Enhancing circularity in steel structures through design for decosntruction: Information needs

Abstract

Design for Deconstruction (DfD) is identified as a key strategy for improving circularity in the construction industry. It mainly considers the integration of R principles into the building components and processes at the end of their life cycles. During the implementing the DfD for the building or infrastructure the material selection process plays a significant role. Having observed some of the building and infrastructure projects in Sri Lanka, the structure/frames represent a significant portion of the overall cost. However less attention had been paid on their end of lifecycle considerations (economic, social and environmental). As the first step, this study explores the potential of DfD steel structures in enhancing circularity. The research is based on a literature review examining on design phase deconstruction information requirement for enhancing circularity in construction products. The review identifies key factors influencing DfD, including durability, connection methods, structural characteristics, and ease of separation during deconstruction in general and the ability of material traceability, selective disassembly, and integration with digital technologies like Building Information Modelling for Deconstruction (BIMfD) in specific to steel structures. Large-scale deployment is nevertheless hampered by issues including certification requirements, market uncertainties, logistical limitations, and the absence of standardised reuse protocols, notwithstanding these benefits. In order to optimise the reuse potential of steel structures and facilitate the shift to a circular construction. The conceptual framework explains the integration between DfD principles, information requirements (product. process) and circularity dimensions for sustainable product delivery.