Integration of BIM for Simulated Real-time Management of Structural Material Waste in Residential Construction: A Prototype Framework

Abstract

Introduction: Rapid urban growth and the increasing demand for high-rise residential buildings in India have led to a significant rise in the use of structural materials and the generation of construction waste. Materials such as concrete, steel, and masonry contribute significantly to this waste; however, most current management practices are reactive and often do not allow for real-time monitoring of materials used during construction. The absence of real-time tracking systems contributes to material inefficiencies, cost overruns, and environmental concerns within high-rise residential projects.

Purpose: The purpose of the study is to connect design-stage planning with on-site construction monitoring, creating a workflow that supports resource efficiency and encourages circular economy practices.

Aim and Objectives: This research aims to explore the application of BIM for simulated structural material waste management in high-rise residential projects, using a prototype framework. The study will include examining current material waste monitoring procedures, creating a BIM model including parameters related to material use, using this BIM model for automated material quantification and clash detection, and implementing a tagging system to identify reusable leftover materials.

Methodology: A mixed-method approach was adopted, which included literature review, developing a BIM model utilizing Autodesk Revit, running a clash detection analysis through Navisworks, scheduling automatic quantities and near real-time tracking (simulation-based) based on the delivered, used and reusable material quantity.

Results: The findings indicate that utilizing early clash detection has the potential to eliminate reworking on site, whilst utilizing continuous material tracking not only enhances visibility but also allows identifying materials that can be reused. In addition to supporting better plans for procurement, this method will also help to reduce the amount of waste produced on construction sites unnecessarily.

Discussion: This research discussion demonstrated that integrating BIM-based clash detection, simulated material tracking, and reuse tagging has the potential to contribute to structural material waste reduction and improved construction resource efficiency in residential projects, as illustrated through a prototype G+7 case study.