Dutch cluster - Recreate

July 29, 2026

During the ‘Circularity in Social Housing’ congress, more than eighty professionals from housing associations, government, academia, research institutions and the construction industry visited the construction site of Circulair Centrum Nederland in Heerde. The site visit offered participants a unique insight into one of the Dutch pilot projects within ReCreate.

During the tour, Lagemaat explained how the precast concrete elements from the donor building Prinsenhof A in Arnhem were carefully dismantled, documented and assessed. Following extensive structural analyses and, where necessary, refurbishment, the elements have been prepared for a second life in the construction of Circulair Centrum Nederland.

A key part of the tour focused on the refurbished façade elements and hollow-core slabs. Participants learned about the steps required to safely reuse existing precast concrete elements. The visit demonstrated that circular construction is not only about harvesting materials, but also about close collaboration between demolition specialists, structural engineers, researchers and contractors.

The tour also highlighted the full-scale mock-up developed as part of ReCreate. This prototype was used to evaluate how the refurbished façade elements and hollow-core slabs come together in practice and to identify any challenges during assembly. The knowledge gained forms an important foundation for the successful application of these elements in the new building.

The visit clearly demonstrated how research and practice come together within ReCreate. By guiding professionals through the entire process—from careful dismantling to real-world reuse—the project helps build confidence in the reuse of precast concrete elements and supports the wider adoption of circular construction practices.

by ReCreate project

March 23, 2026

Authors:
Agnese Scalbi, Eindhoven University of Technology
Marcel Vullings, TNO

ReCreate’s Dutch cluster reflects on the need for quality assurance and supportive regulation from a business point of view.

Reusing precast concrete structural elements can substantially reduce environmental impacts and resource consumption in the built environment. For precast concrete, however, reuse only becomes viable at scale when quality can be demonstrated as clearly as it is for new products.

Why quality assurance is a bottleneck

Reusing structural components requires attention to structural safety, durability, and compliance with design requirements. Reclaimed elements may show material degradation, unknown loading history, and variable exposure conditions, and they often come with incomplete documentation. In many cases, key material properties such as the compressive strength of concrete are also unknown and must be determined to enable proper re-engineering of the reclaimed structures. Because most building codes and standards are written for new components, they presently offer limited practical guidance on how to qualify reclaimed precast elements. The lack of harmonised frameworks and industry-wide protocols remains a major barrier. Bridging this gap means developing a reuse-oriented verification workflow that extends current established certification approach for new elements into a clear, robust and repeatable procedure for reclaimed precast elements.

Research confirms that current quality assessment practices for reclaimed elements are still fragmented. Many projects rely on case-by-case evaluations, tailored to local expertise and constraints. ReCreate pilot projects have highlighted the recurring challenges observed during deconstruction, transport, and storage. Typical uncertainties include incomplete original specifications, potential damage accumulated in service, and the influence of storage conditions, all of which could affect reuse feasibility. The pilots make it clear that scalable reuse needs consistent procedures covering the whole value chain: from inspection and testing to classification and integration into new designs.

What needs to be checked (and why it is not straightforward)

Technically, reclaimed precast elements must be checked for geometry and tolerances, material properties, reinforcement or prestressing conditions, and cracks or other defects. This typically requires a staged combination of non-destructive, semi-destructive, and destructive tests.

A key challenge is choosing the right level of testing when the original documentation and use history are incomplete. Without clear decision rules, projects risk either over-testing (higher cost and waste) or under-testing (reduced confidence and safety). An additional challenge is determining at which points testing should occur, since reuse spans several phases, from dismantling and transport to storage, refurbishment, subsequent transport, and reassembly. During these phases, the condition of elements can change. While certain properties, such as concrete compressive strength, are unlikely to change during this process, damage-related indicators like cracking, can evolve with each handling step. This makes it essential to align testing and inspection moments with critical points along the value chain.

Digital tools: high potential still developing

Digital tools could help close these gaps. Digital product passports and shared databases can support traceability, standardised data exchange, and faster decision-making across the value chain. However, robust processes for creating, populating, and maintaining reliable data for reclaimed elements are still developing.

