DEPT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING

Researcher : Ali MS

List of Research Outputs

 

Yu D., Ali M.S. and Lee J.H.W., Multiple tandem jets in crossflow, Journal of Hydraulic Engineering, ASCE. ASCE, 2006, 132(9): 971-982.

 

Researcher : Anvuur AM

List of Research Outputs

 

Anvuur A.M. and Kumaraswamy M.M., A Conceptual Model of Partnering and Alliancing, Journal of Construction Engineering and Management. Reston, Virginia, USA, American Society of Civil Engineers, 2007, 133, No. 3: 225-234.

 

Anvuur A.M. and Kumaraswamy M.M., Cooperation in Construction: Towards a Research Agenda, In: E. Sivyer, COBRA 2006. London, RICS and Bartlett School, University College London, 90-98.

 

Anvuur A.M., Kumaraswamy M.M. and Mahesh G., Which governs – the relationship or the contract?, In: E. Sivyer, COBRA 2006 . London, UK, RICS and Bartlett School, University College London, 2006, 99-106.

 

Kumaraswamy M.M., Ling F.Y.Y., Anvuur A.M. and Rahman M.M., Selection Matters - in assembling Teams for successful PPPs, In: M. Dulaimi, International Conference on Construction Culture, Innovation and Management (CCIM2006). Dubai, UAE, British University in Dubai, 2006, 675-685.

 

Mahesh G., Kumaraswamy M.M. and Anvuur A.M., Whither partnering? A trade-off analysis using a Hong Kong case study, In: Haupt, T.C. and Milford, R. (eds.), CIB World Building Congress. Cape Town, South Africa: . Cape Town, South Africa, CIB, 2007, 302-309.

 

Researcher : Au ASK

Project Title:

Optimisation of the efficiency of compensation grouting for ground settlement control

Investigator(s):

Au ASK, Lee KM

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

08/2003

 

Abstract:

To seek a method for predicting the soil fracture direction of single and multiple injections injections through laboratory experiments; to investigate the grouting behavior, the influence the grouting operation on the existing structure and the ground surface displacement pattern under a working stress level by conduct several series of centrifuge tests. (Numerical simulation will be carried out to simulate the centrifuge test); to establish a cost effective fracture controlled compensation grouting design criteria to optimize the compensation efficiency and minimize the grouting cost and the risk of damage of nearby structure by analyzing all the experimental and numerical results.

 

Project Title:

Fundamental study of hydraulic fracture in soil

Investigator(s):

Au ASK

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research

Start Date:

01/2006

 

Abstract:

Hydraulic fracture is a useful technique to apply for remediation of contamination in soil and grouting during tunneling work. The effectiveness of the technique highly depend the fracture orientation and geometry. The used of hydro-fracture grouting during the tunneling is popular in construction industry. Moreover, hydraulic fracture technique is also an enhancement technology to increase formation permeability for the extraction of organic compounds from soil. In fact, the general criteria for predicting the hydraulic fracture still have not been established. The prediction of fracture orientation still heavily depends on crude empirical relationships, which are in general unable to match for complex situations in the field. The generation of excess pore water pressure during the hydraulic fracture has not been investigated. Furthermore, if the hydraulic fracture is not operating in a good controllable condition, it may cause the influence on the underground structure and superstructure, undesirable ground heave outside the target treatment zone. The proposed research aims at establishing the criteria for predicting the hydraulic fracture orientation and developing an effective fracture controlled injection technology by performing a series of laboratory tests. The main purpose of the project described herein is to develop a high efficiency fracture-controlled theory and to recommend new criteria for design and operation in different techniques. o to seek a method for predicting the soil fracture direction of single and multiple injections o to investigate the grouting behavior, the influence the hydraulic fracture on the soil properties (permeability, soil density and shear strength)

 

Project Title:

Investigation on Impulsive Compaction Grouting in Saprolitic Soil

Investigator(s):

Au ASK

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

10/2006

 

Abstract:

Grouting is a versatile ground improvement technique of many applications worldwide, such as groundwater cutoff for the MTR system and SSDS tunnels in Hong Kong; settlement control for the London Heathrow Express, London Jubilee Line Extension, Baltimore Region Rapid Transit System, Canadian St. Clair River Tunnel Project, and Lisbon Underground; densification of liquefiable soil in California, seismic retrofit of the Laurel Street Bridge in Santa Cruz, California, temporary lateral support system for the Atlantic City Expressway Extension, and bearing capacity enhancement of bored piles in China resulting in a shallower founding level, etc. HKSAR Government is investigating the technical feasibility of stabilizing loose fill slopes by grouting. However, the state-of-practice is way ahead of our theoretical development on the technique and our understanding of its impact on soil behavior. As a result, most grouting operations are designed using empirical rules of thumb, expensive pilot-scale field tests, and/or proprietary design methods developed by individual contractors specific for their equipment, material and operation. Therefore, it is difficult to apply previous successful experience to other situations, and to predict the behavior of soil without expensive field trials. Impulsive compaction grouting is a new and innovative technique using impulsive grouting pressure to further improve the engineering properties of soil. The research program is proposed to develop a practical feasibility of impulsive grouting technique, and to develop a better understanding of soil behavior during grouting. Moreover, some practical uses of grouting with potential applications in Hong Kong and the Pearl River Delta will be investigated. These uses will result in considerable economy in construction and saving of natural resources. Key objectives of the proposed research are:(1) To investigate the effectiveness of using impulsive grouting pressure to improve the engineering properties of soil and to develop guidelines on the choice of optimal operating parameters under an controllable laboratory condition.(2) To develop a better understanding of the soil-grout interactions during conventional and impulsive grouting through small-scale and large-scale experimental studies

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Au A.S.K., Yeung A.T. and Chow C.M., Fines migration in completely decomposed volcanic, Proc., 4th Civil Engineering Conference in the Asian Region. Taipei, 2007.

 

Au A.S.K., Yeung A.T. and Soga K., Pressure-controlled cavity expansion in clay, Canadian Geotechnical Journal. 2006, 43(7): 714-725.

 

Soga K., Gafar K...O., Ng M...Y...A. and Au A.S.K., Macro And Micro Behaviour Of Soil Fracturing, International Symposium On Geomechanics And Geotechnics Of Particulate Media,. Yamaguchi,Japan, 2006.

 

Wang S.Y., Yeung A.T., Au A.S.K., Fang Z. and Yang X.Q., Fractures initiation and propagation in stiff soil, Underground Construction and Ground Movement. ASCE, 2006, Geotechnical Special Publication No. 155: 288-295.

 

Wang S.Y., Chan D., Lam K.C., Au A.S.K. and Tham L.G., Soil Improvement Using Compaction Grouting - A Laboratory Investigation On the Confining Pressure And Injection Rate In Completely Decomposed Granite, In: Dave Chan, The 4th International Conference on Soft Soil Engineering, Canada. Canada, 2006, 697-702.

 

Yang X.Q., Fung W.H. and Au A.S.K., Futher explanation on the lade-duncan failure criterion, In: H.S.Yu, Geomechanics and Geoengineering: An International Journal. UK, Taylor & Francis, 2006, 1: 299-304.

 

Yeung A.T., Cheng Y.M., Tham L.G., Au A.S.K., So T.C. and Choi Y.K., Field evaluation of a glass-fiber soil reinforcement system, Journal of Performance of Constructed Facilities. ASCE, 2007, 21(1): 26-34.

 

Yeung A.T., Lee P.K.K., Au A.S.K., So T.C. and Liu Y., 港大土木本科生三軸測試實習, 土力學教育與教學，第一屆全國土力學教學研討會論文集, Beijing, China Communications Press, 2006, 355-357.

 

Researcher : Au FTK

Project Title:

Ductility and deformability of high-strength concrete beams partially prestressed with conventional and non-conventional unbonded tendons

Investigator(s):

Au FTK, Kwan AKH

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

10/2004

 

Abstract:

To study the behaviour of high-strength unbonded partially prestressed concrete (UPPC) beams with conventional and non-conventional tendons, which covers the full range including service behaviour, ultimate flexural strength and post-peak behaviour; to develop theoretical models to simulate the full-range behaviour of high-strength UPPC beams which are capable of predicting from the initial stage to the post-peak stage; to investigate the ductility or deformability of UPPC beams and the moment redistribution in continuous UPPC beams; to propose design guidance for practising engineers.

 

Project Title:

Shrinkage cracking of reinforced concrete structures

Investigator(s):

Au FTK

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

09/2005

 

Abstract:

Shrinkage of a concrete structure as the concrete dries after hardening is a natural phenomenon. It could lead to substantial shortening movement and, if the movement is restrained, serious cracking of the concrete structure. This is a common problem in Hong Kong, especially in large podium structures with several tower blocks on top. In many cases, the shrinkage cracks formed have been causing aesthetic, water leakage and durability problems. In a recently completed applied research project funded by the Hong Kong Housing Authority Research Fund (HARF) that comprises experimental work and development of application software, apart from addressing most of the problems, many interesting issues have also been identified.The cracking of reinforced concrete is a very complicated phenomenon as it involves the interaction between concrete and steel reinforcement, the shape and size of the structure as well as the stiffness of the supports. It is against this background that the present project is proposed and the objectives are:1. To carry out some pilot tests to investigate the mechanism of shrinkage cracking; and 2. To develop an efficient computational method for the analysis of shrinkage movement and strain.

 

Project Title:

Establishment of Bridge Rating System for Ting Kau Bridge

Investigator(s):

Au FTK, Lee PKK

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Highways Department - General Award

Start Date:

08/2006

 

Abstract:

To conduct research to establish a comprehensive bridge rating system for Ting Kau Bridge.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Au F.T.K., Tso K. and Su K.L., Ductility of Partially Prestressed Concrete Structures with External Tendons, Proceedings of International Conference on Bridge Engineering – Challenges in the 21st Century, 1 – 3 November 2006, Hong Kong. Hong Kong, Hong Kong Institution of Engineers, 2006, 12.

 

Au F.T.K. and Bai Z., Effect of axial load on flexural behaviour of cyclically loaded RC columns, In: Chang-Koon Choi, Christian Meyer and Nenad Bicanic, Computers and Concrete, An International Journal. Korea, Techno-Press, 2006, 3(4): 261-284.

 

Bai Z., Au F.T.K. and Kwan A.K.H., Complete Nonlinear Response of Reinforced Concrete Beams under Cyclic Loading, The Structural Design of Tall and Special Buildings. Chichester, U.K., John Wiley & Sons, 2007, 16(2): 107-130.

 

Kwan A.K.H., Chau S.L. and Au F.T.K., Design of high-strength concrete beams subjected to small axial loads, Magazine of Concrete Research. London, Thomas Telford Services, 2006, 58(6): 333-341.

 

Kwan A.K.H., Chau S.L. and Au F.T.K., Improving Flexural Ductility of High-strength Concrete Beams, Proceedings – Structures and Buildings of The Institution of Civil Engineers. London, Thomas Telford, 2006, 159(SB6): 339-347.

 

Liu C.H., Au F.T.K. and Lee P.K.K., Estimation of Shrinkage Effects on Reinforced Concrete Podiums, HKIE Transactions. Hong Kong, Hong Kong Institution of Engineers, 2006, 13(4): 33-43.

 

Tso K., Au F.T.K. and Su K.L., Ductility and deformability of partially prestressed concrete beams with unbonded tendons, Proceedings of Conference on Short and Medium Span Bridges 2006, Montreal, Canada, August 23-25, 2006. Montréal, Canadian Society for Civil Engineering, 11.

 

Wang M. and Au F.T.K., Precise integration method without inverse matrix calculation for structural dynamic equations, Earthquake Engineering and Engineering Vibration. Beijing, Ke Xue Chu Ban She, 2007, 6 (1): 57-64.

 

Zhou D., Lo S.H., Au F.T.K., Cheung Y.K. and Liu W.Q., 3-D vibration analysis of skew thick plates using Chebyshev–Ritz method, International Journal of Mechanical Sciences. New York, ScienceDirect, 2006, 48 (12): 1481-1493.

 

Researcher : Bai Z

List of Research Outputs

 

Au F.T.K. and Bai Z., Effect of axial load on flexural behaviour of cyclically loaded RC columns, In: Chang-Koon Choi, Christian Meyer and Nenad Bicanic, Computers and Concrete, An International Journal. Korea, Techno-Press, 2006, 3(4): 261-284.

 

Bai Z., Au F.T.K. and Kwan A.K.H., Complete Nonlinear Response of Reinforced Concrete Beams under Cyclic Loading, The Structural Design of Tall and Special Buildings. Chichester, U.K., John Wiley & Sons, 2007, 16(2): 107-130.

 

Researcher : Chandler AM

Project Title:

Local factors in earthquake attenuation modelling

Investigator(s):

Chandler AM, Chan LS

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research

Start Date:

01/2005

 

Abstract:

To acquire (by geophysical field testing) a clear understanding of the intra-regional variation of the rock shear wave velocity structure across the HK region; to obtain a set of representative engineering attenuation relationships for seismic hazard analysis in the HK local region; to realise the concept of using separate factors in the seismological model to represent regional and local mechanisms constituting the earthquake process; to stimulate wider application of the developed modelling methodology to different areas around the world, and to explore alternative means of evaluating parameters to construct representative seismological models for a diversity of conditions; to maintain and strengthen the tri-lateral collaboration between the HK Centre for Earthquake Engineering Research (CEER).

 

Researcher : Chau SL

List of Research Outputs

 

Kwan A.K.H., Chau S.L. and Au F.T.K., Design of high-strength concrete beams subjected to small axial loads, Magazine of Concrete Research. London, Thomas Telford Services, 2006, 58(6): 333-341.

 

Kwan A.K.H., Chau S.L. and Au F.T.K., Improving Flexural Ductility of High-strength Concrete Beams, Proceedings – Structures and Buildings of The Institution of Civil Engineers. London, Thomas Telford, 2006, 159(SB6): 339-347.

 

Researcher : Chen J

Project Title:

Advancing Land Surface Parameterization in a Coupled Land-Atmosphere Model

Investigator(s):

Chen J

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research

Start Date:

03/2005

 

Abstract:

The increased anthropogenic effects on the natural surroundings (Lean and Warrilow 1989) require a physical-based numerical model system urgently for understanding and predicting potential consequences caused by such effects. Meanwhile, the improved capability in modelling land-surface hydrologic processes (Sellers et al 1997) makes it possible to use a physical-based system to evaluate the availability of the water resources and to study the sustainability of the environment. However, the limitation of our understanding in the hydrologic cycle still is the major obstacle to advancing the model representation and to applying the model prediction, which can guide our regulations in mitigating the natural hazards. For relaxing this limitation, the objectives of the project are planned as follows: 1. To identify the sensitivity of different land surface processes in a coupled land-atmosphere numerical model system, 2. To integrate achievable new understandings of hydrological processes into the land surface parameterization in the coupled model system, and 3. To evaluate the improvement of land surface performance in the system (see Reference at the end of Section VII)

 

Project Title:

Assuring Hong Kong's water supply: learning the lessons of the 1963 drought

Investigator(s):

Chen J

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Public Policy Research

Start Date:

09/2006

 

Abstract:

1. To survey the 1963 drought effects on socio-economic activities in Hong Kong and in its vicinity including the East River basin; 2. To investigate current and projected water demand and water supply capacity in Hong Kong and its vicinity; 3. To study the current and potential status of rainfall harvest and water resources management in Hong Kong and the East River basin; 4. To explore the probability of forecasting severe droughts in Hong Kong and the East River basin; 5. To study the projected societal effects of droughts at different severities using the 1963 case as a benchmark; and 6. To establish a drought warning system specifically for measuring water supply security for the Hong Kong society, which will benefit the public policy development for attenuating the drought damages.

 

Project Title:

Dominant hydrologic processes for floods and droughts over the Pearl River Basin at different temporal and spatial scales

Investigator(s):

Chen J, Jayawardena AW

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

01/2007

 

Abstract:

(1) In the Pearl River basin, which is located in the southern China, the high variability of weather and climate conditions of the region often induces floods and droughts. Such natural hazards result in severe loss of life and properties. Therefore, adequate understanding of the characteristics of floods and droughts in the region is important for employing proper hazard mitigation measures. However, research thus far on the droughts and floods of the Pearl River basin is limited. In view of this, this project aims at:(2) (i) The use of a 50-year (1951-2000) meteorological daily dataset (including precipitation, temperature, wind speed and relative humidity) and the Variable Infiltration Capacity (VIC) hydrologic model to produce the terrestrial hydrologic variables, such as streamflow, soil moisture, latent and sensible heat fluxes, over the Pearl River basin;(3) (ii) The investigation of the physical characteristics of the model inputs and outputs to identify the dominant hydrologic processes (i.e. the processes that dominate a hydrologic system’s performance) for floods and droughts over the basin at different temporal and spatial scales;(4) (iii) The application of the phase-space reconstruction method to study these hydrologic variables and to complement our understanding of floods and droughts identified from (ii); (5) (iv) The exploration of the teleconnection relationship between the climate pattern (such as the El Niño-Southern Oscillation) with the hydrologic variables over the basin to recognize the atmospheric dynamics causing regional extreme weather and climate events; and (6) (v) The establishment of a flood and drought warning system using the VIC hydrologic model and other related tools (including the approaches for computing different flood and drought indices). (7) This project aims not only to advance our understanding of the characteristics of floods and droughts over the Pearl River basin at different temporal and spatial scales, but also to provide an applicable warning system for undertaking mitigation measures. It is expected, therefore, that the outcomes will benefit flood and drought control, and also the overall water resources planning and management in the region. Within a much broader spectrum, an improved understanding of the characteristics of floods and droughts will provide a solid scientific basis for decision-makers to develop and assess realistic environmental policies for mitigating the damages due to extreme weather and climate events.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Chen J., Young B. and Uy B., Behavior of High Strength Structural Steel at Elevated Temperatures, Journal of Structural Engineering, ASCE. 2006, 132: 1948-1954.

 

Chen J. and Young B., Corner Properties of Cold-formed Steel Sections at Elevated Temperatures, Proceedings of the 10th East Asia-Pacific Conference on Structural Engineering and Construction. 2006, 105-110.

 

Chen J. and Young B., Design of Cold-formed Steel Lipped Channel Columns at Elevated Temperatures, Proceedings of the International Colloquium on Stability and Ductility of Steel Structures. 2006, 737-746.

 

Chen J. and Young B., Design of High Strength Steel Columns at Elevated Temperatures, Proceedings of the International Symposium on Innovative Design of Steel Structures. 2006, 105-131.

 

Chen J., Lam K. and Liu Q., Effects of the on-going South to North water diversion project on evaporation over North China region, Western Pacific Geophysics Meeting. 2006.

 

Chen J., Sivakumar B., Cheng D. and Wu Y., Effects of urbanization various land use changes and on regional climate changes over the Pearl River Delta in South China, Western Pacific Geophysics Meeting. 2006.

 

Chen J. and Cheung F., Evaluating evaporation changes before and after the China Three Gorges Reservoir built, Western Pacific Geophysics Meeting. 2006.

 

Chen J. and Young B., Experimental Investigation of Cold-formed Steel Material at Elevated Temperatures, Thin-walled Structures, Elsevier Science. 2007, 45: 96-110.

 

Chen J., Features of the Pearl River Delta’s stream water quality, The HKUST International Conference on Contrasting Marine Ecosystems. 2006.

 

Chen J. and Sivakumar B., Hydrologic modeling and dominant processes concept, Western Pacific Geophysics Meeting. 2006.

 

Sivakumar B. and Chen J., Suspended sediment load transport in the Mississippi River basin at St. Louis: temporal scaling and nonlinear determinism, Earth Surface Processes and Landforms. 2007, 32: 2.

 

Yue Q.Z.Q., Gao W., Chen J. and Lee C.F., Drilling process monitoring for a wealth of extra factual data from drillhole site investigation, Proceedings of the 10th International Congress of the International Association of Engineering Geology (IAEG2006 Engineering Geology for Tomorrow's Cities), Nottingham, United Kingdom, 6-10 September. Theme 5 - Urban Site Investigation (Abstracts: pp. 87(hardcopy)). 2006, 5-746: 1-10 (CD ROM).

 

Researcher : Chen J

List of Research Outputs

 

Chen J., Young B. and Uy B., Behavior of High Strength Structural Steel at Elevated Temperatures, Journal of Structural Engineering, ASCE. 2006, 132: 1948-1954.

 

Chen J. and Young B., Corner Properties of Cold-formed Steel Sections at Elevated Temperatures, Proceedings of the 10th East Asia-Pacific Conference on Structural Engineering and Construction. 2006, 105-110.

 

Chen J. and Young B., Design of Cold-formed Steel Lipped Channel Columns at Elevated Temperatures, Proceedings of the International Colloquium on Stability and Ductility of Steel Structures. 2006, 737-746.

 

Chen J. and Young B., Design of High Strength Steel Columns at Elevated Temperatures, Proceedings of the International Symposium on Innovative Design of Steel Structures. 2006, 105-131.

 

Chen J., Lam K. and Liu Q., Effects of the on-going South to North water diversion project on evaporation over North China region, Western Pacific Geophysics Meeting. 2006.

 

Chen J., Sivakumar B., Cheng D. and Wu Y., Effects of urbanization various land use changes and on regional climate changes over the Pearl River Delta in South China, Western Pacific Geophysics Meeting. 2006.

 

Chen J. and Cheung F., Evaluating evaporation changes before and after the China Three Gorges Reservoir built, Western Pacific Geophysics Meeting. 2006.

 

Chen J. and Young B., Experimental Investigation of Cold-formed Steel Material at Elevated Temperatures, Thin-walled Structures, Elsevier Science. 2007, 45: 96-110.

 

Chen J., Features of the Pearl River Delta’s stream water quality, The HKUST International Conference on Contrasting Marine Ecosystems. 2006.

 

Chen J. and Sivakumar B., Hydrologic modeling and dominant processes concept, Western Pacific Geophysics Meeting. 2006.

 

Sivakumar B. and Chen J., Suspended sediment load transport in the Mississippi River basin at St. Louis: temporal scaling and nonlinear determinism, Earth Surface Processes and Landforms. 2007, 32: 2.

 

Yue Q.Z.Q., Gao W., Chen J. and Lee C.F., Drilling process monitoring for a wealth of extra factual data from drillhole site investigation, Proceedings of the 10th International Congress of the International Association of Engineering Geology (IAEG2006 Engineering Geology for Tomorrow's Cities), Nottingham, United Kingdom, 6-10 September. Theme 5 - Urban Site Investigation (Abstracts: pp. 87(hardcopy)). 2006, 5-746: 1-10 (CD ROM).

 

Researcher : Chen J

List of Research Outputs

 

Chen J., Young B. and Uy B., Behavior of High Strength Structural Steel at Elevated Temperatures, Journal of Structural Engineering, ASCE. 2006, 132: 1948-1954.

 

Chen J. and Young B., Corner Properties of Cold-formed Steel Sections at Elevated Temperatures, Proceedings of the 10th East Asia-Pacific Conference on Structural Engineering and Construction. 2006, 105-110.

 

Chen J. and Young B., Design of Cold-formed Steel Lipped Channel Columns at Elevated Temperatures, Proceedings of the International Colloquium on Stability and Ductility of Steel Structures. 2006, 737-746.

 

Chen J. and Young B., Design of High Strength Steel Columns at Elevated Temperatures, Proceedings of the International Symposium on Innovative Design of Steel Structures. 2006, 105-131.

 

Chen J., Lam K. and Liu Q., Effects of the on-going South to North water diversion project on evaporation over North China region, Western Pacific Geophysics Meeting. 2006.

 

Chen J., Sivakumar B., Cheng D. and Wu Y., Effects of urbanization various land use changes and on regional climate changes over the Pearl River Delta in South China, Western Pacific Geophysics Meeting. 2006.

 

Chen J. and Cheung F., Evaluating evaporation changes before and after the China Three Gorges Reservoir built, Western Pacific Geophysics Meeting. 2006.

 

Chen J. and Young B., Experimental Investigation of Cold-formed Steel Material at Elevated Temperatures, Thin-walled Structures, Elsevier Science. 2007, 45: 96-110.

 

Chen J., Features of the Pearl River Delta’s stream water quality, The HKUST International Conference on Contrasting Marine Ecosystems. 2006.

 

Chen J. and Sivakumar B., Hydrologic modeling and dominant processes concept, Western Pacific Geophysics Meeting. 2006.

 

Sivakumar B. and Chen J., Suspended sediment load transport in the Mississippi River basin at St. Louis: temporal scaling and nonlinear determinism, Earth Surface Processes and Landforms. 2007, 32: 2.

 

Yue Q.Z.Q., Gao W., Chen J. and Lee C.F., Drilling process monitoring for a wealth of extra factual data from drillhole site investigation, Proceedings of the 10th International Congress of the International Association of Engineering Geology (IAEG2006 Engineering Geology for Tomorrow's Cities), Nottingham, United Kingdom, 6-10 September. Theme 5 - Urban Site Investigation (Abstracts: pp. 87(hardcopy)). 2006, 5-746: 1-10 (CD ROM).

 

Researcher : Chen S

List of Research Outputs

 

Chen S., Yue Q.Z.Q. and Tham L.G., Digital image based approach for three-dimensional mechanical analysis of heterogeneous rocks , ROCK MECHANICS AND ROCK ENGINEERING. SACHSENPLATZ 4-6, PO BOX 89, A-1201 WIEN, SPRINGER WIEN, 2007, 40 (2): 145-168.

 

Researcher : Chen W

List of Research Outputs

 

Chen W., Wang X., Li X.Y. and Koenig A., Effect of the liquid-phase property of the sludge mixture in a membrane bioreactor (MBR) on membrane fouling, IWA Conference, 4th International Conference on Membranes for Water and Wastewater Treatment, Harrogate, UK. Harrogate, UK, 2007.

 

Chen W., Wong S.C. and Shu C.W., Efficient evaluation of the measure of effectiveness for LWR traffic flow model on a homogeneous highway, Paper presented at the 86th TRB Annual Meeting. Washington D.C., U.S.A., 2007.

 

Researcher : Chen W

List of Research Outputs

 

Chen W., Wang X., Li X.Y. and Koenig A., Effect of the liquid-phase property of the sludge mixture in a membrane bioreactor (MBR) on membrane fouling, IWA Conference, 4th International Conference on Membranes for Water and Wastewater Treatment, Harrogate, UK. Harrogate, UK, 2007.

 

Chen W., Wong S.C. and Shu C.W., Efficient evaluation of the measure of effectiveness for LWR traffic flow model on a homogeneous highway, Paper presented at the 86th TRB Annual Meeting. Washington D.C., U.S.A., 2007.

 

Researcher : Cheng B

List of Research Outputs

 

Su K.L. and Cheng B., A review on retrofitting of reinforced concrete coupling beams by bolted steel plates, Proceedings of the 4th Cross-strait Conference on Structural and Geotechnical Engineering. China, 2007, 498-502.

 

Researcher : Cheng D

List of Research Outputs

 

Chen J., Sivakumar B., Cheng D. and Wu Y., Effects of urbanization various land use changes and on regional climate changes over the Pearl River Delta in South China, Western Pacific Geophysics Meeting. 2006.

