Papers

@article{caneda-martinez_chemical_2026,

title = {Chemical and mechanical origin of ettringite morphology and packing properties},

author = {Laura Caneda-Martínez and Hela Bessaies-Bey and Xiaohan Yu and Karen Mourda and Patrick Belin and Belén González-Fonteboa and Nicolas Roussel},

url = {https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0008884626000153},

doi = {10.1016/j.cemconres.2026.108146},

issn = {0008-8846},

year  = {2026},

date = {2026-05-01},

urldate = {2026-05-01},

journal = {Cement and Concrete Research},

volume = {203},

pages = {108146},

abstract = {The contribution of early hydration products is often neglected in rheological studies of cementitious systems, particularly with respect to the quantitative evaluation of their influence on particle packing. Ettringite, owing to its predominance as an early-age hydration product and its frequently elongated morphology, is the most relevant phase to consider in this context. This study investigates the factors controlling ettringite morphology in the absence of admixtures and evaluates their impact on packing behaviour. Ettringite was synthesised under controlled solution conditions and analysed via microscopic techniques to assess the effect of ion concentration on morphology. In addition, the packing properties of ettringite samples of different morphology were studied by applying controlled compressive stress through centrifugation experiments. Results show that ettringite morphology is defined by solution supersaturation with respect to ettringite and mechanical stress: reduced supersaturation (i.e. dilution of the system) favours the formation of longer, thinner crystals, while stress induces breaking, with the resulting aspect ratio of the crystals dictated by the magnitude of the applied stress. Ettringite crystals were found to exhibit poor packing properties compared to those of common building materials. Moreover, a clear correlation between aspect ratio and packing properties was identified, consistent with predictive models for elongated macroscopic particles. These findings have significant practical implications, as understanding and controlling ettringite morphology can provide an effective means to tune early-age rheology in cement-based materials. We finally suggest that these findings are specifically relevant for low-clinker content binders where supersaturation is expected to be lower than traditional binders.},

keywords = {Early cement hydration, Ettringite, Morphology, Particle packing, Supersaturation},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{ferreiro_occurrence_2026,

title = {Occurrence and fate of polyethylene pellets in the Galician coast (N.W. Spain) after the Toconao spillage: study of associated plastic additives and chemical weathering},

author = {Borja De-La-Fuente-Ferreiro and José Manuel Andrade-Garda and Diana B. Diez-Pérez and Carmen M. Moscoso-Pérez and Verónica Fernández-González and Purificación López-Mahía and Soledad Muniategui-Lorenzo},

url = {https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0025326X26001220},

doi = {10.1016/j.marpolbul.2026.119335},

issn = {0025-326X},

year  = {2026},

date = {2026-05-01},

urldate = {2026-05-01},

journal = {Marine Pollution Bulletin},

volume = {226},

pages = {119335},

abstract = {This work addresses the occurrence and fate of the polyethylene (PE) pellet spillage from the Toconao vessel off the NW Portuguese coast in 2023. Samples from 42 Galician beaches (NW Spain) were collected and subsequently analysed in the laboratory by attenuated total reflectance infrared spectrometry (ATR), thermodesorption and pyrolysis gas chromatography with mass spectrometry detection (TD/Py-GC–MS) and inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). They ascertained the polymer type, additives and metals in the pellets, and demonstrated that the spillage affected 62% of the 42 studied beaches. The major additive of the product, Tinuvin 622, was key to fingerprint and track the spillage. Many pellets that confounded the naked eye were demonstrated to be PE (33%) and polypropylene (PP) (18%) from other sources. A six-month weathering study was performed using sunlight-simulating lamps and seawater, and it revealed chemical changes after the 13th week for submerged pellets. These yielded small micro- and nanoplastics that retained the UV-radiation stabilizer Tinuvin 622 in their composition while weathered. Despite this, the PE backbone changed, as evidenced by higher signals for alkadienes than for alkanes in the weathered pellets and powder, opposite to the original pellets. This variation in the characteristic triplets observed in Py-GC–MS had not been described before, and constitutes a major finding which allows us to propose it as a new marker for Py-GC–MS to identify weathered PE. Overall, the results suggest a wide distribution of the pellets along the Galician coastline and a tendency to fragment into secondary microplastics during weathering.},

keywords = {Chromatography, Infrared spectroscopy, Microplastics weathering, Plastic additives, Pyrolysis, Tinuvin 622},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{caneda-martinez_fast_2026,

title = {Fast penetration testing of printable concretes with a portable device: robustness and calibration},

author = {Laura Caneda-Martínez and Marwa Hassan and Léo Demont and Emmanuel Keita and Patrick Belin and Victor De Bono and Romain Mesnil and J. F. Caron and Belén González-Fonteboa and Nicolas Roussel},

url = {https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0008884626000104},

doi = {10.1016/j.cemconres.2026.108141},

issn = {0008-8846},

year  = {2026},

date = {2026-04-01},

urldate = {2026-04-01},

journal = {Cement and Concrete Research},

volume = {202},

pages = {108141},

abstract = {Concrete 3D printing demands rheological control tools tailored to this emerging construction technology. Conventional rheometry is often unsuitable for routine monitoring in industrial environments. This study investigates the use of a fast penetration test with a portable device as a simple, effective method to evaluate yield stress and structuration rate of printable concretes. Emphasis is placed on robustness, assessed through measurement variability rather than absolute values. Tests on clay-based reference pastes identify probe geometries minimizing operator influence and data dispersion. Probe and sample size effects are also examined. Calibration on reference pastes establishes geometry-specific conversion factors between penetration force and yield stress. These factors are then used to monitor yield stress evolution in printed concrete, with results compared to those from a pocket vane test. Findings indicate that the fast penetration method yields more robust, consistent measurements, supporting its suitability for rheological quality control in concrete 3D printing.},

keywords = {3D printing, Fast penetration, Rheology, Structuration, Vane, Yield stress},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{putzu_optimization_2026,

title = {Optimization of tablet processing as a reference material for microplastic detection methods},

author = {Mara Putzu and Yosri Wiesner and Christiane Weimann and Vasile-Dan Hodoroaba and Soledad Muniategui-Lorenzo and Verónica Fernández-González and Andy M. Booth and Amaia Igartua and Nizar Benismail and Laureen Coïc and Carine Chivas-Joly and Ivana Fenoglio and Andrea Mario Rossi and Andrea Mario Giovannozzi and Korinna Altmann},

url = {https://doi.org/10.1007/s00216-025-06271-7},

doi = {10.1007/s00216-025-06271-7},

issn = {1618-2650},

year  = {2026},

date = {2026-02-01},

urldate = {2026-02-01},

journal = {Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry},

volume = {418},

number = {4},

pages = {1001–1014},

abstract = {Reference materials (RMs) are essential and highly demanded tools for the development and validation of methods for microplastic (MP) quantification in complex matrices, to ensure comparable and harmonized approaches aligned with EU commission criteria for monitoring MPs (e.g., Drinking Water Directive and Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive). This study investigates different approaches for optimizing the production of polypropylene (PP) RMs in the form of water-soluble tablets, which were carefully evaluated for their homogeneity and stability according to ISO Guide 30, ISO 33401, and ISO 33405. PP particles (1–100 μm) were produced by cryomilling and embedded in a lactose/PEG matrix, then pressed into tablets (18 µg theoretical PP mass). The production process was optimized by varying (i) the size distribution of the matrix components and (ii) the mixer instrument. The materials obtained were characterized by thermogravimetric analysis to assess the homogeneity distribution of MPs with respect to PP mass in the individual tablets and their stability over a 4-month period. The most promising approach, with a homogenous mass of 19 μg (standard deviation of 4 μg), relative standard deviation of 19%, was further investigated for homogeneity by comparison with thermo-analytical mass determination methods, such as TED-GC/MS (thermal extraction desorption-gas chromatography/mass spectrometry) and Py-GC/MS (pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry), and for number-based characterization using micro-Raman spectroscopy. Material characterization was also examined using laser diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and ATR-FTIR. Based on the results, the optimized processing protocol yields a PP RM suitable for quality control and method performance studies supporting standardization.},

keywords = {Analytical methods, Identification, Plastic polymer, Polypropylene, Quantification, Validation},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{poozesh_copernicus_2026,

title = {Copernicus Data for Offshore Wind Energy: Capabilities, Applications and Emerging Trends},

author = {Poorya Poozesh and Félix Nieto-Mouronte and Antonio J. Álvarez-Naveira and Vicente Díaz-Casás},

doi = {10.3390/su18041949},

year  = {2026},

date = {2026-02-01},

urldate = {2026-02-01},

journal = {Sustainability},

volume = {18},

pages = {1949},

abstract = {This paper presents the main parts in the Copernicus Program and how it supports the offshore wind sector through its satellite missions, reanalysis and other marine and climate products and services. Data from Sentinel-1, Sentinel-2, Sentinel-3 and Sentinel-6, together with CMEMS, C3S and CLMS datasets, provide consistent observations of wind, waves, sea level, currents and coastal conditions that are widely used for site selection, design assessment, operations and environmental monitoring. Additionally, current limitations are highlighted, including reduced accuracy in near-coastal areas, gaps in in situ measurements and the need for greater user expertise. At the same time, emerging technologies like AI-based processing, cloud platforms and Digital Twins are creating new ways to enhance data accessibility and practical use. To date, no comprehensive review has been published addressing the application of Copernicus data in the offshore wind sector, and the available information is dispersed across multiple references. The goal of this review is to identify successful application cases, flag limitations and highlight emerging trends in the Copernicus data usage in the offshore wind energy sector. Overall, the findings show that Copernicus is becoming an increasingly valuable framework for improving the efficiency, reliability and sustainability of offshore wind development.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{meira-rodriguez_humanai_2026,