TU/e quality assurance framework

Within ReCreate’s procedure for quality management of reclaimed concrete elements, TU/e research focuses on damage and quality assurance investigations in the Netherlands and the development of an assessment framework that specifically addresses the requirements of the Dutch pilot project. The framework moves on in line with ReCreate’s overall recommendations for quality management, maintaining the link between the knowledge levels and the required checks and tests, while remaining coherent with regulatory expectations. Due to the element stock available from the selected donor building in the Netherlands, the approach was initially developed for hollow core slabs (HCS), and it was streamlined as follows:

Knowledge assessment: collect available documentation and data (from producers, design documents, and/or previous testing).

Damage evaluation: identify and classify damage from use, dismantling, transport, and storage through inspection.

Structural reliability: determine material properties of elements and evaluate load-bearing capacity for the intended new application, supported by analysis and targeted testing.

Aesthetic checks: screen and assess visual acceptability.

To support consistent implementation, TU/e has developed an HCS damage catalogue and an inspection checklist for operators and engineers, respectively, inspecting elements on site and during refurbishment, together with a classification system that groups elements by required intervention (installation-ready, maintenance/repair needed, or further testing). A second classification describes reuse potential (full-capacity or an easier application, e.g. reuse is allowed with revised design performance related to capacity, span, exposure class or reliability level). Finally, quality records (e.g. tests, certificates, documentation) linked to elements’ digital identification will complete the Element Database System (e.g. ReCreate Studio Database), where assessed data should be accessible to different stakeholders, such as manufacturers, designers, and builders, who can find, compare, and specify reclaimed elements with confidence.

Figure 1. Quality check framework for evaluating the reuse of reclaimed elements. Figure by Agnese Scalbi.

by ReCreate project

January 19, 2026

For Dutch-speaking audience

As part of the ongoing discussion on circular construction and the reuse of concrete, the ReCreate project highlights two podcast episodes from the Dutch series In groen beton gegoten. These episodes bring together architects, engineers, researchers and industry experts to reflect on how adaptive design, reuse, and chain collaboration can help extend the life of concrete structures and reduce the need for demolition and new construction.

In one episode, architect Bart van Kampen (De Zwarte Hond) and engineer Pim Peters (IMd Raadgevende Ingenieurs) argue that the sustainability of concrete lies in adaptive building and reuse rather than demolition and new construction. By designing buildings to be flexible and by giving existing concrete structures a second life, the value of concrete can be preserved for generations. They emphasize that circular construction is not only a technical challenge, but above all a system change in mindset, calculation methods, and regulations.

LISTEN TO THE PODCAST HERE

Another episode focuses on the question of how to truly close the concrete chain. Experts Simon Wijte (Hageman / TU Eindhoven) and Jan-Pedro Vis (Renewi) discuss different forms of circular concrete, ranging from re-use of entire structures to concrete-to-concrete recycling and the use of residual materials. The discussion highlights that circular concrete starts with careful, selective demolition and depends on strong collaboration across the value chain, clear choices by clients, and new systems to make reusable concrete elements accessible and traceable.

LISTEN TO THE PODCAST HERE

by ReCreate project

October 10, 2025

The Dutch ReCreate Country Cluster has reached an important milestone with the completion of a full-scale mock-up at the Lagemaat site in Heerde (NL).

This two-layer structure, built from precast concrete elements recovered from the deconstructed Prinsenhof building, demonstrates the practical potential of reusing building components in new construction. Beyond serving as a visible symbol of progress, the mock-up embodies ReCreate’s commitment to circular construction and reducing environmental impact.

Once completed, the structure became a hands-on testbed for the Dutch pilot project within ReCreate. Through its testing phase, the team gathered valuable insights and learnings that are now shaping the next steps toward pilot implementation.

Working directly with reused concrete elements, the team was able to:
✅ Identify and address dimensional deviations
✅ Test various connection details
✅ Gain hands-on experience essential for future applications

These findings are not only improving the design and assembly process for the upcoming pilot but also helping refine methodologies that can make circular construction more efficient and scalable.

A big thank you to everyone involved for their dedication, collaboration, and innovative spirit driving this progress!

by ReCreate project

February 17, 2025

The Refurbishing Plan developed by Lagemaat outlines a comprehensive renovation strategy for the Prinsenhof A-building that is being used as a donor building to transform it into the Circular Centre Netherlands (CCN) as the Dutch pilot project.