 

Lee J.H.W., Wang Z., Thoe W. and Cheng D., Integrated physical and ecological management of the East River, Water Science and Technology: Water Supply. 2007, 7(2): 81-91.

 

Researcher : Cheung YK

List of Research Outputs

 

Zhou D., Lo S.H., Au F.T.K., Cheung Y.K. and Liu W.Q., 3-D vibration analysis of skew thick plates using Chebyshev–Ritz method, International Journal of Mechanical Sciences. New York, ScienceDirect, 2006, 48 (12): 1481-1493.

 

Researcher : Choi DKW

List of Research Outputs

 

Choi D.K.W. and Lee J.H.W., Impact assessment of outfall discharges by Monte Carlo method , Proceedings of the 7th International Conference on Hydroinformatics HIC 2006, Nice, France, September. 2006, 2951-2958.

 

Lee J.H.W., Yu D., Wong C.K.C. and Choi D.K.W., Drainage Improvement in Northern Hong Kong Island Hong Kong West Tunnel and Lower Catchment Improvement – Investigation: Additional Model Testing of Intake Model – Bottom Rack Testing, The University of Hong Kong, (Technical report to Drainage Services Department, HKSAR Government). 2007.

 

Lee J.H.W., Yu D., Wong C.K.C. and Choi D.K.W., Drainage Improvement in Northern Hong Kong Island Hong Kong West Tunnel and Lower Catchment Improvement – Investigation: Additional Model Testing of Intake Model – Lateral Inflow Structure, The University of Hong Kong, (Technical report to Drainage Services Department, HKSAR Government). 2007.

 

Lee J.H.W., Yu D., Choi D.K.W. and Wong C.K.C., Physical model study for Smithfield flooding, Final Report to Drainage Services Department, HKSAR Government, July . 2006, 54 pp.

 

Researcher : Choi YL

Project Title:

Theory of R.C. failure under a small vibrating load

Investigator(s):

Choi YL

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Other Funding Scheme

Start Date:

07/1998

 

Abstract:

To develop a theory to explain this new failure mechanisms and predict the failure conditions; to develop practical applications.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Choi Y.L., 主題發言: 港口和城弔市一体化戰略: 香港的經驗 , 大連國際航运中心建設院士咨詢座談会 . 2006.

 

Researcher : Chow LK

List of Research Outputs

 

Chow L.K. and Ng T.S.T., A fuzzy gap analysis model for evaluating the performance of engineering consultants, Automation in Construction. Amsterdam, Elsevier, 2007, 16(4): 425-435.

 

Chow L.K. and Ng T.S.T., Expectation of performance levels pertinent to consultant performance evaluation, International Journal of Project Management. Exeter, UK, Elsevier Science Ltd., 2007, 25(1): 90-103.

 

Researcher : Chung KHJ

List of Research Outputs

 

Chung K.H.J., Shen Q.P., Kumaraswamy M.M., Ekambaram P. and Chen Z., A Value Framework for Contractor Selection, Inaugural Asia Pacific Value Convention 2006 and 8th HKIVM International Conference. Hong Kong, Hong Kong Institute of Value Management, 2006, 296 - 306.

 

Chung K.H.J., Shen Q.P., Kumaraswamy M.M., Ekambaram P. and Chen Z..., A Value Management based Methodology for Selecting Contractors, In: Z. Chen, Workshop on Multicriteria Decision-Making for the Sustainable Built Environment. Reading, UK, The University of Reading, Intelligent Buildings Research Gr, 2007, 72- 77.

 

Researcher : Di Y

List of Research Outputs

 

Di Y., Yang J. and Sato T., An operator-split ALE model for large deformation analysis of geomaterials, International Journal for Numerical and Analytical Methods in Geomechanics. 2007, DOI: 10.1002/nag.601: 31p.

 

Researcher : Ekambaram P

Project Title:

A pilot study on establishing knowledge based rework tracking-cum-management systems for effective management of construction projects

Investigator(s):

Ekambaram P, Kumaraswamy MM, Ng TST

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research

Start Date:

07/2004

 

Abstract:

To identify the significant rework items in the Hong Kong construction industry at present and to categorize them meaningfully for effective management; to identify the root causes of those significant rework items, for developing a structured rework tracing methodology; to study various research initatives, industry wide practices and innovative approaches for developing a knowledgebase on effective rework control and management; to develop some sample structured-cum-standardized frameworks for tracing and quantifying/measuring the major rework items; to develop a pilot prototype rework tracking system for effective rework control and management; to develop a research proposal for a large scale integrated study encompassing the broader aspects of controlling and managing defects, wastages and rework in construction projects.

 

Project Title:

Developing a prototype framework for balanced scorecard based rework and related risk management in design consultancy organizations

Investigator(s):

Ekambaram P, Kumaraswamy MM, Ng TST

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research

Start Date:

03/2005

Completion Date:

09/2006

 

Abstract:

Aims and Objectives - This study aims to (i) determine the root causes of rework among Hong Kong based design consultants and (ii) exploring the interactions between both (a) market and human factors (e.g. stress) and (b) rework related issues. Specific objectives of this proposed study are to: 1. identify the root causes of design rework, so as to model effective rework mitigation measures and recommend suitable process changes to reduce error incidence 2. examine how job demands and constriants influence the incidence of design induced error 3. identify design management strategies that can be used reduce the incidence of rework 4. develop benchmark metrics for design consultancy processes, so as to establish potential design quality indicators 5. explore the potential for a balanced scorecard framework to control rework in design consultancy organizations, and develop a research proposal for a large scale integrated study in this regard.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Chung K.H.J., Shen Q.P., Kumaraswamy M.M., Ekambaram P. and Chen Z., A Value Framework for Contractor Selection, Inaugural Asia Pacific Value Convention 2006 and 8th HKIVM International Conference. Hong Kong, Hong Kong Institute of Value Management, 2006, 296 - 306.

 

Ekambaram P., Ng T.S.T., Kumaraswamy M.M. and Chan W.H.K., Analytic hierarchy process based supplier selection framework for construction contractors, In: Elaine Sivyer, Construction Research Conference of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors - COBRA06 . London, Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors, 2006, 517-524.

 

Ekambaram P., Ng T.S.T. and Kumaraswamy M.M., Client Satisfaction and Quality Management Systems in Contractor Organizations, In: E Mathews, Building and Environment . Elsevier, 2006, 41(11): 1557-1570.

 

Kumaraswamy M.M., Rahman M.M., Miller C.J., Ng T.S.T., Ekambaram P. and Ugwu O.O., Empowering smaller construction enterprises, Proceedings of the BEECON 2006 Conference. 2006, P11, USB Memory Drive, 14 pages.

 

Kumaraswamy M.M., Ekambaram P., Rahman M.M., Ugwu O.O. and Ng T.S.T., Synergising R & D initiatives for e-enhancing management support systems, In: Journal Editors M J Skibniewski and Y E Kalay; Special Issue Editors: Peter E D Love, Francisco Loforte Ribeiro and Charles Egbu, Automation in Construction. Elsevier, 2006, 15(6): 681-692.

 

Researcher : Fang HHP

Project Title:

Biodegradation of endocrine disrupters in landfill leachate

Investigator(s):

Fang HHP

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

12/2003

 

Abstract:

To determine the optimal process conditions for the anaerobic degradation of DEHP and BPA; to determine effects of hydraulic retention, co-substrate, sorption of extracellular polymers on the biodegradation of DEHP and BPA; to analyze the microbial population using the DNA/RNA based techniques, and to characterize microbes responsible to the DEHP and BPA degradation.

 

Project Title:

Photo-biohydrogen production from acidified wastewater

Investigator(s):

Fang HHP

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

01/2005

 

Abstract:

To develop an effective photo-bioreactor system; to determine the optimal operational conditions for the selected pure phototrophs and for mixed cultures; to develop the two-stage process by integrating acidogenic and phototrophic processes; to correlate the reactor performance to the microbial population and characteristics in the photo-bioreactors using 16S rDNA/RNA-based techniques.

 

Project Title:

Sustainable Water

Investigator(s):

Fang HHP, Chan GKY, Li XY, Lee JHW, Dudgeon D, Jayawardena AW

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Seed Funding for Strategic Research Theme

Start Date:

08/2005

 

Abstract:

To develop at HKU a center with international reputation on sustainable water. The center will promote inter-disciplinary collaborative research. It will concentrate not just on the research and development of sustainable-water related technology, but will also assist the HK Government in decision making of water-related issues.

 

Project Title:

Immobilization of acidogenic biomass for hydrogen production from wastewater

Investigator(s):

Fang HHP, Zhang T

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

01/2006

 

Abstract:

The main objectives of this project are (1) To improve the acidogenic hydrogen production efficiency and process stability using the biomass immobilization technology; (2) To develop polymeric pellets of optimal physico-chemical stability for biomass immobilization; (b) To characterize substrate diffusivity in polymer pellets, and hydrogen-producing activity of immobilized biomass; (c) To determine effects of operational conditions on biohydrogen production rates; (d) To correlate characteristics immobilized biomass with the biohydrogen production activities; and (e) To evaluate the response of immobilized biomass against concentration, temperature and pH shock.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Fang H.H.P. and Lee J.H.W., (Editors), Sustainable and safe water supplies, Water Science and Technology: Water Supply. 2007, 7(2): 220 pp.

 

Liang D., Zhang T. and Fang H.H.P., Anaerobic degradation of dimethyl phthalate in wastewater in a UASB reactor., Water Reserach. 2007, 41: 2879-2884.

 

Liang D., Zhang T. and Fang H.H.P., Denitrifying degradation of dimethyl phthalate. , Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology. 2007, 74: 221-229.

 

Xie X., Li Y., Zhang T. and Fang H.H.P., Bacterial survival in evaporating deposited droplets on a teflon-coated surface. , Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology . 2006, 73: 703-712.

 

Researcher : Feng R

List of Research Outputs

 

Feng R. and Young B., Tests of Stainless Steel RHS X-joints, Proceedings of the 11th International Symposium on Tubular Structures. 2006, 269-276.

 

Researcher : Feng W

List of Research Outputs

 

Feng W. and Su K.L., Dynamic fracture behaviours of cracks in a functionally graded magneto-elastic plate, European Journal of Mechanics A/Solids. Paris, Elsevier, 2007, 26(2): 363-379.

 

Feng W. and Su K.L., Dynamic internal crack problem of a functionally graded mageto-electro-elastic strip, International Journal of Solids and Structures. New York, USA, Elsevier Ltd, 2006, 43: 5196-5216.

 

Su K.L., Feng W. and Liu J., Transient response of interface cracks between dissimilar magneto-electro-elastic strips under out-of-plane mechanical and in-plane magneto-electrical impact loads, Composite Structures. New York, Elsevier Ltd, 2007, 78(1): 119-128.

 

Researcher : Fung WCS

List of Research Outputs

 

Fung W.C.S., Tong C.O. and Wong S.C., A multi-criterion multi-class dynamic transit trip assignment model, Paper presented at the Eleventh World Conference on Transport Research, 24-28 June, Berkeley, California, USA.. 2007.

 

Researcher : Gao W

List of Research Outputs

 

Yue Q.Z.Q., Gao W., Chen J. and Lee C.F., Drilling process monitoring for a wealth of extra factual data from drillhole site investigation, Proceedings of the 10th International Congress of the International Association of Engineering Geology (IAEG2006 Engineering Geology for Tomorrow's Cities), Nottingham, United Kingdom, 6-10 September. Theme 5 - Urban Site Investigation (Abstracts: pp. 87(hardcopy)). 2006, 5-746: 1-10 (CD ROM).

 

Researcher : Ho HW

List of Research Outputs

 

Ho H.W. and Wong S.C., A review of the two-dimensional continuum modeling approach to transportation problems, Journal of Transportation Systems Engineering and Information Technology. Beijing, China, Ke xue chu ban she, 2006, 6: 53-72.

 

Ho H.W., Wong S.C. and Loo B.P.Y., Combined distribution and assignment model for a continuum traffic equilibrium problem with multiple user classes, Transportation Research Part B. Great Britain, Elsevier Science Ltd., 2006, 40: 633-650.

 

Ho H.W., Wong S.C. and Hau T.D., Existence and uniqueness of a solution for the multi-class user equilibrium problem in a continuum transportation system, Transportmetrica. Hong Kong, Hong Kong Society for Transportation Studies Ltd., 2007, 3: 107-117.

 

Researcher : Jayawardena AW

Project Title:

A hybrid approach for modelling and predicting non-linear hydrological/environmental systems

Investigator(s):

Jayawardena AW

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

11/2002

 

Abstract:

To develop hybrid techniques by extracting the optimal features of know methods for modelling and predicting hydrological/environmental systems.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Jayawardena A.W., Data driven approaches of real-time flood forecasting (Abstract in CD Rom), Proceedings of the Asia Oceania Geosciences Society 3rd Annual Meeting, AOGS 2006, 10-14 July, Singapore (Invited paper). Meeting Matters International-A World Scientific Subsidiary, 2006, 182 (1 pp).

 

Jayawardena A.W., Data driven approaches of real-time flood forecasting, Proceedings of Asia Oceania Geosciences Society 3rd Annual Meeting, AOGS 2006, 10-14 July, Singapore. 2006, Abstracts in CD ROM; 182/1202.

 

Lui G.C.S., Li W.K., Leung K.M.Y., Lee J.H.W. and Jayawardena A.W., Modelling algal blooms using vector autoregressive model with exogeneous variables and long memory filter, Ecological Modelling. 2007, 200: 130-138.

 

Muttil N., Tian Y. and Jayawardena A.W., Comparison of the shuffled complex family of model-calibrating algorithms (Abstract in CD ROM), Proceedings of the Asia Oceania Geosciences Society 3rd Annual Meeting, AOGS 2006, 10-14 July, Singapore. Meeting Matters International-A World Scientific Subsidiary, 2006, 153 (1 pp).

 

Muttil N. and Jayawardena A.W., Extracting knowledge from parsimonious genetic programming evolved rainfall-runoff models (Abstract in CD ROM), Proceedings of the Asia Oceania Geosciences Society 3rd Annual Meeting, AOGS 2006, 10-14 July, Singapore. Meeting Matters International-A World Scientific Subsidiary, 2006, 152 (1 pp).

 

Researcher : Junaideen SM

List of Research Outputs

 

Pradhan B., Tham L.G., Yue Q.Z.Q., Junaideen S.M. and Lee C.F., Soil-nail pullout interaction in loose fill materials, International Journal of Geomechanics . 2006, 6(4): 238-247.

 

Researcher : Koenig A

List of Research Outputs

 

Chen W., Wang X., Li X.Y. and Koenig A., Effect of the liquid-phase property of the sludge mixture in a membrane bioreactor (MBR) on membrane fouling, IWA Conference, 4th International Conference on Membranes for Water and Wastewater Treatment, Harrogate, UK. Harrogate, UK, 2007.

 

Researcher : Kuang C

List of Research Outputs

 

Kuang C., Lee J.H.W., Liu S. and Gu J., Numerical study on plume interaction above an alternating diffuser in stagnant water, China Ocean Engineering. 2006, 20(2): 289-302.

 

Researcher : Kumaraswamy MM

Project Title:

Transforming construction cultures to enable industry development

Investigator(s):

Kumaraswamy MM, Rowlinson SM, Ng TST

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Low Budget High Impact Programme

Start Date:

11/2001

 

Abstract:

To evaluate the levels of the desired ''cultural changes' actually achieved during the implementation of recent industry report recommendations in the UK, Australia and Singapore; to assess any correlations of these levels with any perceived performance gains (or otherwise).; to identify any lessons from the above that may be applicable to the forthcoming Hong Kong initiative, in terms of identifying effective and efficient routes to the required 'cultural revolution' that must necessarily underpin meaningful collaborative strategies at industry, organisational and project levels; to identify and other potential routes, through detailed analyses and specific local industry surveys; to evaluate the potential for specific strategies to help trigger the above 'cultural revolution', based on emerging results from relevant ongoing studies; i.e. strategies based on relational contracting, joint risk management and on project participant selection criteria that assign considerable weighting to performance and collaborative potential; to formulate a working framework and strategic guidelines for improved performance based on outputs from above.

 

Project Title:

Selecting, developing and synergising construction procurement and operational innovations

Investigator(s):

Kumaraswamy MM, Ng TST

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

09/2002

 

Abstract:

This study is to design a Management Support System (MSS) for procurement and operational systems that will: 1) mobilise the knowledge-bases distilled from scattered experience, expertise and best practice innovations in such diverse fields ; and 2) provide guidance on the selection, development and integration of appropriate procurement and operational sub-systems for a particular project.

 

Project Title:

Leveraging logistical advantages through technology exchange in construction joint ventures

Investigator(s):

Kumaraswamy MM, Lo VHY, Ng TST

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

11/2002

 

Abstract:

To investigate both enablers and barriers to: (a) achieving meaningful technology transfers within construction JVs, and (b) harnessing potential logistical advantages from appropriately pooled JV resources; to develop models and assess the potential for: (a) empowering TE through more meaningful integration of multiple capacities, and (b) thereby deriving critical logistical advantages.

 

Project Title:

"Public Private Partnerships" in infrastructure development

Investigator(s):

Kumaraswamy MM, Ng TST

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research

Start Date:

04/2004

 

Abstract:

To formulate the structure and sample modules of a PPP (Public Private Partnership) knowledge-base, for informing and advising those engaged in (or planning) PPPs: on obtaining better 'value for money' in the development and operation and maintenance of infrastructure; to map the function allocations (e.g. in design, supervision, contract management, construction and maintanence functions), supply chains and potential 'value networks' in typical PPP-procured infrastructure projects; and to track workflows and interface issues with a view to boosting overall value and efficiencies; to identify and develop relevant sets of essential factors, common barriers, performance criteria, performance enhancers and performance inhibitors: together with key indicators with which to monitor each of the foregoing.

 

Project Title:

'Relationally integrated value networks' for boosting construction industry developments

Investigator(s):

Kumaraswamy MM, Rowlinson SM, Ugwu OO

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

01/2006

 

Abstract:

The objectives of this project are to: (1) verify the root causes of shortfalls in the envisaged gains in construction project, organisational and industry performance levels; (2) design a sound conceptual framework, realistic strategies and guidelines to supplant presently fragmented and sub-optimal approaches, by specifically: (2a) designing a suite of basic procurement structures to assemble roles, responsibilities and relationships - for fostering trust and optimising project value streams; (2b) developing core protocols for organisational learning, knowledge management and holistic technology transfers, including to SMEs in the value network; (2c) formulating evaluation tools for assessing gains e.g. in improved logistics, reduced wastage and optimised value-cost trade-offs.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Anvuur A.M. and Kumaraswamy M.M., A Conceptual Model of Partnering and Alliancing, Journal of Construction Engineering and Management. Reston, Virginia, USA, American Society of Civil Engineers, 2007, 133, No. 3: 225-234.

 

Anvuur A.M. and Kumaraswamy M.M., Cooperation in Construction: Towards a Research Agenda, In: E. Sivyer, COBRA 2006. London, RICS and Bartlett School, University College London, 90-98.

 

Anvuur A.M., Kumaraswamy M.M. and Mahesh G., Which governs – the relationship or the contract?, In: E. Sivyer, COBRA 2006 . London, UK, RICS and Bartlett School, University College London, 2006, 99-106.

 

Chung K.H.J., Shen Q.P., Kumaraswamy M.M., Ekambaram P. and Chen Z., A Value Framework for Contractor Selection, Inaugural Asia Pacific Value Convention 2006 and 8th HKIVM International Conference. Hong Kong, Hong Kong Institute of Value Management, 2006, 296 - 306.

 

Chung K.H.J., Shen Q.P., Kumaraswamy M.M., Ekambaram P. and Chen Z..., A Value Management based Methodology for Selecting Contractors, In: Z. Chen, Workshop on Multicriteria Decision-Making for the Sustainable Built Environment. Reading, UK, The University of Reading, Intelligent Buildings Research Gr, 2007, 72- 77.

 

Ekambaram P., Ng T.S.T., Kumaraswamy M.M. and Chan W.H.K., Analytic hierarchy process based supplier selection framework for construction contractors, In: Elaine Sivyer, Construction Research Conference of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors - COBRA06 . London, Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors, 2006, 517-524.

 

Ekambaram P., Ng T.S.T. and Kumaraswamy M.M., Client Satisfaction and Quality Management Systems in Contractor Organizations, In: E Mathews, Building and Environment . Elsevier, 2006, 41(11): 1557-1570.

 

Fan L.C.N. and Kumaraswamy M.M., Joint Editor, Journal of Building and Construction Management. Hong Kong, SAR, CIOB-HK, HKIE Building Div. and Asian Constr. Mgt. Assn., 2007, 8(1): 63 pp.

 

Kumaraswamy M.M., Accelerating Knowledge Acquisition and Application, 'Teaching Development Seminar' at the National University of Singapore . 2007.

 

Kumaraswamy M.M., Applying Teamworking Models to Projects, Invited talk at book launch at University College London, UK. 2006.

 

Kumaraswamy M.M. and Rahman M.M., Applying Teamworking Models to Projects, In: Stephen Pryke and Hedley Smyth, The Management of Complex Projects - a Relationship Approach. London, England, Blackwell Publishing, 2006, 164-186.

 

Kumaraswamy M.M., Associate Editor and Assistant Specialty Editor, Journal of Construction Engineering and Management. Reston, USA, American Society of Civil Engineers, 2007.

 

Kumaraswamy M.M., Miller C.J., Rahman M.M., Pickernell D.G., Ng T.S.T. and Wong P.Y., Developing web-based tools for Teaching, Training, Learning and Development: the role of Academic Institutions, In: D. Bouchlagem and Guest Editors: D.Dowdie & V. Ahmed, Journal of Architectural Engineering & Design Management, Special Issue on ‘e-Learning in the Built Environment’. London, Earthscan, 2006, 2, issue Nos. 1 and 2: 123-135.

 

Kumaraswamy M.M., Editorial Advisory Board Member, Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management. Bradford, UK, Emerald, 2006.

 

Kumaraswamy M.M., Editorial Board Member, electronic journal of 'Information Technology in Construction'. IT Con, 2007.

 

Kumaraswamy M.M., Editorial Review Board Member, Journal of Enterprise Information Management (formerly 'Logistics Information Management'). Emerald Group, 2007.

 

Kumaraswamy M.M., Emerging Issues in Construction Industry Development, Invited Seminar to Staff, University of Glamorgan, Wales, UK. 2006.

 

Kumaraswamy M.M., Rahman M.M., Miller C.J., Ng T.S.T., Ekambaram P. and Ugwu O.O., Empowering smaller construction enterprises, Proceedings of the BEECON 2006 Conference. 2006, P11, USB Memory Drive, 14 pages.

 

Kumaraswamy M.M., Lizarralde G., Ofori G., Styles P. and Suraji A., Industry-level perspective of Revaluing Construction: Focus on Developing Countries, In: M. Sexton, K. Kahkonen & S. Lu, Revaluing Construction: A W065 ‘Organisation and Management of Construction’ perspective. Netherlands, CIB, 2007, 88-103.

 

Kumaraswamy M.M., Information and Knowledge Management Systems for Small & Medium Construction Enterprises, Public Lecture at the National University of Singapore. 2006.

 

Kumaraswamy M.M., Ling F.Y.Y. and Miller C.J., Innovative initiatives in Construction Education and Training, In: Guest Editor: V. Ahmed, Emirates Journal for Engineering Research, Special Issue on ‘Innovation in Engineering Education’. United Arab Emirates, United Arab Emirates University, 2007, 12, No. 1: 43-56.

 

Kumaraswamy M.M., International Trends in Construction Project Management, Invited Seminar to Central Engineering Consultancy Bureau, Sri Lanka. Colombo, Sri Lanka, 2006.

 

Kumaraswamy M.M., Partnering, Relational Contracting and Public Private Partnerships, Invited Research Seminar - for Staff & Postgraduates at the National University of Singapore. 2006.

 

Kumaraswamy M.M., Ling F.Y.Y., Anvuur A.M. and Rahman M.M., Selection Matters - in assembling Teams for successful PPPs, In: M. Dulaimi, International Conference on Construction Culture, Innovation and Management (CCIM2006). Dubai, UAE, British University in Dubai, 2006, 675-685.

 

Kumaraswamy M.M., Ekambaram P., Rahman M.M., Ugwu O.O. and Ng T.S.T., Synergising R & D initiatives for e-enhancing management support systems, In: Journal Editors M J Skibniewski and Y E Kalay; Special Issue Editors: Peter E D Love, Francisco Loforte Ribeiro and Charles Egbu, Automation in Construction. Elsevier, 2006, 15(6): 681-692.

 

Kumaraswamy M.M., UNIVERSITAS 21 Fellowship (2006), The University of Hong Kong. 2006.

 

Lam P.T.I., Kumaraswamy M.M. and Ng T.S.T., International treatise on construction specification problems from a legal perspective, Journal of Professional Issues in Engineering Education and Practice. New York, American Society of Civil Engineers, 2007, 133(3): 229-237.

 

Ling F.Y.Y., Hartmann A., Kumaraswamy M.M. and Dulaimi M., Influences on innovation benefits during implementation – a client’s perspective, Journal of Construction Engineering and Management. Reston, USA, American Society of Civil Engineers, 2007, 133, No. 4: 306-315.

 

Mahesh G. and Kumaraswamy M.M., Joint Ventures in Indian Infrastructure Industry: Co-opetitive strategy or coalitions of necessity?, Second International Conference on Multi-national Joint Ventures for construction works, Hanoi, Vietnam. Hanoi, Vietnam, Construction Publishing House, 2006, 159-165.

 

Mahesh G. and Kumaraswamy M.M., Risk Management: A Bottom-up Approach to Ascertain Responsibility, In: Haupt, T.C. and Milford, R. (eds.), CIB World Building Congress, Cape Town, South Africa. Cape Town, South Africa, CIB, 2007, 110-117.

 

Mahesh G., Kumaraswamy M.M. and Anvuur A.M., Whither partnering? A trade-off analysis using a Hong Kong case study, In: Haupt, T.C. and Milford, R. (eds.), CIB World Building Congress. Cape Town, South Africa: . Cape Town, South Africa, CIB, 2007, 302-309.

 

Rahman M.M., Kumaraswamy M.M. and Ling F.Y.Y., Building a Relational Contracting Culture and Integrated Teams, Canadian Journal of Civil Engineering. Montreal, Canada, Canadian Society for Civil Engineering, 2007, 34, Issue 1: 75-88.

 

Rahman M.M. and Kumaraswamy M.M., Hong Kong perspectives on integrating Construction Project Teams, In: P. McDermott and M.M.A. Khalfan, CIB W92 Symposium on “Sustainability and Value through Construction Procurement”. Salford, CIB W92 & Salford Centre for Research & Innovation, 2006, 462-472.

 

Ugwu O.O. and Kumaraswamy M.M., Critical Success Factors for Construction ICT Projects – Some Empirical Evidence and Lessons for Emerging Economies, In: Guest Editors: A. Serpell & S.V. Barai, Electronic Journal of Information Technology in Construction, special issue on ‘Construction Information Technology in Emerging Economies’. ITCon, 2007, 12: 231-249.

