A novel framework for integrating blockchain and building information modelling in construction projects

Celik, Yasin ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5545-0717 2024. A novel framework for integrating blockchain and building information modelling in construction projects. PhD Thesis, Cardiff University. Item availability restricted.

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Abstract

The construction industry has experienced a variety of limitations with digitalisation, including inefficiencies in project management and collaboration, lack of transparency, and environmental sustainability concerns. In recent years, emerging technologies such as blockchain have attracted attention thanks to their potential to address these challenges and transform traditional construction practices. Blockchain offers opportunities to increase trust, transparency, automation, efficiency, and collaboration in the construction ecosystem. Despite a growing interest in the scientific field, there remains a significant gap in understanding how blockchain can be effectively integrated into construction projects, particularly in combination with BIM. The literature review identified two main research gaps in the construction industry that motivated this research: (i) the lack of understanding and exploration toward the practical application of blockchain and (ii) the scarcity of research addressing blockchain-oriented solutions to improve information exchange in construction projects. Four research questions were developed to address these gaps and the shortcomings of existing studies by focusing on integrating blockchain with BIM to enhance construction applications: a) Can BIM and blockchain be integrated and applied in construction life-cycle stages to improve the safety, cost-efficiency, and sustainability of construction projects? b) Can a blockchain-based BIM provenance model be developed to ensure traceability and transparency of BIM data in a construction project? c) How can blockchain technology be applied to energy management systems to improve operational performance and ensure sustainable building practices? d) What are the key benefits and drawbacks of the blockchain application for the construction industry? The research was divided into four main phases. The first phase included a literature i review to identify research gaps and gather industry insights, followed by the formulation of research questions and methodology using a mixed methods approach with case studies and a questionnaire. The second phase focuses on the development and implementation of blockchain frameworks to integrate BIM by addressing challenges in the construction lifecycle and supply chain, while designing a blockchain-based BIM provenance model. This second phase provides practitioners with guidance on using blockchain for data integrity, traceability and accountability, concluding with a practical implementation guide to improve construction practices. The third phase explores the role of blockchain in building energy management to develop innovative solutions to improve energy efficiency and data management in construction projects. Lastly, the fourth phase uses a questionnaire and empirical approach to assess the effectiveness and feasibility of blockchain-BIM integration solutions, evaluate practical applications and identify areas for improvement. The findings show that integrating blockchain with BIM can significantly improve data integrity, traceability and accountability in construction projects. The blockchain-based provenance model enables transparent and auditable tracking of changes in BIM data. In addition, blockchain may facilitate the promotion of sustainable energy practices through effective energy consumption monitoring and consumption pattern analysis. This research provides practical guidance and strategies to support construction practitioners in overcoming the complexities of blockchain-BIM integration and leveraging these innovations for better project outcomes, achieving cost efficiencies, and promoting environmental sustainability through improved data management and increasing collaboration and transparency across the building lifecycle.”

Item Type:	Thesis (PhD)
Date Type:	Completion
Status:	Unpublished
Schools:	Engineering
Uncontrolled Keywords:	1). Building Information Modelling 2). Blockchain 3). Data Provenance 4). Construction Lifecycle 5). Energy management
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	11 December 2024
Last Modified:	11 Dec 2024 09:36
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/174651

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