The plan addresses spatial integration, new site layout, and construction processes in Heerde. Temporary facilities, such as a mock-up and the Inspiration Pavilion, will be built to provide a realistic representation of the final design, to test the construction process and design details, and to allow visitors and stakeholders to explore the site. Additionally, a processing and sawing shed will be established to optimise space and facilitate refurbishment operations. The CCN design incorporates hollow-core slabs and façade elements. The façade elements are categorised into corner and middle elements based on structural application. The refurbishment involves uncovering external finishes and insulation to maintain structural integrity. A repurposed in-site tool will facilitate the processing and sawing of elements. Façade elements were cut, and the front parapets were removed from the structural elements with the saw wire. The parapets are then stored separately and stacked for clear and efficient organisation. Hollow-core slabs will be shortened using specialised equipment. This includes, among other things, cutting the elements using a specially designed setup tailored for shortening the slabs simultaneously. This phase ensures the elements are prepared for reuse without damage and in the same place where the CCN will be assembled.

Materials are managed with appropriate storage space to ensure easy identification and accessibility. This arrangement allows efficient use of logistics and space at the main site. The strategic approach aims to reduce risks, minimise costs, and enhance the overall quality of the project. This plan aims to ensure good practices for sustainable construction and future projects, aligning with the objectives of the ReCreate project.

by ReCreate project

December 6, 2024

The Dutch Concrete Event 2024 brought together leading professionals, agencies, and institutions from the concrete industry to share insights, discuss challenges, and explore innovative solutions. This annual gathering offers an invaluable platform to stay updated on repair, reinforcement, sustainable materials, climate impact, and regulatory advancements.

This year, TNO contributed to the event by presenting the latest developments from the ReCreate project. Marcel Vullings delivered an engaging presentation focusing on the practical application of reused precast concrete elements in new building structures. His talk was particularly relevant for designers and structural engineers, addressing key challenges in reusing structural components and discussing strategies to overcome them.

The session sparked a lively discussion about the need for protocols, regulations, and incentives to encourage reuse. Key questions were raised:

Could environmental taxes accelerate the adoption of reused materials?
Would subsidies provide a more effective boost to integrating reused elements into mainstream construction?

Despite these challenges, one clear takeaway emerged: reuse is no longer an exception. Increasingly, new projects incorporate reused precast elements, signaling a shift towards making this practice standard in the construction industry. Marcel emphasized how initiatives like ReCreate, combined with ongoing research by TNO, are instrumental in addressing remaining hurdles and driving innovation.

Events like the Dutch Concrete Event play a pivotal role in advancing this movement, bringing together diverse stakeholders to share knowledge and foster collaboration. They also serve to inform the market about cutting-edge developments, paving the way for a future where reuse becomes a core principle in construction practices.

by ReCreate project

August 2, 2024

Lagemaat at TU/e (in collaboration with the Dutch cluster)

As part of the international @ReCreate project, we are working closely with various partners, including the Dutch cluster. This month, the Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) will conduct further research at our site to test concrete elements from the Prinsenhof pilot project. This research helps us understand the impact of weather conditions on the stored elements in Heerde. The materials from the Prinsenhof project will thus find a new purpose at the Circular Center in Heerde.

An important aspect of our collaboration with TU/e is testing various concrete elements for their reusability, enabling their circular application. In a recent vlog, Marcel Vullings (TNO) and Fred Mudge (TU/e student) share their findings from these tests. They investigate how concrete parts can be dismantled and what new applications are possible in future projects.

These tests are crucial for the progress towards a circular construction sector. By reusing concrete elements, we save on new raw materials and reduce tons of CO2 emissions. The collected data forms the basis for future projects.

Examples of projects that strongly focus on material reuse include the Zuiderstrandtheater in Scheveningen and the Ruijgoordweg 80 project in Amsterdam. Through this approach, we continue to innovate and contribute to a sustainable construction industry.

by ReCreate project

June 28, 2024

Marcel Vullings – TNO

CROW is a Dutch organisation that gather and uncloses knowledge which is relevant for civil works and buildings. CROW officially launched the CROW-CUR Guideline 4:2023 “Reuse of structural precast concrete elements” on Tuesday (11-06-2024). This guideline provides a practical description of a working method that can be used in projects involving the reuse of structural precast concrete elements. It covers various aspects, such as preparations for deconstruction, the disconnection of elements, the temporary storage of elements, the assessment of rewon elements and the reuse of these elements in new structures. The guideline has a general section that covers topics that apply to reuse of all types of precast concrete elements. In addition, it has annexes in which specific products are highlighted . Currently, there are two annexes: annex A deals with reuse of hollow-core slabs and annex B covers precast prestressed bridge girders. More types of elements are going to be added to the guideline in the near future. The guideline is for both infrastructure and buildings, in the broadest sense of the word. Many aspects are the same for both, and the non-standard aspects are dealt with in the separate annexes.