 

Ugwu O.O., Kumaraswamy M.M. and Ng T.S.T., Measuring Sustainable Performance, In: Caroline Collier & Sandi Rhys-Jones, Construction Information Quarterly. England, Chartered Institute of Building, 2007, 9, issue 1: 28-29.

 

Wan K.M., Liu T.C.D. and Kumaraswamy M.M., Adoption of Just-In-Time philosophy in E&M industry to facilitate lean construction, ANQ Congress 2006. Singapore, Quality Institute, IM3-1 to IM3-8.

 

Wan K.M., Liu T.C.D. and Kumaraswamy M.M., Adoption of mistake-proofing skills to improve construction quality and safety in infrastructure development, 2006 Mainland and Hong Kong Conference on "Urban Infrastructure Development and Construction Market Regulation". Urumqi, China, The Ministry of Construction, China, 2006, 2: II-43 to II-51.

 

Yang Y., Pam H.J., Kumaraswamy M.M. and Ugwu O.O., Life-cycle Maintenance Management strategies for Bridges in Hong Kong, In: M. Dulaimi, International Conference on Construction Culture, Innovation and Management (CCIM2006). Dubai, UAE, British University in Dubai, 2006, 362-372.

 

Yang Y., Pam H.J., Kumaraswamy M.M. and Ugwu O.O., Life-cycle maintenance management strategies for bridges in Hong Kong, Joint International Conference on Construction Culture, Innovation and Management. 2006.

 

Researcher : Kwan AKH

Project Title:

Optimizing packing density for production of high-performance concrete

Investigator(s):

Kwan AKH

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

09/2005

 

Abstract:

The main objectives of this project are to: (1) Study the packing characteristics of various combinations of cementitious materials. (2) Verify, compare and calibrate the existing packing models. (3) Study the effects of packing density and water content on the rheology of cement paste. (4) Develop a scientific mix design method for the production of high-performance concrete.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Bai Z., Au F.T.K. and Kwan A.K.H., Complete Nonlinear Response of Reinforced Concrete Beams under Cyclic Loading, The Structural Design of Tall and Special Buildings. Chichester, U.K., John Wiley & Sons, 2007, 16(2): 107-130.

 

Kwan A.K.H., Chau S.L. and Au F.T.K., Design of high-strength concrete beams subjected to small axial loads, Magazine of Concrete Research. London, Thomas Telford Services, 2006, 58(6): 333-341.

 

Kwan A.K.H., Chau S.L. and Au F.T.K., Improving Flexural Ductility of High-strength Concrete Beams, Proceedings – Structures and Buildings of The Institution of Civil Engineers. London, Thomas Telford, 2006, 159(SB6): 339-347.

 

Researcher : Kwong AKL

Project Title:

Design of Stability Improvement Works for Slope 7NE-C/C45 Central Avenue, CUHK

Investigator(s):

Kwong AKL

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Campus Development Office, The Chinese University of Hong Kong

Start Date:

04/2005

 

Abstract:

To undertake a rock slope upgrading design and supervision of the work.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Kwong A.K.L., Developments in Tunnel and Underground Space Engineering in Hong Kong. , 16th South East Geotechnical Conference, 8 - 11 May 2007.. 2007.

 

Kwong A.K.L. and Lee C.F., Mapping of Rock Fractures using 3-D Laser Scanning Technique in an Autodesk 3-D Studio Max Environment., 4th Cross-strait Conference on Structural and Geotechnical Engineering, 24 - 26 April, Zhejiang, Hangzhou, . 2007, 1067-1084.

 

Kwong A.K.L., Wong A. and Ng J., Monitoring Slope Failure at Kadoorie Agricultural Research Centre with a 3D Laser Scanner. , International Federation of Surveyors, FIG Working Week 13 - 17 May 2007.. 2007.

 

Kwong A.K.L., Lui V. and Ng J., Reclamation Ground Settlement Monitoring by Using GPS and Other Positioning Technologies at ShenZhen Airport. , International Federation of Surveyors, FIG Working Week 13 - 17 May 2007.. 2007.

 

Kwong A.K.L., Transactions of Hong Kong Institution of Engineers. HKIE, 2006.

 

Kwong A.K.L., Kwok H. and Wong A., Use of 3D Laser Scanner for Rock Fractures Mapping., International Federation of Surveyors, FIG Working Week 13 - 17 May 2007.. 2007.

 

Mak B. and Kwong A.K.L., A status review of trenchless rehabilitation technology used in Hong Kong, Trenchless Technologies in Asia Pacific, Macau. 2007.

 

Yeung A.T., Kwong A.K.L. and Tham L.G., Advanced instrumentation in civil engineering, Proc., 4th Civil Engineering Conference in the Asian Region. Taipei, 2007.

 

Researcher : Lai ACH

List of Research Outputs

 

Lai A.C.H., Yu D. and Lee J.H.W., Initial Dilution of Rosette Buoyant Jet Group in Crossflow, Proceedings of 6th International Symposium on Stratified flows, Perth, Australia. 2006.

 

Lai A.C.H., Yu D. and Lee J.H.W., Mixing of multiple momentum jets from a rosette diffuser , Proceedings of the 15th IAHR-APD Congress, Chennai, August 7-10 . 2006, 1185-1191.

 

Researcher : Lam KM

Project Title:

Experimental investigation on the zone of flow establishment in a submerged round jet in a current

Investigator(s):

Lam KM, Chan HC, Lee JHW

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

11/2003

 

Abstract:

To carry out detailed velocity and concentration measurement in the zone of flow establishment (ZFE) of a simple jet; to study the behaviours of the ZFE of the jet in the presence of an ambient flow stream; in form of co-flow, counter-flow or cross-flow; to apply the measurement results of ZFE towards improving integral model prediction of jet behaviour.

 

Project Title:

Flow regimes of vortex pattern around a circular cylinder oscillating in water

Investigator(s):

Lam KM

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

01/2006

 

Abstract:

The objectives of this project are: (1) To carry out detailed investigation of the flow and vortex patterns around a circular cylinder oscillating in water at a wide range of Keulegan-Carpenter (KC) number. (2) To obtain time-resolved velocity and vorticity fields of the flow with particle-image velocimetry (PIV). (3) To study the effect of a uniform flow stream on the flow and vortex patterns of an oscillating circular cylinder.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Cheng C.C.K., Lam K.M., Yuen R.K.K., Lo S.M. and Liang J., A study of natural ventilation in a refuge floor, Building and Environment. 2007, 42: 3322-3332.

 

Lam K.M. and Lee J.H.W., (Guest Editors), International Journal of River Basin Management. 2006, 4(1): 1-73.

 

Li X., Liu C.H., Leung Y.C. and Lam K.M., Recent progress in CFD modelling of wind field and pollutant transport in street canyons, Atmospheric Environment. Oxford, UK, Elsevier Ltd., 2006, 40: 5640-5658.

 

Li X.Y., Xiao F. and Lam K.M., Investigation of the hydrodynamic behaviour of marine aggregates using particle image velocimetry (PIV), International Workshop on Marine Aggregates (IWOMA), Max Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology, Bremen, Germany, December. 2006.

 

To A.P. and Lam K.M., Flow-induced vibration of a flexibly-mounted circular cylinder in the proximity of a larger cylinder downstream, Journal of Fluids and Structures. 2007, 23: 523-528.

 

Researcher : Lam WY

List of Research Outputs

 

Su K.L., Lam W.Y. and Pam H.J., A brief summary of parametric study of plate-reinforced composite coupling beams, ANCER (Asian-Pacific Network of Centers for Earthquake Engineering Research) Meeting. 2007.

 

Researcher : Lee CF

Project Title:

Research and information centre for landslip prevention and land development

Investigator(s):

Lee CF, Law KT

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust

Start Date:

10/1998

 

Abstract:

To provide Hong Kong with strong technical support and a comprehensive source of information for improving slope safety and developing land in Hong Kong; to promote the professional service capacity of Hong Kong and mainland China and gain world recognition in the area of slope safety.

 

Project Title:

Use of photogrammetry and 3D laser scanning technique for rock slope mapping and design

Investigator(s):

Lee CF, Kwong AKL, Tham LG

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

11/2003

 

Abstract:

To develop a prototype system that combines the non-contact measurement technologies of photogrammetric imaging and 3D laser scanning to create dimensionally accurate and pictorially correct 3 dimensional models and orthoimages of a rock slope.

 

Project Title:

Land development by environmental vacuum preloading technique

Investigator(s):

Lee CF, Yue QZQ, Lee PKK, Yeung AT, Kwong AKL, Tham LG

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Central Allocation Vote - Group Research Project

Start Date:

06/2004

 

Abstract:

To develop a vacuum system that would increase the in-situ shear strength of the soft marine deposit in Hong Kong and to reduce its long-term settlement after reclamation.

 

Project Title:

Field instrumentation of soil nailed slope for better understanding of load development and economic design of soil nails

Investigator(s):

Lee CF, Lee PKK, Kwong AKL, Tham LG

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

01/2005

 

Abstract:

To achieve significant savings in the cost of soil nail installation in the future by fully understanding the failure mechanism of a soil nailed slope and the actual load developed in the steel bars when the soil mass experiences large deformation.

 

Project Title:

Independent review of use of non-destructive testing in quality control in soil nailing works

Investigator(s):

Lee CF, Yeung AT, Tham LG

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Civil Engineering and Development Department - General Award

Start Date:

06/2006

 

Abstract:

To review and appraise the use of non-destructive testing (NDT) techniques to assess the quality of soil nailing works; to formulate a framework for application of NDT techniques for quality control of Landslip Preventive Measures (LPM) soil nailing works; to asess the suitability of Time Domain Reflectometry method and other NDT techniques for use under the framework and recommend how the techniques should be used.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Kwong A.K.L. and Lee C.F., Mapping of Rock Fractures using 3-D Laser Scanning Technique in an Autodesk 3-D Studio Max Environment., 4th Cross-strait Conference on Structural and Geotechnical Engineering, 24 - 26 April, Zhejiang, Hangzhou, . 2007, 1067-1084.

 

Lee C.F., Lee P.K.K., Tham L.G. and Yue Q.Z.Q., 2006 Research Output Prize in Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, HKU. 2007.

 

Pradhan B., Tham L.G., Yue Q.Z.Q., Junaideen S.M. and Lee C.F., Soil-nail pullout interaction in loose fill materials, International Journal of Geomechanics . 2006, 6(4): 238-247.

 

Yue Q.Z.Q., Gao W., Chen J. and Lee C.F., Drilling process monitoring for a wealth of extra factual data from drillhole site investigation, Proceedings of the 10th International Congress of the International Association of Engineering Geology (IAEG2006 Engineering Geology for Tomorrow's Cities), Nottingham, United Kingdom, 6-10 September. Theme 5 - Urban Site Investigation (Abstracts: pp. 87(hardcopy)). 2006, 5-746: 1-10 (CD ROM).

 

Researcher : Lee JHW

Project Title:

Project Amoy - Investigating the transmission routes of the large SARS outbreak in Amoy Gardens

Investigator(s):

Lee JHW, Leung YC, Lam HN, Chan ATY, Chan LS, Ho PL, Hui SCM, Leung MKH, Li Y

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

VCO SARS Research Fund

Start Date:

07/2003

 

Abstract:

To further analyze the correlation between the dosage and infection pattern in the Amoy Gardens for major infected blocks and flats using computational fluid dynamics as well as multi-zone air flow and thermal modelling; to develop mathematical and statistical models for analyzing the infection pattern in the Amoy Gardens; to carry out a case-control study in the Amoy Gardens for Blocks E, B, C and D.

 

Project Title:

Laboratory of Environmental Hydraulics

Investigator(s):

Lee JHW, Lam KM, Jayawardena AW, Li XY, Yu D, Kuang C, Yeh PJ, Choi DKW

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Joint Laboratories

Start Date:

11/2003

 

Abstract:

To provide a scientific backbone on studying and solving the problems of deteriorated ecology in Hong Kong.

 

Project Title:

Mixing of rosette jet group from ocean outfalls

Investigator(s):

Lee JHW, Lam KM

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

12/2003

 

Abstract:

To study the mixing and merging of buoyant jets discharged from a rosette jet group from an ocean outfall in a cross flow.

 

Project Title:

Integrated physical and ecological management of rivers - with particular reference to the East River

Investigator(s):

Lee JHW, Koenig A, Hodgkiss IJ, Jiao JJJ, Jayawardena AW, Chen J

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

NSFC/RGC Joint Research Scheme

Start Date:

02/2004

 

Abstract:

To combine the outstanding research strengths of the mainland research team on watershed vegetation, sediment transport, river geomorphology, urban dynamics, and environmental assessment with the proven expertise of the Hong Kong team on environmental hydraulics and hydrology, ecological management and water quality modeling to develop joint research in integrated river management. This is a critical step to provide a sound scientific basis for sustainable water management.

 

Project Title:

Data assimilation for forecasting of coastal water quality

Investigator(s):

Lee JHW, Jayawardena AW

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

01/2005

 

Abstract:

To develop data assimilation methods to integrate hydro-meteorological and biological observations with deterministic water quality model predicitons; to develop a data-driven coastal water quality forecast system that effectively combines field data with three-dimensional hydrodynamic modelling.

 

Project Title:

Physical hydraulic Model Tests fro Lai Chi Kok Transfer Scheme - channel, stilling basin, siphon & outfall

Investigator(s):

Lee JHW

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Projects and Development Branch - Project Management Division

Start Date:

08/2005

Completion Date:

07/2006

 

Abstract:

To perform physical hydraulic model tests for Lai Chi Kok transfer scheme - outlet structure.

 

Project Title:

Real-time hydro-environmental modelling and visualization system for public engagement

Investigator(s):

Lee JHW, Wang WP, Choi DKW, Yu D

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Innovation and Technology Support Programme

Start Date:

10/2006

 

Abstract:

The objective is to develop a GIS-based and integrated hydraulic-virtual reality (VR) system that will enable effective and scientifically advanced impact and risk assessment. The technology will enable (i) robust and seamless 3D environmental impact prediction from near to the far field; (ii) full integration with GIS data and advanced visualization capability; (iii) interactive internet access; and (iv) effective communication and public engagement.

 

Project Title:

Hydraulics of bottom rack intakes for supercritical storm flow diversion

Investigator(s):

Lee JHW, Yu D, Choi DKW

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

01/2007

 

Abstract:

(1) A bottom rack is a hydraulic structure provided at the bottom of a river channel to divert water and to exclude the passage of coarse sediment. Bottom racks are used for water supply, hydroelectric power, or flood control. The intercepted flow in the underlying bottom rack chamber is complex, three-dimensional, and significantly affected by air entrainment. In particular, there has hitherto been no systematic study of the hydraulics of bottom rack intakes for supercritical upstream flows. Currently there is no rational basis for the design of such bottom intakes.(2) The objective of this project is to carry out a comprehensive experimental and theoretical investigation of the hydraulics of bottom rack intakes. The research consists of: 1) Experimental study of the flow field above the bottom rack and in the rack chamber for a supercritical upstream flow: Experiments will be carried out for a representative set of inflow channel and bottom rack slopes, chamber geometries, and a range of discharge flows. In addition to the study of head-discharge relation and the minimum length of bottom rack required, the flow characteristics (e.g. flow stability and threshold for surcharge) will also be observed. The depth, velocity, and air concentration in the turbulent flow will be measured at key cross-sections. 2) Numerical modeling of the two-phase flow in the bottom rack chamber using the Volume of Fluid (VOF) method: The turbulence model will be calibrated and validated against the flow and air-concentration measurements; key performance characteristics will be examined in a parametric study to derive design guidelines.(3) specifically, we aim to obtain a better understanding of the turbulent flow field inside the bottom rack, including the flow penetration through the rack bars, the air entrainment of the falling jet, and the stability of the induced flow in the chamber. A robust prediction method of the flow and performance characteristics of the bottom rack for supercritical upstream flows will be developed. The interaction of the chamber flow with the flow in the link channel to a vortex inlet will also be studied.(4) This basic research is engendered by a recent physical model study of a proposed large urban flood control scheme in Hong Kong. Bottom rack intakes can be used in steep upstream catchments to divert the fast moving storm flow into a vortex drop shaft and tunnel for eventual discharge to the sea. As these intakes are located in proximity to residential areas (often of premium land value), the design needs to be reasonably compact; stable and efficient flow diversion must be achieved in the bottom rack chamber and the linkage to the vortex inlet. And yet there is currently insufficient knowledge about the hydraulics of such bottom rack structures; intake design has to rely on ad hoc and time consuming physical model studies. 5 This project is especially relevant to densely populated Asian cities where urban flooding problems are becoming increasingly important due to urbanization and global climate change. The use of compact bottom rack intakes in hilly terrain to divert the storm flow upstream of the urban areas can be an economic and environmentally friendly flood control alternative. This project will result in: (i) an original data set of such air-water flows in bottom rack structures for supercritical flow diversion; (ii) an improved capability in the numerical modeling of such complex two-phase flows; and (iii) better design guidelines and tools to optimize the performance of bottom rack intakes.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Choi D.K.W. and Lee J.H.W., Impact assessment of outfall discharges by Monte Carlo method , Proceedings of the 7th International Conference on Hydroinformatics HIC 2006, Nice, France, September. 2006, 2951-2958.

 

Fang H.H.P. and Lee J.H.W., (Editors), Sustainable and safe water supplies, Water Science and Technology: Water Supply. 2007, 7(2): 220 pp.

 

Kuang C., Lee J.H.W., Liu S. and Gu J., Numerical study on plume interaction above an alternating diffuser in stagnant water, China Ocean Engineering. 2006, 20(2): 289-302.

 

Kwok W.H.K.P., Leung K.M.Y., Lui C.S.G., Li W.K., Lam P.K.S. and Lee J.H.W., Derivation of better ammonia water quality criteria for saltwater, Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (SETAC) Asia/Pacific 2006 meeting, 18-20 September, 2006, Peking University, Beijing, China. 2006.

 

Lai A.C.H., Yu D. and Lee J.H.W., Initial Dilution of Rosette Buoyant Jet Group in Crossflow, Proceedings of 6th International Symposium on Stratified flows, Perth, Australia. 2006.

 

Lai A.C.H., Yu D. and Lee J.H.W., Mixing of multiple momentum jets from a rosette diffuser , Proceedings of the 15th IAHR-APD Congress, Chennai, August 7-10 . 2006, 1185-1191.

 

Lam K.M. and Lee J.H.W., (Guest Editors), International Journal of River Basin Management. 2006, 4(1): 1-73.

 

Lee J.H.W., A harmful algal bloom (HAB) early warning system for mariculture management (Plenary Lecture), International Conference on Environmental and Public Health Management: aquaculture and environment, Hong Kong Baptist University, December 7-9. 2006.

 

Lee J.H.W., A harmful algal bloom (HAB) early warning system for mariculture management , Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, January 9. 2007.

 

Lee J.H.W., Associate Editor, Communications in Nonlinear Science and Numerical Simulation. Elsevier, 2007.

 

Lee J.H.W., Associate Editor, Journal of Hydraulic Engineering. American Society of Civil Engineers, 2007.

 

Lee J.H.W., Associate Editor, Water Engineering Research. Korea Water Resources Association, 2007.

 

Lee J.H.W., Consultancy work, Study on Identification of critical factors affecting the bacteriological water quality of Hong Kong beaches, Environmental Protection Department, HKSAR Government. 2007.

 

Lee J.H.W., Determination of carrying capacity for marine coastal waters: challenges and issues (Invited lecture) , Seminar on Innovative Approaches and Technologies in Pollution Assessment and Monitoring, The East Asian Seas Congress, Haikou, Hainan Island, December 12-16. 2006.

 

Lee J.H.W., Yu D., Wong C.K.C. and Choi D.K.W., Drainage Improvement in Northern Hong Kong Island Hong Kong West Tunnel and Lower Catchment Improvement – Investigation: Additional Model Testing of Intake Model – Bottom Rack Testing, The University of Hong Kong, (Technical report to Drainage Services Department, HKSAR Government). 2007.

 

Lee J.H.W., Yu D., Wong C.K.C. and Choi D.K.W., Drainage Improvement in Northern Hong Kong Island Hong Kong West Tunnel and Lower Catchment Improvement – Investigation: Additional Model Testing of Intake Model – Lateral Inflow Structure, The University of Hong Kong, (Technical report to Drainage Services Department, HKSAR Government). 2007.

 

Lee J.H.W., Environmental engineering and sustainable development - the Harbour Area Treatment Scheme (HATS) as an example (Invited lecture) , Seminar on Dalian Port Development, Dalian City Government and Chinese Academy of Engineers, July 10-11. 2006.

 

Lee J.H.W., Eutrophication dynamics in Hong Kong waters - an environmental hydraulic perspective (Invited Lecture) , International Conference on Contrasting Marine Ecosystems, HKUST, 23-25 October. 2006.

 

Lee J.H.W., Forecasting of environmental risk maps of harmful algal blooms in semi-enclosed coastal waters (Invited Lecture) , Second International Conference on Estuaries and Coasts, Guangzhou, China, November 28-30. 2006.

 

Lee J.H.W., Independent assessor for the Pearl River Delta (PRD) Water Quality Modelling Study, Hong Kong Environmental Protection Department and Guangdong Environmental Protection Bureau, provide independent review and assessment of the 1D-3D hydrodynamic and water quality model developed for the PRD river network by Delft Hydraulics; and led discussion at final project review meeting, Guangzhou, February. 2007.

 

Lee J.H.W., Integrated physical and ecological management of the East River (Invited Lecture), International Symposium on Sustainable and Safe Water Supplies, University of Hong Kong, January 15-16. 2007.

 

Lee J.H.W., Wang Z., Thoe W. and Cheng D., Integrated physical and ecological management of the East River, Water Science and Technology: Water Supply. 2007, 7(2): 81-91.

 

Lee J.H.W., Invited international expert, Project assessment and consultative meeting of the "Study on hydraulics and sedimentation of the Shenzhen River and the Estuary", Hong Kong Drainage Services Department and Shenzhen River Regulation Office, Shenzhen, October 17. 2006.

 

Lee J.H.W., Member , International Editorial Board, Ecological Informatics. Elsevier, 2007.

 

Lee J.H.W., Member, International Editorial Board, Estuarine Coastal and Shelf Science. Elsevier, 2007.

 

Lee J.H.W., On the carrying capacity of coastal marine fish farms (Invited Lecture) , International Workshop on Aquaculture and Environment, Hong Kong Baptist University, December 6. 2006.

 

Lee J.H.W., Yu D. and Wong C.K.C., Physical Hydraulic Model Tests for Lai Chi Kok Transfer Scheme – Intake Structure: Variation Order 1, Department of Civil Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, (Technical report to Drainage Services Department, HKSAR Government). 2007.

 

Lee J.H.W., Yu D., Choi D.K.W. and Wong C.K.C., Physical model study for Smithfield flooding, Final Report to Drainage Services Department, HKSAR Government, July . 2006, 54 pp.

 

Lee J.H.W., Real time hydro-environmental modelling and visualization system for public engagement, U21 symposium on Urban Water Management, University of Hong Kong, January 17. 2007.

 

Lee J.H.W., Research indicators and quality assurance at HKU (Invited Lecture) , 7th Conference of the Association of Universities of Asia and the Pacific (AUAP), University of Macau, October 21-22. 2006.

 

Lee J.H.W., The International Symposium on Environmental Hydraulics - a success story (invited talk), Hong Kong Meeting Your Choice Session, Hong Kong Tourist Board, Asia World Expo, February 5. 2007.

 

Lee J.H.W., Urban flood control in Hong Kong (Invited seminar) , Department of Civil Engineering, Seoul National University, Korea, July 13. 2006.

 

Leung K.M.Y., Wai T.C., Wu R.S.S., Shin P.K.S., Cheung S.G., Li X.Y. and Lee J.H.W., Stable isotope and fatty acid profile as effective toools for diagnosing environmental impact of open-sea-cage fish farm wastes, International Conference on Environmental and Public Health Management: Aquaculture and Environment, held at Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, 7-9 December, 2006.

 

Lui G.C.S., Li W.K., Leung K.M.Y., Lee J.H.W. and Jayawardena A.W., Modelling algal blooms using vector autoregressive model with exogeneous variables and long memory filter, Ecological Modelling. 2007, 200: 130-138.

 

Wang Y., Li X.Y. and Lee J.H.W., Influence of the biomass content in sediment on the sediment nutrient flux for a pulsed organic load, 5th International Conference on Marine Pollution and Ecotoxicology, Hong Kong. Hong Kong, 2007.

 

Wang Y., Li X.Y. and Lee J.H.W., Modelling of the sediment oxygen demand and organic flux for a pulsed sediment organic load, Water Science and Technology. London, U.K., 2006, 54(11-12): 85-92.

 

Wang Y., Li X.Y. and Lee J.H.W., Modelling of the sediment oxygen demand and organic flux for a pulsed sediment organic load, World Congress of the International Water, Beijing, China, September. 2006.

 

Wong K.T.M., Lee J.H.W. and Hodgkiss I.J., A simple model for forecast of coastal algal blooms, Estuarine, Coastal and Shelf Science. 2007, 74: 175-196.

 

Wong K.T.M. and Lee J.H.W., Cell quota based algal dynamics model using a deterministic Lagrangian particle method , Proceedings of the 7th International Conference on Hydroinformatics HIC 2006, Nice, France, September . 2006, 534-541.

 

Wong K.T.M. and Lee J.H.W., Forecasting of environmental risk maps of harmful algal blooms in semi-enclosed coastal waters (invited lecture) , Proceedings of the Second International Conference on Estuaries and Coasts, Guangzhou, China, November 28-30. 2006, 1: 103-111.

 

Yu D., Ali M.S. and Lee J.H.W., Multiple tandem jets in crossflow, Journal of Hydraulic Engineering, ASCE. ASCE, 2006, 132(9): 971-982.

 

Researcher : Lee PKK

Project Title:

International conference on slope engineering

Investigator(s):

Lee PKK

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Croucher Foundation - Conference / Seminars

Start Date:

12/2003

 

Abstract:

International conference on slope engineering

 

Project Title:

Using 3D Laser Scanning Technique and Triangulated Irregular Network (TIN) Surfaces to Determine Sheeting Joint Roughness of Hong Kong Granite

Investigator(s):

Lee PKK, Kwong AKL, Tham LG

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

01/2006

 

Abstract:

The primary objective of the proposed investigation is to develop a prototype system that would quantify systemically and without human judgment, the relative contributions of: 1) basic frictional angle; 2) small-scale asperities angle and 3) large-scale waviness to the overall shearing resistance of the rock joints.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Lee C.F., Lee P.K.K., Tham L.G. and Yue Q.Z.Q., 2006 Research Output Prize in Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, HKU. 2007.

 

Liu C.H., Au F.T.K. and Lee P.K.K., Estimation of Shrinkage Effects on Reinforced Concrete Podiums, HKIE Transactions. Hong Kong, Hong Kong Institution of Engineers, 2006, 13(4): 33-43.

 

Mu F., Yang J. and Lee P.K.K., State-dependent strength of sand and its effect on pile end bearing capacity, Proceedings of the 4th Cross-strait Conference on Structural and Geotechnical Engineering, Hangzhou. 2007.

