties and therefore possess a considerable capacity for load redistribution. Consequently, simpler linear elastic structural models often fail to adequately describe the actual structural behavior and the resulting damage patterns [1]. In certain cases, however, appropriately selected linear models may still provide acceptable results. In addition to joint stiffness and nonlinear behavior, the investigation of the structure’s load history, the damage accumulated during its service life, and the sequence of interventions carried out over time also significantly influence the current internal force distribution. This paper presents the effect of load history on internal force distribution through a series of first-order linear elastic finite element models based on the example of an approximately 200-year-old Baroque roof structure. The aim of the research is not to determine the exact load-bearing capacity of the structure, but rather to trace changes in structural behavior by modeling separating joints and the typical interventions observed in the selected roof structure.
Copyright (c) 2026 Beatrix ZRUBKA, Dezső HEGYI https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Joinery in Baroque Palaces: A Comparative Analysis Based on Examples from Sopron and Cluj-Napoca
As part of the University of Sopron’s research program, systematic documentation is being conducted on the representative doors and windows of Baroque palaces, with a particular focus on sites in Sopron and Cluj-Napoca. Precise on-site surveys and digital recordings reveal the structural composition, unique wood carvings, and supraportas of doors integrated into the enfilade systems of piano nobile levels. The oak frame-and-panel structures, along with acorn-tipped ball hinges and ornate box locks, reflect the high standards of 18th-century decorative arts and the demands of social representation. This scientific processing not only serves heritage conservation but also provides an essential technological foundation for authentic restorative reconstructions and the preservation of traditional joinery expertise for future generations.
Copyright (c) 2026 Sándor TÁRKÁNYI, Dorina SZENDI, Fanni SZŐKE, Attila JAKAB https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Environmental Communication, Urban Legibility, Experienced Spatial Perception and Design Potential: The Case of Kálvin Square in Budapest
Researches exploring urban legibility indicate that, regardless of a space’s actual boundaries, lay spatial experts associate functions belonging to the same thematic category – based on a thematic organizing principle – with the space, due to their proximity and the similarity of their meanings. Affordance studies have highlighted the transformation of meaning; lay spatial experts examined those cues that suggest uses differing from an object’s intended function. If such alternative uses become established, they can alter the intended, originally planned use of the space. Deviant spatial use can be identified by examining the secondary messages and legibility of a space and by monitoring its use. This allows for the identification of sites requiring intervention, thereby making urban legibility a pillar of sustainability.
Copyright (c) 2026 Zsuzsanna Orsolya SZONDI https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Fire safety design supported with fire simulations at the Ia and Ib refurbishment phase of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences headquarters
Renovating historic buildings in a manner that meets fire safety standards is a particularly challenging task. The fire safety characteristics of existing structures do not always comply with current regulations. In addition to the general challenges of renovation, the need to preserve the heritage value of these buildings further limits the available solutions. Active fire protection systems—such as built-in fire detection and alarm systems and fixed firefighting systems—are often absent and are difficult or impossible to integrate into historic spaces. For these reasons, the renovation of historic buildings often cannot be carried out using traditional, so-called prescriptive fire protection design methods; in such cases, engineering methods—simulations, calculations, experiments, or a combination thereof—come to the fore. Our article presents the possibilities and limitations of fire safety design for historic buildings through the Ia and Ib phases of the renovation of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences headquarters.
Fire safety design of heritage buildings
Copyright (c) 2026 Csaba SZIKRA, Lajos Gábor TAKÁCS https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Development of 3D printable concrete with local materials: the role of rheological properties
3D concrete printing (3DCP) offers significant potential to reduce material consumption, formwork demand, and labor intensity in construction. Its practical implementation, however, requires cementitious mixtures with carefully tailored rheological properties ensuring adequate extrudability, buildability, and early-age stability. In this study, nine cement-based mixtures composed exclusively of locally available raw materials were developed and experimentally evaluated. Reference printable mixtures were used to define target criteria, and the developed mixtures were assessed in fresh and hardened states. Based on the results, a mixture containing approximately 600 kg/m³ cement and an optimized particle size distribution (Dmax = 1,2 mm) demonstrated stable extrusion, sufficient buildability without formwork, and mechanical performance comparable to the reference material under laboratory-scale 3D printing conditions. The results confirm that locally sourced materials can provide a viable alternative to commercial pre-mixed 3D printable concretes.