title = {Human–AI communication parameters for reproducible text-to-image workflows in AEC design across academia and practice},

author = {Pedro Meira-Rodríguez and Vicente A. López-Chao},

url = {https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0926580526000087},

doi = {10.1016/j.autcon.2026.106767},

issn = {0926-5805},

year  = {2026},

date = {2026-02-01},

urldate = {2026-02-01},

journal = {Automation in Construction},

volume = {182},

pages = {106767},

abstract = {Generative artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly incorporated into architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) workflows, yet its adoption has advanced faster than the development of robust communication frameworks that ensure reproducibility, controllability, and methodological transparency. Academic research often emphasizes exploratory prototypes or technical advances, whereas professional practice depends on empirically tested input combinations that seldom follow systematic documentation. This review examines 190 academic publications (2000–2025) and 812 practitioner cases to identify the core human–AI communication variables structuring image-based generative workflows across platforms such as Midjourney, DALL-E, and Stable Diffusion. By synthesizing these variables into a cross-platform taxonomy, the paper reframes them as design levers and reproducible parameters for AEC design at an early stage. In doing so, the paper advances the goals of automation, standardization, and traceability in AEC workflows by demonstrating that reproducibility in generative design depends not only on model performance but on the communicability and documentation of user–model interactions.},

keywords = {Architectural visualization, Creative controllability, Design automation, Diffusion models, Generative AI, Human–AI communication, Prompt engineering},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{carro_artificial_2026,

title = {Artificial intelligence to predict critical events in port operations},

author = {Humberto Carro-Fidalgo and Andrés Figuero-Pérez and José Sande-González-Cela and Enrique Peña-González and Alberto Alvarellos-González},

url = {https://doi.org/10.1007/s00773-026-01109-y},

doi = {10.1007/s00773-026-01109-y},

issn = {1437-8213},

year  = {2026},

date = {2026-02-01},

urldate = {2026-02-01},

journal = {Journal of Marine Science and Technology},

abstract = {Port downtime is one of the most important economic and safety issues. The objective of this paper is the design of a predictive tool based on machine learning, capable of identifying downtimes. We have compared two approaches: one that uses the moored ship motions and follows a more theoretical approach. It is based on the physics of the problem, but has the difficulty of using movements that are obtained in a costly and complex way. The other option directly estimates the probability of downtime from ocean-meteorological data and ignores the moored ship motions. This is a simplification, as it omits movement constraints, but it is also more realistic, as it is very complex to obtain data on the state of moorings or estimated tension. The dataset uses ocean-meteorological forecast data and downtimes recorded during the port operations of 799 ships obtained during 8 years. We applied regression models to obtain the variables related to infragravity wave and moored ship motions. We performed a multiclass random forest classification by adjusting the weighting of the dataset to identify the most promising approach. We evaluated techniques such as random forest or gradient boosting machine, selecting the GBM for better validation performance, with a log-loss of 0.0103. We obtained F2 and F1 scores of 0.971 and 0.941 respectively, with which the model correctly classified 98% of the anchorages and 88% of the berthing disruptions. Error analysis by sea state and by stay record indicates that some of them are due to the subjectivity inherent in the anchoring phenomenon. The tool offers an alternative to the traditional analysis of significant movements through an easily exportable methodology.},

keywords = {Downtimes, Field campaign, machine learning, Port operability},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{lopez_numerical_2026,

title = {Numerical and experimental crashworthiness assessment of carbon-fiber reinforced thermoplastic energy absorbers},

author = {Carmen López-Chao and Javier Paz and Luis E. Romera-Rodríguez and Jacobo Díaz-García and Chiara Bisagni},

url = {https://doi.org/10.1177/08927057251355147},

doi = {10.1177/08927057251355147},

issn = {0892-7057},

year  = {2026},

date = {2026-02-01},

urldate = {2026-02-01},

journal = {Journal of Thermoplastic Composite Materials},

volume = {39},

number = {2},

pages = {733–762},

publisher = {SAGE Publications Ltd STM},

abstract = {A numerical and experimental investigation is carried out in this study to evaluate the crashworthiness behavior, the energy-absorbing parameters, and the failure mode of thermoplastic composite energy absorbers under axial loading. The energy absorbers are thin-walled circular tubes made of woven polyphenylene sulfide carbon composite and have a bevel trigger on the top. Finite element analysis are conducted to predict the structural behavior of the tubes. To validate the numerical model, four specimens are manufactured and tested under an axial compression load. During the tests, the load and displacement are measured by a load cell, the evolution of the longitudinal strains is captured by digital image correlation, and the progression of the failure is recorded by a high speed camera. The tubes show a progressive failure mode, with delamination between the middle plies. A stable damage propagation is observed throughout the tests, where the bevel trigger plays an important role in increasing the stability and failure progression of the thin-walled tubes. The test results are compared to the numerical prediction, with good agreement for both crashworthiness parameters and delamination behavior. The thermoplastic composite energy absorbers achieved specific energy absorption values of up to 70 kJ/kg, indicating an adequate crashworthiness performance.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{teran-baamonde_human_2026,

title = {Human health risk assessment of metals from bio-based microplastics using a bioavailability gastrointestinal digestion model},

author = {Javier Terán-Baamonde and Rosa María Soto-Ferreiro and Elia Alonso-Rodríguez and Alatzne Carlosena-Zubieta and Soledad Muniategui-Lorenzo},

url = {https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0269749125019566},

doi = {10.1016/j.envpol.2025.127582},

issn = {0269-7491},

year  = {2026},

date = {2026-02-01},

urldate = {2026-02-01},

journal = {Environmental Pollution},

volume = {391},

pages = {127582},

abstract = {Bio-based plastics are widely regarded as a promising alternative to conventional plastics; however, assessing their impact on environmental and human health is critically important. This study evaluates the human bioavailability of Ag, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb, Sb, and Sn from microplastics (MPs) derived from the most common bio-based materials: polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB), and poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV). Three scenarios were considered: raw material, material aged in a marine environment, and material subjected to a laboratory-based metal adsorption process. An in vitro gastrointestinal procedure, modified from the Unified Bioaccessibility Method (UBM) by incorporating a dialysis membrane, was employed to simulate intestinal absorption and determine the bioavailable fraction. MPs from both raw and marine-aged materials exhibited neither non-carcinogenic nor carcinogenic risks. However, non-carcinogenic risks were identified in metal-loaded MPs for Cd and Co (in PHAs and PLA) and Sb (in PHAs) in both adults and children, when considering the bioaccessible fraction. In contrast, when bioavailability was used, these risks were limited to Cd and Co. Carcinogenic risks associated with Cr in metal-loaded PHB and PHBV were identified for both adults and children, based solely on bioaccessibility. This study demonstrates that bioavailability provides a more reliable approach than bioaccessibility for evaluating human health risks associated with metals in bio-based MPs, because it accounts not only for the metal fraction that becomes solubilized during the digestive process, but also for the portion that, once solubilized, is subsequently absorbed into the bloodstream. Furthermore, the study highlights that each bio-based plastic type exhibits distinct metal-related behaviour.},

keywords = {Bio-based plastics, Bioaccessibility, Bioavailability, gastrointestinal digestion, Health risk assessment, Metals},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{li_experimental_2026,

title = {Experimental assessment of mode I fracture toughness and fracture energy in four rock types using the textitpCT testing method with two notch radii},

author = {Yan Li and Miguel Herbón-Penabad and Jorge Castro and Marina Miranda and Tonglu Li and Jordi Delgado-Martín},

url = {https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1365160925003296},

doi = {10.1016/j.ijrmms.2025.106352},

issn = {1365-1609},

year  = {2026},

date = {2026-01-01},

urldate = {2026-01-01},

journal = {International Journal of Rock Mechanics and Mining Sciences},

volume = {197},

pages = {106352},

abstract = {Understanding mode I fracture behavior in rocks is essential for handling geomechanical problems, including tunneling, mining, and hydraulic fracturing. This study investigates the mode I fracture toughness (KIC) and specific fracture energy (Gc and Gf) in one sandstone, one limestone and two marble lithologies using the pseudo-compact tension (pCT) test. To assess the influence of the notch radius, specimens were prepared with two notch radii: 0.15 mm (thin) and 0.5 mm (thick). The key novelty lies in comparing notch radius effects across multiple lithologies while explicitly accounting for heterogeneity via ultrasonic wave velocities and micro X-ray fluorescence elemental mapping. Results show that, for the limestone and the marbles, the thick notch yields higher values of KIC, Gc, Gf. In contrast, the sandstone shows the opposite trend, with higher values for thin-notch specimens. This behavior is likely attributed to its high porosity, where stress concentration around pores can generates secondary crack tips near the blunt notch tip, that reduce the fracture toughness and energy dissipation. Across all rocks, Gf > Gc, indicating substantial dissipation by microcracking and grain-boundary processes beyond pure surface-energy creation. In addition, a thinner notch improves repeatability and reduces data dispersion, thereby mitigating heterogeneity effects on measured parameters. These findings provide practical guidance on selection of notch radius and highlight the importance of multiscale heterogeneity characterization for advancing rock mechanics research and refining fracture testing methods, thereby improving accuracy and reducing variability.},