TU/e, TNO and other experts, including contractors, engineering firms, clients and testing companies, contributed their knowledge, experiences and insights to shape the guideline. In this respect, the knowledge and experiences from the pilot projects of the Horizon 2020 project ReCreate were very valuable. The wide-ranging scope of ReCreate has helped shape all the guideline’s sub-sections.

CROW launched the Guideline on site at IJmuiden. Heidelberg Materials hosted the event and after presenting a quick overview of the guideline for a mixed audience, we all got a chance to check out the temporary storage (near Heidelberg Materials) for the harvested precast concrete bridge girders. Here, the girders are waiting to be used in new bridges at various locations in the Netherlands.

Hergebruik constructieve prefab betonelementen – CROW

by ReCreate project

May 10, 2024

In this exclusive interview, we delve into the pioneering work of Patrick Teuffel, founder of CIRCULAR STRUCTURAL DESIGN, as he leads the charge in revolutionizing structural design for a circular economy. With a focus on sustainability and decarbonization, Teuffel discusses his role in the ReCreate project, shedding light on innovative approaches to integrating reclaimed precast concrete elements into new constructions. From reimagining design processes to the challenges and benefits of incorporating AI, Teuffel provides invaluable insights into shaping a more environmentally responsible future in construction.

1. Can you please introduce yourself a bit, your organization and your role in the project?

As founder of CIRCULAR STRUCTURAL DESIGN, I am strongly focused on advancing the principles of the circular economy and decarbonization within the built environment in the context of structural design. With my background as a structural engineer, I bring a strong combination of technical expertise and sustainability principles to my work. As an academic as well as professional, I am committed to revolutionizing traditional construction practices by integrating circularity and sustainability into every aspect of the design process.

In addition to my entrepreneurial pursuits, I also act as a professor specializing in Innovation and Sustainability Strategies at SRH Berlin School of Technology. In this role, I have the opportunity to impart my knowledge and passion for creating more environmentally responsible solutions to future generations of professionals. My advisory role at the DGNB (German Sustainable Building Council) Innovation Board and the circular construction team at Circular Berlin further underscores my dedication to driving meaningful change within the industry.

At CIRCULAR STRUCTURAL DESIGN, our mission is to seamlessly integrate the principles of circular economy and sustainable design into every structural project we undertake. Our approach is guided by three core principles:

1.) Minimizing waste and emissions: We prioritize minimizing resource consumption and emissions associated with our structures, ensuring that our designs have minimal environmental impact.

2.) Keeping products and materials in use: Our commitment to extending the lifecycle of materials, components and buildings drives us to promote high-level reuse and repurposing wherever feasible, thus reducing resource consumption and waste generation.

3.) Using renewable resources: In response to the ongoing depletion of finite resources, we actively explore and incorporate renewable material options whenever possible.

It is our mission to bridge the gap between research and practice and to integrate the principles of circular economy into everyday structural design projects.

Within the ReCreate project I am the lead of the WP5 that explores aspects of redesign and reassembly. I, as a structural engineer, focus on the implications for the design process and the actual technical and practical implementation in the context of the reuse of existing components.

2. Can you provide more information on your work package and how it contributes toward the project?

WP5 consists of two parts: redesign and reassembly. We explore design implications of the stock-based design and develop new connection types or put existing connections to the test to reconnect existing precast concrete elements.

Traditionally the design process follows a linear model. The building design is developed first and the required structural elements, that are needed to accomplish this design, will be manufactured from scratch according to the dimensions required for the project.
The whole work process needs to be rethought when it comes to reusing elements. When maximizing the integration of reused elements in a stock-based design approach, the traditional design approach of form-follows-function will be replaced by a new principle: form-follows-availability.

To enable the load-bearing reuse of existing components, connection details are required with which these can be reconnected. This is why the documentation of connection details that already exist and allow for an easy reuse and developing new connection details that will also allow for an easier future disassembly are the second focus point in WP5.

Perhaps the most interesting thing about the ReCreate project is, that these approaches are not only theoretically explored, but will be implemented in real live pilot projects. Hence a large part of WP5 is designing those pilots and sharing the lessons learned throughout the process.