Copyright (c) 2026 Anna SZIJÁRTÓ, Salem NEHME, György BALÁZS L., Sándor SÓLYOM https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Load-bearing on new foundations: material-structural and performance-oriented investigation of composite wall structures
The paper presents the development of a Liapor lightweight concrete composite wall panel system through a specific industrial case study, based on the ongoing collaboration between Homes4You Készházak Ltd. and the University of Sopron within the framework of the Cooperative Doctoral Program, drawing on the experiences of the currently under-construction Mille-Ház project in Siófok. The study follows the development process from laboratory-scale material testing through full-scale (1:1) wall panel production to on-site assembly validation. The results confirmed the technical potential of the Liapor lightweight concrete composite material system; however, they also demonstrated that industrial applicability is not determined solely by thermal or mechanical performance parameters. Rather, it depends to a comparable extent on the system-level control of the tolerance chain, joint design, the constructability of lacing reinforcement, and the material homogeneity.
Copyright (c) 2026 Dorina SZENDI, Balázs KÓSA https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The Role of Operational Considerations in Modern Railway Construction Projects
In modern railway construction projects, alongside construction and investment aspects, increasing attention must also be paid to operational and maintenance experiences. Nowadays, the continuously growing passenger and freight transport demands, the dynamically increasing axle loads associated with them, as well as the short construction deadlines, create new technical and operational challenges during railway infrastructure developments. In my presentation, I would like to address the operational challenges occurring during present-day railway development projects. From several perspectives, I present the ultimately common viewpoints of different technical and operational stakeholders, with particular focus on sustainability, accessibility, maintainability and the initial experiences following technical handover. Through domestic practical examples, my study introduces the operational and traffic management problems arising during complex reconstruction projects carried out on railway lines of strategic importance. The presented experiences highlight that reliable operation must be defined as a long-term objective. Therefore, the early integration of operational considerations is fundamentally important in modern railway construction projects. For this reason, the different professional railway disciplines must work together in a complex and coordinated manner from the planning phase until project completion.
Copyright (c) 2026 János POLOCZ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Zero emission, maximum mobility: regional trends shaping the development of electrified cities
The aim of this research is to show how alternative mobility is shaping the development of Central European countries through the acceleration of transport electrification. The analysis focuses on Austria, the Czech Republic, Croatia, Hungary, Romania, Slovakia, and Slovenia, examining the historical trends in the growth of alternative-fuel vehicle fleets and the expansion of AC and DC charging infrastructure. The analysis examines structural differences between countries and divergences in development trajectories. The results highlight that the emergence of electrified cities is not merely a technological issue, but also a matter of regional economic and urban policy.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ádám PÓLIK, Réka MÉSZÁROS, András HERCZEG https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Pitched roof reconstruction and roofing concept for an existing building with extension
This paper discusses the design of the pitched roof structure of a building complex consisting of an existing building and a newly constructed unit. Following the replacement of the original traditional roof structure of the existing building and its conversion into usable space, the new reinforced concrete coffin slab roof construction is required to preserve the original streetscape and geometry, as well as the material of the original roof covering. As a consequence, several geometric challenges arise, including interlocking and overlapping roof planes, as well as application-related issues associated with different roofing systems and covering types.
Copyright (c) 2026 Tamás POLARECKI, Timea CZAP, Blanka GÁSPÁRDY https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Waterproofing concept against groundwater and soil moisture for an existing building
This paper presents a case study on the design of a waterproofing system against groundwater and soil moisture for an existing building. It focuses on the existing building structure and its retrofit waterproofing works, providing an overview of currently applied technologies and general design principles. In addition, the study addresses the waterproofing concept of a newly installed basement-level water storage tank located beneath the roofed-over inner courtyard at the center of the building.
Based on structural analysis, what can be considered as brick architecture today?