keywords = {Mode I fracture toughness, Notch radius, Pseudo-compact tension (CT) test, Rock heterogeneity, Specific fracture energy},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{li_effects_2026,

title = {Effects of Confining Pressure on Mode I Fracture Toughness Considering Jacketed and Unjacketed Conditions},

author = {Yan Li and Miguel Herbón-Penabad and Andrea Muñoz-Ibáñez and Leandro R. Alejano and José Alvarellos-Iglesias and Jacobo Canal-Vila and José María Segura-Serra and Jordi Delgado-Martín},

url = {https://doi.org/10.1007/s00603-025-04878-x},

doi = {10.1007/s00603-025-04878-x},

issn = {1434-453X},

year  = {2026},

date = {2026-01-01},

urldate = {2026-01-01},

journal = {Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering},

volume = {59},

number = {1},

pages = {1393–1403},

abstract = {Accurate assessment of mode I fracture toughness (KIc) in rocks under in-situ stress conditions is critical for analyzing various geomechancial problems in underground rock engineering. Typically, KIc is determined through unconfined tests. Under confining pressure, researchers often refer to the apparent mode I fracture toughness (KIc*), where specimens are typically jacketed to isolate from confining fluids. Although rocks are porous media that naturally contain fluids, relatively few studies have investigated the toughness behavior of unjacketed specimens under confining pressure, a scenario prone to rock-fluid interactions. In this study, we measured the KIc and KIc* of pseudo-compact tension (pCT) specimens of granite, limestone, sandstone, and polymethyl-methacrylate (PMMA) under two conditions: covered with a waterproofing rubber (jacketed) or directly exposed to the confining fluid (unjacketed). PMMA served as an impermeable reference material. Tests were conducted at room temperature and confining pressures ranging from 0.1 to 25 MPa. Results show that KIc* is material-dependent for both jacketed and unjacketed specimens. Jacketed specimens generally exhibit significantly higher KIc* values compared to unjacketed ones. However, KIc* values obtained from unjacketed specimens better reflect the actual stress state and fracture behavior under in-situ conditions, as both the mechanical and hydraulic properties of the rock interact concurrently during the development of the fracture process zone. These findings emphasize the importance of selecting appropriate testing conditions for accurately assessing fracture toughness in rocks, which has implications for the evaluation of stability, fracturing and fluid flow in rocks in underground environments.},

keywords = {Confining fluid, Confining pressure, Mode I fracture toughness, Pseudo-compact tension (pCT) test, Underground in-situ environment},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{rockne_future_2026,

title = {The future of mathematical oncology in the age of AI},

author = {Russell C. Rockne and Morten Andersen and Alexander R. A. Anderson and David Basanta and Angela Bentivegna and Sebastien Benzekry and Sergio Branciamore and Sarah C. Brüningk and Martina Conte and Farnoush Farahpour and Aleksandra Karolak and Alvaro Köhn-Luque and Guillermo Lorenzo and Babgen Manookian and Andrei S. Rodin and Lara Schmalenstroer and Juan Soler and Cristian Tomasetti and Konstancja Urbaniak},

url = {https://www.nature.com/articles/s41540-026-00656-9},

doi = {10.1038/s41540-026-00656-9},

issn = {2056-7189},

year  = {2026},

date = {2026-01-01},

urldate = {2026-03-18},

journal = {npj Systems Biology and Applications},

volume = {12},

number = {1},

pages = {22},

publisher = {Nature Publishing Group},

abstract = {This perspective article discusses emerging advances at the interface of mechanistic modeling and data-driven machine learning, highlighting opportunities for AI to accelerate discovery, improve predictive modeling, and enhance clinical decision-making. We address critical limitations of current AI approaches and propose a perspective on a future where AI augments mechanistic rigor, clinical relevance, and human creativity under the umbrella of a redefined understanding of Mathematical Oncology.},

keywords = {Cancer, Computational biology and bioinformatics, Mathematics and computing},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{pinto_assessment_2026,

title = {Assessment of mortar and paste properties in the presence of nutrients used in bacteria-based self-healing},

author = {Adonay Pinto-Pérez and Belén González-Fonteboa and Sindy Seara-Paz and Fernando Martínez-Abella},

url = {https://www.inderscienceonline.com/doi/abs/10.1504/IJMRI.2026.152244},

doi = {10.1504/IJMRI.2026.152244},

issn = {2056-9459},

year  = {2026},

date = {2026-01-01},

urldate = {2026-01-01},

journal = {International Journal of Masonry Research and Innovation},

volume = {11},

number = {2},

pages = {130–145},

publisher = {Inderscience Publishers},

abstract = {Small cracks in cement-based materials represent one of their primary weak points. To address this, self-sealing techniques have emerged, being one of them the use of bacteria and nutrients. The objective of this work is to analyse the effect that these nutrients have on the properties of mortars and pastes. To achieve this, yeast extract, calcium lactate and calcium nitrate were selected. For mortar characterisation, compressive strength, and shrinkage tests were developed. These tests were complemented with rheological tests stress growth test and flow curve test in pastes. The results demonstrate how the incorporation of these nutrients alters the properties of mortars and pastes, such as the decrease of almost 50% in early age strengths when yeast extract is used at 1.25%, the significant increase in shrinkage when lactate is employed at 4% by up to 81%, or the increase in fluidity when nitrate is used, among others.},

keywords = {calcium-lactate, calcium-nitrate, Mortar, paste, self-healing, yeast-extract},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{noauthor_mechanical_2026,

title = {Mechanical performance of warm mix asphalt incorporating polyolefin waste as aggregate},

author = {Jorge Del-Valle-Corte and Ignacio Pérez-Pérez and Ana M. Rodríguez-Pasandín and Pablo Orosa Iglesias and María José Abad},

url = {https://www.researchgate.net/publication/398597537_Mechanical_performance_of_warm_mix_asphalt_incorporating_polyolefin_waste_as_aggregate},

doi = {10.1080/10298436.2025.2597314},

issn = {1029-8436},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-12-11},

urldate = {2025-12-11},

journal = {International Journal of Pavement Engineering},

volume = {26},

issue = {1},

abstract = {The widespread use of plastics in modern society, coupled with the challenges of recycling certain types, has driven the exploration of their application in asphalt mixtures to promote circular economy principles and mitigate environmental impact. This laboratory study explores the feasibility of using polyolefin waste as a partial aggregate replacement in warm mix asphalt (WMA) using the dry process without additional treatment. The research began by determining the optimum bitumen content through a mixture design based on the moisture damage resistance test. This same test was then used to identify the optimum polyolefin waste content from seven different WMA mixtures, introducing the coarse-sized polymer as an aggregate substitute, at mass-based replacement rates (0.5%, 1.0%, 1.5%, 5.0% and 10.0%) with volume control, and employing two distinct incorporation methods. Subsequently, the control and polyolefin-modified mixtures were evaluated regarding volumetric and mechanical properties, including abrasion resistance, stiffness, thermal susceptibility, resistance to permanent deformation and fatigue life. The findings demonstrate that incorporating polyolefin waste at a substitution level of 0.5% enhances both abrasion and moisture damage resistance, effectively repurposing a challenging waste material. However, despite these benefits, it also presents some limitations in permanent deformation resistance compared to the control mixture.},

keywords = {fatigue life, moisture damage resistance, permanent deformation, plastic waste, polyolefin, Stiffness, warm mix asphalt},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{ouzani_numerical_2025,

title = {Numerical study of salt fingers dynamics and mixing in laminar shear flow},

author = {Riadh Ouzani and Miloud Lahbari and Sofiane Khelladi and Xesús Nogueira-Garea},

url = {https://doi.org/10.1063/5.0300705},

doi = {10.1063/5.0300705},

issn = {1070-6631},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-12-01},

urldate = {2025-12-01},

journal = {Physics of Fluids},

volume = {37},

number = {12},

pages = {123613},

abstract = {In the present study, numerical simulations are employed to investigate the effect of laminar shear flow intensity on the salt fingers dynamics and associated mixing mechanism. A high-order finite volume method are used to solve the two-dimensional Navier–Stokes equations, using a fifth-order weighted essentially non-oscillatory scheme for nonlinear convection, a fourth-order centered scheme for viscous terms, and a third-order total variation diminishing Runge–Kutta method to advance in time. Simulations were performed for laminar shear flow regimes with Reynolds numbers ranging from Re = 0 to 700 at RaT = 7 × 106, considering various buoyancy ratios. The results show that variations in laminar shear flow intensity lead to various salt-finger configurations, which in turn affect their morphology, evolution, and the efficiency of the associated transport processes. The interaction between fingers and shear induces asymmetric evolution and reduces the width of the fingers, which become increasingly tilted as the Reynolds number rises. As the buoyancy ratio increases, shear effects become more pronounced, producing thinner and more tilted salt fingers. It was also found that as the shear intensity increases, the buoyancy forces weaken relative to the hydrodynamic process, which inhibits the generation of vortices at the ascending and descending finger tips. Our findings also show that the increases in the Reynolds number significantly reduced the mass exchange in the vertical direction and improved horizontal transport. Meanwhile, heat transfer remains unaffected by variations in shear intensity. The mixing characteristics were also studied by analyzing the PDFs (probability density function of salinity). The PDFs reveals that convective mixing is reduced with increasing shear strength, while simultaneously enhancing diffusive mixing within the system. Moreover, higher buoyancy ratios intensify diffusive mixing, particularly in the presence of strong shear.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{riepe_elasto-plastic_2025,

title = {An elasto-plastic model for the deformation of dowel-type fasteners based on Johansen’s theory},