 

Ng A.M.Y., Yeung A.T., Lee P.K.K. and Tham L.G., Design, fabrication, and assembly of a large oedometer, Geotechnical Testing Journal. ASTM, 2006, 29(4): 298-305.

 

Yang J., Tham L.G., Lee P.K.K., Chan S.T. and Yu F., Behaviour of jacked and driven H-piles in sandy soil: Reply, Géotechnique. 2007, 57(5): 475-478.

 

Yang J., Tham L.G., Lee P.K.K., Chan S.T. and Yu F., Research Output Prize in Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, The University of Hong Kong. 2007.

 

Yeung A.T., Tham L.G., Lee P.K.K., Mok K.Y. and Pei G., Use of inert C&D materials for seawall foundation: Quality control measures, Waste Management. 2007, 27(6): 768-777.

 

Yeung A.T., Lee P.K.K., Au A.S.K., So T.C. and Liu Y., 港大土木本科生三軸測試實習, 土力學教育與教學，第一屆全國土力學教學研討會論文集, Beijing, China Communications Press, 2006, 355-357.

 

Researcher : Li J

List of Research Outputs

 

Li J., Yang J. and Lin G., A stepwise damping-solvent extraction method for large-scale dynamic soil-structure interaction analysis in time domain, International Journal for Numerical and Analytical Methods in Geomechanics. 2007, DOI: 10.1002/nag.631: 22p.

 

Yang J., Li J. and Lin G., A simple approach to integration of acceleration data for dynamic soil-structure interaction analysis, Soil Dynamics and Earthquake Engineering . Elsevier, 2006, 26(8): 725-734.

 

Researcher : Li X

Project Title:

Trihalomethane formation potentials of Macao water supply contaminated by seawater and organic matter

Investigator(s):

Li XY

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

The Macao Water Supply Co. Ltd., Macau - General Award

Start Date:

11/2000

 

Abstract:

To evaluate the formation potentials of trihalomethanes in Macao water supply contaminated by seawater instrusion, and to characterize the organic matter in Macao water in terms of molecular weight distribution and associated trihalomethane formation potentials.

 

Project Title:

Nutrient transformations during the decay of settled algae in the ephemeral sediment after algal blooms

Investigator(s):

Li XY, Fang HHP

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

12/2003

 

Abstract:

To investigate the stoichiometry and reaction kinetics of the decay of settled algal blooms and related nutrient fluxes, and to characterize the environmental effects, such as hydraulics, water chemistry and sediment properties, on nutrient transformation during the diagenesis of algal sediment; to develop kinetic models and process simulation for nutrient fluxes from the ephemeral layer of algal sediment in the warm water of sub-tropical climate; to conduct in-situ field measurement of sediment nutrient fluxes in relation to algal blooms, and thus to validate the models against the field data for the nutrient flux from settled algal mass.

 

Project Title:

Role of loosely-bound extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) in bioflocculation of activated sludge

Investigator(s):

Li XY, Gu J

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

01/2005

 

Abstract:

To investigate the correlation between the quantity and properties of EPS in activated sludge, particularly loosely-bound EPS, and the performance of bioflocculation indicated by the quality of clarified effluent, biomass settleability and sludge dewaterability; to evaluate the influence of operational conditions, such as SRT, feeding substrate, shock loading and the dissolved oxygen (DO) level, on the production and composition of EPS as well as on the microbial profile of the sludge population in relation to biosolids-water separation.

 

Project Title:

Sludge granulation in biological wastewater treatment: technology, mechanism and characterization

Investigator(s):

Li XY, Gu J

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

NSFC/RGC Joint Research Scheme

Start Date:

04/2005

 

Abstract:

To investigate the mechanism of microbial granulation and to identify the controlling factors, such as the EPS content, shear intensity, substrate loading, and hydraulic loading, for granule formation in various bioreactors, including UASB reactors, bio-hydrogen reactors, aerobic and anoxic SBRs; to characterize the sludge throughout the course of granulation using fractal-based techniques for their structural features and using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) based techniques for the evolution in microbial population of the sludge; to develop the technology of sludge granulation for various biological wastewater treatment systems concerning system configuration, operational condition and control factors.

 

Project Title:

Characterisation of Wastewater Organic Pollutants as the Disinfection By-product Precursors in Surface Water Resources

Investigator(s):

Li XY, Xie YF

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research

Start Date:

03/2006

 

Abstract:

- Objectives: (1) To characterize the types and concentration of the disinfection by-product (DBP) precursor material in wastewater effluents of various degrees of treatment and the resulting DBP types and abundance in finished drinking water; (2) To investigate the stability, transformation and the change in the DBP formation characteristic of the wastewater DBP precursors in the surface water environment undergoing biodegradation and sedimentation. - Key issues and problems: Due to the worldwide decline of water resources, treated wastewater has become a growing portion of water supplies. Many surface water bodies, i.e. rivers, lakes and reservoirs, are used for both wastewater disposal and fresh water withdrawal for drinking water. The percentage of treated wastewater in drinking water sources could be as high as 100% in some cases during the drought season. However, little is known about the impact of wastewater discharge into the water resources on the DBP formation in finished drinking water. The wastewater-derived DBP problem can be much more serious in developing countries due to the lack of wastewater treatment and water environment protection. For example, along with the rapid economic development in China in the past two decades, more than 80% surface water resources are polluted to various extents by sewage disposal, including the East River in Guangdong that provides more than 70% fresh water supply of Hong Kong. Deterioration in the source water quality greatly impairs the capability of conventional water treatment, especially for DBP control and minimization. Natural organic matter (NOM) in surface water has been considered as the predominant DBP precursor (Singer 1999; Xie 2004). Numerous studies have been conducted on the characteristics, reactivity and DBP yield of NOM in chlorinated drinking water. However, there is little information about the DBP precursors brought about by wastewater discharge. Organic impurities that are present at higher concentrations in wastewater effluent than in natural waters would make a considerable contribution to DBP formation in drinking water (Galapate et al. 1997; Rostad et al. 2000; Chu et al. 2002). Wastewater precursors with chemical features different from NOM may lead to the formation of different DBPs than those typically formed in drinking water systems. On the other hand, natural reactions and processes, such as biodegradation and sedimentation, would affect the stability and transformation of the wastewater DBP precursors in the receiving water, altering their reactivity with chlorine in DBP formation. These wastewater-derived drinking water DBP issues remain to be addressed through experimental investigations. .

 

Project Title:

Water quality analysis and assessment for two natural water samples

Investigator(s):

Li XY

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Golden Force Group (International) Ltd. - General Award

Start Date:

10/2006

Completion Date:

11/2006

 

Abstract:

To perform water quality analysis and assessment for 2 natural water samples.

 

Project Title:

Contribution of wastewater discharge to the formation of disinfection by-products in drinking water: characterization and treatment

Investigator(s):

Li XY

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

01/2007

 

Abstract:

(1) To characterize the types and concentration of the DBP precursor material in wastewater effluents of various degrees of treatment and the resulting DBP types and abundance in finished drinking water. (2) To identify cost-effective treatment technologies for tertiary wastewater treatment and drinking water pre-treatment for the minimization of wastewater-derived DBP formation in the drinking water supply.

 

Researcher : Li XY

Project Title:

Trihalomethane formation potentials of Macao water supply contaminated by seawater and organic matter

Investigator(s):

Li XY

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

The Macao Water Supply Co. Ltd., Macau - General Award

Start Date:

11/2000

 

Abstract:

To evaluate the formation potentials of trihalomethanes in Macao water supply contaminated by seawater instrusion, and to characterize the organic matter in Macao water in terms of molecular weight distribution and associated trihalomethane formation potentials.

 

Project Title:

Nutrient transformations during the decay of settled algae in the ephemeral sediment after algal blooms

Investigator(s):

Li XY, Fang HHP

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

12/2003

 

Abstract:

To investigate the stoichiometry and reaction kinetics of the decay of settled algal blooms and related nutrient fluxes, and to characterize the environmental effects, such as hydraulics, water chemistry and sediment properties, on nutrient transformation during the diagenesis of algal sediment; to develop kinetic models and process simulation for nutrient fluxes from the ephemeral layer of algal sediment in the warm water of sub-tropical climate; to conduct in-situ field measurement of sediment nutrient fluxes in relation to algal blooms, and thus to validate the models against the field data for the nutrient flux from settled algal mass.

 

Project Title:

Role of loosely-bound extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) in bioflocculation of activated sludge

Investigator(s):

Li XY, Gu J

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

01/2005

 

Abstract:

To investigate the correlation between the quantity and properties of EPS in activated sludge, particularly loosely-bound EPS, and the performance of bioflocculation indicated by the quality of clarified effluent, biomass settleability and sludge dewaterability; to evaluate the influence of operational conditions, such as SRT, feeding substrate, shock loading and the dissolved oxygen (DO) level, on the production and composition of EPS as well as on the microbial profile of the sludge population in relation to biosolids-water separation.

 

Project Title:

Sludge granulation in biological wastewater treatment: technology, mechanism and characterization

Investigator(s):

Li XY, Gu J

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

NSFC/RGC Joint Research Scheme

Start Date:

04/2005

 

Abstract:

To investigate the mechanism of microbial granulation and to identify the controlling factors, such as the EPS content, shear intensity, substrate loading, and hydraulic loading, for granule formation in various bioreactors, including UASB reactors, bio-hydrogen reactors, aerobic and anoxic SBRs; to characterize the sludge throughout the course of granulation using fractal-based techniques for their structural features and using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) based techniques for the evolution in microbial population of the sludge; to develop the technology of sludge granulation for various biological wastewater treatment systems concerning system configuration, operational condition and control factors.

 

Project Title:

Characterisation of Wastewater Organic Pollutants as the Disinfection By-product Precursors in Surface Water Resources

Investigator(s):

Li XY, Xie YF

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research

Start Date:

03/2006

 

Abstract:

- Objectives: (1) To characterize the types and concentration of the disinfection by-product (DBP) precursor material in wastewater effluents of various degrees of treatment and the resulting DBP types and abundance in finished drinking water; (2) To investigate the stability, transformation and the change in the DBP formation characteristic of the wastewater DBP precursors in the surface water environment undergoing biodegradation and sedimentation. - Key issues and problems: Due to the worldwide decline of water resources, treated wastewater has become a growing portion of water supplies. Many surface water bodies, i.e. rivers, lakes and reservoirs, are used for both wastewater disposal and fresh water withdrawal for drinking water. The percentage of treated wastewater in drinking water sources could be as high as 100% in some cases during the drought season. However, little is known about the impact of wastewater discharge into the water resources on the DBP formation in finished drinking water. The wastewater-derived DBP problem can be much more serious in developing countries due to the lack of wastewater treatment and water environment protection. For example, along with the rapid economic development in China in the past two decades, more than 80% surface water resources are polluted to various extents by sewage disposal, including the East River in Guangdong that provides more than 70% fresh water supply of Hong Kong. Deterioration in the source water quality greatly impairs the capability of conventional water treatment, especially for DBP control and minimization. Natural organic matter (NOM) in surface water has been considered as the predominant DBP precursor (Singer 1999; Xie 2004). Numerous studies have been conducted on the characteristics, reactivity and DBP yield of NOM in chlorinated drinking water. However, there is little information about the DBP precursors brought about by wastewater discharge. Organic impurities that are present at higher concentrations in wastewater effluent than in natural waters would make a considerable contribution to DBP formation in drinking water (Galapate et al. 1997; Rostad et al. 2000; Chu et al. 2002). Wastewater precursors with chemical features different from NOM may lead to the formation of different DBPs than those typically formed in drinking water systems. On the other hand, natural reactions and processes, such as biodegradation and sedimentation, would affect the stability and transformation of the wastewater DBP precursors in the receiving water, altering their reactivity with chlorine in DBP formation. These wastewater-derived drinking water DBP issues remain to be addressed through experimental investigations. .

 

Project Title:

Water quality analysis and assessment for two natural water samples

Investigator(s):

Li XY

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Golden Force Group (International) Ltd. - General Award

Start Date:

10/2006

Completion Date:

11/2006

 

Abstract:

To perform water quality analysis and assessment for 2 natural water samples.

 

Project Title:

Contribution of wastewater discharge to the formation of disinfection by-products in drinking water: characterization and treatment

Investigator(s):

Li XY

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

01/2007

 

Abstract:

(1) To characterize the types and concentration of the DBP precursor material in wastewater effluents of various degrees of treatment and the resulting DBP types and abundance in finished drinking water. (2) To identify cost-effective treatment technologies for tertiary wastewater treatment and drinking water pre-treatment for the minimization of wastewater-derived DBP formation in the drinking water supply.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Chen W., Wang X., Li X.Y. and Koenig A., Effect of the liquid-phase property of the sludge mixture in a membrane bioreactor (MBR) on membrane fouling, IWA Conference, 4th International Conference on Membranes for Water and Wastewater Treatment, Harrogate, UK. Harrogate, UK, 2007.

 

Leung K.M.Y., Wai T.C., Wu R.S.S., Shin P.K.S., Cheung S.G., Li X.Y. and Lee J.H.W., Stable isotope and fatty acid profile as effective toools for diagnosing environmental impact of open-sea-cage fish farm wastes, International Conference on Environmental and Public Health Management: Aquaculture and Environment, held at Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, 7-9 December, 2006.

 

Li X.Y. and Yang S., Influence of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) on The flocculation, sedimentation and dewaterability of activated sludge, Water Research. elsevier, 2007, 41: 1022-1030.

 

Li X.Y., Xiao F. and Lam K.M., Investigation of the hydrodynamic behaviour of marine aggregates using particle image velocimetry (PIV), International Workshop on Marine Aggregates (IWOMA), Max Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology, Bremen, Germany, December. 2006.

 

Li X.Y., Investigation of the hydrodynamic behaviour of marine aggregates using particle image velocimetry (PIV), invited lecture, International Workshop on Marine Aggregates (IWOMA), Max Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology, Bremen, Germany, December. 2006.

 

Li X.Y., Membrane fouling in a submerged membrane bioreactor (SMBR): fouling characterization and biopolymer clusters (BPC), invited seminar to Harbin Institute of Technology, China, September, 2006.

 

Li X.Y., Numerical simulation and experimental verification of particle coagulation dynamics in water and wastewater treatment, invited seminar to Harbin Institute of Technology, China, September, 2006.

 

Li X.Y. and Zhang T., Study on the characteristics of the sewage and soil, report to Drinage Services Department, HKSAR Government, Hong Kong. 2007.

 

Li X.Y., Water quality analysis and assessment for two natural water samples from Tibet, technical note to Golden Force Group (International) Limited, Hong Kong, 2006.

 

Wang X., Li X.Y. and Huang X., Membrane fouling in a submerged membrane bioreactor (SMBR): characterisation of the sludge cake and its high filtration resistance, Separation and Purification Technology. 2007, 52: 439-445.

 

Wang Y., Chan G.K.Y., Li X.Y. and So S.K., Electrochemical degradation of 4-chlorophenol at nickel-antimony doped tin oxide electrode , Chemosphere . 2006, 65: 1087-1093.

 

Wang Y., Li X.Y. and Lee J.H.W., Influence of the biomass content in sediment on the sediment nutrient flux for a pulsed organic load, 5th International Conference on Marine Pollution and Ecotoxicology, Hong Kong. Hong Kong, 2007.

 

Wang Y., Li X.Y. and Lee J.H.W., Modelling of the sediment oxygen demand and organic flux for a pulsed sediment organic load, Water Science and Technology. London, U.K., 2006, 54(11-12): 85-92.

 

Wang Y., Li X.Y. and Lee J.H.W., Modelling of the sediment oxygen demand and organic flux for a pulsed sediment organic load, World Congress of the International Water, Beijing, China, September. 2006.

 

Xie B., Gu J. and Li X.Y., Protein profiles of extracellular polymeric substances and activated sludge in a membrane biological reactor by 2-dimensional gel electrophoresis, In: GH Chen and C Shang, Leading-Edge Strategies and Technologies for Sustainable Urban Water Management, September 16-20, 2006. Hong Kong, 245-252.

 

Xie Z., Li X.Y. and Chan G.K.Y., Nitrogen removal from the saline sludge liquor by electrochemical denitrification, Water Science and Technology. London, U.K., International Water Association, 2006, 54(8): 171-179.

 

Xie Z., Li X.Y. and Chan G.K.Y., Nitrogen removal from the saline sludge liquor by electrochemical denitrification, World Congress of the International Water Association, Beijing, China, September. Beijing, China, 2006.

 

Xu X. and Li X.Y., Adorption behavior of dibutyl phthalate on marine sediments, 5th International Conference on Marine Pollution and Ecotoxicology, Hong Kong. 2007.

 

Xu X., Li H., Gu J. and Li X.Y., Degradation of n-butyl benzyl phthalate by a pure Bacterial culture from mangrove sediment, Journal of Hazardous Materials . PO BOX 211, 1000 AE AMSTERDAM, NETHERLAN, ELSEVIER SCIENCE, 2007, 140: 194-199.

 

Xu X., Li H., Gu J. and Li X.Y., Kinetics of n-butyl benzyl phthalate degradation by a pure bacterial culture from the mangrove sediment, Journal of Hazardous Materials. USA, Elsevier, 2007, 140: 194-199.

 

Xu X., Wang Y. and Li X.Y., Sorption behavior of bisphenol A on marine sediments, SETAC Asia/Pacific 2006 Conference. 2006.

 

Researcher : Liang D

List of Research Outputs

 

Liang D., Zhang T. and Fang H.H.P., Anaerobic degradation of dimethyl phthalate in wastewater in a UASB reactor., Water Reserach. 2007, 41: 2879-2884.

 

Liang D., Zhang T. and Fang H.H.P., Denitrifying degradation of dimethyl phthalate. , Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology. 2007, 74: 221-229.

 

Researcher : Liu CH

List of Research Outputs

 

Liu C.H., Au F.T.K. and Lee P.K.K., Estimation of Shrinkage Effects on Reinforced Concrete Podiums, HKIE Transactions. Hong Kong, Hong Kong Institution of Engineers, 2006, 13(4): 33-43.

 

Researcher : Liu S

List of Research Outputs

 

Kuang C., Lee J.H.W., Liu S. and Gu J., Numerical study on plume interaction above an alternating diffuser in stagnant water, China Ocean Engineering. 2006, 20(2): 289-302.

 

Researcher : Liu Y

List of Research Outputs

 

Yeung A.T., Lee P.K.K., Au A.S.K., So T.C. and Liu Y., 港大土木本科生三軸測試實習, 土力學教育與教學，第一屆全國土力學教學研討會論文集, Beijing, China Communications Press, 2006, 355-357.

 

Researcher : Lo SH

Project Title:

Limit state analysis of non-homogeneous structures using integral equation technique

Investigator(s):

Lo SH, Dong C

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Incentive Award for RGC CERG Fundable But Not Funded Projects

Start Date:

07/2003

 

Abstract:

N/A

 

Project Title:

Analysis of transfer plate structures using high-performance solid 3D hybrid stress hexahedral elements

Investigator(s):

Lo SH, Su KL

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

01/2005

 

Abstract:

To devise a rigorous yet practical analysis procedure for the design of transfer plate structures based on the recently developed high-performance hybrid stress 3D solid elements.

 

Project Title:

Automatic Adaptive Refinement Analysis using high-performance hexahedral elements

Investigator(s):

Lo SH

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

01/2006

 

Abstract:

The finite element method is now a well established tool for the analysis of complicated engineering structures of irregular geometry, such as tall buildings, bridges, automobiles and aircraft, etc. However, this versatile technique gives only an approximation solution whose accuracy depends on the number of elements and the sophistication of individual elements used in the finite element model. With the introduction of the adaptive refinement procedure, the goal of achieving economically reliable finite element solution of specified accuracy for general three-dimensional problems is possible and feasible. Many high-performance solid elements of various geometrical shapes and orders have recently been developed based on the hybrid stress approach and the weak continuity requirement between elements. Parallel to this development are advances in the automatic mesh generation techniques over curved surfaces and within three-dimensional volumes [1-5]. A research project is proposed to bring the latest advances in solid element technology and the mesh generation techniques together to form an integrated adaptive refinement analysis scheme for providing high-quality economical solutions to practical engineering and benchmark problems, which cannot be obtained otherwise by classical simplified models of reduced dimensions.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Lo S.H., Wan K.H. and Sze K.Y., Adaptive refinement analysis using hybrid-stress transition elements , Computers & Structures. Elsevier, 2006, 24: 2212-2230.

 

Tsang H.H., Lam N.T.K. and Lo S.H., Generic The Importance of Crustal Shear Wave Velocity Profile for Ground Motion Modelling, IASME/WSEAS International Conference on Geology and Seismology. 2007.

 

Tsang H.H., Lam N.T.K., Asten M.W. and Lo S.H., Generic Theoretical Formulae for Estimating Site Effects, IASME/WSEAS International Conference on Geology and Seismology. 2007.

 

Tsang H.H., Lam N.T.K. and Lo S.H., Probabilistic Seismic Hazard Assessment without Source Characterization, IASME/WSEAS International Conference on Geology and Seismology. 2007.

 

Tsang H.H. and Lo S.H., Seismic Isolation by Rubber-Soil Mixtures for Developing Countries, Tenth World Conference on Seismic Isolation, Energy Dissipation and Active Vibrations Control of Structures. 2007.

 

Tsang H.H., Lam N.T.K. and Lo S.H., Site-Dependent Response Spectral Attenuation Modelling: A Case Study of Long Distance Earthquakes Affecting Singapore, IASME/WSEAS International Conference on Geology and Seismology. 2007.

 

Zhou D., Lo S.H., Au F.T.K., Cheung Y.K. and Liu W.Q., 3-D vibration analysis of skew thick plates using Chebyshev–Ritz method, International Journal of Mechanical Sciences. New York, ScienceDirect, 2006, 48 (12): 1481-1493.

 

Researcher : Mahesh G

List of Research Outputs

 

Anvuur A.M., Kumaraswamy M.M. and Mahesh G., Which governs – the relationship or the contract?, In: E. Sivyer, COBRA 2006 . London, UK, RICS and Bartlett School, University College London, 2006, 99-106.

 

Mahesh G. and Kumaraswamy M.M., Joint Ventures in Indian Infrastructure Industry: Co-opetitive strategy or coalitions of necessity?, Second International Conference on Multi-national Joint Ventures for construction works, Hanoi, Vietnam. Hanoi, Vietnam, Construction Publishing House, 2006, 159-165.

 

Mahesh G. and Kumaraswamy M.M., Risk Management: A Bottom-up Approach to Ascertain Responsibility, In: Haupt, T.C. and Milford, R. (eds.), CIB World Building Congress, Cape Town, South Africa. Cape Town, South Africa, CIB, 2007, 110-117.

 

Mahesh G., Kumaraswamy M.M. and Anvuur A.M., Whither partnering? A trade-off analysis using a Hong Kong case study, In: Haupt, T.C. and Milford, R. (eds.), CIB World Building Congress. Cape Town, South Africa: . Cape Town, South Africa, CIB, 2007, 302-309.

 

Researcher : Megawati K

Project Title:

Basin effects in the seismic hazard of Hong Kong

Investigator(s):

Megawati K, Chandler AM

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

10/2005

 

Abstract:

The main objective of the proposed research is to investigate the extent of basin effects in Hong Kong by means of numerical ground-motion simulations. The narrow sedimentary basin along the northern coast of Hong Kong Island has been selected as the study region. A numerical model of the basin will be constructed and implemented into a ground-motion simulation program developed by the Co-I, Prof Koketsu.

 

Researcher : Mok KY

List of Research Outputs

 

Yeung A.T., Tham L.G., Lee P.K.K., Mok K.Y. and Pei G., Use of inert C&D materials for seawall foundation: Quality control measures, Waste Management. 2007, 27(6): 768-777.

 

Researcher : Mu F

List of Research Outputs

 

Mu F., Yang J. and Lee P.K.K., State-dependent strength of sand and its effect on pile end bearing capacity, Proceedings of the 4th Cross-strait Conference on Structural and Geotechnical Engineering, Hangzhou. 2007.

 

Researcher : Muttil N

List of Research Outputs

 

Muttil N., Tian Y. and Jayawardena A.W., Comparison of the shuffled complex family of model-calibrating algorithms (Abstract in CD ROM), Proceedings of the Asia Oceania Geosciences Society 3rd Annual Meeting, AOGS 2006, 10-14 July, Singapore. Meeting Matters International-A World Scientific Subsidiary, 2006, 153 (1 pp).

 

Muttil N. and Jayawardena A.W., Extracting knowledge from parsimonious genetic programming evolved rainfall-runoff models (Abstract in CD ROM), Proceedings of the Asia Oceania Geosciences Society 3rd Annual Meeting, AOGS 2006, 10-14 July, Singapore. Meeting Matters International-A World Scientific Subsidiary, 2006, 152 (1 pp).

 

Researcher : Ng AMY

List of Research Outputs

 

Ng A.M.Y., Yeung A.T., Lee P.K.K. and Tham L.G., Design, fabrication, and assembly of a large oedometer, Geotechnical Testing Journal. ASTM, 2006, 29(4): 298-305.

 

Researcher : Ng TST

Project Title:

Fuzzy case-based reasoning approach applied to subcontractor registration

Investigator(s):

Ng TST

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

12/2003

 

Abstract:

To investigate the CSR processes in use in HK and globally, to identify the Subcontractor Assessment Criteria (SAC) influencing the CSR decision, to identify the information requirements of the SAC; to devise a conceptual framework for representing the informational aspects and sequencing of the CSR decision-making task based on the findings of (i)-(iii); to develop the conceptual framework into a FCBR CSR system, and to implement the system with real data, and test and refine as necessary.

 

Project Title:

A dynamic balanced scorecard/gap analysis model for subcontractor appraisal

Investigator(s):

Ng TST

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

01/2005

 

Abstract:

(1) To investigate the SPA processes in use in HK and globally; (2) to identify the Performance Evaluation Criteria (PEC) influcening the SPA decision; (3) to identify the formation requirements of the PEC; (4) to devise a conceptual framework for representing the SPA process based on the concept of the BS & GA and the findings of (1)-(3); (5) to develop the conceptual framework into an automated SPA model based on (4); (6) to implement the model developed in (5) with real data, and test and refine as necessary.

