https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/50845 Wed, 08 Apr 2026 03:54:23 GMT 2026-04-08T03:54:23Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/107377 Title: The middle globigerina limestone at Mrieħel, Malta Abstract: The geology of the Maltese Islands has been extensively studied over the last two centuries, but very little attention has been given to the geotechnical behaviour of the various layers. This thesis attempts to initiate detailed investigation and engineering analysis of the Maltese stratigraphy, presenting the possible methodologies and the theoretical background through which this can be done. This work is limited to the Middle member of the Globigerina Limestone formation. An attempt is made to present the diversity of facies and of engineering behaviour, beyond the typical ‘franka’ and ‘soll’ building stone layers, which have been the focus of considerable attention in the past years. The weaker facies are considered, not as building materials, but as ground sediments which invariably need to be excavated and built upon. The particular case of structural problems at Santa Marija Church, in Mrieħel, Birkirkara, is presented as an example of the implications of the engineering behaviour of these weaker materials. The microstructure of these sediments is explored through mineralogical studies, geotechnical index tests and the use of the scanning electron microscope, with the aim of understanding how these materials have been formed, what they are made of and what makes them different. Compressibility characteristics are studied by high-pressure oedometer tests with pore pressure measurement, and shear behaviour with the use of low-pressure and high-pressure triaxial tests. Classical soil mechanics and rock mechanics theory, combined with recent advances in understanding the geotechnical behaviour of hard soils and soft rocks, are shown to be valid approaches in understanding these materials. Structure, in the form of fabric and bonding, and particulate behaviour, as influenced by pure friction and dilatational characteristics between particles, are both explored, and their interplay is investigated as the source of strength and deformability characteristics of these materials. Description: Ph.D.(Melit.) Tue, 01 Jan 2019 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/107377 2019-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/99500 Title: Modern spas in historic masonry buildings: challenges and mitigating measures Abstract: The historic masonry buildings of the Maltese capital city (Valletta) were built in part as a response to the Mediterranean climate by exploitation of local resources, at the same time adapting to environmental challenges by deliberate design and appropriate use of the buildings. However, the resulting natural microclimate in such buildings changes if new uses are introduced. The installation of modern spas is one such adapted use. The aim of the study was to establish the baseline indoor environmental conditions of a representative building in Valletta, and then to identify and quantify the changes in the micro environment triggered by the installation and use of a hot tub, a popular feature of modern spas. Two adjoining buildings, housing the Notarial Archives in St Paul's Street, were selected as a case study as these have been extensively monitored over recent years. Temperature (T) and relative humidity (RH) records were analysed, followed by numerical simulation of the above parameters in two selected basement rooms containing the hypothetical hot tub. Different scenarios were simulated including variations in the room dimensions and properties of the hypothetical hot tub. The obtained results indicate that the hot tub induces larger T and RH fluctuation than were recorded during the monitored period (without a tub). Therefore, deterioration of the masonry, governed by environmental fluctuations, such as salt cycles could potentially accelerate. Algal growth could also be stimulated. These changes are amply discussed in relation to the use of the tub. Recommendations to mitigate the impact on the original microenvironment and on the historic limestone fabric include glass enclosure, vapour barrier surface coatings on the masonry and RH regulation by air extraction and dehumidification as reversible and non disruptive measures. It was concluded that introduction of a hot tub in the investigated basements is not recommended. If alternative locations are not available, well-thought out choices, conscious placement and operation of the hot tub, could mitigate the impact on the indoor micro climate and the historic fabric. Description: M.SC.CONSERVATION Tue, 01 Jan 2019 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/99500 2019-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/99448 Title: Deconstruction : management of the end-of-life in construction Abstract: This dissertation is focused on the importance of a framework to manage the end-of-life of buildings with a strong emphasis on methodologies to salvage and recycle building materials which can eventually constitute into a new building. The dissertation gives suggestions to fill existing gaps in the system to properly manage the deconstruction process in a holistic manner from the structural perspective, to environmental considerations within a mitigated risk environment. The literature review discusses the local construction scenario where the building typologies, methods of construction and what deficiencies and gaps are presently governing the industry are reviewed from the legislative perspective. Moreover, the importance of a framework to regulate the industry is stressed and a content analysis on different frameworks in Europe is carried out with the purpose to draft a plan of works for a deconstruction framework. Through the three different means of study; a focus group discussion with key stakeholders in the industry, a questionnaire with professionals in the field and an interview with key representative roles in the industry was conducted. Participants consisting of; architects, developers, project managers, environmental scientists and others. Through the interviews and questionnaires, the researcher probes the industry with thirteen main themes sought from the plan of works for a framework, and as a result, a number of key gaps, opportunities for improvements and critical areas in the industry were identified. The gaps were analysed in the analysis section and further discussed and compared to existing literature on the subject. This was done so that the recommendations presented thereafter could be validated. Recommendations as part of the conclusions chapter were named as essential to address the gaps for smooth implementation of a framework. Description: M.SC.PROJECT MANGT. Tue, 01 Jan 2019 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/99448 2019-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/99442 Title: Contextualising freedoms : documenting the loss of the human element in the contemporary public realm Abstract: The events which constitute one's daily life are informed by the constant dialogue and interaction with the surrounding environment, to the extent that it becomes impossible to imagine the experience of them, without also imagining the spaces in which they occurred. They are moulded by one's surroundings, by the spaces visited and the architecture encountered and as a result they begin to shape one's life and define one's character (Alexander, 1979). A city's parks, streets, pjazzas, markets and waterfronts are the settings which allow for people from different cultural groups to come together and share the same space. They represent sites of collective well-being and vessels which have the ability of increasing one's empathy towards the other. It is for this revision that public space is such an important feature in one's daily life and plays a crucial part in one's everyday rhythm (Anin, 2008). However, as the social structure of a society transforms, so does the spatial forms they inhabit transform, therefore, as society undergoes a period of accelerated growth, the public spaces which made up the urban fabric of the city are being affected. This dissertation attempted to highlight how as public land is sold and bartered, its' principle users are being excluded from the decisions made by those in power, with little consideration being taken to how they experience and identify with it, and the effects it has on their everyday life. This was analysed through the study of thee public spaces within the Maltese context which have been subject to physical changes over the past few years, resulting in a transformation in their nature as a public space. The spaces examined where; Tigne Pjazza, Sliema, Antoine de Paule Pjazza, Paola and Suq tal-Belt, Valletta. By analyzing the spatial and everyday rhythms which constitute each of these spaces, both at present, and prior to its transformation, this dissertation shed light on the imbalance that exists between the spaces being created in the contemporary public realm, and the desires of its users. Through the objective understanding of a user's behaviour within each space, the study demonstrated the dichotomy that exists between real and perceived freedom within the contemporary public realm. As the behavioural powers the spatial environment holds on the user is documented, the study brings into awareness how the notion of freedom and belonging within public space is beginning to dissolve. Description: M.ARCH. Tue, 01 Jan 2019 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/99442 2019-01-01T00:00:00Z