author = {Johann Riepe and Jacobo Díaz-García and Jörg Schänzlin},

url = {https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0141029625017067},

doi = {10.1016/j.engstruct.2025.121315},

issn = {0141-0296},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-12-01},

urldate = {2025-12-01},

journal = {Engineering Structures},

volume = {344},

pages = {121315},

abstract = {In timber structures, the stiffness of a connection is of considerable importance in terms of the distribution of forces and deformations within the structural system, and therefore requires an appropriate design method. The existing European standard, and its second generation, provide equations for the prediction of deformation for connections with dowel-type fasteners. However, these empirical equations differ significantly in the influencing parameters from the theory to determine load-bearing capacity according to Johansen. Since that approach is based on ideal-plastic assumptions for the embedment stiffness and the bending moment of the fastener, no deformation can be obtained. This paper presents an extension of Johansen theory, considering an elastic–plastic assumption of the material parameters, which allows to obtain the deformation of the connection considering the same parameters as for the prediction of the ultimate load. These new derived basic equations are solved numerically, resulting in a force–deformation curve that reflects the elastic–plastic behaviour of a given connection. In order to validate this approach, a comparison of the results with experimentally determined curves and with the well-established beam-on-foundation method (BOFM) is presented. The results demonstrate that the extended theory can be employed to achieve outcomes that are highly comparable to those attained by the BOFM. However, minor deviations were observed when the connection configuration was within the transition state between two failure modes. For configurations with a force-fibre angle of α=60°, the results of the extended Johansen theory accurately describe the initial stiffness but underestimate the force in plasticised areas. This can be attributed to the bedding curve being oversimplified when a rising branch is observed after the timber material’s yield strength is reached.},

keywords = {Beam-on-foundation method, Force–displacement, Johansen theory, Stiffness},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{poozesh_machine_2025,

title = {Machine Learning-based prediction of the performance of a wind-excited piezoelectric energy harvester deployed in urban environment},

author = {Poorya Poozesh and Antonio J. Álvarez-Naveira and Félix Nieto-Mouronte},

url = {https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0167610525002181},

doi = {10.1016/j.jweia.2025.106222},

issn = {0167-6105},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-12-01},

urldate = {2025-12-01},

journal = {Journal of Wind Engineering and Industrial Aerodynamics},

volume = {267},

pages = {106222},

abstract = {The growing urgency to mitigate climate change has driven significant interest in renewable energy solutions, including energy harvesting from wind-induced vibrations from piezoelectric materials. While most prior research has optimized energy harvester designs through controlled wind tunnel experiments and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations, their performance under real-world, long-term conditions remains largely unexplored. This study addresses this gap by deploying a piezoelectric energy harvester in an urban environment and analysing its performance using one month of ambient wind data. Machine learning (ML) models are developed to predict the output voltage of the harvester based on wind speed, azimuth, and elevation angles, as well as diurnal/nocturnal variations. The results revealed that wind speed magnitude influences voltage output, with clear sensitivity to directional and elevation components, which is of relevance in urban environments, where wind interacts with the surrounding structures. Among the tested ML models, Random Forest (RF) demonstrated the highest predictive accuracy, outperforming Gradient Boosting Regression Trees (GBRT) and Decision Tree Regression (DTR). This work underscores the potential of ML-driven approaches to improve the operational efficiency of piezoelectric wind-excited energy harvesters deployed in complex urban environments.},

keywords = {3:2 rectangular prism, Energy harvester, Field measurement, Machine learning (ML), Piezoelectric, Rectangular bluff body, Urban wind},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{lopez_assessment_2025,

title = {Assessment of foam-filled carbon-fiber reinforced thermoplastic tubes under impact loading for energy absorption structures},

author = {Carmen López-Chao and Luis E. Romera-Rodríguez and Jacobo Díaz-García},

url = {https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0263822325007020},

doi = {10.1016/j.compstruct.2025.119537},

issn = {0263-8223},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-12-01},

urldate = {2025-12-01},

journal = {Composite Structures},

volume = {373},

pages = {119537},

abstract = {Structures composed of multiple materials can leverage the advantages of each constituent to enhance the overall performance of energy-absorbing components. This research investigates the axial crushing behavior of foam-filled carbon-fiber reinforced thermoplastic energy absorbers. The studied components consist of thin-walled circular tubes filled with polymeric foam to enhance energy absorption capabilities. A material testing campaign is conducted on the polymeric foam to calibrate the numerical model. Finite element analyses are performed to evaluate the crashworthiness behavior, failure mechanisms, and energy absorption metrics of the full components under dynamic impact conditions. Two components are subjected to axial impact tests to validate the numerical predictions. The experimental results reveal a progressive crushing process, governed by brittle fracture and delamination. The numerical predictions demonstrate good agreement with the experimental findings, capturing both failure mechanisms and crashworthiness metrics. Specific energy absorption values of up to 40 kJ/kg and absorbed energies up to 15 kJ are achieved, indicating adequate structural performance. Furthermore, interaction effects between the foam and the composite tube are analyzed and compared to empty tubes tested in a previous study. The results show that the foam significantly enhances crashworthiness, with foam-filled tubes absorbing approximately 43% more energy than the equivalent empty tubes.},

keywords = {Crashworthiness, Finite element analysis, Foam-filled, Impact testing, Thermoplastic composite},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{valdivieso_shake_2025,

title = {Shake table testing for system effects analysis in a 1:2 scale three-story light frame timber building},

author = {Diego Valdivieso and Diego Quizanga and José Luis Almazán and Diego López-García and Abbie Liel and Nicol Lopez and Francisco Hernández and Pablo Guindos-Bretones},

doi = {10.1177/87552930251353813},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-12-01},

urldate = {2025-12-01},

journal = {Earthquake Spectra},

volume = {41},

pages = {3695–3723},

abstract = {This study investigates the impact of system effects on the dynamic behavior of light frame timber buildings (LFTBs) through shake table tests and numerical analysis. Here, the term ‘‘system effects’’ encompasses the influence of the transverse shear walls, the out-of-plane bending stiffness of the diaphragms, and the gravity load, particularly in LFTBs with non-planar shear walls. The findings of this research reveal that system effects notably reduce story drift demands and enhance the lateral stiffness and damping ratio of LFTBs with respect to results from numerical models that do not consider component interactions. This observation highlights a discrepancy between the actual lateral stiffness and that predicted by existing models, particularly at relatively small levels of story drift. The underestimation of these engineering parameters is more apparent at the lower stories, underscoring the significant role of the gravity load in amplifying the beneficial effects of the transverse shear walls and the out-of-plane bending stiffness of the diaphragms. These insights are vital to refine the seismic design and analysis of LFTBs and underscore the importance of incorporating system effects into both numerical and analytical models. This enhanced understanding of component interactions in LFTBs sets the stage for increasing adoption of LFTBs as a sustainable and resilient building solution in earthquake-prone areas.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{vranesevic_wind-induced_2025,

title = {Wind-induced loads on solar panels: Experimental study of isolated panels and an array},

author = {Kristina Kostadinović Vranešević and Ulf Winkelmann and Cornelia Kalender and Vanessa Bernard and Rüdiger Höffer and Anina Glumac and Félix Nieto-Mouronte},

url = {https://doi.org/10.1088/1755-1315/1552/1/012004},

doi = {10.1088/1755-1315/1552/1/012004},

issn = {1755-1315},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-11-01},

urldate = {2025-11-01},

journal = {IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science},

volume = {1552},

number = {1},

pages = {012004},

publisher = {IOP Publishing},

abstract = {Understanding wind-induced loads on solar panels (SPs) is essential for their structural optimisation, particularly in varying terrain conditions. This paper combines a targeted review of experimental studies on wind loading of SPs with the presentation of a preliminary experimental plan developed within the framework of a Short-Term Scientific Mission (STSM) approved under the MODENERLANDS COST Action CA20109. The literature review addresses both isolated and array configurations, identifying key parameters influencing aerodynamic loads, such as tilt angle, row spacing, upstream terrain roughness and wind direction, as well as experimental challenges, including scale matching, Reynolds number sensitivity and dynamic effects. To address some of these gaps, a wind tunnel campaign is proposed and will be conducted in the atmospheric boundary layer wind tunnel at Ruhr University Bochum, Germany. The study will investigate wind loading on an isolated SP model and a 3×4 SP array, using a geometric scale of 1:30 for the panels and 1:300 for the incident wind profile. Tests will cover two terrain roughness, three tilt angles, multiple Reynolds numbers and a wide range of approaching wind directions. Within the array, pressure measurements will target panels at critical positions to capture the highest loading and evaluate wake interference effects. The resulting dataset is intended to support future computational fluid dynamics (CFD) validation and contribute to the development of improved design methodologies for SP installations.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{alvarez_satellite-based_2025,

title = {Satellite-based offshore wind data close to the coast: comparison with onshore meteorological mast records and microscale CFD simulations},

author = {Antonio J. Álvarez-Naveira and Jónas Þór Snæbjörnsson and António Couto and Teresa Simões and Poorya Poozesh and Félix Nieto-Mouronte},