 

Project Title:

A fuzzy concession evaluation model for public private partnerships schemes

Investigator(s):

Ng TST

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research

Start Date:

04/2006

 

Abstract:

The aim of this study is to establish a reliable and practical model for evaluating the concession items put forth by the consortia in a Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) scheme so as to attain a "win-win-win" situation amongst the public bodies, private organisations, and end-users. The objectives of this study include:i) identifying the Critical Success Factors (CSF) for PPP projects and their impacts on concession evaluation;ii) examining the current practice being used for evaluating the concession items; iii) devising a fuzzy evaluation model to establish the impacts brought by concession items initiated by bidders; andiv) validating the fuzzy concession evaluation models using synthesized and real data. There is a growing awareness of the benefits seeking private organizations' involvement in providing and operating public facilities and services. Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) constitute an emerging approach that utilizes the financial, technical, managerial and commercial strengths of private enterprises to deliver public facilities/services which would otherwise be difficult to provide (Akintola et al, 2003). Through PPP, private partners would have a greater incentive to identify and adopt innovative approaches in providing and/or operating the facilities, and this could result in cost saving and an improvement in service quality (Smith, 1999; Chege and Rwelamila, 2001). With a shortage in public funding, there is a growing pressure for the public agents in Hong Kong to adopt the PPP concept (cf: Angeles and Walker, 2000), and examples of these including the much debated West Kowloon Cultural District, High Speed Road Maintenance Project, etc. While there are established mechanisms to measure the performance of private partners and regulate the tariff/charge during the operation stage, they are usually protected by an assured revenue stream (especially those working under the concession-based PPP) meaning that they can raise the tariff/charge should their revenues fall below the desired level of return (Merna and Smith, 1996). As a consequence, awarding a PPP project to one who proposes a very low tariff might sound attractive at start, but may eventually result in public discontentment and political upheaval should there be an incessant increase in tariff/charge like what is happening with the Western Harbour Crossing in Hong Kong. A major review on the literature and the technical circulars of the HKSAR Government reveal that there is a lack of informed approaches in evaluating PPP concessions. There is a need to establish a reliable yet practical strategy for evaluating concession items, viz. the (i) ideal concession or operating period; (ii) relationship between the tariff/charge and expected return; and (iii) stability of tariff/charge. However, to evaluate a PPP concession is never an easy task as decision-makers have to rely on a number of vague assumptions and the results may also be affected by the risks and uncertainties during the development and operation stages. Potential risk factors affecting the revenue include (i) cost overrun triggered by inflation, technical or managerial shortfalls, climate or environment change, and other such factors; or underestimation of revenue due to shrinkage in demand, recession, increased competition, etc, which are difficult if not impossible to quantify at the concession evaluation stage. When evaluating the concession items, risks and uncertainties must be duly considered. In this study, a concession evaluation model will be developed based on the fuzzy sets approach to improve the reliability and efficiency of this kind of decisions.

 

Project Title:

Reinventing Hong Kong Construction Industry for Sustainable Development

Investigator(s):

Ng TST, Lee PKK, Kumaraswamy MM, Lee CF

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Construction Industry Institute Hong Kong - General Award

Start Date:

10/2006

 

Abstract:

To review the development of the local construction industry and identify the key factors contributing to the present status of the construction industry in Hong Kong; to summarise the ways in which the construction industry of other advanced countries reacted and adjusted during periods of construction volume shrinkage; to explore available opportunities and identify possible options in response to the prevailing market conditions and regional developpment trends; to confirm with construction stakeholders the feasibility of the identified options and their potential value in promoting a more balanced and sustainable industry.

 

Project Title:

An Econometric Approach for Modelling the Impact of Undue Fluctuations in Construction Demand

Investigator(s):

Ng TST, Wong JMW

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research

Start Date:

04/2007

 

Abstract:

I. Key Issues and ProblemsIt is well recognised that construction industry is volatile and fluctuate dramatically to general economic conditions (NEDO, 1978; Hillebrandt, 2000). Frequently the fluctuations of the level of construction output can cause significant rippling effects in the economy because of the many linkages the industry has with other economic sectors (Chan, 2001). Yet, the industry lacks a coordinated effort to monitor changes in existing market and predict future demand for construction thus resulting in an imbalanced and distorted production capacity. Economists treasure an accurate method to assess the impact of the shock (or intervention) and its lag effects (Goh, 2005). Construction-related organisations also need to respond to fluctuating market demand to survive, and work within a tradition of competitive tendering and small profit margin (Soetanto et al, 2006). A number of reports scrutinising the performance of the sector (e.g. Egan, 1998; Hampson and Brandon, 2004) have called for the industry to extend their orientation by looking ahead and to prepare themselves to respond to potential future events and trends. The development of econometric models is thus postulated to assist policy-makers and construction stakeholders to cope with any undue fluctuations in construction and to formulate suitable policies.Unfortunately, any modelling of construction attributes is not without difficulties (Ofori, 1990) as the variables can be considerably affected by unexpected changes in domestic and surrounding economy (Briscoe, 1988; Bon, 1988; Hindle, 1993; Chan, 2001), demographic pattern and occupancy rate (Groes, 1985). While industry-wide construction demand models have been proposed, the macro-indicators (Ofori, 2001) and socio-economic variables governing the demand for individual sub-sector may vary significantly (cf: Goh, 2000). Modelling the construction demand and assessing the impact of shocks to different sub-sectors would, therefore, be a challenging task to analysts and decision-makers (Kaming et al, 1994).The most commonly used technique for modelling the demand of construction work is by regression analysis (Killingsworth, 1990; Tang et al, 1990; Akintoye and Skitmore, 1994; Goh, 1999). Perhaps less prevalent approaches for this type of modelling is the application of univariate time series methods such as exponential smoothing average (Merkies and Poot, 1990) or Box-Jenkins techniques (Oshobajo and Fellows, 1989; Notman et al, 1998). Artificial neural networks (Goh, 1996) and combined neural network genetic algorithm (Goh, 2000) models for forecasting construction demand were also built. While the multiple log-linear regression technique for modelling construction demand was considered superior to the multiple linear regression and autoregressive non-linear regression models (Goh, 1999), adopting simple statistical methods such as regression or time series analysis like the auto-regressive integrated moving average method may give rise to large predictive errors (Quevedo et al, 1988) as they are very sensitive to 'noise' (Tang et al, 1991). Artificial neural networks (ANNs) have the potential of enhancing the accuracy of construction demand forecasting (Goh, 1996) despite sufficient historical data must be solicited to train the artificial neural network models (Lertpalangsunti and Chan, 1998). Park et al (1991) argued that ANNs tend to generate high prediction errors for unforeseen events as the model is trained for forecasting under normal circumstances. As a result, when examining the impact of Asian financial crisis on construction demand (Goh, 2005), the auto-regressive integrated moving average technique (Wichern and Jones, 1977) was used to take advantage of the entire time series for the estimation rather than relying only on a restricted data set. However, models that have been developed to analyze the construction demand as per se are limited in reliability because they cannot allow for the full set of interactions with the rest of the economy. Particularly, economical impact analysis for the construction industry is under-explored. Chan (2002) reported on the short-term responses of some economic indicators in Singapore following shocks in the construction output using an econometric approach. Gerlach et al (2006) examined the impact that the Asian financial crisis has had upon the integration and dynamic links between a number of Asia-Pacific real estate markets. Hence, as a critical sector of the local economy, rigorous empirical analysis on the impact of shock to the construction industry for more sophisticated forward planning is imperative and timely. With the rapid development of econometric approaches, their robustness and appropriateness as a modelling technique in the context of examining the effects of an external shock are evident. Adequate observations in the series before and after the onset of the shock also allows econometric modelling by whichever parameter estimation process that is being used. In this investigation, an advanced and dynamic econometric approach is proposed to examine the variables influencing the demand of various construction sub-sectors and assess the responses of the demand following the shock of the Asian financial crisis. Granger causality approach, vector error-correction modelling (VEC), the impulse response function and variance decomposition analysis will be applied to accomplish this objective. This econometric modelling approach surpasses other methodologies by its dynamic nature and sensitivity to a variety of factors affecting the level of construction demand, taking into account indirect and local inter-sectoral effects.II. Purpose of Proposed InvestigationThe purpose of this study is to capture the past behavior and historical patterns of the construction demand in various sub-sectors by considering the volatility of construction market to the changes in macro-economic and socio-economic variables, and specifically investigate the responses of the demand following the shock of the Asian financial crisis. To achieve the desired purpose, the following objectives are envisaged:i) To assess the changing demand of the local construction industry focusing on the period subsequent to the Asian financial crisis;ii) To review the currently used approaches for modelling construction demand in Hong Kong and other jurisdictions;iii) To examine the factors influencing the demand in various construction sub-sectors in Hong Kong and to unveil their relationships; andiv) To determine the lag effects and sensitivity of local construction demand in various sub-sectors to economic shocks.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Chow L.K. and Ng T.S.T., A fuzzy gap analysis model for evaluating the performance of engineering consultants, Automation in Construction. Amsterdam, Elsevier, 2007, 16(4): 425-435.

 

Chow L.K. and Ng T.S.T., Expectation of performance levels pertinent to consultant performance evaluation, International Journal of Project Management. Exeter, UK, Elsevier Science Ltd., 2007, 25(1): 90-103.

 

Ekambaram P., Ng T.S.T., Kumaraswamy M.M. and Chan W.H.K., Analytic hierarchy process based supplier selection framework for construction contractors, In: Elaine Sivyer, Construction Research Conference of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors - COBRA06 . London, Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors, 2006, 517-524.

 

Ekambaram P., Ng T.S.T. and Kumaraswamy M.M., Client Satisfaction and Quality Management Systems in Contractor Organizations, In: E Mathews, Building and Environment . Elsevier, 2006, 41(11): 1557-1570.

 

Kumaraswamy M.M., Miller C.J., Rahman M.M., Pickernell D.G., Ng T.S.T. and Wong P.Y., Developing web-based tools for Teaching, Training, Learning and Development: the role of Academic Institutions, In: D. Bouchlagem and Guest Editors: D.Dowdie & V. Ahmed, Journal of Architectural Engineering & Design Management, Special Issue on ‘e-Learning in the Built Environment’. London, Earthscan, 2006, 2, issue Nos. 1 and 2: 123-135.

 

Kumaraswamy M.M., Rahman M.M., Miller C.J., Ng T.S.T., Ekambaram P. and Ugwu O.O., Empowering smaller construction enterprises, Proceedings of the BEECON 2006 Conference. 2006, P11, USB Memory Drive, 14 pages.

 

Kumaraswamy M.M., Ekambaram P., Rahman M.M., Ugwu O.O. and Ng T.S.T., Synergising R & D initiatives for e-enhancing management support systems, In: Journal Editors M J Skibniewski and Y E Kalay; Special Issue Editors: Peter E D Love, Francisco Loforte Ribeiro and Charles Egbu, Automation in Construction. Elsevier, 2006, 15(6): 681-692.

 

Lam K.C., Ning X. and Ng T.S.T., Application of the ant colony optimization algorithm to the construction site layout planning problem, Construction Management and Economics. Hampshire, UK, Taylor & Francis Limited, 2007, 25(4): 359-374.

 

Lam P.T.I., Kumaraswamy M.M. and Ng T.S.T., International treatise on construction specification problems from a legal perspective, Journal of Professional Issues in Engineering Education and Practice. New York, American Society of Civil Engineers, 2007, 133(3): 229-237.

 

Mak M.Y. and Ng T.S.T., Feng shui: an alternative framework for complexity in design, In: R. Milford, C. de Jager & D. Sandilands, Proceedings: CIB World Building Conference 2007, May 14-18, Cape Town, South Africa. 2007, 1638-1651.

 

Ng T.S.T. and Luu D.T., A case-based reasoning prototype for construction subcontractor registration, In: B.H.P. Topping, G. Montero & R. Montenegro, Proceedings: International Conference on Engineering Computational Technology, September 12-15, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain. Civil-Comp Press, 2006, 10 pages.

 

Ng T.S.T. and Tse M.H., Critical success factors of private finance initiative project in Hong Kong, In: J. Boon, Proceedings: 11th Congress of PAQS, June 9-13, Auckland, New Zealand. 2007, 10 pages.

 

Ng T.S.T., Editorial Board (2006-2007) , Construction Innovations - Information, Process, Management. London, UK, Arnold, 2006.

 

Ng T.S.T., Editorial Board (2006-2007) , Journal of Building and Construction Management. Hong Kong, Colormax Publication, 2006.

 

Ng T.S.T., Wong J.M.W. and Chan A.P.C., Reinventing the Hong Kong Construction Industry for its Sustainable Development – Interim Report, A report submitted to the Construction Industry Institute – Hong Kong, March. 2007, 98 pages.

 

Ng T.S.T., Saxe-Coburg's Who's Who in Computational Science and Engineering 2005-06, Saxe-Coburg Publication, 2006.

 

Ng T.S.T., Using balanced scorecard for subcontractor performance appraisal, In: E. Lau, Proceedings: FIG Working Week 2007, May 13-17, Kowloon Shangri-la Hotel, HKSAR. 2007, 9 pages.

 

Ugwu O.O., Kumaraswamy M.M. and Ng T.S.T., Measuring Sustainable Performance, In: Caroline Collier & Sandi Rhys-Jones, Construction Information Quarterly. England, Chartered Institute of Building, 2007, 9, issue 1: 28-29.

 

Researcher : Pam HJ

Project Title:

High strength reinforced concrete beam-column joints for Hong Kong practice

Investigator(s):

Pam HJ, Au FTK

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

10/2003

 

Abstract:

To prepare the technical ground works on the behaviour of HSC beam-column joints under simulated earthquake loading for future incorporation of seismic detailing method into the Hong Kong design code; to investigate, through experiments and theoretical analyses, how to improve the ductility performance and ease of construction of HSC beam-column joints; propose a set of rational detailing rules for HSC beam-column joints for use in Hong Kong practice; and investigate the feasibility to carry out strengthening and/or repair of empty beam-column joints.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Su K.L., Lam W.Y. and Pam H.J., A brief summary of parametric study of plate-reinforced composite coupling beams, ANCER (Asian-Pacific Network of Centers for Earthquake Engineering Research) Meeting. 2007.

 

Yang Y., Pam H.J., Kumaraswamy M.M. and Ugwu O.O., Life-cycle Maintenance Management strategies for Bridges in Hong Kong, In: M. Dulaimi, International Conference on Construction Culture, Innovation and Management (CCIM2006). Dubai, UAE, British University in Dubai, 2006, 362-372.

 

Yang Y., Pam H.J., Kumaraswamy M.M. and Ugwu O.O., Life-cycle maintenance management strategies for bridges in Hong Kong, Joint International Conference on Construction Culture, Innovation and Management. 2006.

 

Researcher : Pradhan B

List of Research Outputs

 

Pradhan B., Tham L.G., Yue Q.Z.Q., Junaideen S.M. and Lee C.F., Soil-nail pullout interaction in loose fill materials, International Journal of Geomechanics . 2006, 6(4): 238-247.

 

Researcher : Rahman MM

List of Research Outputs

 

Kumaraswamy M.M., Rahman M.M., Miller C.J., Ng T.S.T., Ekambaram P. and Ugwu O.O., Empowering smaller construction enterprises, Proceedings of the BEECON 2006 Conference. 2006, P11, USB Memory Drive, 14 pages.

 

Kumaraswamy M.M., Ekambaram P., Rahman M.M., Ugwu O.O. and Ng T.S.T., Synergising R & D initiatives for e-enhancing management support systems, In: Journal Editors M J Skibniewski and Y E Kalay; Special Issue Editors: Peter E D Love, Francisco Loforte Ribeiro and Charles Egbu, Automation in Construction. Elsevier, 2006, 15(6): 681-692.

 

Researcher : Siu WH

List of Research Outputs

 

Su K.L. and Siu W.H., Nonlinear response of bolt groups under in-plane loading, Engineering Structures. Oxford, UK, Elsevier, 2007, 29(4): 626-634.

 

Researcher : So TC

List of Research Outputs

 

Yeung A.T., Cheng Y.M., Tham L.G., Au A.S.K., So T.C. and Choi Y.K., Field evaluation of a glass-fiber soil reinforcement system, Journal of Performance of Constructed Facilities. ASCE, 2007, 21(1): 26-34.

 

Yeung A.T., Lee P.K.K., Au A.S.K., So T.C. and Liu Y., 港大土木本科生三軸測試實習, 土力學教育與教學，第一屆全國土力學教學研討會論文集, Beijing, China Communications Press, 2006, 355-357.

 

Researcher : Su KL

Project Title:

Reinforced concrete coupling beams with embedded steel plate

Investigator(s):

Su KL, Pam HJ

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

10/2003

 

Abstract:

To develop a new form of coupling beam which has high performance in both wind and seismic induced loads.

 

Project Title:

Seismic vulnerability model for non-structural components in buildings

Investigator(s):

Su KL

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

11/2003

Completion Date:

12/2006

 

Abstract:

To develop a seismic vulnerability model that provides accurate predictions of the motion that can be experienced by a non-structural (NS) component when damaging behaviour has been initiate by moderate shaking; to validate the NS component model by a combination of dynamic testing and finite element analysis of calibrated computer models.

 

Project Title:

Numerical simulation of non-linear responses of bolt groups.

Investigator(s):

Su KL

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

11/2005

Completion Date:

10/2006

 

Abstract:

A large number of civil infrastructures and buildings around the world are in a state of serious deterioration due to weathering and aging. Moreover, many structures are no longer considered safe due to increased-load specifications in the design codes. In Japan, the vehicle load designed for highway bridges has recently been increased by 25%. Similar situation has occurred in European Union countries, as currently all the major roads and associated structures are required to be upgraded to carry up to 40 tons total axle load which may overload many existing bridges that were built over the last 40 years. In Hong Kong, new seismic code is expected to in forced in year 2010, new loading provisions would be imposed to existing buildings. These new load requirements have put the safety and integrity of many existing structures in question. Reinforced concrete (RC) material is not good in recycling, to reuse the structures and to protect the environment, substantial strengthening, retrofitting, refurbishment or rehabilitation of different structural components are required. Strengthening of existing concrete structures by using bolted external steel plate has recently been attracted much attention [1-4]. The behaviours of the bolt groups that play a key role in the strengthening works need to be thoughtfully studied. In this proposal, the full range of linear and non-linear responses of bolt groups is to be determined by experimental study and numerical simulation. New theory based on varying the position of the point of rotation of the bolt group and hence the bolt forces to balance the applied loads is proposed. New computer program would be developed to verify the theory. Experiments would be conducted to measure the non-linear load-slip relationship of single bolts. Owing to the versatility of the proposed theory, it could cater for different stiffness, load-slip relationships of bolts as well as various loading conditions. The theory is expected to widely use in many different strengthening works. References: [1] M Ahmed, DJ Oehlers, NT Nguyen, MA Bradford (1997) Reinforced concrete beams with steel plates bolted to their sides, Proceedings of the fifth International Conference on Structural Failure, Durability and Retrofitting, Singapore, 27-28 November 1997, 362-369. [2] NK Subedi, PS Baglin (1998) External plate reinforcement for concrete beams, Journal of Structural Engineering, 124(12), 1490-1495. [3] YF Wu, MC Griffith, DJ Oehlers (2003) Improving the strength and ductility of rectangular reinforced concrete columns through composite partial interaction: tests, Journal of Structural Engineering, 129(9), 1183-1190. [4] RKL Su and Y Zhu (2005) Experimental and numerical studies of external steel plate strengthened reinforced concrete coupling beams, Journal of Engineering Structures, 27(10), 1537-1550.

 

Project Title:

Fractal hybrid finite element method for two-dimensional crack analysis

Investigator(s):

Su KL

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

10/2006

 

Abstract:

For cracks in brittle or quasi-brittle materials, such as concrete and graphite, the stress field in the vicinity of the crack tip can be expressed in terms of Williams' stress series. The strength of the stress singularity at the crack tip can be quantified by the first term (the stress intensity factors). The second term in the series, namely T-stress, could affect the size and shape of the crack-tip plastic zone [1-2] and stability of the crack path direction [3-6]. Recently, it was found that the higher-order terms also contribute to the size effect of quasi-brittle materials [7-8]. Thus, accurate determination of the leading coefficients are important in fracture analyses. However, up to now, only limited numerical methods have been developed for the accurate determination of the leading coefficients. Examples are the use of the high-order hybrid element [9], the scaled boundary finite element [10] and the fractal finite element method (FFEM) [11, 12]. It was reported in Refs. [9-11] that accurate determination of the higher order coefficients was much more difficult than that of the SIF. It was found that when full integration is used for the Lagrangian element, the element can become too stiff, leading to locking, and the computation is more expensive for FFEM. When uniform reduced integration (URI) is used to calculate the stiffness matrices, the apparent advantages are its low computational cost and its ability in alleviating various lockings. Unfortunately, elements with stiffness matrices calculated using URI are often plagued by commutable zero energy modes. The unstable behaviour of URI elements in FFEM has hindered its general applications in simulating fracture problems. The objective of this research study is to extend the hybrid stabilization method [13] to suppress the zero energy modes of the URI elements. By combining the hybrid element with FFEM, accurate determination of the higher-order coefficients can be achieved. A new method, namely fractal hybrid element method, will be developed accordingly for advanced fracture analysis. References: [1] Larsson SG., Carlsson AJ., Influence of non-singular stress terms and specimen geometry on small-scale yielding at crack-tips in elastic-plastic materials, Journal of the Mechanics and Physics of Solids 1973;21:263-77. [2] Rice JR., Limitations to the small scale yielding approximation for crack tip plasticity, Journal of the Mechanics and Physics of Solids 1974; 22: 17-26. [3] Cotterell B., Rice JR., Slightly curved or kinked cracks, International Journal of Fracture 1980;16:155-169. [4] Karihaloo BL., Keer LM., Nemat-Nasser S., Oranratnachai A., Approximate description of crack kinking and curving, Journal of Applied Mechanics –Transactions of the ASME 1981;48: 515-19. [5] Melin S., The influence of the T-stress on the directional stability of cracks, International Journal of Fracture 2002;114: 259-65. [6] Fett T., Munz D., T-stress and crack path stability of DCDC specimens, International Journal of Fracture 2003:L165-L70. [7] Dyskin AV. Crack growth criteria incorporating non-singular stresses: size effect in apparent fracture toughness. International Journal of Fracture 1997; 83: 191-206. [8] Karihaloo BL. Size effect in shallow and deep notched quasi-brittle structures. International Journal of Fracture 1999; 95: 379-90. [9] Karihaloo BL., Xiao QZ. Accurate determination of the coefficients of elastic crack tip asymptotic field by a hybrid crack element with p-adaptivity. Engineering Fracture Mechanics 2001; 68: 1609-30. [10] Chidgzey SR., Deeks AJ. Determination of coefficients of crack tip asymptotic fields using the scaled boundary finite element method. Engineering Fracture Mechanics 2005; 72: 2019-36. [11] Su RKL., Feng WJ. Accurate determination of mode I and II leading coefficients of the Williams expansion by finite element analysis. Finite Elements in Analysis and Design 2005; 41: 1175-86. [12] Leung AYT, Dai H, Fok SL and Su RKL, The fractal finite element method for unbounded problems, International Journal for Numerical Methods in Engineering 2004, 61(7), p990-1008. [13] Sze KY., Yi S., Tay MH. An explicit hybrid stabilized eighteen-node solid element for thin shell analysis. International Journal for Numerical Methods in Engineering 1997; 40:1839-56.

 

Project Title:

Strengthening of reinforced concrete coupling beams by bolted external steel plates

Investigator(s):

Su KL, Pam HJ

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

12/2006

 

Abstract:

1 The primary objective of this proposal is to develop a new and original retrofitting method for reinforced concrete (RC) coupling beams by attachment of external steel plates to increase their strength, deformability and energy dissipation ability. Specifically, we intend: a) to conduct an experimental study of full-scale beam specimens under reversed cyclic loads to quantify their structural performance, and to investigate the influences of the span-depth ratio of the beams, type of failure mode (flexural and shear), thickness and arrangement of steel plates. b) to conduct a parametric study using non-linear finite element analysis to supplement the experimental study. Partial-interaction between the external steel plate and RC beams will be properly modelled, internal load transfer mechanism will be displaced and bolt arrangements will be studied. c) to conduct a shear load test of anchor bolts to determine the load-deformation curves that form an essential component in the above-mentioned simulation. Various common anchor bolts including dynamic set bolts (manufactured by Hilti corporation) will be tested.d) to develop a new theory for calculating the full range non-linear response of bolt groups. The theory postulates that the directions of yielded bolt forces depend on the point of rotation of the bolt group. By varying the point of rotation, equilibrium between yielded bolt forces and applied loads is sought in each loading step. e) to develop a design model for determination of the load-carrying capacity of the strengthened beams. The results will be verified by the experimental and numerical results. (7) The study should markedly improve our understanding of steel plate strengthened structures. In the next stage, possible local buckling of steel plates and post-peak behaviour of strengthened beams would be investigated. A theoretical model will be established to determine the displacement capacity of the strengthened beams.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Au F.T.K., Tso K. and Su K.L., Ductility of Partially Prestressed Concrete Structures with External Tendons, Proceedings of International Conference on Bridge Engineering – Challenges in the 21st Century, 1 – 3 November 2006, Hong Kong. Hong Kong, Hong Kong Institution of Engineers, 2006, 12.

 

Feng W. and Su K.L., Dynamic fracture behaviours of cracks in a functionally graded magneto-elastic plate, European Journal of Mechanics A/Solids. Paris, Elsevier, 2007, 26(2): 363-379.

 

Feng W. and Su K.L., Dynamic internal crack problem of a functionally graded mageto-electro-elastic strip, International Journal of Solids and Structures. New York, USA, Elsevier Ltd, 2006, 43: 5196-5216.

 

Law C.W., Cheng Y.M. and Su K.L., Approach for reinforcement design in reinforced concrete structures based on 3-dimensional stress field, Transactions of Hong Kong Institution of Engineers. Hong Kong, The Hong Kong Institution of Engineers, 2007, 14(2): 9-18.

 

Su K.L., Lam W.Y. and Pam H.J., A brief summary of parametric study of plate-reinforced composite coupling beams, ANCER (Asian-Pacific Network of Centers for Earthquake Engineering Research) Meeting. 2007.

 

Su K.L. and Cheng B., A review on retrofitting of reinforced concrete coupling beams by bolted steel plates, Proceedings of the 4th Cross-strait Conference on Structural and Geotechnical Engineering. China, 2007, 498-502.

 

Su K.L., Experimental and Numerical Studies of Plate Reinforced Composite Coupling Beams, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK. 2007.

 

Su K.L., Fractal finite element method for determination of stress intensity factor and T-stress, 7th World Congress on Computational Mechanics, Los Angeles, California, 16 – 22 July 2006. 1.

 

Su K.L. and Siu W.H., Nonlinear response of bolt groups under in-plane loading, Engineering Structures. Oxford, UK, Elsevier, 2007, 29(4): 626-634.

 

Su K.L., Feng W. and Liu J., Transient response of interface cracks between dissimilar magneto-electro-elastic strips under out-of-plane mechanical and in-plane magneto-electrical impact loads, Composite Structures. New York, Elsevier Ltd, 2007, 78(1): 119-128.

 

Tso K., Au F.T.K. and Su K.L., Ductility and deformability of partially prestressed concrete beams with unbonded tendons, Proceedings of Conference on Short and Medium Span Bridges 2006, Montreal, Canada, August 23-25, 2006. Montréal, Canadian Society for Civil Engineering, 11.

 

Zhu Y., Su K.L. and Zhou F., Cursory seismic drift assessment for buildings in moderate seismicity regions, Earthquake Engineering and Engineering Vibration. Beijing, Ke xue chu ban she, 2007, 6(1): 85-97.

 

Researcher : Sze NN

List of Research Outputs

 

Sze N.N. and Wong S.C., Contributory factors to pedestrian injury in road accidents, Paper presented at the Eleventh World Conference on Transport Research, 24-28 June, Berkeley, California, USA.. 2007.

