https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/118862 2026-04-05T04:28:22Z 2026-04-05T04:28:22Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/140263 2025-10-17T12:25:20Z 2024-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Geopolymer alkali activated concrete based on industrial by-products Abstract: A geopolymer concrete can be produced through alkali activation, using industrial by-products including waste limestone. The production process can be optimised to enhance the mechanical properties of the material, while reducing the environmental impact of the geopolymer concrete. The aim of this research is to develop a new sustainable construction material by eliminating cement as a binder and utilising instead limestone-based waste materials through alkali activation. Additionally, the research aims to optimise the production process to achieve the target mechanical properties of geopolymer concrete [...] Description: M.Eng.(Melit).

2024-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/140259 2025-10-17T12:29:30Z 2024-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: The durability of reconstituted limestone containing excavation waste Abstract: Waste generation in the construction industry is an increasing issue in the Maltese Islands, excavation waste being the largest contributor. ‘Soll’, which is a form of Lower Globigerina Limestone, is considered excavation waste since it is not used as a building material, given its low durability aspect. The durability and strength properties of reconstituted limestone containing ‘Franka’ was investigated in 2013. There was a need to investigate the durability and strength properties for reconstituted limestone containing ‘Soll’, to evaluate the potential for turning such excavation waste into a building material. This study investigates the durability and strength aspects of reconstituted limestone, in which compaction loads applied to it vary [...] Description: M.Eng.(Melit.)

2024-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/133264 2025-03-18T11:04:25Z 2024-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Methodologies for cultural heritage mapping in historic landscapes : a case study on Malta’s northwestern coastline Abstract: This research addresses the need for effective mapping methods to identify and document both tangible and intangible cultural heritage and their values. The study is applied to a case study area on Malta's northwestern coastline. The approach involves the identification, description and critical assessment, including SWOT analyses, of six established methods. The most suitable methodfor mapping cultural heritage in Malta is subsequently selected. The results are presented in two phases. Phase 1 introduces the selected methods in a final method statement. A combination of methods is employed, including the LandMap cultural landscape layer, LandMap historical layer, Historic Environmental Record, and Cultural Values Model. This combination provides a characterisation of the entire landscape, focusing on history and cultural landscape, with precise mapped data of cultural values and associations held by the general public and historical heritage. The second phase presents the methodology and results of the selected methods. Data is acquired through fieldwork, archival and literature research, and public participation to implement the four layers in the case study area. The GIS Project maps are then presented. The implementation has demonstrated that the combination of LandMap, HER, and CVM offers a holistic approach to mapping cultural heritage and their values in Malta's northwestern coastline. The use of GIS enable layering and working with the layers to gain further insights into the cultural significance and relationships. Some limitations of the layers have been exposed, leading to recommendations for future research, such as enhancing the HER data, addressing challenges with CVM density, and promoting public participation for a more inclusive mapping process. Description: M.A.(Melit.)

2024-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/133262 2025-03-18T11:03:05Z 2024-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: The effect of variabilities in the manufacturing tolerances on the ultimate flexural capacity of steel beams Abstract: Steel fabrication involves the production of large, complex welded assemblies of rolled steel products, inherently leading to dimensional variations due to high-temperature processes used in manufacturing and joining. The purpose of this research is to examine the validity and safety of the tolerance tables established by the Eurocode (EN10034: 1993) in terms of the ultimate flexural capacity of the beam. Both geometric properties and material properties have been treated as random variables. With the Monte Carlo Simulation, 2000 realistic and randomised combinations were produced in order to compare the randomised moment capacity with the nominal plastic moment capacity. The analysis began with a comprehensive test in which all variables were randomised. This initial test provided the probability of failure for all beams under realistic conditions. Subsequent tests were conducted with certain variables held constant at their nominal values to assess the influence of each random variable on the plastic moment capacity. Further detailed analysis involved three purposely selected beams—specifically IPE80, IPE360, and IPE750x173—chosen for their varied section depths. The results from these tests were depicted in scatterplots, which facilitated the visual identification and understanding of any trends previously noted in the general analysis. Through the in-depth analysis, it was concluded that the flange thickness is the most critical dimensional property across all section sizes. Additionally, a highly important controlling factor is the variability of the yield stress. In fact, the in-depth analysis demonstrated that the effect of the remaining three-dimensional variables on the plastic moment capacity varies by section size. Specifically, the geometric properties, such as section height and width of section, have a diminishing influence as the section size increases, while the impact of web thickness on the probability of failure becomes more pronounced with larger section sizes. Description: M.Eng.(Melit.)

2024-01-01T00:00:00Z