url = {https://doi.org/10.1088/1755-1315/1552/1/012009},

doi = {10.1088/1755-1315/1552/1/012009},

issn = {1755-1315},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-11-01},

urldate = {2025-11-01},

journal = {IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science},

volume = {1552},

number = {1},

pages = {012009},

publisher = {IOP Publishing},

abstract = {Satellite observation of environmental phenomena is becoming increasingly accurate, complementing pre-existing measurement techniques. In this work, the offshore wind field recorded by Sentinel-1 on February 6th, 2021, close to the Southwestern Iceland coast is compared with the anemometric measurements provided by a relatively dense network of weather stations in the Reykjanes peninsula and microscale CFD simulations that use the Hvassahraun weather station data to approximate wind velocity and direction in offshore locations. The three methodologies show a good agreement in the 10-minute velocity magnitudes for the set of considered offshore locations, while the 10-minute mean wind direction shows certain scattering, although with a consistent prevalence of Eastern wind directions, in agreement with the anemometric data. The results show obvious complementarities among the three approaches, suggesting further studies to improve accuracy, especially for capturing local effects impacting wind magnitude and directionality.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{fontes_contribution_2025,

title = {Contribution to the development of a new value chain in the marine renewable energy sector},

author = {Margarida Fontes and Teresa Simões and Ana Estanqueiro and Félix Nieto-Mouronte and Maria Tsamil},

url = {https://doi.org/10.1088/1755-1315/1552/1/012008},

doi = {10.1088/1755-1315/1552/1/012008},

issn = {1755-1315},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-11-01},

urldate = {2025-11-01},

journal = {IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science},

volume = {1552},

number = {1},

pages = {012008},

publisher = {IOP Publishing},

abstract = {As part of the commitments made in the NECP2030 for Portugal, an increase in wind capacity is planned, including an additional 10.4 GW onshore and 2 GW offshore. In this sense, it is necessary to assess the conditions for the creation of a new industrial value chain that will accelerate this development and offer attractive conditions for the involvement of the industrial sector, providing conditions for the objectives recommended in the NECP 2030 to be met. Projects OffshorePlan - Planning for the Use of Offshore Renewable Energies in Portugal, and OceanTrans - Ocean energy technologies transformative potential analyzed the relevant socio-economic component for this sector, namely the process of creating a new industrial value chain to support the development of marine renewable energies. As part of this research, a questionnaire survey was conducted targeting companies in sectors with complementary skills and resources, directly or indirectly related to the development of projects in this area. The questionnaire yielded 114 responses from companies already active and 182 from companies willing to become involved in the future. The results allowed us to obtain a global view of the actual and potential involvement of the industrial sector, as well as to gain some insight into how companies view the requirements to operate in this area and the main barriers to their performance. This article presents the main findings obtained in the scope of this research and discusses their contribution to the advancement of the marine renewable energy sector and, as such, to the development of offshore wind energy in Portugal.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{simoes_renewable_2025,

title = {Renewable Energy Production in the Mediterranean: Exploring the Potential for Offshore Wind Development},

author = {Teresa Simões and Maria Tsami and Félix Nieto-Mouronte and Nejan Huvaj},

url = {https://doi.org/10.1088/1755-1315/1552/1/012012},

doi = {10.1088/1755-1315/1552/1/012012},

issn = {1755-1315},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-11-01},

urldate = {2025-11-01},

journal = {IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science},

volume = {1552},

number = {1},

pages = {012012},

publisher = {IOP Publishing},

abstract = {This study presents an overview of the current state of the Maritime Spatial Planning among the Mediterranean countries, explores the previous studies on evaluating the offshore wind potential of the Mediterranean region along with the criteria for suitable site selection. Based on a review of the current state of offshore renewable energy, the potential locations offshore wind will be explored for the Mediterranean coastline case study area. The research concludes with a set of critical considerations related to the need for proper synergies establishment among different stakeholders and for cultivating social acceptance and community engagement. The analysis aims to support decision-makers evaluating the potential of the Mediterranean coastal area in supporting the energy transition goal.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{farfan-duran_integrating_2025,

title = {Integrating net rainfall calculation in deep learning-based surrogate modeling frameworks for 2D flood prediction},

author = {Juan F. Farfán-Durán and Carlos I. Montalvo-Montenegro and Luis Cea-Gómez and João P. Leitão},

url = {https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022169425009709},

doi = {10.1016/j.jhydrol.2025.133632},

issn = {0022-1694},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-11-01},

urldate = {2025-11-01},

journal = {Journal of Hydrology},

volume = {661},

pages = {133632},

abstract = {This study proposes a novel deep learning (DL)-based surrogate model that incorporates the calculation of net rainfall using the SCS-CN method, providing a flexible framework for evaluating the influence of rainfall events under different antecedent moisture conditions (AMC). The proposed framework involves establishing a ground truth model (Iber-SWMM) and defining the necessary terrain features and rainfall patterns for training the surrogate. A benchmark surrogate model using only gross rainfall, replicating methodologies from previous studies, is also developed for comparison. The trained models are then applied to predict water depth maps using test rainfall patterns under different scenarios, both with and without net rainfall. The results demonstrate that the proposed surrogate model reduces the computational times of Iber-SWMM by 2 to 4 orders of magnitude while outperforming the benchmark surrogate in all the measures. It presents satisfactory accuracy in water depth prediction, with 80% to 95% of predictions within a -0.2 to 0.2 m error range and hit ratios between 0.87 to 0.91 in terms of flooded pixels in the more extreme events. These outcomes are comparable to those achieved by a physics-based model on one of the test events. The study also suggests future lines for refinement.},

keywords = {Deep learning, Flood prediction, Hydrological modeling, Surrogate model, Urban hydrology},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{quizanga_seismic_2025,

title = {Seismic performance of timber buildings retrofitted with hybrid walls and impact-resilient isolators},

author = {Diego Quizanga and José Luis Almazán and Pablo Torres-Rodas and Pablo Guindos},

url = {https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0267726125003793},

doi = {10.1016/j.soildyn.2025.109586},

issn = {0267-7261},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-11-01},

urldate = {2025-11-01},

journal = {Soil Dynamics and Earthquake Engineering},

volume = {198},

pages = {109586},

abstract = {Light-frame timber buildings (LFTBs) are widely used in seismic regions due to their ease of assembly and the availability of pre-qualified structural elements. However, LFTBs are susceptible to collapse mechanisms such as soft-story failures during extreme events. Different studies have focused on increasing the LFTB's lateral force-resisting system capacity to address this vulnerability by constructing hybrid elements combining wood with other materials. Although these hybrid buildings are more resistant to seismic forces, they have exhibited large floor accelerations. On the other hand, frictional seismic isolation has demonstrated its efficiency in protecting LFTBs and reducing their floor accelerations. However, during extreme earthquakes, an impact between the perimeter ring of the isolators and the sliders can occur, reducing the effectiveness of seismic isolation. In response to this phenomenon, this paper evaluates the seismic performance of archetype buildings, representative of the Chilean real estate sector, subjected to extreme ground motions capable of inducing impact. The analysis includes retrofitted LFTBs after incorporating hybrid walls and recently developed Impact-Resilient Double Concave Frictional Pendulum (IR-DCFP) bearings. Considering the isolators remain functional under extreme displacements and the FEMA P695 methodology, incremental dynamic analyses of nonlinear models were conducted to obtain the collapse margin ratio of each archetype and, subsequently, their fragility curves. Results indicated that incorporating hybrid walls and IR-DCFPs reduced the LFTB's probability of collapse at the Maximum Considered Earthquake level by up to 35 %, even considering a low wall density and the use of compact bearings. These findings suggest that IR-DCFPs combined with hybrid walls offer a cost-effective solution for improving the seismic resilience of LFTBs in high-seismicity regions.},

keywords = {Hybrid walls, Impact Resilient isolators, Light frame timber buildings, Nonlinear models, Seismic performance},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{villalba_multipatch_2025,

title = {Multipatch IGA for stress-constrained minimum weight structural topology optimization},

author = {Diego Villalba and José París-López and Iván Couceiro-Aguiar and Fermín L. Navarrina-Martínez},

url = {https://doi.org/10.1080/0305215X.2024.2436994},

doi = {10.1080/0305215X.2024.2436994},

issn = {0305-215X},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-11-01},

urldate = {2025-11-01},

journal = {Engineering Optimization},

volume = {57},

number = {11},

pages = {3401–3424},

publisher = {Taylor & Francis},

abstract = {In this article, an isogeometric analysis (IGA) formulation with various patches (multipatch approach) is proposed to solve the structural topology optimization (STO) problem. The multipatch formulation enables the solution of STO problems with geometries not equivalent to rectangles by using IGA. For this purpose, a minimum weight with stress constraints (MWSC) problem is stated. A quadratic B-splines basis defined for each patch is used to model the material distribution. The structural analysis is computed with IGA. The introduction of all of the stress constraints in the formulation of the problem is made with an overweight constraint (OC). Finally, the multipatch approach is validated with the solution of some benchmark problems.},

note = {_eprint: https://doi.org/10.1080/0305215X.2024.2436994},

keywords = {isogeometric analysi, multipatch approach, overweight approach, stress constraints, Structural topology optimization},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{avudaiappan_comparative_2025,

title = {Comparative study on the effect of natural and synthetic fibers on the production of sustainable concrete},

author = {Siva Avudaiappan and Rene Gomez Puigpinos and Lucas Daza and Manuel Chávez-Delgado and Fernando Betancourt and Erick Saavedra Flores and Krishna Arunachalam and Pablo Guindos-Bretones},

doi = {10.1515/rams-2025-0121},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-10-01},