3. Tell us more about task 5.1 on the framework of parameters for the development of the redesign and reassembly process for precast concrete elements in new buildings?

As stated, the design process is completely different from the status quo, when it comes to the integration of reclaimed elements. Here, the first step is to capture relevant information about the reclaimed precast concrete elements in order to know where and how those may be reused. So, the first thing you need to know is what those elements are. In task 5.1 we explore, what parameters and object properties need to be gathered and at what design stage different information needs to be available to enable architectural and structural design. Here, we are looking at typological and dimensional information and the structural capacity of the different elements.
This task closely interacts with other working packages, such as WP1: the analysis of precast concrete systems, WP2: the deconstruction as we are strongly interested in the shape and capability of each element after deconstruction, WP3: the logistics and processing and WP4: the quality management.

The knowledge gained through this process will be captured in a design guideline (deliverable 5.1) at the end of the project.

4. How does Task 5.3 highlight the challenges and complexities faced in the architectural and structural design process when reusing precast concrete elements?

Task 5.3’s focus is the understanding and developing of a design approach and actively implementing it in the design process in the pilot projects. The traditional approach of an architect developing a space concept first and an engineer designing the structural elements afterword to erect this space does not work when the pool of existing elements limits what they might be used for. Means: the design process needs to run “in reverse”. To understand the capability of the existing elements and what uses they can be put to, requires a close interaction of architects and engineers from the very beginning of the project.
Each country cluster approaches this separately and faces different architectural and structural challenges. Those experiences are discussed within the ReCreate project team and the experiences will be summarized in the form of a best-practice recommendation that incorporates the lessons learned from the project.

5. How does Task 5.3 propose to incorporate artificial intelligence (AI) and neural networks into the design process? What benefits are expected from using AI in this context?

When it comes to designing with reclaimed elements, different design approaches can be explored and different country clusters follow different approaches of how to start with a stock of reclaimed, prefabricated concrete elements and get to the finished product: a building partially designed from those elements.
That insights gained and lessons learned will be gathered in a design manual that will be published as D5.1 at the end of the project.

Generally, the most straight-forward approach to designing with precast concrete elements is trial- and-error.

The larger the implicit knowledge about the reclaimed elements and reuse options are, the better the outcome will be.

Another possibility is a design optimisation aided by parametric design tools. Within the project research is undertaken how the design process can be aided by existing and newly developed design tools that allow for an optimisation.

Also, an AI-aided element matching between a pool of existing elements and a proposed new design will be explored. Especially when the list of reclaimed elements is very large, human trial-and-error can reach its limits. The AI-aided approach tries to do a first step by exploring a matching algorithm that highlights optimisation potential and best matches.

6. Can you tell us more on the processes and challenges that you are facing with the connections in task 5.2 and how do they influence the rest of your work? What are some of the risks that are present here? In the context of design for disassembly (DfD), how does Task 5.2 investigate the possibility of easier deconstructability in the new connections?

The feasibility and ease of new structural connections construction for reclaimed element has a large impact of the likelihood integration of reuse structural elements. In WP5 options to reconnect those structural elements will be explored. Particular attention is paid here to when the same connection points can be reused (with minor adjustments) during reinstallation. The connections that are to be used in the construction of the pilot projects are described. New connection types are also being developed in the project, those put a great emphasis on the possibility for a simple future deconstruction.
The general approach in the recreate project is, that both, new connection details that allow for an easier future disassembly are being developed in project funded university research studies. At the same time in the real life pilot projects conventional connection details that already exist, might also be used.

7. What is the relationship between the re-use of precast concrete elements and sustainability certificates, such as DGNB as discussed in Task 5.3?

When it comes to evaluating the sustainability of the reuse of precast concrete elements from an ecological viewpoint, two aspects can be highlighted. The reuse may help to save both finite resources and avoid new production emissions.
The topic of resource conservation in the context of a circular economy has recently come increasingly into focus, and green building certificates are trying to account for it. One example is here the the DGNB, where I am a member of the committee for lifecycle and circular design, the “DGNB Ausschuss für Lebenszyklus und zirkuläres Bauen“.

Important aspects such as reuse and deconstructability, which are addressed within WP5, are discussed here.

Additionally, a buildings carbon footprint is of course an important aspect to consider when it comes to evaluate the overall sustainability. Within WP5 internal meetings, the use of “LCA-as-a-Design-Tool” is repeatedly addressed. The goal is to actively identify and prioritize the lowest-emission design variant through regular design-integrated LCA (Life Cycle Assessment). Here we also closely collaborate with WP6.