In this article, I seek an answer to what today's brick architecture means. Many people examine the question from an aesthetic and architectural theory perspective. I am attempting to explore whether, by examining the history of architecture and using the method of structural analysis, it is possible to reveal in what way and with what structural designs brick architecture appeared in different eras. Whether a technical answer can be given by comparing the individual historical solutions with today's structural possibilities.
Copyright (c) 2026 Rita PATAKY https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Enhancing Track Maintenance Decision-Making through Strategic Use of Track Quality Index (TQI) Based on Performance Indicators
This paper examines the strategic use of the Track Quality Index (TQI) in railway track maintenance, particularly focusing on decision support systems that are based on performance indicators. The research illustrates how aggregated TQI values and percentile-based indicators can be utilized to assess the overall health of the network, identify critical sections, and support long-term maintenance strategies. The study highlights that, in addition to aggregated indicators, analyzing individual geometric parameters is essential for determining suitable maintenance interventions. Furthermore, the paper proposes a multi-level TQI/KPI-based decision support framework, aligning with the EN 13848-6 standard and enhancing decision-making in modern asset management for track maintenance.
Copyright (c) 2026 Zsolt László ORBÁN, Cezar COJOCARU, Dan GUȘĂ, Marius GOCICĂ, Gábor KÖLLŐ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Analysis and Modeling of Results of Standard Façade Fire Propagation Tests
Full-scale façade fire spread experiments, due to their limited reproducibility and high resource demand, are not suitable for the detailed analysis of leap-frog fire spread phenomena, while calibrated numerical modeling offers an effective alternative to overcome these limitations. Based on tests conducted according to MSZ 14800-6:2009 and 2020, a characteristic façade flame plume was identified, which can be consistently observed between the 15th and 45th minutes of the experiments; the FDS plume model developed on this basis enables a more precise investigation of the phenomenon. Both experimental and numerical results indicate that the characteristic plume reattaches only at the lintel of the upper opening and, in the absence of external influencing factors, is unlikely to result in fire spread into the upper opening.
Copyright (c) 2026 Krisztián OLÁH, Lajos Gábor TAKÁCS https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The impact of building function on energy performance class under identical building parameters
Hungary’s Decree 9/2023 of the Ministry of Construction and Transport defines the energy performance requirements and calculation methodology for buildings, setting a limit of 76 kWh/m²a of non-renewable primary energy demand for residential buildings. The research examines how energy performance ratings change across different building functions using three sample residential designs with identical geometry and structures. Various HVAC systems (e.g., gas boilers, heat pumps, with and without mechanical ventilation) were applied to the models. The results show that building function has a significant impact on energy classification. The study contributes to improving the assessment of buildings undergoing a change of use.
Copyright (c) 2026 NÉMETH Dániel Károly, HORVÁTH Tamás, AJTAYNÉ KÁROLYFI Kitti https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Recycling of the Demolition Waste as Concrete Aggregate
The recycling of construction and demolition waste – crushed concrete and ceramic brick – has become a major sustainability challenge in the construction industry, particularly due to the high environmental impact of concrete and the high ratio of natural aggregates. The aim of this research is to investigate the suitability of these materials as concrete aggregate, with particular attention to the effect of different replacement ratios (25–50–75%) on strength. Based on the results, favourable strength properties can be achieved even with a higher proportion of crushed concrete, and crushed bricks can be used to make lightweight concrete.
Copyright (c) 2026 Rita NEMES https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Strengthening of shear walls’ coupling beams using steel plates
The paper presents a specialized seismic strengthening solution applied to the Hotel Continental in Timișoara: the strengthening of reinforced concrete shear wall coupling beams using steel plates. Structural assessment revealed that the shear capacity of several structural elements did not meet current requirements, therefore an innovative strengthening method was implemented. Steel plates mechanically anchored on one or both sides of the coupling beams significantly increase the load-bearing capacity and ductility of the structure, while allowing fast and high-quality execution.
Copyright (c) 2026 Tamás NAGY-GYÖRGY, Alexandru Cosmin DĂESCU, Cătălin CĂLBAS https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The hidden structural role of cladding in steel-framed buildings
Our article examines the hidden structural role of cladding systems in steel-framed buildings. The focus of the research is on the stiffness and stabilization effects of claddings made of trapezoidal sheets and sandwich panels, with particular attention to their diaphragm effect and interaction with the load-bearing steel frame. The aim of the research is to explore the extent to which cladding systems contribute to the global structural behavior of the building, and to what extent these effects appear in modern design practice and calculation models. The research is based on a literature review, a standard background study, performed experiments and numerical modeling.