urldate = {2025-10-01},

journal = {REVIEWS ON ADVANCED MATERIALS SCIENCE},

volume = {64},

abstract = {The increased concern with the use of environmentally friendly products in construction has led to the search for natural fiber replacements to synthetic fibers used in concrete. This research attempts to understand the trends that result from the addition of natural (hemp and luffa sponge) and synthetic fibers to concrete and its mechanical properties at the micro level. Concrete samples were prepared with fiber volume fractions of 0.4%, 0.8%, and 1.2%, and their compressive and flexural strengths were subsequently determined. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy were employed for assessing the fiber pattern and characteristics of the cementitious matrix–fiber interface. It was found that all fibers improved the compressive and flexural strengths of concrete in each blend relative to the reference mix. Most importantly, it was observed that the highest compressive strength of 28.15 MPa was obtained with luffa sponge fibers at 1.2% volume fraction accompanied by an enhancement of flexural strength. This was further supported by SEM analysis, which showed the evidence of the natural fibers’ better distribution on the concrete matrix than the synthetic ones, thus improving the structure. The results of this research underscore the versatility of natural fibers, especially luffa sponge, to be used as a construction material with long-term value. This article offers specific recommendations for civil engineers and construction practitioners who wish to improve concrete performance as well as undertake environmentally conscious construction practices.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{cid_optimization_2025,

title = {Optimization of a novel stiffening scheme using tension rods for a multi-lobe passenger cabin},

author = {Clara Cid and Aitor Baldomir-García and Miguel Rodríguez-Segade and Santiago Hernández-Ibáñez},

doi = {10.1007/s12567-025-00669-w},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-10-01},

urldate = {2025-10-01},

journal = {CEAS Space Journal},

abstract = {The goal of this research is to enhance the structural performance of a passenger cabin designed for hypersonic aircraft. These new prototypes are based on the multi-lobe concept to benefit from wider fuselages that improve the lift-to-drag ratio. The vehicle is subjected to very demanding thermal and pressure loading conditions due to the high temperatures of the propulsion system and the low temperatures inside the cryogenic tanks. As a result, the cabin cannot be over-expanded to provide enough insulation between the passenger compartment and the remaining subsystems. Tension rod elements were conceived as an effective structural scheme to brace the upper and lower parts of the cabin. Nevertheless, it is challenging to determine the optimum number, arrangement, and areas of these cables because it gives rise to a computationally expensive mixed-integer nonlinear programming problem. Thus, a novel optimization strategy is proposed to convert the discrete nature of cable existence into continuous variables, enabling the use of gradient-based optimization techniques. To achieve this, a sigmoid function is assigned to each cable, yielding a value close to 0 or 1 depending on whether its area makes a significant structural contribution. By combining all these functions, the total number of cables can be determined and used as the objective function. The optimal cable arrangement should be selected from the Pareto front, aiming to balance a lightweight design with the minimal number of components.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{rodriguez-alvaro_effect_2025,

title = {Effect of fly ash blending in internally cured mortar under air-drying curing conditions},

author = {Roberto Rodríguez-Álvaro and Sindy Seara-Paz and Blas Cantero-Chaparro and Belén González-Fonteboa},

url = {https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0950061825036402},

doi = {10.1016/j.conbuildmat.2025.143489},

issn = {0950-0618},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-10-01},

urldate = {2025-10-01},

journal = {Construction and Building Materials},

volume = {495},

pages = {143489},

abstract = {A proper humid curing of concrete structures is commonly considered as vital to guarantee their strength development and durability. However, undesired periods of air-drying curing conditions can take place. Therefore, the performance of concrete in this situation should be studied. This research work aims to better understand how internally cured fly ash blended cement mortars are affected by air-drying curing conditions. Coal bottom ash (CBA) and wood bottom ash (WA) were used as internal curing water reservoirs. Results show a poor strength development after the age of one week. Moreover, mortar specimens lose a considerable amount of weight during their first days of curing due to water evaporation. This severe drying, together with a long-term carbonation (depth, weight gain and shrinkage), affects the fly ash (FA) blended cement mortars more than the ordinary Portland cement (OPC) mortars. Furthermore, a pore structure analysis was carried out, showing that FA-blended mixtures present a higher total porosity and internal curing cannot effectively refine the pores in the matrix when OPC is the only binder. Self-desiccation was detected in combination with external drying thanks to a comparative study between weight changes and shrinkage. Internal curing can mitigate the self-desiccation shrinkage but increases the drying shrinkage. Moreover, the presence of the waste porous aggregates counteracts the internal curing effect decreasing the strength, and barely affects the carbonation process. As a general conclusion, it can be stated that air-drying curing conditions should be avoided and external wet or sealed curing should always complement internal curing, especially if blended cements are used.},

keywords = {Carbonation, Coal bottom ash, Drying shrinkage, Self-desiccation, Weight change, Wood bottom ash},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{fernandez-amado_temperature_2025,

title = {Temperature influence on the stability and the viability of salt caverns due to creep phenomena},

author = {Blanca Fernández-Amado and Andrés Soage-Quintáns and José París-López and Ignasi Colominas-Ezponda and Rubén Juanes and Luis Cueto-Felgueroso},

url = {https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2352152X25025289},

doi = {10.1016/j.est.2025.117815},

issn = {2352-152X},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-10-01},

urldate = {2025-10-01},

journal = {Journal of Energy Storage},

volume = {133},

pages = {117815},

abstract = {This study investigates the viability of using salt caverns as large-scale storage solutions for green hydrogen, considering the effects of the temperature. To accomplish this, a structural model of a prototype salt dome cavern was evaluated using finite element methods, taking into account variations in temperature and depth. As the temperature of the rock mass rises, the strength of the salt diminishes, which can lead to deformation and collapse of the cavern. Additionally, analyzing the deformation of the cavern is important, as it leads to a reduction in volume and serves as an indicator of the cavern’s serviceability. The methodology developed in this study enables the classification of land areas as suitable or unsuitable for green hydrogen storage in salt caverns based on a safety zone defined by the temperature-depth relationship. In addition, the study compares two cavern geometries—one nearly vertical and the other nearly horizontal—while keeping the same initial volume. This comparison emphasizes the crucial role of geometry in the stability analysis, particularly in relation to the thermal effects on the rock salt. The proposed safety zone solution was validated through real-world examples of operational salt caverns in the USA, confirming its applicability and accuracy.},

keywords = {Hydrogen, Salt cavern, Solid mechanics, Temperature},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{aguado_molina_comparative_2025,

title = {A comparative sustainability assessment of several grid energy storage technologies},

author = {Roque Aguado Molina and Juan José Cartelle Barros and María del Pilar Cruz-López and Manuel Lara Coira and Alfredo Del-Caño-Gochi},

url = {https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S030626192500978X},

doi = {10.1016/j.apenergy.2025.126248},

issn = {0306-2619},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-10-01},

urldate = {2025-10-01},

journal = {Applied Energy},

volume = {396},

pages = {126248},

abstract = {The global energy transition toward a low-carbon economy is driving increasing penetration of variable energy sources into electricity markets. This unprecedented deployment of intermittent renewables confronts decision-makers in the electricity sector with the challenge of selecting among different energy storage technologies, a choice that must be made on the basis of sustainability criteria. Existing studies present shortcomings, including the absence of the social dimension, the use of weights against sustainable development, or the application of methodologies affected by the rank reversal issue, among others. To address gaps in current knowledge, this study presents a novel probabilistic model for assessing the global sustainability of grid energy storage technologies. The model is based on the MIVES (Modelo Integrado de Valor para una Evaluación Sostenible)–Monte Carlo method, which combines requirement trees, value functions, the analytic hierarchy process, and probabilistic simulations. It consists of 19 indicators and makes it possible to obtain a sustainability index (SI), as well as partial economic, social, environmental, and technical indices for each technology. Data from an extensive literature review were integrated with expert input and estimations based on linear correlations to address challenges in assessing social and environmental indicators. The model was applied to six technologies: pumped hydroelectric energy storage (PHES), compressed air energy storage (CAES), liquid air energy storage (LAES), vanadium redox flow batteries (VRFB), sodium-sulfur batteries (NaSB), and hydrogen energy storage (HES). A comprehensive sensitivity analysis is also included. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, no existing study has utilized the innovative methodology presented in this paper, nor has any related research achieved the scope and depth proposed here. The top-performing technologies identified for the economic, social, environmental, and technical dimensions of sustainability are CAES, VRFB, LAES, and PHES, respectively. In terms of global sustainability, VRFB, LAES and PHES are the best options, while HES consistently ranks last. NaSB and CAES occupy intermediate positions.},

keywords = {Electricity storage, Global sustainability, MIVES–Monte Carlo method, Monte Carlo simulation, Multi-criteria decision-making, Requirement trees, Value functions},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{otero-chans_behavior_2025,

title = {Behavior of cross-laminated timber panels under different shear loading scenarios},

author = {Dolores Otero-Chans and Félix Suárez-Riestra and Emilio Martín-Gutiérrez and Javier Estévez-Cimadevila},

url = {https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2352710225013038},