 

Wong S.C., Sze N.N., Yip H.F., Loo B.P.Y., Hung W.T. and Lo H.K., Association between setting quantified road safety targets and road fatality reduction, Accident Analysis and Prevention. New York, Pergamon Press, 2006, 38: 997-1005.

 

Wong S.C., Sze N.N., Yip H.F., Loo B.P.Y., Hung W.T. and Lo H.K., Quantified road safety target and road fatality reduction, 22nd ARRB Conference. Canberra, Australia, 2006.

 

Wong S.C., Sze N.N., Hung W.T., Loo B.P.Y. and Lo H.K., The effects of a traffic guidance scheme for auto-toll lanes on traffic safety at toll plazas, Safety Science. New York, ScienceDirect, 2006, 44: 753-770.

 

Researcher : Tham LG

Project Title:

Field monitoring and modeling of hydrological processes of a hillslope prone to landsliding

Investigator(s):

Tham LG

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

10/2005

 

Abstract:

The primary objective of this project is to enhance our understanding of the hydrological processes of hillslopes that are prone to landslide by: a) To select a suitable hillslope of Hong Kong that is considered to be prone to landslide and to monitor the hydrological processes and the resulting possible movement of the hillslope; b) To conduct field and laboratory tests to obtain the pertinent parameters for predicting the hillslope hydrological processes and ground movement; c) To quantify the effects of bedrock topography, bedrock groundwater, and spatial variability of colluvial thickness on hillslope hydrological processes; d) To examine the spatial-temporal variability of pore pressure at the hillslope based on the monitoring data; e) To examine the influence of antecedent rainfall on hillslope response and the effect of rainfall intensity-durations on hydrological processes; and f) To develop a hydrological model with which the hydrological response can be predicted with due consideration of 3D effects of bedrock topography and spatial variability of colluvial thickness.

 

Project Title:

Landslide induced wave in reservoir district and its effects on dams

Investigator(s):

Tham LG, Au ASK

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

09/2006

 

Abstract:

(1) Purposes of the project : Reservoir created in the upstream of a hydropower station will submerge acres of land. As the change in the hydrological condition could have adverse effects on the slopes along the bank of the reservoir, the slopes may fail and plunge into the reservoir inducing huge waves. These waves will impact on the downstream dam and could damage and (or) overtop the dam, threatening the downstream populations. As the process is very complex, much efforts were made on this field but a survey of the recent literature reveals that most of the studies focused on the initiation of wave by assuming impulses due to the landslide and propagation of the wave. (2) Objectives of the project : To fully understand the mechanics of such hazard, a tool capable of simulating the whole process is necessary. It is on this background that the present project is conceived. In this project, we will address the above-mentioned hazard by developing a numerical model to simulate the process: (1) slope failure and the movement of the sliding body; (2) generation of water wave; (3) propagation of the wave; and (4) the interaction between the dam and the wave. Physical model tests will also be carried out to validate the numerical model. (3) Outcomes of the project : The developed numerical model can serve as a tool in the analysis of water wave induced by landslides in the reservoir district and the effects of such wave on the dams. The information is useful in the design of dams of hydropower stations and the assessment of risk associated with such hazard on human life as well as properties. Therefore, rational land use and development plans can then be formulated. Furthermore, it can be easily extended to analyze other fluid-structure interaction problems.

 

Project Title:

Triaxial compression tests of rock with micro-fracturing for proposed residential development at Ngau Chi Wan

Investigator(s):

Tham LG

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Victor Li & Associates Ltd. - General Award

Start Date:

02/2007

Completion Date:

02/2007

 

Abstract:

To carry out confined triaxial tests based on confining stresses specified by Victor Li & Associates Ltd and prepare a final report summarising the test results.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Chen S., Yue Q.Z.Q. and Tham L.G., Digital image based approach for three-dimensional mechanical analysis of heterogeneous rocks , ROCK MECHANICS AND ROCK ENGINEERING. SACHSENPLATZ 4-6, PO BOX 89, A-1201 WIEN, SPRINGER WIEN, 2007, 40 (2): 145-168.

 

Lee C.F., Lee P.K.K., Tham L.G. and Yue Q.Z.Q., 2006 Research Output Prize in Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, HKU. 2007.

 

Ng A.M.Y., Yeung A.T., Lee P.K.K. and Tham L.G., Design, fabrication, and assembly of a large oedometer, Geotechnical Testing Journal. ASTM, 2006, 29(4): 298-305.

 

Pradhan B., Tham L.G., Yue Q.Z.Q., Junaideen S.M. and Lee C.F., Soil-nail pullout interaction in loose fill materials, International Journal of Geomechanics . 2006, 6(4): 238-247.

 

Wang S.Y., Chan D., Lam K.C., Au A.S.K. and Tham L.G., Soil Improvement Using Compaction Grouting - A Laboratory Investigation On the Confining Pressure And Injection Rate In Completely Decomposed Granite, In: Dave Chan, The 4th International Conference on Soft Soil Engineering, Canada. Canada, 2006, 697-702.

 

Yang J., Tham L.G., Lee P.K.K., Chan S.T. and Yu F., Behaviour of jacked and driven H-piles in sandy soil: Reply, Géotechnique. 2007, 57(5): 475-478.

 

Yang J., Tham L.G., Lee P.K.K., Chan S.T. and Yu F., Research Output Prize in Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, The University of Hong Kong. 2007.

 

Yeung A.T., Kwong A.K.L. and Tham L.G., Advanced instrumentation in civil engineering, Proc., 4th Civil Engineering Conference in the Asian Region. Taipei, 2007.

 

Yeung A.T., Cheng Y.M., Tham L.G., Au A.S.K., So T.C. and Choi Y.K., Field evaluation of a glass-fiber soil reinforcement system, Journal of Performance of Constructed Facilities. ASCE, 2007, 21(1): 26-34.

 

Yeung A.T., Tham L.G., Lee P.K.K., Mok K.Y. and Pei G., Use of inert C&D materials for seawall foundation: Quality control measures, Waste Management. 2007, 27(6): 768-777.

 

Researcher : Thoe W

List of Research Outputs

 

Lee J.H.W., Wang Z., Thoe W. and Cheng D., Integrated physical and ecological management of the East River, Water Science and Technology: Water Supply. 2007, 7(2): 81-91.

 

Researcher : Tian Y

List of Research Outputs

 

Muttil N., Tian Y. and Jayawardena A.W., Comparison of the shuffled complex family of model-calibrating algorithms (Abstract in CD ROM), Proceedings of the Asia Oceania Geosciences Society 3rd Annual Meeting, AOGS 2006, 10-14 July, Singapore. Meeting Matters International-A World Scientific Subsidiary, 2006, 153 (1 pp).

 

Researcher : Tong CO

Project Title:

A stochastic user equilibrium model for a schedule-based transit network with heterogeneous travelers

Investigator(s):

Tong CO, Wong SC

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

09/2002

Completion Date:

08/2006

 

Abstract:

The aim of this project is to develop a dynamic network model to predict the time-varying flow pattern in a congested transit system for the purpose of operation management.

 

Project Title:

A planning tool for multi-modal transportation systems

Investigator(s):

Tong CO, Wong SC

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

12/2003

 

Abstract:

To establish an overall framework for the development of a planning tool for multi-modal transporation systems.

 

Project Title:

A dynamic model of a multimodal transportation system under congestion road pricing

Investigator(s):

Tong CO, Wong SC

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

01/2007

 

Abstract:

1. To develop a dynamic network model that can accurately predict the movements of cars, taxis and buses in a congested network. It has been demonstrated by several researchers that in a congested network, when there is queue formation and spillback of traffic, static models or dynamic models that have no spatial interaction function could not predict traffic conditions accurately and therefore are not suitable tools for evaluating the impacts of road pricing schemes.2. To predict the multi-class, multi-criteria, user equilibrium condition in a dynamic congested road network with road pricing. Under the influence of road pricing, travelers go through an adjustment process. They might change their departure time, mode choice or route choice in order to avoid paying the toll. A new equilibrium point is reached when no traveler can benefit further by changing departure time, mode or route. In this context, maximizing benefit is equivalent to minimizing a generalized cost function consisting of travel cost, travel time and schedule delay components. Surveys could be carried out to measure how people make tradeoffs between travel cost, travel time and schedule delay.3. To predict the impacts of alternative road pricing schemes on taxi operations. Taxis are an important mode of travel in most modern cities. When road pricing is implemented, some schemes exempt taxis while others do not. If taxis are exempt, there might be a high concentration of taxis in congested areas and then the effectiveness of road pricing would be reduced. However, if taxis are not exempt, their revenue might be reduced and taxi services would deteriorate. It is important therefore to be able to accurately assess how different schemes affect the operation of taxis. Prediction of the behavior of vacant taxis is a particularly difficult problem and will be addressed in this study.4. To predict the impacts of alternative road pricing schemes on bus operations. Compared to travel by car or taxi, travel by bus will result in a more economical utilization of road space. However, to attract customers, buses need to operate to a regular and frequent schedule and be competitively priced, which are difficult to achieve when the roads are congested. The impact on bus operations is an important aspect of road pricing strategy evaluation.5. To develop a flexible model that can be used to test and evaluate alternative road pricing strategies. Because of advancements in vehicle detection technologies and auto-toll payment systems, road pricing schemes could become very complex and variable. Apart from cordon tolling systems, there are area-based schemes, with flat or step tolls. Tolls could also be time varying, depending on the congestion level, or differentiating, depending on the vehicle type. For area-based schemes, new minimum path algorithms have to be invented to predict the route choice of travelers.(6) Long-term impact: In order to provide an efficient, effective and sustainable transportation system, many cities are considering using road pricing as an alternative to building more roads. At present, there is no suitable transport model that can accurately predict the impacts of road pricing. This study will develop a planning tool for the testing and assessment of alternative road pricing strategies to be implemented in a multi-modal transportation system.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Fung W.C.S., Tong C.O. and Wong S.C., A multi-criterion multi-class dynamic transit trip assignment model, Paper presented at the Eleventh World Conference on Transport Research, 24-28 June, Berkeley, California, USA.. 2007.

 

Poon M.H., Tong C.O. and Wong S.C., Frequency-based and schedule-based transit modeling approaches: current state, achievements and challenges, Proceedings of the Eleventh International Conference of Hong Kong Society for Transportation Studies, 8-10 December, Hong Kong. Hong Kong, Hong Kong Society for Transportation Studies Ltd., 2006, 727-736.

 

Researcher : Tsang HH

List of Research Outputs

 

Chandler A.M., Lam N.T.K. and Tsang H.H., Near-surface Attenuation Modelling based on Rock Shear-Wave Velocity Profile, Soil Dynamics and Earthquake Engineering. ELSEVIER SCI LTD, 2006, 26: 1004-1014.

 

Chandler A.M., Lam N.T.K. and Tsang H.H., Regional and Local Factors in Attenuation Modelling: Hong Kong Case Study, Journal of Asian Earth Sciences. PERGAMON-ELSEVIER SCIENCE LTD, 2006, 27: 892-906.

 

Tsang H.H., Chandler A.M. and Lam N.T.K., Estimating Nonlinear Site Response by Single Period Approximation, Earthquake Engineering and Structural Dynamics. JOHN WILEY & SONS LTD, 2006, 35: 1053-1076.

 

Tsang H.H., Lam N.T.K. and Lo S.H., Generic The Importance of Crustal Shear Wave Velocity Profile for Ground Motion Modelling, IASME/WSEAS International Conference on Geology and Seismology. 2007.

 

Tsang H.H., Lam N.T.K., Asten M.W. and Lo S.H., Generic Theoretical Formulae for Estimating Site Effects, IASME/WSEAS International Conference on Geology and Seismology. 2007.

 

Tsang H.H., Lam N.T.K. and Lo S.H., Probabilistic Seismic Hazard Assessment without Source Characterization, IASME/WSEAS International Conference on Geology and Seismology. 2007.

 

Tsang H.H. and Lo S.H., Seismic Isolation by Rubber-Soil Mixtures for Developing Countries, Tenth World Conference on Seismic Isolation, Energy Dissipation and Active Vibrations Control of Structures. 2007.

 

Tsang H.H., Chandler A.M. and Lam T.K., Simple Models for Estimating Period Shift and Damping in Soil, Earthquake Engineering and Structural Dynamics . JOHN WILEY & SONS LTD, 2006, 35: 1925-1947.

 

Tsang H.H., Lam N.T.K. and Lo S.H., Site-Dependent Response Spectral Attenuation Modelling: A Case Study of Long Distance Earthquakes Affecting Singapore, IASME/WSEAS International Conference on Geology and Seismology. 2007.

 

Researcher : Tso K

List of Research Outputs

 

Au F.T.K., Tso K. and Su K.L., Ductility of Partially Prestressed Concrete Structures with External Tendons, Proceedings of International Conference on Bridge Engineering – Challenges in the 21st Century, 1 – 3 November 2006, Hong Kong. Hong Kong, Hong Kong Institution of Engineers, 2006, 12.

 

Tso K., Au F.T.K. and Su K.L., Ductility and deformability of partially prestressed concrete beams with unbonded tendons, Proceedings of Conference on Short and Medium Span Bridges 2006, Montreal, Canada, August 23-25, 2006. Montréal, Canadian Society for Civil Engineering, 11.

 

Researcher : Ugwu OO

List of Research Outputs

 

Kumaraswamy M.M., Rahman M.M., Miller C.J., Ng T.S.T., Ekambaram P. and Ugwu O.O., Empowering smaller construction enterprises, Proceedings of the BEECON 2006 Conference. 2006, P11, USB Memory Drive, 14 pages.

 

Kumaraswamy M.M., Ekambaram P., Rahman M.M., Ugwu O.O. and Ng T.S.T., Synergising R & D initiatives for e-enhancing management support systems, In: Journal Editors M J Skibniewski and Y E Kalay; Special Issue Editors: Peter E D Love, Francisco Loforte Ribeiro and Charles Egbu, Automation in Construction. Elsevier, 2006, 15(6): 681-692.

 

Yang Y., Pam H.J., Kumaraswamy M.M. and Ugwu O.O., Life-cycle maintenance management strategies for bridges in Hong Kong, Joint International Conference on Construction Culture, Innovation and Management. 2006.

 

Researcher : Wan KM

List of Research Outputs

 

Wan K.M., Liu T.C.D. and Kumaraswamy M.M., Adoption of Just-In-Time philosophy in E&M industry to facilitate lean construction, ANQ Congress 2006. Singapore, Quality Institute, IM3-1 to IM3-8.

 

Wan K.M., Liu T.C.D. and Kumaraswamy M.M., Adoption of mistake-proofing skills to improve construction quality and safety in infrastructure development, 2006 Mainland and Hong Kong Conference on "Urban Infrastructure Development and Construction Market Regulation". Urumqi, China, The Ministry of Construction, China, 2006, 2: II-43 to II-51.

 

Researcher : Wang X

List of Research Outputs

 

Chen W., Wang X., Li X.Y. and Koenig A., Effect of the liquid-phase property of the sludge mixture in a membrane bioreactor (MBR) on membrane fouling, IWA Conference, 4th International Conference on Membranes for Water and Wastewater Treatment, Harrogate, UK. Harrogate, UK, 2007.

 

Wang X., Li X.Y. and Huang X., Membrane fouling in a submerged membrane bioreactor (SMBR): characterisation of the sludge cake and its high filtration resistance, Separation and Purification Technology. 2007, 52: 439-445.

 

Researcher : Wang Y

List of Research Outputs

 

Wang Y., Li X.Y. and Lee J.H.W., Influence of the biomass content in sediment on the sediment nutrient flux for a pulsed organic load, 5th International Conference on Marine Pollution and Ecotoxicology, Hong Kong. Hong Kong, 2007.

 

Wang Y., Li X.Y. and Lee J.H.W., Modelling of the sediment oxygen demand and organic flux for a pulsed sediment organic load, Water Science and Technology. London, U.K., 2006, 54(11-12): 85-92.

 

Wang Y., Li X.Y. and Lee J.H.W., Modelling of the sediment oxygen demand and organic flux for a pulsed sediment organic load, World Congress of the International Water, Beijing, China, September. 2006.

 

Xu X., Wang Y. and Li X.Y., Sorption behavior of bisphenol A on marine sediments, SETAC Asia/Pacific 2006 Conference. 2006.

 

Researcher : Wang Y

List of Research Outputs

 

Wang Y., Li X.Y. and Lee J.H.W., Influence of the biomass content in sediment on the sediment nutrient flux for a pulsed organic load, 5th International Conference on Marine Pollution and Ecotoxicology, Hong Kong. Hong Kong, 2007.

 

Wang Y., Li X.Y. and Lee J.H.W., Modelling of the sediment oxygen demand and organic flux for a pulsed sediment organic load, Water Science and Technology. London, U.K., 2006, 54(11-12): 85-92.

 

Wang Y., Li X.Y. and Lee J.H.W., Modelling of the sediment oxygen demand and organic flux for a pulsed sediment organic load, World Congress of the International Water, Beijing, China, September. 2006.

 

Xu X., Wang Y. and Li X.Y., Sorption behavior of bisphenol A on marine sediments, SETAC Asia/Pacific 2006 Conference. 2006.

 

Researcher : Wang Z

List of Research Outputs

 

Lee J.H.W., Wang Z., Thoe W. and Cheng D., Integrated physical and ecological management of the East River, Water Science and Technology: Water Supply. 2007, 7(2): 81-91.

 

Researcher : Wong CKC

List of Research Outputs

 

Lee J.H.W., Yu D., Wong C.K.C. and Choi D.K.W., Drainage Improvement in Northern Hong Kong Island Hong Kong West Tunnel and Lower Catchment Improvement – Investigation: Additional Model Testing of Intake Model – Bottom Rack Testing, The University of Hong Kong, (Technical report to Drainage Services Department, HKSAR Government). 2007.

 

Lee J.H.W., Yu D., Wong C.K.C. and Choi D.K.W., Drainage Improvement in Northern Hong Kong Island Hong Kong West Tunnel and Lower Catchment Improvement – Investigation: Additional Model Testing of Intake Model – Lateral Inflow Structure, The University of Hong Kong, (Technical report to Drainage Services Department, HKSAR Government). 2007.

 

Lee J.H.W., Yu D. and Wong C.K.C., Physical Hydraulic Model Tests for Lai Chi Kok Transfer Scheme – Intake Structure: Variation Order 1, Department of Civil Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, (Technical report to Drainage Services Department, HKSAR Government). 2007.

 

Lee J.H.W., Yu D., Choi D.K.W. and Wong C.K.C., Physical model study for Smithfield flooding, Final Report to Drainage Services Department, HKSAR Government, July . 2006, 54 pp.

 

Researcher : Wong JMW

List of Research Outputs

 

Ng T.S.T., Wong J.M.W. and Chan A.P.C., Reinventing the Hong Kong Construction Industry for its Sustainable Development – Interim Report, A report submitted to the Construction Industry Institute – Hong Kong, March. 2007, 98 pages.

 

Researcher : Wong KTM

List of Research Outputs

 

Wong K.T.M., Lee J.H.W. and Hodgkiss I.J., A simple model for forecast of coastal algal blooms, Estuarine, Coastal and Shelf Science. 2007, 74: 175-196.

 

Wong K.T.M. and Lee J.H.W., Cell quota based algal dynamics model using a deterministic Lagrangian particle method , Proceedings of the 7th International Conference on Hydroinformatics HIC 2006, Nice, France, September . 2006, 534-541.

 

Wong K.T.M. and Lee J.H.W., Forecasting of environmental risk maps of harmful algal blooms in semi-enclosed coastal waters (invited lecture) , Proceedings of the Second International Conference on Estuaries and Coasts, Guangzhou, China, November 28-30. 2006, 1: 103-111.

 

Researcher : Wong PY

List of Research Outputs

 

Kumaraswamy M.M., Miller C.J., Rahman M.M., Pickernell D.G., Ng T.S.T. and Wong P.Y., Developing web-based tools for Teaching, Training, Learning and Development: the role of Academic Institutions, In: D. Bouchlagem and Guest Editors: D.Dowdie & V. Ahmed, Journal of Architectural Engineering & Design Management, Special Issue on ‘e-Learning in the Built Environment’. London, Earthscan, 2006, 2, issue Nos. 1 and 2: 123-135.

 

Researcher : Wong SC

Project Title:

Planning of a land use and transportation system with multiple market segments

Investigator(s):

Wong SC, Choi YL, Tong CO

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

12/2003

 

Abstract:

To develop an integrated model and an efficient solution algorithm for land use and transportation systems; to formulate an optimization procedure for the planning of the land use and transportation systems.

 

Project Title:

Observational before-and-after study methodology for road safety measures

Investigator(s):

Wong SC

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research

Start Date:

01/2005

Completion Date:

12/2006

 

Abstract:

It is now well recognized that road safety is a public health problem. Road safety was the theme of World Health Day 2004, on which hundreds of organizations around the globe hosted events to help raise awareness about road traffic injuries, their grave consequences, and enormous costs to society. This addresses the fact that road traffic accidents are among the eight leading causes of death worldwide. Each year, around one million people die in traffic accidents. In Hong Kong, a major traffic incident involving a container truck and a double-decked bus occurred on 10 July 2003 on Tuen Mun Road, resulting 21 fatalities and 20 injuries. In response to this incident, the Chief Executive appointed an Independent Expert Panel, of which the investigator was one of the three members, to examine and make recommendations on road safety measures for improving road safety. This has led to a publication of the “Report on Enhancement of Highway Safety”, in which a number of road safety measures were proposed. Many of these measures are currently being seriously considered, and will be put on trial or implemented soon. In addition to these measures that are mainly for high speed highways, other road safety measures in urban environment have also been implemented in the past few years or will be implemented in the distant future. It is essential to develop a methodology that can help evaluate the effectiveness of these road safety measures in reducing road traffic accidents and casualties. This project aims to develop an observational before-and-after study methodology to evaluate the safety performance of road safety measures, and use the road safety schemes that will be implemented in Hong Kong as case studies to demonstrate the usefulness of this methodology and more importantly the effectiveness of these schemes in reducing traffic accidents and casualties.

 

Project Title:

Cordon-based congestion pricing in a continuum traffic equilibrium system

Investigator(s):

Wong SC, Hau TD

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

01/2005

 

Abstract:

To develop a continuum traffic equilibrium model with multiple central business districts and multiple user classes; to derive the first-best congestion charging scheme for this continuum traffic equilibrium system, which forms a benchmark for the second-best congestion charging schemes to be determined; to formulate the cordon-based second-best congestion charging scheme for the continuum traffic equilibrium system.

 

Project Title:

A multi-period lane-based optimization method for signalized network with explicit consideration of spatial queues

Investigator(s):

Wong SC

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

01/2006

 

Abstract:

The main objectives of this project are: 1. An extension of the lane-based optimization method to network analysis by incorporating a traffic model that can encapsulate the spatial queue propagation; and 2. Consideration of multi-period analysis in which a unique set of reliable lane markings that work well with different traffic patterns in different periods can be obtained.

 

Project Title:

Dynamic macroscopic modeling of pedestrian flows

Investigator(s):

Wong SC

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

01/2007

 

Abstract:

Purpose of proposed investigation: Walking facilities are important components of transportation systems. For instance, about one-quarter of the total number of journeys and the majority of short trips less than a mile in length are made on foot in the U.K. Hong Kong is a densely populated city with about seven million people. The residential density is as high as forty thousand people per square kilometers of developed land, which results in tremendous pressure on its walking facilities. A high intensity of pedestrian activities is common in Hong Kong walking facilities such as major public transportation terminals and pedestrian crossings at busy junctions. Therefore, the effective and efficient planning and design of walking facilities are of paramount importance to sustain this environmentally friendly mode of transportation, which helps to reduce the pressure on the motorized transportation system, especially for short trips, and to improve the quality of life. Key issues and problems: The modeling of pedestrian behavior and interactions within the walking facilities and the development of efficient solution procedures are essential for the development of a useful tool to facilitate the planning and design of those facilities. Pedestrian demand is highly dynamic, and is affected by many operational factors and physical constraints of the transportation system. It is essential to develop a model that can capture this characteristic. As a pedestrian can freely move in the two-dimensional domain of the walking facility, it will be promising to adopt the continuum modeling technique, which provides the maximum flexibility in describing the pedestrian’s movement trajectory. Moreover, in many applications, pedestrians respond to the traffic condition in the system in a reactive manner, and change their routes promptly to minimize their instantaneous travel cost while walking through the facility in response to the conditions ahead of them.Objective 1: The first objective will be to develop a dynamic macroscopic pedestrian flow model in the context of reactive dynamic user equilibrium, which can capture the behavior and interactions of pedestrians in the walking facility.Objective 2: TThe second objective will be to develop efficient numerical schemes to solve the dynamic macroscopic model. Relevance, significance and value: This research will help in the understanding of the behavior and interactions of pedestrians in walking facilities in the dynamic paradigm. The pedestrian model and numerical procedures will provide a useful tool for the planning and design of walking facilities. The results will help to visualize the evolution of the level-of-service of the walking facility, and report the movement trajectories of pedestrians and their interactions within the walking facility, which will be useful for the evaluation of the effectiveness of facility design, and the identification of critical locations that needs special attention.

 

Project Title:

Optimization theory and technology

Investigator(s):

Wong SC

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Matching Fund for NSFC Young Researcher Award

Start Date:

01/2007

Completion Date:

12/2009

 

Abstract:

To study optimization theory and technology.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Chen A., Chootinan P. and Wong S.C., Link overload minimization verus reserve capacity maximization in the network design problem, Proceedings of the Eleventh International Conference of Hong Kong Society for Transportation Studies, 8-10 December, Hong Kong. Hong Kong, Hong Kong Society for Transportation Studies Ltd., 2006, 205-214.

 

Chen A., Chootinan P. and Wong S.C., New reserve capacity model of signal-controlled road network, Transportation Research Record. Washington D.C., USA, Transportation Research Board, 2006, 1964: 35-41.

 

Chen W., Wong S.C. and Shu C.W., Efficient evaluation of the measure of effectiveness for LWR traffic flow model on a homogeneous highway, Paper presented at the 86th TRB Annual Meeting. Washington D.C., U.S.A., 2007.

 

Fung W.C.S., Tong C.O. and Wong S.C., A multi-criterion multi-class dynamic transit trip assignment model, Paper presented at the Eleventh World Conference on Transport Research, 24-28 June, Berkeley, California, USA.. 2007.

 

Ho H.W. and Wong S.C., A review of the two-dimensional continuum modeling approach to transportation problems, Journal of Transportation Systems Engineering and Information Technology. Beijing, China, Ke xue chu ban she, 2006, 6: 53-72.

 

Ho H.W., Wong S.C. and Loo B.P.Y., Combined distribution and assignment model for a continuum traffic equilibrium problem with multiple user classes, Transportation Research Part B. Great Britain, Elsevier Science Ltd., 2006, 40: 633-650.

 

Ho H.W., Wong S.C. and Hau T.D., Existence and uniqueness of a solution for the multi-class user equilibrium problem in a continuum transportation system, Transportmetrica. Hong Kong, Hong Kong Society for Transportation Studies Ltd., 2007, 3: 107-117.