8. How does Task 5.4 ensure a smooth implementation of the four real-life pilot projects, considering factors like transportation, supplementary materials, and equipment?

Let’s have another interview next year, then we can answer this question 😊

9. Who is Patrick Teuffel when he’s not working on the project and what does he like to do in his free time?

As for my personal preferences, I thoroughly enjoy engaging in sports like running and mountain biking, finding exhilaration in the great outdoors. Additionally, I have a passion for savoring good food, particularly exploring diverse culinary experiences. Living in the vibrant city of Berlin, I find immense pleasure in attending concerts and immersing myself in its dynamic cultural scene. Furthermore, I have a strong interest for exploration, fueled by my love for traveling and exploring the world, seeking out new adventures and experiences wherever I go. Last, but not least, I’m doing the final editing of this text in a spa – now you know where you can find me on a Sunday afternoon.

by ReCreate project

September 14, 2023

Using object-oriented programming to bridge the gap between architecture and structural engineering in a circular design.

Fred Mudge, Eindhoven University of Technology – 14 September 2023

Over the past several decades, the construction industry has been responsible for large portions of annual global CO₂ emissions and overall material usage. To counteract this, the ReCreate project aims to establish a circular value chain for precast concrete buildings – a switch which could offer massive improvements to the industry’s sustainability by keeping materials in use for longer, thereby preserving the value contained in the existing building stock and reducing the need for new materials. This requires research and development across the entire reuse process, from deconstruction, transport and logistics, quality control, design and planning of new buildings up to reassembly in a new location and for a new purpose.

As a doctoral researcher at TU Eindhoven, my work focuses on the topic of design within the above context and aims to assist architects and engineers to design circular buildings, by developing a software application which provides functionality specifically for this task.

In a traditional building design workflow, the architect normally produces a design based on relatively few constraints. A structural engineer reviews the design and presents reinforcements to ensure that the structure is sufficiently robust and stable. After all designs have been finalized, construction can commence and (for precast systems) elements are manufactured that match the designs. The design process for reused elements is fundamentally different because the geometric and structural attributes of the elements are already fixed at the start of the design process. The challenge for a designer is therefore to select and arrange elements into a spatially effective building structure considering their respective geometries. Each addition or change to this arrangement affects the distribution of forces through the structure. The forces exerted on each element should therefore be calculated continuously and compared to its relevant structural capacities (axial force, bending moment etc.) to ensure no element is loaded past a safe limit.

The design application addresses both challenges mentioned above. It includes a feature for browsing through a library (database) of previously used building components that are available for reuse. A user can then select and import desired elements directly into a 3D building information modelling (BIM) environment and place them in a new design assembly. Furthermore, automatic structural load calculation methods using finite element methods (FEM) are built into the application and can be performed on-demand, to identify any elements exerted past their capacities. Lastly, environmental benefit is quantified and enhanced by automatic embodied carbon calculation, considering factors such as the distance of an element from the construction site and the amount of CO₂ required to get it into its new position.

Considering the novelty of reusing concrete building components, the first step to developing the application was to create a so-called “object model” for creating and storing digital representations of physical building elements. This requires a sound understanding of the parameters that describe all relevant aspects (geometric, structural etc.) of the various types of elements (beams, columns, wall panels, slabs etc.). These parameters, element types and how they interact and relate to each other also help define the database schema for storing element information (i.e., the element library). A trial database was created and populated with element data from a recently completed deconstruction project – Prinsenhof A in Arnhem, the Netherlands.

A user can browse through a library of elements, import and position them in a Revit model to make up a new building design.

Subsequently, the focus shifted to developing algorithms for automatically connecting elements within the model, based on their relative locations, and for calculating structural forces and moments within all elements, based on expected floor loadings and the anticipated “load paths” that eventually take all forces down to the building’s foundations. Lastly, a framework for calculating the environmental impact resulting from using new and reused precast concrete building components will be developed and added to the application, to ensure that an environmental benefit is achieved for each reuse design, compared to a design consisting of newly manufactured elements.

Currently, the design application is developed as an add-on for Autodesk Revit. New building designs are therefore in the form of a Revit (.rvt) model, which can be easily converted to a more universal format such as Industry Foundation Class (.ifc). The design application is currently still under development, with a “proof of concept” prototype planned for the end of 2023.

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