doi = {10.1016/j.jobe.2025.113066},

issn = {2352-7102},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-10-01},

urldate = {2026-03-18},

journal = {Journal of Building Engineering},

volume = {111},

pages = {113066},

abstract = {There is limited knowledge of the behaviour of cross-laminated timber (CLT) panels in situations other than their use as slabs or walls. As a preliminary step toward implementing tests on structural-sized bending members, three types of tests were carried out on 60 cm thick, three-layer CLT panels to verify their behaviour under shear loading in different conditions. Also, numerical models were developed and relate to the observed failure modes. First, in-plane shear tests were performed. Second, pull-out shear tests were conducted on specimens composed of CLT and concrete with recycled aggregates. In these two tests, two orientations of the CLT face boards relative to the load direction were investigated: parallel and perpendicular. Finally, four bending tests were conducted on short CLT I-beams to evaluate the flexural shear strength of the CLT panels used as the web of the section. In the first two tests, the shear strength was found equivalent for parallel-oriented panels, with variations of up to 33 % in the case of perpendicular-oriented panels. Both orientations showed similar slip modulus values in the CLT-concrete pull-out shear tests. The glued flange-web joint of the beams did not show any noticeable failure or slippage, which would enable the design of cassette solutions with CLT ribs. The results of this research will serve as the basis for the design of various structural solutions, including timber-concrete composite (TCC) systems with casettte cross-section in which perforations made in the CLT panels act as shear connectors between the timber and the concrete.},

keywords = {Cross-laminated timber, Destructive test, Finite element model, Shear strength, Timber-concrete composite},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{cantero_self-healing_2025,

title = {Self-healing mechanisms in concrete cured in CO2-saturated environments: Synergistic effects of biomass forest ash and metakaolin},

author = {Blas Cantero-Chaparro and Sindy Seara-Paz and Estefania Cuenca and Liberato Ferrara and Belén González-Fonteboa},

url = {https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0958946525002422},

doi = {10.1016/j.cemconcomp.2025.106160},

issn = {0958-9465},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-10-01},

urldate = {2025-10-01},

journal = {Cement and Concrete Composites},

volume = {163},

pages = {106160},

abstract = {This study investigates the effect of autogenous self-healing in high-performance ternary concrete mixes incorporating biomass forest ash when exposed to concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2). To analyse this phenomenon, three cementitious systems were studied: i) 100 % Portland cement, ii) 60 % Portland cement, 25 % biomass ash, and 15 % metakaolin, and iii) 60 % Portland cement, 25 % limestone filler, and 15 % metakaolin. The samples, prepared with different initial crack widths, were subjected to four self-healing conditions: i) continuous immersion in tap water (TW), ii) wet-dry cycles in TW, iii) continuous immersion in carbonated water (CW), and iv) wet-dry cycles in CW, over two exposure periods (28 and 90 days). The effectiveness of the process was evaluated through the analysis of surface crack sealing using a digital microscope and the recovery of impermeability through water permeability tests. To understand the chemical mechanisms involved, the self-healing products formed were analysed using SEM. The results showed that the samples self-healed in CW tended to exhibit lower surface sealing efficiency compared to TW, regardless of the mix type, due to the slightly acidic pH caused by the dissolution of CO2 into carbonic acid. However, in the higher pH inside the cracks promoted the precipitation of calcium carbonates, improving internal impermeability even without achieving effective surface sealing. In this context, biomass ash was particularly effective as a water reservoir, promoting more efficient internal curing when combined with metakaolin and achieving better results in terms of internal impermeability than conventional mixes with cement or limestone filler combined with metakaolin.},

keywords = {Biomass ash, CO-Rich environments, Internal curing, Metakaolin, Self-healing concrete},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{fernandez-san_miguel_comparative_2025,

title = {A Comparative Review of FEM Like Techniques Applied to the Linear Analysis of Molecular Structures},

author = {Andrés Fernández-San-Miguel and Luis Ramírez-Palacios and Iván Couceiro-Aguiar and Fermín L. Navarrina-Martínez},

url = {https://doi.org/10.1007/s11831-025-10272-1},

doi = {10.1007/s11831-025-10272-1},

issn = {1886-1784},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-10-01},

urldate = {2025-10-01},

journal = {Archives of Computational Methods in Engineering},

volume = {32},

number = {7},

pages = {4447–4474},

abstract = {In this study, a historical review of the Finite Element Method (FEM) and Molecular Dynamics (MD), widely used at the macro and nanoscale respectively is presented, emphasizing the actual parallelisms between their development and applications. After this historical introduction, where certain similarities between both methods are pointed out, different FEM-like methods are analyzed and compared as for first order analysis of structures at the nanoscale. Firstly, the Structural Mechanics (SM) approach is analyzed, where it is assumed that the use of Euler Bernoulli beam elements is equivalent to working directly from the force field. On the other hand, the Molecular Element Method (MEM), which provides the stiffness matrices directly from the potentials, is analyzed. Several analytical static cases are studied for the validation and comparison of both methods. Finally, it is shown that, other branch of methods such as Elastic Network Models (ENM) can be viewed as a particular sub-case of the MEM, or as truss-type finite elements. As an example, the analysis of SARS-CoV2 spikes vibrations is included, comparing with both experimental results and continuous models.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{rodriguez-alvaro_rheology_2025,

title = {Rheology and setting of self-compacting concrete incorporating high volume of fly ash and internal curing via coal and wood bottom ash},

author = {Roberto Rodríguez-Álvaro and Sindy Seara-Paz and Fernando Martínez-Abella and Belén González-Fonteboa},

url = {https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2352710225016638},

doi = {10.1016/j.jobe.2025.113426},

issn = {2352-7102},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-10-01},

urldate = {2025-10-01},

journal = {Journal of Building Engineering},

volume = {111},

pages = {113426},

abstract = {The continuous development of innovative high performance concretes is encouraging the use of new and sophisticated techniques to study their performance. In this article, a rheometer is used to determine the rheological parameters (dynamic yield stress, viscosity, yield stress at rest and thixotropy) of an internally cured self-compacting concrete with fly ash blended cement. This research is motivated by the scarcity of rheological studies regarding internally cured concretes. Coal bottom ash (CBA) and wood bottom ash (WA) were used as internal curing water reservoirs. Air content, setting times and temperature rise under semi-adiabatic conditions were also analysed. The results indicate that ball bearing effect of fly ash decreased the amount of high range water reducer admixture added to the mortars to get similar workability. Furthermore, all the rheological parameters increased when using coal bottom ash and, more remarkably, wood ash, due to their irregular shape, rough texture and some minor water absorption. Internal curing of fly ash blended cement concrete has no detrimental effects on the fresh state properties, but special attention must be paid to the pre-wetting of porous aggregates. If the internal curing water reservoirs are wetted below their water absorption capacities, their use reduces workability and setting times. Therefore, the practicality of the proposed mixtures relay mainly on the care taken during their design and materials conditioning. The future research efforts should focus on the development of new mixes with different supplementary cementitious materials and new conditioning techniques that guarantee a precise pre-wetting.},

keywords = {Internal curing, Shear thickening, Thixotropy, Viscosity, Yield stress},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{munoz-ibanez_fracture_2025,

title = {Fracture Topology in Mafic Formations: Implications for Geological Carbon Storage},

author = {Andrea Muñoz-Ibáñez and J. Carlos Santamarina},

url = {https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.energyfuels.5c03097},

doi = {10.1021/acs.energyfuels.5c03097},

issn = {0887-0624},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-09-01},

urldate = {2026-03-23},

journal = {Energy & Fuels},

volume = {39},

number = {37},

pages = {17933–17947},

publisher = {American Chemical Society},

abstract = {Carbon mineralization pilot projects have demonstrated effective CO2 sequestration, yet uncertainties persist for large-scale deployment, particularly regarding the role of fracture networks and evolving fracture-matrix interactions. In this study, we integrate field data, numerical simulations and gravimetric-volumetric analyses to investigate the fracture characteristics of basalt formations and their implications for CO2 storage. Fracture aperture is shown to be proportional to block size, governed by thermal contraction during lava cooling, with the aperture-to-block size ratio β ranging from ∼0.7·10–2 to 6·10–2 depending on mineralogy. Network modeling reveals that initial aperture variability is amplified by dissolution near the injection zone (high Peclet and low Damköhler numbers); however, the hexagonal fracture topology enhances mixing and delays hydrochemical feedback and flow localization. Chemo-gravimetric analysis indicates that mineralization can sequester 0.2–0.3 g CO2 per gram of rock, significantly exceeding pore-space storage via supercritical or dissolved CO2. However, volume-positive mineralization eventually reduces fracture transmissivity. Aperture shut-off depends on the aperture-to-block size ratio β and the mineralization expansion factor ε. The reacted volume fraction at shutoff can range from 7 to 24%. Mineralogy emerges as a primary control on fracture topology, chemical reactivity and storage capacity. Results underscore the need for careful reassessment of CO2 storage capacity in mafic rocks.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{nogueira_data-driven_2025,

title = {Data-driven Riemann solvers: A neural network approach and a hybrid solver},

author = {Xesús Nogueira-Garea and Lucía Ramos and Sonia Seijo and Iván Couceiro-Aguiar and Sofiane Khelladi and Luis Ramírez-Palacios},

url = {https://doi.org/10.1063/5.0288995},

doi = {10.1063/5.0288995},

issn = {1070-6631},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-09-01},

urldate = {2025-09-01},

journal = {Physics of Fluids},

volume = {37},

number = {9},

pages = {096142},

abstract = {The accurate and efficient numerical solution of the Riemann problem is the basis of Godunov-type schemes. Approximate Riemann solvers are widely used for their efficiency, although they exhibit inaccuracies and instabilities in challenging regimes such as strong rarefactions or near-vacuum conditions. This work explores the use of deep neural networks (NNs) to address these limitations. We present two distinct data-driven frameworks: first, a NN-based solver trained to predict the exact solution of the Riemann problem, and second, a high-performance hybrid scheme. The hybrid approach uses the standard Harten–Lax–van Leer-contact (HLLC) Riemann solver as the main solver, enhanced with a computationally inexpensive, physics-based detector that identifies interfaces where the HLLC solution is likely to be inaccurate or to fail. At these interfaces, the scheme selectively uses the pretrained NN to ensure a more accurate solution. Through a series of benchmark tests, we show that the NN solver accurately reproduces the exact solution of the Riemann problem, but at a significant computational cost. In contrast, the proposed hybrid solver achieves a comparable level of accuracy to the NN solver, while it requires nearly the same computational cost as the standard HLLC solver.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{noauthor_full_nodate,