 

Lam W.H.K., Li Z.C., Wong S.C. and Zhu D.L., Modeling an elastic-demand bimodal transport network with park-and-ride trips, Tsinghua Science and Technology. Beijing, China, Tsinghua University, 2007, 12: 158-166.

 

Li Z.C., Huang H.J., Lam W.H.K. and Wong S.C., A model for evaluation of transport policies in multimodal networks with road and parking capacity constraints, Journal of Mathematical Modelling and Algorithms. Dordrecht, Netherlands, Kluwer, 2007, 6: 239-257.

 

Li Z.C., Lam W.H.K., Wong S.C., Zhu D.L. and Huang H.J., Modeling park-and-ride services in a multimodal transport network with elastic demand, Paper presented at the 86th TRB Annual Meeting. Washington D.C., U.S.A., 2007.

 

Li Z.C., Lam W.H.K., Wong S.C. and Zhu D.L., Modeling travel choice problems in a multimodal elastic demand transportation network with park-and-ride trips, Proceedings of the Eleventh International Conference of Hong Kong Society for Transportation Studies, 8-10 December, Hong Kong. Hong Kong, Hong Kong Society for Transportation Studies Ltd., 2006, 195-204.

 

Li Z.C., Huang H.J., Lam W.H.K. and Wong S.C., Optimization of time-varying parking charges and parking supply in networks with multiple user classes and multiple parking facilities, Tsinghua Science and Technology. Beijing, China, Tsinghua University, 2007, 12: 167-177.

 

Loo B.P.Y., Wong S.C., Hung W.T. and Lo H.K., A review of the road safety strategy in Hong Kong, Journal of Advanced Transportation. Canada, Institute for Transportation, 2007, 41: 3-37.

 

Loo B.P.Y., Wong S.C. and Hau T.D., Introducing Alternative Fuel Vehicles In Hong Kong: Views From The Public Light Bus Industry, Transportation. Springer, 2006, 33, no. 6: 605-619.

 

Poon M.H., Tong C.O. and Wong S.C., Frequency-based and schedule-based transit modeling approaches: current state, achievements and challenges, Proceedings of the Eleventh International Conference of Hong Kong Society for Transportation Studies, 8-10 December, Hong Kong. Hong Kong, Hong Kong Society for Transportation Studies Ltd., 2006, 727-736.

 

Sze N.N. and Wong S.C., Contributory factors to pedestrian injury in road accidents, Paper presented at the Eleventh World Conference on Transport Research, 24-28 June, Berkeley, California, USA.. 2007.

 

Tang T.Q., Huang H.J., Wong S.C. and Xu X.Y., A new overtaking model and numerical tests, Physica A. New York, ScienceDirect, 2007, 376: 649-657.

 

Tang T.Q., Huang H.J., Wong S.C. and Jiang R., Lane changing analysis for two-lane traffic flow, Acta Mechanica Sinica. Berlin, Springer Verlag, 2007, 23: 49-54.

 

Wong C.K., Wong S.C. and Lo H.K., A spatial queuing approach to optimize coordinated signal settings to obviate gridlock in adjacent work zones, Second International Conference on Transport and Logistics Systems. Colombo, Sir Lanka, 2006.

 

Wong K.I., Wong S.C., Yang H. and Wu J.H., Modeling urban taxi services with multiple user classes and vehicle modes, Paper presented at the Eleventh World Conference on Transport Research, 24-28 June, Berkeley, California, USA.. 2007.

 

Wong S.C., Du Y.C. and Sun L.J., A multi-commodity discrete/continuous model for a traffic equilibrium system, Paper presented at the Eleventh World Conference on Transport Research, 24-28 June, Berkeley, California, USA.. 2007.

 

Wong S.C., Associate Editor, IEEE Transactions on Intelligent Transportation Systems. N.J., U.S.A., IEEE, 2006.

 

Wong S.C., Associate Editor, Journal of Advanced Transportation. Calgary, Canada, Institute for Transportation, 2006.

 

Wong S.C., Sze N.N., Yip H.F., Loo B.P.Y., Hung W.T. and Lo H.K., Association between setting quantified road safety targets and road fatality reduction, Accident Analysis and Prevention. New York, Pergamon Press, 2006, 38: 997-1005.

 

Wong S.C., Editor, Transportmetrica. Hong Kong, Hong Kong Society for Transportation Studies, 2006.

 

Wong S.C., Editorial Board, ASCE Journal of Urban Planning and Development. New York, ASCE, 2006.

 

Wong S.C., Editorial Board, Journal of Intelligent Transportation Systems. Philadelphia, Taylor and Francis, Inc., 2006.

 

Wong S.C., Editorial Board, Journal of Transportation Systems Engineering and Information Technology. Beijing, Science Press, 2006.

 

Wong S.C., Editorial Board, Transportation Research Part B. New York, Pergamon Press, 2006.

 

Wong S.C. and Bandara J...M...S...J..., Guest Editor, Special Issue: Road safety, Journal of Advanced Transportation. Canada, Institute for Transportation, 2007, 41: 1-114.

 

Wong S.C., Lane-based optimization of signal settings for traffic equilibrium networks, Keynote speaker at the CAI Symposium 2007 on Intelligent Facility Management and Intelligent Transport, 28 March 2007, Hong Kong.. Hong Kong, The Hong Kong Institution of Engineers, 2007.

 

Wong S.C., Sze N.N., Yip H.F., Loo B.P.Y., Hung W.T. and Lo H.K., Quantified road safety target and road fatality reduction, 22nd ARRB Conference. Canberra, Australia, 2006.

 

Wong S.C., Du Y.C., Sun L.J. and Loo B.P.Y., Sensitivity Analysis for a Continuum Traffic Equilibrium Problem, Annals of Regional Science. Berlin/Heidelberg, Springer, 2006, 40: 493-514.

 

Wong S.C., Sze N.N., Hung W.T., Loo B.P.Y. and Lo H.K., The effects of a traffic guidance scheme for auto-toll lanes on traffic safety at toll plazas, Safety Science. New York, ScienceDirect, 2006, 44: 753-770.

 

Yim K.W., Wong S.C., Chen A. and Wong C.K., A reliability-based land use and transportation optimization model, In: Seungil Lee and Seungjae Lee, Invited presentation at the International Seminar on Land Use and Transportation, 16 March 2007. Seoul, Korea, The Unviersity of Seoul.

 

Zhang P. and Wong S.C., Essence of conservation forms in the traveling wave solutions of higher-order traffic flow models, Physical Review E. College Park, MD, American Physical Society, 2006, 74: 026109.

 

Researcher : Wu Y

List of Research Outputs

 

Chen J., Sivakumar B., Cheng D. and Wu Y., Effects of urbanization various land use changes and on regional climate changes over the Pearl River Delta in South China, Western Pacific Geophysics Meeting. 2006.

 

Researcher : Xiao F

List of Research Outputs

 

Li X.Y., Xiao F. and Lam K.M., Investigation of the hydrodynamic behaviour of marine aggregates using particle image velocimetry (PIV), International Workshop on Marine Aggregates (IWOMA), Max Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology, Bremen, Germany, December. 2006.

 

Researcher : Xie Z

List of Research Outputs

 

Xie Z., Li X.Y. and Chan G.K.Y., Nitrogen removal from the saline sludge liquor by electrochemical denitrification, Water Science and Technology. London, U.K., International Water Association, 2006, 54(8): 171-179.

 

Xie Z., Li X.Y. and Chan G.K.Y., Nitrogen removal from the saline sludge liquor by electrochemical denitrification, World Congress of the International Water Association, Beijing, China, September. Beijing, China, 2006.

 

Researcher : Xu X

Project Title:

Removal of Chromium(VI) from Wastewater using the Food Industrial Waste as a Biosorbent

Investigator(s):

Xu X, Li XY

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

11/2006

 

Abstract:

- Objectives:To find a more economic and highly effective biosorbent from food industry wastes such as fish scales, for the removal of Cr(VI) from wastewater discharge. That is, wastewater containing toxic Cr(VI) will be treated using another waste material.(1) To evaluate the adsorption capacity of several kinds of fish scales for Cr(VI);(2) To investigate the effects of pH, particle size and adsorbent dosage on the adsorption bahavior;(3) To study the adsorption isotherm, kinetics and mechanism; (4) To operate the biosorption process in a continueous flow packed column.- Key issues and problem:The widespread use of chromium has engendered it a serious environmental pollutant in air, soil and water. Both chromate and dichromate are mutagenic and carcinogenic to humans, animals, plants and microorganisms. Consequently, strict environmental regulations on the discharge of Cr(VI) make it necessary to develop various efficient technologies for its removal. Several techniques have been proposed for the removal of Cr(VI) from industrial wastewater effulents. These include chemical precipitation, ion exchange, membrane separation and reduction (Xu et al., 2005). Although the effectiveness of these methods has been demonstrated, they suffer from a major drawback, namely lack of cost-effectiveness (Xu et al., 2006).Biosorption has been considered as a promising technology for the removal of toxic heavy metals from wastewater. Compared with conventional methods, the biosorption process offers advantages of low operating cost, minimization of the chemical and/or biological sludge to be disposed of, high efficiency in detoxifying very dilute effluents, and no nutrient (Kratochvil and Volesky, 1998). For example, the skin of animal and modified collagen fiber have been used as biosorbents for the removal of chromium(VI), fluoride and UO2[2+] from wastewater (Fathima et al., 2005; Liao et al., 2004; Liao and Shi, 2005). This has prompted us to hypothesize that other biomasses containing collagen can also be used as biosorbents for removal of chromium(VI) from wastewater.Fish scales are waste from food industry, and produced in great amount in many places, such as Hong Kong. Because fish scales contain plenty of collagen, it may be used as a biosorbent for the removal of heavy metals. In the literature, fish scales have been used for the removal of heavy metal cations, such as lead and cobalt (Basu et al., 2006). However, no paper has been published on the removal of Cr(VI) by adsorption of fish scales. The collagen contains carboxyl groups capable of coordinately binding with transition metal cations. For the removal of chromium(VI), the adsorbent has to be modified so as to enable it to bind with the anionic chromium(VI). The present project is proposed to investigate biosorption of chromium(VI) on modified fish scales.References:Fathima N.N., Aravindhan R., Rao J.R. and Nair B.U. (2005) Solid waste removes toxic liquid waste: adsorption of chromium (VI) by iron complexed protein waste. Environmental Science & Technology 39: 2804-2810.Kratochvil D. and Volesky B. (1998) Advances in the biosorption of heavy metals. Trends in Biotechnology 16: 291-300.Liao X.P., Lu Z.B., Du X., Liu X. and Shi B. (2004) Collagen fiber immobilized myrica rubra tannin and its adsorption to UO2[2+]. Environmental Science & Technology 38: 324-328.Liao X.P. and Shi B. (2005) Adsorption of fluoride on Zirconium(IV)-impregnated collagen fiber. Environmental Science & Technology 39: 4628-4632.Basu A., Mustafiz S., Islam M.R., Bjorndalen N., Rahaman M.S. and chaalal O. (2006) A comprehensive approach for modeling sorption of lead and cobalt ions through fish scales as an adsorbent. Chemical Engineering Communications 193: 580-605.Xu X.R., Li H.B., Gu J.D. and Li X.Y. (2005) Kinetics of the reduction of chromium(VI) by vitamin C. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry 24: 1310-1314Xu X.R., Li H.B. and Gu J.D. (2006) Simultaneous decontamination of hexavalent chromium and methyl tert-butyl ether by UV/TiO2 process. Chemosphere 63: 254-260.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Xu X. and Li X.Y., Adorption behavior of dibutyl phthalate on marine sediments, 5th International Conference on Marine Pollution and Ecotoxicology, Hong Kong. 2007.

 

Xu X., Li H., Gu J. and Li X.Y., Degradation of n-butyl benzyl phthalate by a pure Bacterial culture from mangrove sediment, Journal of Hazardous Materials . PO BOX 211, 1000 AE AMSTERDAM, NETHERLAN, ELSEVIER SCIENCE, 2007, 140: 194-199.

 

Xu X., Wang Y. and Li X.Y., Sorption behavior of bisphenol A on marine sediments, SETAC Asia/Pacific 2006 Conference. 2006.

 

Researcher : Yan X

List of Research Outputs

 

Yang J. and Yan X., Ground response analysis using a matrix formulation, Proceedings of the 4th International Conference on Earthquake Geotechnical Engineering, Thessaloniki, Greece. 2007.

 

Researcher : Yang J

Project Title:

Vertical seismic site response and its effect on retaining structures

Investigator(s):

Yang J, Lee CF

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

01/2005

 

Abstract:

To investigate the effect of vertical ground motion on soil response and on the seismic behaviour of earth retaining structures.

 

Project Title:

Load settlement behaviour of piles in sandy soils

Investigator(s):

Yang J

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Germany/Hong Kong Joint Research Scheme

Start Date:

01/2005

 

Abstract:

To investigate the general load settlement behaviour of piles in sands, which is identified as being an area of uncertainty and hence an area of challenge in foundation engineering.

 

Project Title:

Identification of Dynamic Soil-Structure Interaction Effects on Soil Liquefaction

Investigator(s):

Yang J, Li XS

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

01/2006

 

Abstract:

The main objectives of this project are: (a) to investigate dynamic SSI effects on soil liquefaction by means of physical modeling, numerical simulations and case history analyses. (b) to provide a body of physical data on soil-structure interaction at liquefiable sites, and improve understanding of the mechanisms involved in the process.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Di Y., Yang J. and Sato T., An operator-split ALE model for large deformation analysis of geomaterials, International Journal for Numerical and Analytical Methods in Geomechanics. 2007, DOI: 10.1002/nag.601: 31p.

 

Li J., Yang J. and Lin G., A stepwise damping-solvent extraction method for large-scale dynamic soil-structure interaction analysis in time domain, International Journal for Numerical and Analytical Methods in Geomechanics. 2007, DOI: 10.1002/nag.631: 22p.

 

Mu F., Yang J. and Lee P.K.K., State-dependent strength of sand and its effect on pile end bearing capacity, Proceedings of the 4th Cross-strait Conference on Structural and Geotechnical Engineering, Hangzhou. 2007.

 

Yang J., Li J. and Lin G., A simple approach to integration of acceleration data for dynamic soil-structure interaction analysis, Soil Dynamics and Earthquake Engineering . Elsevier, 2006, 26(8): 725-734.

 

Yang J., Tham L.G., Lee P.K.K., Chan S.T. and Yu F., Behaviour of jacked and driven H-piles in sandy soil: Reply, Géotechnique. 2007, 57(5): 475-478.

 

Yang J. and Lung W.H., Design of retaining walls considering vertical ground acceleration, Proceedings of the 4th International Conference on Earthquake Geotechnical Engineering, Thessaloniki, Greece. 2007.

 

Yang J., End bearing capacity and tip settlement of piles in sandy soil, Lecture at Technical University of Berlin. 2006.

 

Yang J., Field study of the behavior of jacked piles in Hong Kong, Lecture at Shanghai Jiaotong University. 2007.

 

Yang J. and Yan X., Ground response analysis using a matrix formulation, Proceedings of the 4th International Conference on Earthquake Geotechnical Engineering, Thessaloniki, Greece. 2007.

 

Yang J., Influence zone for end bearing of piles in sand, Journal of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering, ASCE. 2006, 132: 1229-1237.

 

Yang J., Tham L.G., Lee P.K.K., Chan S.T. and Yu F., Research Output Prize in Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, The University of Hong Kong. 2007.

 

Yang J., Saturation effects of shallow soils on vertical ground motion, Lecture at East China Jiaotong University. 2006.

 

Yang J., Saturation effects of shallow soils on vertical ground motion, Lecture at Nanchang University. 2006.

 

Yang Z., Yang J. and Li X.S., Modelling of anisotropy effects in granular soils, Proceedings of International Workshop on Constitutive Modelling-Development, Implementation, Evaluation, and Application, Hong Kong. 2007, 459-467.

 

Yang Z., Li X.S. and Yang J., Undrained anisotropy and rotational shear in granular soil, Géotechnique. 2007, 57(4): 371-384.

 

Researcher : Yang S

Project Title:

The influence of feeding conditions on the formation and properties of aerobic granules in biological wastewater treatment

Investigator(s):

Yang S, Li XY

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

10/2006

 

Abstract:

- Objectives:(1) To evaluate the formation of aerobic sludge granules under different feeding conditions;(2) To characterize the properties of the aerobic granules developed under different conditions;(3) To investigate the effect of feeding substrates on the granulation process and the properties of the granules.- Key issues and problems:Aerobic sludge granulation is a new technology in the field of biological wastewater treatment (Beun et al., 1999; Tay et al., 2001; Tay et al., 2002; Yang et al., 2005). Compared to the biomass flocs used in the conventional activated sludge process, aerobic granular sludge features a number of advantages such as a denser and stronger microbial structure, better settling ability, higher biomass retention, and a much improved capability to withstand high organic loading (Beun, 1999; Peng et al., 1999; Tay et al., 2001; Moy et al., 2002). An aerobic granular sludge system also is much easier to startup comparing to an anaerobic granular sludge system. From an engineering and economic point of view, aerobic granular sludge is a promising process that would lead the next generation of biological wastewater treatment technologies.The size of aerobic granules varies from 0.2 to 9 mm (Peng et al., 1999; Tay et al., 2001; Pan, 2003), depending on the feeding and operational conditions. Large granules frequently encounter a disintegration and breakage problem, due to the decay of microorganisms inside the granules (Arrojo et al., 2004). Thus, denser and relatively smaller aerobic granules are more desirable. Our recent laboratory study suggests that the feeding condition could affect the size and other properties of the sludge granules. From microscopic observation, large but loose aerobic granules were formed when glucose was fed as the sole carbon source without pH control in the reactor. However, when NaHCO3 was used to adjust the influent pH to 8.0-8.5, smaller and densely-compacted granules were developed. This phenomenon may suggest an effective method to manipulate the size and properties of sludge granules in bioreactors, which however has not been previously reported in the literature. The regulation of feeding substrates on the sludge granulation process can be an interesting and important research topic. The present project is proposed to investigate the influence of feeding conditions on the formation of aerobic granules and their properties.References:Arrojo P., Mosquera-Corral A., Garrido J.M. and Mendez R.R. (2004) Aerobic granulation with industrial wastewater in sequencing batch reactors. Water Res. 38: 3389-3399.Beun J. J., Hendriks A., van Loosdrecht M. C. M,. Morgenroth E., Wilderer P.A., and Heijnen J. J. (1999). Aerobic granulation in a sequencing batch reactor. Water Res. 33: 2283-2290.Moy B.Y.P., Tay J.H., Toh S. K., Liu Y., and Tay S. T. L. (2002). High organic loading influences the physical characteristics of aerobic granules. Lett. Appl. Microbiol. 34: 407-412. Peng D., Bernet N., Delgenes J. P. and Moletta R. (1999). Aerobic granular sludge - a case study. Water Res. 33: 890-893.Pan S. (2003) Inoculation of microbial granular sludge under aerobic conditions. PhD thesis, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore.Tay J.H., Liu Q. S., and Liu Y. (2001). The effects of shear force on the formation, structure and metabolism of aerobic granules. Appl. Microbiol. Biotechnol. 57: 227-233.Tay J.H., Yang S.F. and Liu Y. (2002) Hydraulic selection pressure-induced nitrifying granulation in sequencing batch reactors. Appl. Microbiol. Biotechnol. 52: 332-337.Yang S.F., Tay J.H. and Liu Y. (2005) Effect of substrate nitrogen/chemical oxygen demand ratio on the formation of aerobic granules. J. Environ. Eng.-ASCE 131: 86-92.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Li X.Y. and Yang S., Influence of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) on The flocculation, sedimentation and dewaterability of activated sludge, Water Research. elsevier, 2007, 41: 1022-1030.

 

Liu Y., Qin L. and Yang S., Chapter 2. Fundamentals Of Biological Nitrogen And Phosphorus Removal by Shu-fang Yang, Lei Qin, Yu Liu chapter 3. Characteristics Of Aerobic Granules Developed At Different Substrate N/cod Ratios chapter 4. Microbial Diversity Of Aerobic Granules Develoepd At Different Substrate N/cod Ratios chapter 5. Elemental Composition Of Aerobic Granules Developed At Different Substrate N/cod Ratios chapter 6. Effect Of Do And Mixing On Removal Of Organics And Nitrogen By Aerobic Granules chapter 11. The Latest Development In Microbial Granulation Technology For Nutrient Removal , Microbial Granulation Technology for Nutrient Removal from Wastewater. Nova publisher, 2007.

 

Researcher : Yang Y

List of Research Outputs

 

Yang Y., Pam H.J., Kumaraswamy M.M. and Ugwu O.O., Life-cycle Maintenance Management strategies for Bridges in Hong Kong, In: M. Dulaimi, International Conference on Construction Culture, Innovation and Management (CCIM2006). Dubai, UAE, British University in Dubai, 2006, 362-372.

 

Yang Y., Pam H.J., Kumaraswamy M.M. and Ugwu O.O., Life-cycle maintenance management strategies for bridges in Hong Kong, Joint International Conference on Construction Culture, Innovation and Management. 2006.

 

Researcher : Yang Z

List of Research Outputs

 

Yang Z., Yang J. and Li X.S., Modelling of anisotropy effects in granular soils, Proceedings of International Workshop on Constitutive Modelling-Development, Implementation, Evaluation, and Application, Hong Kong. 2007, 459-467.

 

Yang Z., Li X.S. and Yang J., Undrained anisotropy and rotational shear in granular soil, Géotechnique. 2007, 57(4): 371-384.

 

Researcher : Yeung AT

Project Title:

Field study of ground vibration induced by percussion piling

Investigator(s):

Yeung AT

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Seed Funding for New Staff

Start Date:

03/2004

 

Abstract:

To quantify the degree of ground vibration induced by percussion piling as a function of hammer characteristics, distance between pile and sensitive receiver, penetration depth of pile and subsurface conditions by full-scale field measurements.

 

Project Title:

Application of Grid-based Tactile Pressure Sensors in Geotechnical Modeling of Soil Nails and Pile Groups

Investigator(s):

Yeung AT

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

10/2005

 

Abstract:

The objectives of this research proposal are to: (1) Establish the viability of using the advanced pressure sensor technology in geotechnical modeling. (2) Study the engineering behavior of pile groups with and without stiffness inserts. (3) Develop more realistic and economical design methodologies for pile groups. (4) Develop a better understanding of the natural phenomena of soil arching and dilatancy.

 

Project Title:

Laboratory study on the feasibility of using the foundation system as a heat exchanger for the water-cooled air conditioning system

Investigator(s):

Yeung AT

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

01/2006

 

Abstract:

Lower energy expenses can significantly lower the business costs of Hong Kong, rendering Hong Kong more competitive economically in the world market. Moreover, reduction of electric power consumption can contribute significantly to the sustainable development of Hong Kong. The electric power consumed by air conditioning systems in Hong Kong accounts for about one-third of the total electric power consumption. With an increasing population and continuing development, the use of air conditioning is growing in the years to come. It is recognized that prudent means for improving the energy efficiency of air conditioning systems may lead to substantial reduction of electric energy consumption, thereby resulting in overall economic as well as environmental benefits to the society. Studies conducted by the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department of the Government confirm that one of such means is wider implementation of the water-cooled air conditioning system (WACS) which uses cooling water to remove heat from the condenser unit because: (1) WACS is more energy efficiency than the air-cooled system; and (2) reduction of electricity consumption leads to lower emission of combustion products from the electricity generation process. For the time being, the ultimate receiving body for the effluent of WACS in Hong Kong is the sea. Therefore, commercial, industrial or institutional buildings using large WACSs need a continuous supply of cooling water and a convenient heat sink for heat transfer. For wider implementation of the WACS, these two problems must be solved. Many tall buildings in Hong Kong are supported by large-diameter bored piles of typical lengths of 40 m to 100 m. During the construction of bored piles, at least four tubes are built for each pile along the full length of the pile for performance of sonic tests to evaluate the integrity of the constructed pile. It may be possible to circulate cooling water of the WACS through these tubes so that heat can be transfer to the Earth at no extra construction costs. This research program is proposed to establish the viability of using the Earth as the heat sink for the WACS in lieu of the sea by laboratory measurements and computer simulations.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Au A.S.K., Yeung A.T. and Chow C.M., Fines migration in completely decomposed volcanic, Proc., 4th Civil Engineering Conference in the Asian Region. Taipei, 2007.

 

Au A.S.K., Yeung A.T. and Soga K., Pressure-controlled cavity expansion in clay, Canadian Geotechnical Journal. 2006, 43(7): 714-725.

 

Chan H.F.C., Solomon I.J. and Yeung A.T., Geotechnical instrumentation and monitoring in Hong Kong: Past, present and future, Geotechnical Advancements in Hong Kong since 1970's, Proc., 27th Annual Seminar of Geotechnical Division. Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Institution of Engineers, 2007, 85-92.

 

Ng A.M.Y., Yeung A.T., Lee P.K.K. and Tham L.G., Design, fabrication, and assembly of a large oedometer, Geotechnical Testing Journal. ASTM, 2006, 29(4): 298-305.

 

Tang T. and Yeung A.T., Full-scale field testing of surface waves – TDR technique in integrity evaluation of large-diameter bored piles, TDR 2006: 3rd International Symposium and Workshop on Time Domain Reflectometry for Innovative Soils Applications. West Lafayette, Indiana, 2006.

 

Wang S.Y., Yeung A.T., Au A.S.K., Fang Z. and Yang X.Q., Fractures initiation and propagation in stiff soil, Underground Construction and Ground Movement. ASCE, 2006, Geotechnical Special Publication No. 155: 288-295.

 

Yeung A.T., Kwong A.K.L. and Tham L.G., Advanced instrumentation in civil engineering, Proc., 4th Civil Engineering Conference in the Asian Region. Taipei, 2007.

 

Yeung A.T., Cheng Y.M., Tham L.G., Au A.S.K., So T.C. and Choi Y.K., Field evaluation of a glass-fiber soil reinforcement system, Journal of Performance of Constructed Facilities. ASCE, 2007, 21(1): 26-34.

 

Yeung A.T., Geomechanics and Geoengineering: An International Journal. Taylor & Francis, 2007.

 

Yeung A.T., Management of C&D materials in Hong Kong, Proc., 4th Civil Engineering Conference in the Asian Region. Taipei, 2007.

 

Yeung A.T. and Akhtar A.S., Use of a circuit simulator in electrical resistivity analysis, In: Soheil Nazarian, Xiong (Bill) Yu, Brent L. Rosenbald, Innovative Applications of Geophysics in Civil Engineering. Reston, Virginia, ASCE, 2007, Geotechnical Special Publication No. 164.

 

Yeung A.T., Tham L.G., Lee P.K.K., Mok K.Y. and Pei G., Use of inert C&D materials for seawall foundation: Quality control measures, Waste Management. 2007, 27(6): 768-777.

 

Yeung A.T., Lee P.K.K., Au A.S.K., So T.C. and Liu Y., 港大土木本科生三軸測試實習, 土力學教育與教學，第一屆全國土力學教學研討會論文集, Beijing, China Communications Press, 2006, 355-357.