Copyright (c) 2026 Zsolt NAGY, Barnabás-Attila LŐRINCZ, Sára RÁCZ, Andrea KELEMEN https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Geometry and structural performance of masonry walls
The structural performance and durability of masonry walls depend on the arrangement of its building elements. This paper analyses the bond patterns of masonry walls as convex planar mosaics and introduces the definition of cell density , which is the ratio of the number of nodes and number of building blocks on the surface of the wall. Through contact dynamics simulations, it can be shown that higher values of cell density can result in more favourable structural behaviour. Thus, cell density is the universal, quantified definition of the wall bond, that enables the estimation of the upper limit of structural performance of any wall, and makes different walls comparable.
Copyright (c) 2026 Klaudia NAGY, Sára LÉVAY, Gábor DOMOKOS, János TÖRÖK https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The Role of Pot-Shaped Tiles in the Heat Emission of Stoves
The pot-tile stove (bögrés szemeskályha), a characteristic heating device of Hungarian folk architecture, survived in nearly unchanged form among poorer social classes from the 15th to the 20th century. This persistence stands in sharp contrast to the continuous formal and functional evolution of aristocratic stoves. The present study investigates the structural and thermal features of the pot-tile stove using historical-typological analysis combined with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation. The results indicate that the longevity of this stove type is largely due to its complex and efficient thermal performance, the two-part structure – a thicker-walled lower prism with pot-shaped tiles for heat storage, and a thinner-walled upper cylinder of bowl-shaped tiles for rapid heat release – enabled an optimal heat-up time. The ceramic pots not only increased the heat-emitting surface but also fulfilled secondary functions.
Copyright (c) 2026 Zsuzsanna NÁDASI-ANTAL https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Exploring the thermal dynamics of residential spaces using sparse regression models and their application in energy-efficient control
In this study, we present a methodological framework for the thermodynamic modeling of a residential space and propose an automation and control strategy built upon this description. In addition, based on the collected measurement data, we discuss the results obtained at each stage of the implementation process. The core of our research is a specialized, algorithm‑based dynamic system identification method used to model the complex thermodynamic behavior of residential environments, with particular emphasis on the thermal inertia of walls and interior furnishings. In response to rising energy costs, we complement the physical constraints of the system with a financial constraint, and these considerations together form the basis of our proposed optimization strategy.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ervin Szabolcs MURVAI, Krisztián HRICZÓ, Attila Károly VARGA https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Increasing the acid corrosion resistance of concrete
The resistance of concrete to acid corrosion is governed by the combined effects of binder composition, pore structure, water-to-binder ratio, curing conditions, and the type of acidic environment. Portland cement-based concretes cannot be regarded as chemically inert or inherently acid-resistant materials under acidic exposure; therefore, the primary objective in practice is to slow down deterioration processes and extend service life. Important approaches for improving acid resistance include reducing the calcium hydroxide content of the cement matrix, refining the pore structure, decreasing permeability, and incorporating suitable supplementary cementitious materials. However, the effectiveness of different binder combinations depends strongly on the acid type, replacement ratio, exposure duration, and test methodology. This paper reviews the principal mechanisms of acid corrosion, discusses possible strategies for optimizing concrete composition, and highlights that resistance to acid attack does not necessarily correlate directly with resistance to chloride ion penetration, since the governing chemical and transport mechanisms are fundamentally different.