title = {The value of urban drainage systems data: facts, discussions and recommendations},

author = {María A. Pimiento-Avella and Jesper E. Nielsen and Michael R. Rasmussen and Elodie Brelot and Jean-Luc Bertrand-Krajewski and Alma Schellart and Simon Tait and Thomas Brüggeman and Francois Clemens-Meyer and Jörg Rieckermann and João P. Leitão and Andrea Ciambra and Juan Naves-García-Rendueles and Jose Anta-Álvarez},

url = {https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/00221686.2025.2528652},

doi = {10.1080/00221686.2025.2528652},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-08-11},

urldate = {2025-08-11},

journal = {Journal of Hydraulic Research},

volume = {63},

issue = {4},

pages = {417-424},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{quintela_reliability_2025,

title = {Reliability analysis and parametric studies of the buffeting performance of long-span bridges under multiple sets of random variables},

author = {Juan Quintela-Suárez and Miguel Cid-Montoya and José Ángel Jurado-Albarracín-Martinón and Santiago Hernández-Ibáñez},

url = {https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0167610525001084},

doi = {10.1016/j.jweia.2025.106112},

issn = {0167-6105},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-08-01},

urldate = {2025-08-01},

journal = {Journal of Wind Engineering and Industrial Aerodynamics},

volume = {263},

pages = {106112},

abstract = {Buffeting-induced accelerations and displacements of bridge deck girders commonly drive the bridge design’s comfort, operational, and strength limit states. The scattered nature of the main wind characteristics and bridge responses recorded in multiple monitoring campaigns make deterministic approaches insufficient to assess the bridge’s performance along its life span. This study reports comprehensive sensitivity and reliability studies conducted to unveil the influence of multiple parameters controlling long-span bridges’ buffeting responses. The impact of several sets of random variables on the reliability of the Great Belt Bridge is systematically studied. A detailed treatment of the uncertainty of flutter derivatives consisting of combining their frequency-dependent random definition with their experimentally defined correlation is proposed. Results show the drastic impact of uncertainty in the flutter derivatives, the vertical turbulence intensity, the mean wind velocity, and the definition of the buffeting loads, particularly the slopes of the force coefficients and the aerodynamic admittance, on the buffeting-induced accelerations. The influence of aerodynamic admittance on the results is analyzed in the context of random definitions of mean velocity, turbulent intensities, length scales, structural damping, and aerodynamic characteristics. The computational efficiency of gradient-based reliability methods is discussed, showing its potential to address high-dimensional problems within design frameworks.},

keywords = {Aerodynamic admittance, Buffeting, Gradient-based reliability methods, Long-span bridges, Random variables, Reliability analysis},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{peon_impact_2025,

title = {Impact of COVID mobility measures on the financial performance of small business in rural areas of Spain},

author = {David Peón and Vik Singh and Jorge Rodríguez-Álvarez},

url = {https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0743016725001275},

doi = {10.1016/j.jrurstud.2025.103687},

issn = {0743-0167},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-08-01},

urldate = {2026-03-18},

journal = {Journal of Rural Studies},

volume = {118},

pages = {103687},

abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic impacted public health and the economy, precipitating measures such as lockdowns and mobility restrictions that have profoundly affected businesses and employment. To assess the impact of these restrictions on the financial performance of micro and small firms in rural areas, we draw upon official Spanish population mobility statistics from 2019 to 2021. Our research is motivated by the pandemic's uneven economic burden and expected lasting changes in consumer and business behaviour. Our findings reveal a notable shift in population retention patterns within rural areas, which were able to retain more daily population not only during the pandemic, but also post-pandemic. We observe four distinct impacts on the financial performance of rural enterprises. First, industries oriented to local demand, such as real estate and hospitality, were hit particularly hard in 2020. Second, population retention in rural areas helped firms in these industries to perform better in terms of revenues and employment, while demand-driven positive impacts led by population retention are not translated into profitability. Third, firms in industries that may easily resort to digital work environments suffered less the impact of COVID-19 both in terms of revenues and employment. Fourth, firms in industries where employment adjustment is difficult to achieve show a clear negative impact in terms of labour productivity. This research addresses a gap in understanding the pandemic's effects on rural small firms and offers insights to inform targeted policy interventions.},

keywords = {COVID-19 pandemic, Demand-driven industries, Residential economies, Rural firms, Small firms},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{miguel_first_2025,

title = {A first order FEM-based formulation for the analysis of molecular structures with bonded interactions},

author = {Andrés Fernández-San-Miguel and Luis Ramírez-Palacios and Iván Couceiro-Aguiar and Fermín L. Navarrina-Martínez},

url = {https://doi.org/10.1007/s00366-024-02085-w},

doi = {10.1007/s00366-024-02085-w},

issn = {1435-5663},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-08-01},

urldate = {2025-08-01},

journal = {Engineering with Computers},

volume = {41},

number = {4},

pages = {2093–2118},

abstract = {In this paper we present a formulation, denoted as the Molecular Element Method, that allows, given a certain force field, the possibility of performing a first order analysis as is common in structural mechanics. The stiffness matrices have been obtained in an exact way, without the need to resort to any assumptions other than those used to define the force field. Obtaining these matrices analytically allows the exploitation of algorithms and techniques typical of finite elements, being able to perform both static and vibration mode analysis independently of the molecular geometry. In this aspect, the formulation has been validated by studying the frequencies and vibration modes of several molecules, comparing with both theoretical and experimental results. Values of the modulus of elasticity of both graphene sheets and carbon nanotubes have also been obtained in accordance with the values present in the literature. Finally, the formulation shows its potential allowing to obtain the flexural wave dispersion in nanotubes compared to results using Tersoff-Brenner potentials and non-local elasticity models.},

keywords = {Computational molecular mechanics, Finite element method, Molecular element method, Molecular vibrations, Structural analysis},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{noauthor_pdf_nodate,

title = {Biofouling on Offshore Wind Energy Structures: Characterization, Impacts, Mitigation Strategies, and Future Trends},

author = {Poorya Poozesh and Félix Nieto-Mouronte and Pedro M. Fernández and Rosa Ríos and Vicente Díaz-Casás},

url = {https://www.researchgate.net/publication/393902424_Biofouling_on_Offshore_Wind_Energy_Structures_Characterization_Impacts_Mitigation_Strategies_and_Future_Trends},

doi = {10.3390/jmse13071363},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-07-17},

urldate = {2025-07-17},

journal = {Journal of Marine Science and Engineering},

volume = {13},

issue = {7},

abstract = {Biofouling, the accumulation of marine organisms on submerged surfaces, presents a significant challenge to the design, performance, and maintenance of offshore wind turbines (OWTs). This work synthesizes current knowledge on the physical and operational impacts of biofouling on OWT marine substructures, with a particular focus on how it alters hydrodynamic loading, increases drag and mass, and affects fatigue and structural response. Drawing from experimental studies, computational modeling, and real-world observations, this paper highlights the critical need to integrate biofouling effects into design practices. Additionally, emerging mitigation strategies are explored, including advanced antifouling materials and AI-driven monitoring systems, which offer promising solutions for long-term biofouling management. By addressing both engineering and ecological perspectives, this paper underscores the importance of developing robust, adaptive approaches to biofouling that can support the durability, reliability, and environmental sustainability of the offshore wind industry.},

keywords = {biofouling, coating, marine, offshore, wind energy},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{schellart_role_2025,

title = {The role of open data in regulating combined sewer overflows},

author = {Alma Schellart and Liz Sharp and Jean-Luc Bertrand-Krajewski and Jörg Rieckermann and Jose Anta and Frank Blumensaat and Francois Clemens-Meyer and Ulrich Dittmer and Isabel Douterelo and Günter Gruber and Henriette Jensen and Marius Møller Rokstad and James Shucksmith and Simon Tait and Franz Tscheikner-Gratl and Boud Verbeiren and Luca Vezzaro},

url = {https://doi.org/10.2166/wst.2025.105},

doi = {10.2166/wst.2025.105},

issn = {0273-1223},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-07-01},

urldate = {2026-03-23},

journal = {Water Science and Technology},

volume = {92},

number = {3},

pages = {409–425},

abstract = {The aim of this work is to investigate how open data can play a beneficial role in the regulation of combined sewer overflows (CSOs). The investigation consists of a review and critical discussion of historic CSO design, alongside more recent developments of regulations and emerging experiences of monitoring CSOs and different levels of data openness. The study focuses on practice in 10 European countries/regions. The novelty of this work comes from its review of historical development of design guidelines and regulations, shifts in the aims of these regulations, practicalities around implementation and testing of compliance, alongside the openness and availability of data. The main conclusions are that increasingly complex regulation goes hand in hand with limited compliance checking and opaque decision-making, whereas opening up relatively simplistic performance data has generated public and political discussion about urban drainage systems and the potential costs of improvements in water quality of the impacted surface water bodies. Making CSO data open does, however, need to be done with due care. Collaboration with trusted citizen groups, ensuring the data are correct, easy to access, and understand, as well as avoiding a blame culture are all of key importance.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}