 

Yin J.H., Li X.S., Yeung A.T. and Desai C.S., Constitutive Modelling - Development, Implementation, Evaluation, and Application. Hong Kong, Advanced Technovation Limited, 2007.

 

Yin J.H., Zhu H.H., Jin W., Yeung A.T. and Mak L.M., Performance evaluation of electrical strain gauges and optical fiber sensors in the monitoring of field soil nail pullout tests, Geotechnical Advancements in Hong Kong since 1970's, Proc., 27th Annual Seminar of Geotechnical Division. Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Institution of Engineers, 2007, 249-254.

 

Researcher : Yim KW

List of Research Outputs

 

Yim K.W., Wong S.C., Chen A. and Wong C.K., A reliability-based land use and transportation optimization model, In: Seungil Lee and Seungjae Lee, Invited presentation at the International Seminar on Land Use and Transportation, 16 March 2007. Seoul, Korea, The Unviersity of Seoul.

 

Researcher : Young B

Project Title:

Design of cold-formed steel built-up closed sections with intermediate stiffeners

Investigator(s):

Young B

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

01/2005

 

Abstract:

To conduct a series of column tests on cold-formed steel built-up closed sections with intermediate stiffeners compressed between fixed ends and pin ends; to develop a nonlinear finite element model (FEM) based on the test results; to perform an extensive parametric study of cross-section geometry using the developed FEM. Hence, more results can be obtained from the parametric study; to compare the test and numberical results with the direct strength method; to enhance the understanding of the behaviour of cold-formed steel built up closed sections with intermediate stiffeners; to produce column design rules for cold-formed steel built-up sections with intermediate stiffeners based on the experimental and numerical results. Reliability analysis will also be used; to publish the results locally in Hong Kong and internationally.

 

Project Title:

Behaviour of Cold-formed High Strength Steel Beams

Investigator(s):

Young B

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research

Start Date:

06/2005

 

Abstract:

Cold-formed steel structural members may lead to more economic design than hot-rolled steel members as a result of their superior strength to weight ratio and ease of construction. Cold-formed steel beams are used increasingly in light gauge construction. The use of high strength material could improve the load carrying capacity of the structural members. Therefore, cold-formed steel beams fabricated from high strength material would lead to cost saving. The existing "Hong Kong Code of Practice for the Structural Use of Steel (Limit State Approach)" is limited to steel grade of 450 MPa. The Hong Kong Steel Code does not cover high strength material of yield stress greater than 450 MPa. Furthermore, high strength material is not as ductile as normal strength material. Hence, there is a need to investigate high strength steel material. Web crippling is a form of localized buckling that occurs at points of concentrated loads or supports of structural beams. Cold-formed steel beams that are unstiffened against this type of loading could cause structural failure by web crippling. Transverse stiffeners can be used to prevent the structural failure. However, transverse stiffeners are often difficult and uneconomical to install on structural steel beams. The purpose of this research is to investigate the behaviour of cold-formed high strength steel beams. A series of tests will be carried out on cold-formed high strength steel beams subjected to web crippling. A non-linear finite element model will be developed based on the test results. The experimental and theoretical investigation would provide a better understanding of the behaviour of cold-formed high strength steel beams subjected to web crippling. Hence, design rules for cold-formed high strength steel beams will be proposed. These design rules can be used locally in Hong Kong as well as internationally. In summary, the key issues and problems are as follows: o Cold-formed steel structural members may lead to more economic design than the conventional hot-rolled steel members. o The use of high strength material could improve the load carrying capacity of the structural members. o The existing Hong Kong Steel Code does not cover high strength material (Yield stress greater than 450 MPa). o Cold-formed steel beams that are unstiffened against concentrated loads could cause structural failure by web crippling. o Transverse stiffeners are often difficult and uneconomical to install on structural steel beams. The objectives of the project are as follows: o Conduct a series of tests on cold-formed high strength steel beams subjected to web crippling. o Develop a non-linear finite element model based on the test results. o Perform an extensive parametric study of cross-section geometry using the developed finite element model. o Enhance the understanding of the behaviour of cold-formed high strength steel beams. o Compare the experimental results with the design strengths obtained using the Hong Kong, American and Australian/New Zealand design specifications. o Investigate the appropriateness of the current web crippling design rules for high strength steel material. o Propose web crippling equation for cold-formed high strength steel beams.

 

Project Title:

Structural Performance of Innovative Cold-formed Steel Sections

Investigator(s):

Young B

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research

Start Date:

06/2006

 

Abstract:

The use of cold-formed steel structural members has increased rapidly in recent years, especially in cold-formed steel construction, such as steel-framed housing, office buildings, factories and warehouses. Cold-formed steel can be used efficiently in many applications where conventional hot-rolled steel members prove to be uneconomic. However, traditional cold-formed steel sections, such as channel, Zee and angle sections have been well investigated. Therefore, a new type of innovative cold-formed steel sections are needed, where the new sections will be structurally more efficient and econmical than the traditional cold-formed steel sections.The purpose of this research is to develop a new type of innovative cold-formed steel sections through both experimental and theoretical investigations. New design rules for the innovative cold-formed steel sections will be proposed. The new innovative cold-formed steel sections can be used in Hong Kong as well as elsewhere.The objectives of the project are as follows:o Develop a new type of innovative cold-formed steel sections.o Use numerical analysis to design the innovative cold-formed steel sections.o Perform experiments on the innovative sections to assess the structural performance of the sections.o Develop a nonlinear finite element model (FEM) based on the test results.o Perform an extensive parametric study using the developed FEM. Hence, more results can be obtained from the parametric study.o Propose design rules for the innovative cold-formed steel sections based on the experimental and numerical results.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Chen J., Young B. and Uy B., Behavior of High Strength Structural Steel at Elevated Temperatures, Journal of Structural Engineering, ASCE. 2006, 132: 1948-1954.

 

Chen J. and Young B., Corner Properties of Cold-formed Steel Sections at Elevated Temperatures, Proceedings of the 10th East Asia-Pacific Conference on Structural Engineering and Construction. 2006, 105-110.

 

Chen J. and Young B., Design of Cold-formed Steel Lipped Channel Columns at Elevated Temperatures, Proceedings of the International Colloquium on Stability and Ductility of Steel Structures. 2006, 737-746.

 

Chen J. and Young B., Design of High Strength Steel Columns at Elevated Temperatures, Proceedings of the International Symposium on Innovative Design of Steel Structures. 2006, 105-131.

 

Chen J. and Young B., Experimental Investigation of Cold-formed Steel Material at Elevated Temperatures, Thin-walled Structures, Elsevier Science. 2007, 45: 96-110.

 

Ellobody E., Young B. and Lam D., Behaviour of Normal and High Strength Concrete-Filled Compact Steel Tube Circular Stub Columns, Journal of Constructional Steel Research, Elsevier Science. 2006, 62: 706-715.

 

Ellobody E. and Young B., Nonlinear Analysis of Concrete-filled Steel SHS and RHS Columns, Thin-walled Structures, Elsevier Science. 2006, 44: 919-930.

 

Ellobody E. and Young B., Performance of Shear Connection in Composite Beams with Profiled Steel Sheeting, Journal of Constructional Steel Research, Elsevier Science. 2006, 62: 682-694.

 

Feng R. and Young B., Tests of Stainless Steel RHS X-joints, Proceedings of the 11th International Symposium on Tubular Structures. 2006, 269-276.

 

Nguyen N.T.B., Fung T.C. and Young B., Strength and Behavior of Cold-formed Steel Z-sections Subjected to Major Axis Bending, Journal of Structural Engineering, ASCE. 2006, 132: 1632-1640.

 

Ren W.X., Fang S.E. and Young B., Finite-Element Simulation and Design of Cold-formed Steel Channels Subjected to Web Crippling, Journal of Structural Engineering, ASCE. 2006, 132: 1967-1975.

 

Young B., Advances in Design of High Strength Stainless Steel Structures, International Symposium on Advances in Stainless Steels (Keynote speech). 2007.

 

Young B., Advances in Design of High Strength Stainless Steel Structures, Proceedings of the International Symposium on Advances in Stainless Steels. 2007.

 

Young B., Best Teacher Award, Faculty of Engineering, The University of Hong Kong. 2006.

 

Young B. and Ellobody E., Column Design of Cold-formed Stainless Steel Slender Circular Hollow Sections, Steel and Composite Structures. 2006, 6: 285-302.

 

Young B., Column Tests of Cold-formed Steel Non-symmetric Lipped Angle Sections, Proceedings of the 10th East Asia-Pacific Conference on Structural Engineering and Construction. 2006, 65-70.

 

Young B., David Anderson Award, The University of Strathclyde, UK. 2007.

 

Young B., Design and Behaviour of Cold-formed Stainless Steel Tubular Structures, 2nd ASEAN Stainless Steel Conference: The Many Attributes of Stainless Steel (Invited lecture). 2006.

 

Young B. and Ellobody E., Design of Cold-formed Steel Unequal Angle Compression Members, Thin-walled Structures, Elsevier Science. 2007, 45: 330-338.

 

Young B., Design of Stainless Steel Tubular Sections Subjected to Web Crippling under One-Flange Loading, 4th Cross-strait and Hong Kong Conference on Steel Structures (Keynote speech). 2006.

 

Young B., Editorial Board, Journal of Advanced Steel Construction, HKISC. 2006.

 

Young B., Editorial Board, Journal of Constructional Steel Research, Elsevier Science. 2006.

 

Young B., Editorial Board, Progress in Steel Building Structures. 2006.

 

Young B., Editorial Board, The Open Civil Engineering Journal, Bentham Open. 2006.

 

Young B., Silvestre N. and Camotim D., Experimental and Numerical Analysis of the Structural Response of FRP-Strengthened Cold-formed Steel Columns, Proceedings of the Third International Conference on FRP Composites in Civil Engineering. 2006, 725-728.

 

Young B., Outstanding Young Researcher Award, The University of Hong Kong. 2006.

 

Young B., Proceedings of the International Symposium on Innovative Design of Steel Structures (Editor), 2006.

 

Young B., Research on cold-formed steel columns, Proceedings of Professor Jim Rhodes Retiral Conference on Thin-Walled Structures. 2007.

 

Young B., Structural Performance of Aluminum Alloy Thin-walled Tubular Members in Combined Compression and Bending, 2nd International Symposium on Cold-formed Metal Structures (Invited lecture). 2006.

 

Zhou F. and Young B., Analytical Study on Web Crippling of Cold-Formed Stainless Steel Tubular Sections under Two-Flange Loading using Yield Line Mechanism Model, Proceedings of the 10th East Asia-Pacific Conference on Structural Engineering and Construction. 2006, 53-58.

 

Zhou F. and Young B., Cold-formed High-Strength Stainless Steel Tubular Sections Subjected to Web Crippling, Journal of Structural Engineering, ASCE. 2007, 133: 368-377.

 

Zhou F. and Young B., Design and Tests of Cold-formed High Strength Stainless Steel Tubular Sections Subjected to Web Crippling, Proceedings of the 11th International Symposium on Tubular Structures. 2006, 277-283.

 

Zhou F. and Young B., Design of Stainless Steel Tubular Sections Subjected to Web Crippling under One-Flange Loading, Proceedings of the 4th Cross-strait and Hong Kong Conference on Steel Structures (In Chinese). 2006, 153-163.

 

Zhu J. and Young B., Aluminum Alloy Tubular Columns ― Part I: Finite Element Modeling and Test Verification, Thin-walled Structures, Elsevier Science. 2006, 44: 961-968.

 

Zhu J. and Young B., Aluminum Alloy Tubular Columns ― Part II: Parametric Study and Design using Direct Strength Method, Thin-walled Structures, Elsevier Science. 2006, 44: 969-985.

 

Zhu J. and Young B., Effects of Transverse Welds on Aluminum Alloy Columns, Thin-walled Structures, Elsevier Science. 2007, 45: 321-329.

 

Zhu J. and Young B., Experimental Investigation of Aluminum Alloy Thin-walled Tubular Members in Combined Compression and Bending, Journal of Structural Engineering, ASCE. 2006, 132: 1955-1966.

 

Zhu J. and Young B., Structural Performance of Aluminum Alloy Thin-walled Tubular Members in Combined Compression and Bending, Proceedings of the 2nd International Symposium on Cold-formed Metal Structures. 2006, 117-125.

 

Zhu J. and Young B., Tests and Design of Aluminum Alloy Compression Members, Journal of Structural Engineering, ASCE. 2006, 132: 1096-1107.

 

Researcher : Yu D

List of Research Outputs

 

Lai A.C.H., Yu D. and Lee J.H.W., Initial Dilution of Rosette Buoyant Jet Group in Crossflow, Proceedings of 6th International Symposium on Stratified flows, Perth, Australia. 2006.

 

Lai A.C.H., Yu D. and Lee J.H.W., Mixing of multiple momentum jets from a rosette diffuser , Proceedings of the 15th IAHR-APD Congress, Chennai, August 7-10 . 2006, 1185-1191.

 

Lee J.H.W., Yu D., Wong C.K.C. and Choi D.K.W., Drainage Improvement in Northern Hong Kong Island Hong Kong West Tunnel and Lower Catchment Improvement – Investigation: Additional Model Testing of Intake Model – Bottom Rack Testing, The University of Hong Kong, (Technical report to Drainage Services Department, HKSAR Government). 2007.

 

Lee J.H.W., Yu D., Wong C.K.C. and Choi D.K.W., Drainage Improvement in Northern Hong Kong Island Hong Kong West Tunnel and Lower Catchment Improvement – Investigation: Additional Model Testing of Intake Model – Lateral Inflow Structure, The University of Hong Kong, (Technical report to Drainage Services Department, HKSAR Government). 2007.

 

Lee J.H.W., Yu D. and Wong C.K.C., Physical Hydraulic Model Tests for Lai Chi Kok Transfer Scheme – Intake Structure: Variation Order 1, Department of Civil Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, (Technical report to Drainage Services Department, HKSAR Government). 2007.

 

Lee J.H.W., Yu D., Choi D.K.W. and Wong C.K.C., Physical model study for Smithfield flooding, Final Report to Drainage Services Department, HKSAR Government, July . 2006, 54 pp.

 

Yu D., Ali M.S. and Lee J.H.W., Multiple tandem jets in crossflow, Journal of Hydraulic Engineering, ASCE. ASCE, 2006, 132(9): 971-982.

 

Researcher : Yu F

List of Research Outputs

 

Yang J., Tham L.G., Lee P.K.K., Chan S.T. and Yu F., Behaviour of jacked and driven H-piles in sandy soil: Reply, Géotechnique. 2007, 57(5): 475-478.

 

Yang J., Tham L.G., Lee P.K.K., Chan S.T. and Yu F., Research Output Prize in Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, The University of Hong Kong. 2007.

 

Researcher : Yue QZQ

Project Title:

Boundary element analysis of fracture mechanics in functionally graded materials

Investigator(s):

Yue QZQ, Tham LG

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

11/2003

 

Abstract:

To systematically apply a generalized Kelvin solution based boundary element method (GKS-BEM) for fracture mechanics in multilayered elastic solids and functionally graded materials; to publish new results and findings in SCI journals for international reputation.

 

Project Title:

Drilling process monitoring for a wealth of extra information from drillhole exploration in weathered soils

Investigator(s):

Yue QZQ, Lee CF, Tham LG

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

12/2003

 

Abstract:

To develop a new drilling process monitor (DPM) to record drilling process parameters of hydraulic rotary drilling machines in real-time; to carry out the field logging and testing using new DPM method and the conventional methods in drillholes for subsurface exploration in weathered soils; to determine the ground weathering profiles from the DPM parameters: to validate and correlate the DPM results with the those obtained from conventional logging and in-situ testing; and to establish recommended procedures and methods for using the DPM method and for presenting the results.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Chen N.S., Yue Q.Z.Q., Cui P. and Li Z.L., A rational method for estimating maximum discharge of a landslide-induced debris flow: A case study from southwestern China, Geomorphology. Elsevier, 2006, 84: 44-58.

 

Chen S., Yue Q.Z.Q. and Tham L.G., Digital image based approach for three-dimensional mechanical analysis of heterogeneous rocks , ROCK MECHANICS AND ROCK ENGINEERING. SACHSENPLATZ 4-6, PO BOX 89, A-1201 WIEN, SPRINGER WIEN, 2007, 40 (2): 145-168.

 

Han F., Pan E., Roy A.K. and Yue Q.Z.Q., Responses of piezoelectric, transversely isotropic, functionally graded, and multilayered half spaces to uniform circular surface loadings, CMC-Computers Materials & Continua. 2006, 14(1): 15-29.

 

Lee C.F., Lee P.K.K., Tham L.G. and Yue Q.Z.Q., 2006 Research Output Prize in Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, HKU. 2007.

 

Pradhan B., Tham L.G., Yue Q.Z.Q., Junaideen S.M. and Lee C.F., Soil-nail pullout interaction in loose fill materials, International Journal of Geomechanics . 2006, 6(4): 238-247.

 

Xu G.H., Yue Q.Z.Q., Liu D.F. and He F.R., Grouted jetted precast concrete sheet piles: Method, experiments, and applications, Canadian Geotechnical Journal. Canada, National Research Council Canada Research Press, 2006, 43(12): 1358-1373.

 

Xu W.J., Hu R.L., Yue Q.Z.Q., Tan R.J., Li R.J. and Zeng R.Y., Numerical simulation on stability of right bank slope of Longspan in Tiger-Leaping gorge area, Chinese Journal of Geotechnical Engineering. 2006, 28(11): 1996-2004.

 

Yue Q.Z.Q., 2006 Mao Yi-Sheng Soil Mechanics and Geotechnical Engineering Youth Award, 1996年度茅以昇土力學及岩土工程青年獎, Mao Yi-Sheng Science Education Fund, China. 2007.

 

Yue Q.Z.Q., Chinese Journal of Geotechnical Engineering. China Association for Science and Technology, 2006.

 

Yue Q.Z.Q., Chinese Journal of Rock Mechanics and Engineering. Science Press, China, 2006.

 

Yue Q.Z.Q., Gao W., Chen J. and Lee C.F., Drilling process monitoring for a wealth of extra factual data from drillhole site investigation, Proceedings of the 10th International Congress of the International Association of Engineering Geology (IAEG2006 Engineering Geology for Tomorrow's Cities), Nottingham, United Kingdom, 6-10 September. Theme 5 - Urban Site Investigation (Abstracts: pp. 87(hardcopy)). 2006, 5-746: 1-10 (CD ROM).

 

Yue Q.Z.Q. and Yue Q.Z.Q., Frontiers of Architecture and Civil Engineering in China. Higher Education Press and Springer, 2007.

 

Yue Q.Z.Q., Journal of Engineering Geology. Science Press, China, 2006.

 

Yue Q.Z.Q., Journal of Geotechnical Investigation & Surveying. China National Publishing Industry Corporation, 2006.

 

Researcher : Zhang T

Project Title:

Microbial diversity and characteristics of activated sludge treating Hong Kong's saline sewage

Investigator(s):

Zhang T, Fang HHP

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research

Start Date:

04/2006

 

Abstract:

To investigate the microbial community in the activated sludge treating Hong Kong's saline sewage. Hong Kong is leading the world in treating saline sewage, which results from the fresh water conservation by large scale seawater toilet flushing. Several secondary municipal sewage treatment plants in Hong Kong successfully treat a total of about 200,000 m3 saline sewage (containing 6000 mg-Cl-/l as the average) daily to produce effluents in compliance with the discharge standards. It is thus of great scientific and engineering importance to understand the diversity and characteristics of the halophilic (salt tolerant) microorganisms in such activated sludge, and yet very little related information is available. Results of this study shall provide valuable information that will be needed to further improve the effluent quality of Hong Kong's sewage treatment facilities. Such information will also benefit other cities that are planning to follow Hong Kong's practice of using seawater for municipal purpose. To isolate and characterize the dominant halophilic bacterial species in activated sludge treating Hong Kong's saline sewage. The dominant halophilic microorganisms treating saline sewage differ from those treating fresh water sewage. To isolate and characterize these halophilic bacteria will not only produce scientific information which may lead to improving the performance of Hong Kong's treatment facilities, but also provide useful knowledge for other cities worldwide which are planning to follow Hong Kong's practice. To design DNA probes/primers specific for the identified halophilic bacteria. DNA probes and primers used in hybridization and PCR (polymerase chain reaction) have been increasingly applied to wastewater treatment and study. New DNA probes/primers are needed for the halophilic bacteria treating saline sewage, since probes/primers presently available for bacteria treating freshwater sewage are unlikely applicable. The DNA probes developed in this project will be valuable tools for the study and control of saline sewage treatment.

 

Project Title:

Microbial diversity and characteristics of activated sludge treating Hong Kong's saline sewage

Investigator(s):

Zhang T, Fang HHP

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

09/2006

 

Abstract:

(1) To investigate the microbial community in the activated sludge treating Hong Kong’s saline sewage. Hong Kong is leading the world in treating saline sewage, which results from the fresh water conservation by large scale seawater toilet flushing. Several secondary municipal sewage treatment plants in Hong Kong successfully treat a total of about 200,000 m3 saline sewage (containing 6000 mg-Cl-/l as the average) daily to produce effluents in compliance with the discharge standards. It is thus of great scientific and engineering importance to understand the diversity and characteristics of the halophilic (salt tolerant) microorganisms in such activated sludge, and yet very little related information is available. Results of this study shall provide valuable information that will be needed to further improve the effluent quality of Hong Kong’s sewage treatment facilities. Such information will also benefit other cities that are planning to follow Hong Kong’s practice of using seawater for municipal purpose. (2) To isolate and characterize the dominant halophilic bacterial species in activated sludge treating Hong Kong’s saline sewage. The dominant halophilic microorganisms treating saline sewage differ from those treating fresh water sewage. To isolate and characterize these halophilic bacteria will not only produce scientific information which may lead to improving the performance of Hong Kong’s treatment facilities, but also provide useful knowledge for other cities worldwide which are planning to follow Hong Kong’s practice. (3) To design DNA probes/primers specific for the identified halophilic bacteria. DNA probes and primers used in hybridization and PCR (polymerase chain reaction) have been increasingly applied to wastewater treatment and study. New DNA probes/primers are needed for the halophilic bacteria treating saline sewage, since probes/primers presently available for bacteria treating freshwater sewage are unlikely applicable. The DNA probes developed in this project will be valuable tools for the study and control of saline sewage treatment. (4) To evaluate the effect of increased sewage salinity on the removal of BOD and nitrogen, as well as on the microbial community of the activated sludge. According to the data of Sha Tin Sewage Treatment Works in last two years, the chloride concentration in saline sewage could increase to above 8000 mg-Cl-/l for a short time, resulting in instability of treatment efficiency. To study the sewage treatment performance and the corresponding microbial community shift due to salinity increase will not only be benefit to the engineering practice in the future, but also provide useful scientific knowledge about halophilic activated sludge.

 

Project Title:

Evaluation of Sewage Methane Production Using Anaerobic Membrane Bioreactor and Characterizatoin of the Related Fouling

Investigator(s):

Zhang T, Fang HHP, Li XY

Department:

Civil Engineering

Source(s) of Funding:

Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research

Start Date:

05/2007

 

Abstract:

The anaerobic process has been extensively used to recover energy (in the form of methane) and remove pollutions from high strength industrial wastewater simultaneously. The application of the anaerobic process in sewage treatment is not as successful as in high strength industrial wastewater applications due to low biomass concentration, and the resulting low removal rate and large volume of reactors needed. Membrane technology may be applied to increase biomass concentration in the reactors, and thus raise removal rate and reduce land demand for reactors construction. Saving land is extremely important for metropolises like Hong Kong. Membrane technology has been extensively used in water and wastewater treatment for the past three decades (Fang and Chian, 1975; Li and Chu, 2003). However, the microbial growth on the membrane surface, known as biofouling, remains a major operating problem for the application of membrane bioreactor (MBR). Control of biofouling is costly. A project is proposed in order to achieve the following specific objectives: 1) to evaluate methane production; 2) to characterize membrane fouling and its effect on reactor performance.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Li X.Y. and Zhang T., Study on the characteristics of the sewage and soil, report to Drinage Services Department, HKSAR Government, Hong Kong. 2007.

 

Liang D., Zhang T. and Fang H.H.P., Anaerobic degradation of dimethyl phthalate in wastewater in a UASB reactor., Water Reserach. 2007, 41: 2879-2884.

 

Liang D., Zhang T. and Fang H.H.P., Denitrifying degradation of dimethyl phthalate. , Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology. 2007, 74: 221-229.

 

Xie X., Li Y., Zhang T. and Fang H.H.P., Bacterial survival in evaporating deposited droplets on a teflon-coated surface. , Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology . 2006, 73: 703-712.

 

Researcher : Zhou F

List of Research Outputs

 

Zhou F. and Young B., Analytical Study on Web Crippling of Cold-Formed Stainless Steel Tubular Sections under Two-Flange Loading using Yield Line Mechanism Model, Proceedings of the 10th East Asia-Pacific Conference on Structural Engineering and Construction. 2006, 53-58.

 

Zhou F. and Young B., Cold-formed High-Strength Stainless Steel Tubular Sections Subjected to Web Crippling, Journal of Structural Engineering, ASCE. 2007, 133: 368-377.

 

Zhou F. and Young B., Design and Tests of Cold-formed High Strength Stainless Steel Tubular Sections Subjected to Web Crippling, Proceedings of the 11th International Symposium on Tubular Structures. 2006, 277-283.

 

Zhou F. and Young B., Design of Stainless Steel Tubular Sections Subjected to Web Crippling under One-Flange Loading, Proceedings of the 4th Cross-strait and Hong Kong Conference on Steel Structures (In Chinese). 2006, 153-163.

 

Researcher : Zhu J

List of Research Outputs

 

Zhu J. and Young B., Aluminum Alloy Tubular Columns ― Part I: Finite Element Modeling and Test Verification, Thin-walled Structures, Elsevier Science. 2006, 44: 961-968.

 

Zhu J. and Young B., Aluminum Alloy Tubular Columns ― Part II: Parametric Study and Design using Direct Strength Method, Thin-walled Structures, Elsevier Science. 2006, 44: 969-985.

 

Zhu J. and Young B., Effects of Transverse Welds on Aluminum Alloy Columns, Thin-walled Structures, Elsevier Science. 2007, 45: 321-329.

 

Zhu J. and Young B., Experimental Investigation of Aluminum Alloy Thin-walled Tubular Members in Combined Compression and Bending, Journal of Structural Engineering, ASCE. 2006, 132: 1955-1966.

 

Zhu J. and Young B., Structural Performance of Aluminum Alloy Thin-walled Tubular Members in Combined Compression and Bending, Proceedings of the 2nd International Symposium on Cold-formed Metal Structures. 2006, 117-125.

 

Zhu J. and Young B., Tests and Design of Aluminum Alloy Compression Members, Journal of Structural Engineering, ASCE. 2006, 132: 1096-1107.

 

Researcher : Zhu Y

List of Research Outputs

 

Zhu Y., Su K.L. and Zhou F., Cursory seismic drift assessment for buildings in moderate seismicity regions, Earthquake Engineering and Engineering Vibration. Beijing, Ke xue chu ban she, 2007, 6(1): 85-97.



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