Copyright (c) 2026 Katalin KOPECSKÓ, Zaid A.A. KHAIQANI, Ali Satar Jaber AL-ASKARY https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Generation and validation of wind simulations for quasi-static load determination
Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) wind simulations are playing an increasingly important role in structural engineering, however their reliable application requires proper validation. This study investigates the effects of mesh generation and turbulence models on quasi-static wind load determination to support the development of a digital wind tunnel integration into a structural design software environment using velocity- and pressure-based reference comparisons.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ádám KIS, Zoltán KISS, Attila PUSKÁS https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Airtightness testing of a CLT residential building according to ISO 9972 standard – leakage analysis
With the growing use of cross-laminated timber (CLT) technology, airtightness has become a key factor in energy efficiency and structural durability. This study applies a flow exponent-based analysis to investigate the relationship between airtightness performance and junction detailing. The results highlight the importance of understanding leakage mechanisms beyond the the conventinal n50 value. The paper also demonstrates the diagnostic role of blower door testing in CLT buildings.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ferenc KÁDÁR, Ligia MOGA https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
A Salvaged Masterpiece: The Old Baroque Door of Sopron’s Eclectic City Hall
The medieval town hall of Sopron was demolished in 1893 to be replaced by a monumental, Eclectic-style building designed by Möritz Hinträger. Only two fixtures were salvaged and integrated into the new town hall, including the Council Chamber's 1782 late-Baroque oak door, which now serves as the entrance to the archives. This artistic joinery is adorned with Zopf-style carvings and brass fittings by master locksmith Pál Payer. Documented by the research group of the University of Sopron, the door stands as an example of historical continuity and sustainability. Its physical survival proves that the values of the past can hold their ground in a modern environment while retaining their original function.
Copyright (c) 2026 Attila JAKAB, Sándor TÁRKÁNYI https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Reuse of Thermally Damaged Concrete as Recycled Aggregate in New Concrete
This study investigates the applicability of recycled aggregates derived from thermally damaged concrete at replacement ratios of 10–50%. The results indicate that at 10–25% replacement, compressive strength approaches the reference concrete, while a reduction is observed at 50%. Thermal treatment consistently improved mechanical performance, with several mixtures exceeding the reference strength. The original strength of the parent concrete did not show a clear correlation with the final performance. The findings confirm that, with appropriate pre-treatment, thermally damaged concrete can be effectively reused in the production of high-strength concrete.
Copyright (c) 2026 Viktor HLAVIČKA, Tamás ZSIKLA, Éva Eszter MAJOROSNÉ LUBLÓY https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Comparative Analysis of Self-Adhered Self-Bond Waterproofing Systems Based on Risk Factors and Performance Characteristics
The application of pre-applied waterproofing systems that establish a continuous bond with freshly poured concrete has gained increasing significance in Hungary. Over the past decade, considerable efforts have been devoted by multiple manufacturers to the development and optimization of these systems. Despite these advancements, numerous uncertainties and open questions persist regarding their proper design, specification, and practical implementation. This paper aims to examine the applicability of such waterproofing systems through the analysis of their protective system configurations. Furthermore, it seeks to identify the conditions under which these systems can be effectively employed, as well as to outline the additional complementary measures that may be required to ensure the long-term watertight performance and durability of building structures.
Copyright (c) 2026 Dániel HEINCZ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Sustainability in Road Construction: Road Base from Stabilized Soil
Recycling and reusing are becoming increasingly important issues today. We engineers are responsible for our society choosing the most suitable technology. The work we do has a significant impact on the environment and, consequently, the future of our generation and our children. After the economic crisis, designers and engineers have started to think more in terms of ECO—Economic & Ecologic. Comparing soil stabilization by replacing poor soil with better soil or with a gravel layer, the conclusion is: · Less execution time · Less material transported · Less energy consumed · Less impact on the environment
Copyright (c) 2026 Balázs-Csaba FÜLÖP, Gábor KÖLLŐ, Ferenc KRISTÁLY, Gavril HODA https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Diagnostics of Historical Masonry Structures
The assessment of the condition of historic masonry structures plays a crucial role in the fields of heritage conservation and building rehabilitation. The aim of the present study is to provide a comprehensive overview of diagnostic methods for masonry structures, with particular emphasis on deterioration caused by moisture ingress and salt contamination, as well as on mechanical and material testing techniques. The research is based on the evaluation of findings reported in the literature and on experience gained through professional expert assessments. The analysis demonstrates that a complex, integrated diagnostic approach is essential for achieving reliable condition assessment and for the development of appropriate intervention strategies.
Copyright (c) 2026 Olivér FENYVESI https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0