https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/469 Previously known as Faculty of Architecture and Civil Engineering Thu, 11 Jun 2026 13:29:47 GMT 2026-06-11T13:29:47Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/147261 Title: Discussion of the turbulent swirling flow field in the residential ventilation systems with axial fans Authors: Čantrak, Đorđe; Čolić-Damjanović, Vesna Mila; Tašin, Slobodan; Miodragovic Vella, Irina Abstract: Axial fans are widely used in local and decentralized residential ventilation applications, such as bathroom and toilet exhausts and short-duct ventilation systems, but the turbulent swirling flow they generate can lead to increased hydraulic losses, reduced energy efficiency, and unstable fan operation. This study experimentally investigates the swirling flow produced by the axial fan operating in a straight duct, following the ISO 5801, case B. Original classical probes and one-component laser Doppler anemometry (LDA) were used to measure velocity components at multiple downstream locations. Results show a strong forced-vortex core (i.e., solid body profile) and a highly non-uniform axial velocity profile near the impeller (x/D = 3.35), which homogenizes downstream (x/D = 26.31), indicating significant energy loss. Circulation and swirl number decrease significantly downstream, but residual swirl remains throughout the duct, increasing pressure drops and leading to unstable fan performance. These findings demonstrate that swirl-induced velocity-profile transformations are a major source of inefficiency in residential ventilation systems employing axial fans without flow-straightening devices. Thu, 01 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/147261 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/147256 Title: Recipe for AI integration in architecture : learning from good practice precedents Authors: Miodragovic Vella, Irina; Markovic, Sladjana Abstract: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming all disciplines, impacting research, practice, academia, and industry. Architecture is no exception, yet architects have not fully embraced the digital paradigm. AI tools and methods present an opportunity to enhance the positioning of architects within the evolving digital landscape and the increasing complexity and sustainability demands of architecture. The study proposes a rules-based conceptual framework for an AI-driven, procedureoriented approach to the design process, informed by historical and contemporary examples of embedded design knowledge as good practice. The recipe for AI integration is derived from an educational methodology illustrated through student projects that combine analogue techniques with digital principles to explore the interplay between algorithmic thinking and AI with a focus on architectural geometry. The paper demonstrates how intuitive investigation, iterative learning, and collaborative processes support the development of computational thinking by embedding design knowledge into procedural systems – introductory for future application. Finally, the paper discusses key guidelines for how AI can be meaningfully integrated into the discipline of architecture. Mon, 01 Sep 2025 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/147256 2025-09-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/147063 Title: Eco-mechanical synergy in low-cement CLSM from MSWIBA and TBM slurry : a Ca(OH)₂-activated cross-scale engineering approach Authors: Wang, Jiaze; Huang, Yinjie; Wei, Xiaoyan; Zhu, Zhixuan; Borg, Ruben Paul; Pan, Dongyu; Guo, Jiaqi; Ruan, Shaoqin Abstract: In this study, a low-cement controlled low-strength material (CLSM) was designed by synergistically incorporating municipal solid waste incineration bottom ash (MSWIBA) and tunnel boring machine (TBM) waste slurry, with Ca(OH)₂ as an activator. The roles of Ca(OH)₂ in reaction pathways, multi-scale pore structure evolution, and carbon intensity were systematically investigated through rheological tests, mechanical measurements, XRD, TG/DTG, SEM-EDS, MIP, X-CT, and carbon footprint analysis. Results show that the exogenous Ca(OH)₂ is completely consumed via pozzolanic reaction, clay adsorption, and early carbonation, shifting from a conventional alkaline activator to a direct reactant that governs gel chemistry while maintaining satisfactory flowability (> 180 mm). Cross-scale characterization reveals that the strength enhancement originates primarily from topological fragmentation of the defect architecture rather than from a mere reduction in total porosity. Despite a modest increase in embodied carbon due to Ca(OH)₂ addition, the disproportionate strength gain reduces the carbon intensity of the CLSM by 26%. By integrating mechanistic insight, cross-scale structural engineering, and eco-mechanical assessment, this work establishes a new framework for transforming disparate solid wastes into low-carbon CLSM through rationally designed activation. Thu, 01 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/147063 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/147013 Title: Architecture, cultural values and politics : the case for Sofia Authors: Bianco, Lino Abstract: Recalling a doctoral study undertaken at the University of Architecture, Civil Engineering and Geodesy, Sofia, this article focuses on architecture, cultural values and politics in contemporary Sofia. It addresses urban landscapes and cultural heritage legislation in Bulgaria with specific emphasis on immovable and intangible culture. It concludes by arguing for mapping the city’s monuments of cultural value, addressing its urban challenges, and positioning this capital amongst Europe’s leading capital cities.; Reamintind studiul de doctorat la Universitatea de Arhitectură, Inginerie Civilă și Geodezie din Sofia, acest articol se concentrează pe arhitectură, valori culturale și politică în Sofia contemporană. Acesta abordează peisajele urbane și legislația privind patrimoniu cultural în Bulgaria, cu accent special pe cultura imobiliară și intangibilă. Articolul se încheie cu un argument pentru cartografierea monumentelor de valoare culturală ale orașului, abordând problemele urbane și poziționând această capitală printre principalele capitale ale Europei. Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/147013 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z