Air Pollution from High-rise Construction in Rotterdam: Comparison of black carbon (BC), ultrafine (UFP)and particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) ambient concentrations from conventional and biobased (Cross-Laminated Timber CLT) construction methods

Air Pollution from High-rise Construction in Rotterdam: Comparison of black carbon (BC), ultrafine (UFP)and particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) ambient concentrations from conventional and biobased (Cross-Laminated Timber CLT) construction methods

Aranda Morales, Gabriel (TU Delft Architecture and the Built Environment)

Fry, Juliane (mentor)
Vrijhoef, R. (graduation committee)

Delft University of Technology
Wageningen University & Research
AMS

Metropolitan Analysis, Design and Engineering (MADE)

2023-11-21

This research addresses the challenge of climate change and air quality, focusing on the construction industry's impact in the Netherlands. The construction sector, a significant source of air pollution, necessitates sustainable practices for mitigating the effects of climate change and reducing pollutants. The study emphasises the need for stricter local regulations and innovative technologies to curb air emissions within the cities.

Examining air pollutants such as Ultrafine Particles (UFP), Black Carbon (BC), PM2.5, and PM10, the research clarifies their role in ambient concentrations. While acknowledging the global nature of air pollution, its impact on health, the economy, and various sectors in the built environment highlights the need for comprehensive measures. The Netherlands' commitment to reducing air pollutant emissions aligns with European agreements and initiatives, emphasising promoting emission-free technologies in construction machinery.

The shift from conventional high-rise construction to bio-based materials, particularly Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT), emerges as a promising solution. Cross-laminated timber is praised for its environmental friendliness, speed of construction, seismic resistance, and ability to resist high temperatures. The study examines the ecological concentrations of UFP, BC, PM2.5, and PM10 in high-rise buildings constructed using CLT and conventional methods, offering insights into the potential benefits of sustainable construction practices.
Focusing on specific construction sites in Rotterdam and specific urban construction sites like Amsterdam, the research compares ambient concentrations during construction, highlighting the environmental impact of different building methods. The lack of regulations for UFP and BC in the Netherlands underscores the importance of investigating their concentrations to guide future research and regulatory efforts.

The research project aims to inform policymakers, architects, builders, and the community about the environmental and health implications of construction decisions. The study envisions a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable urban environment in Rotterdam and beyond by fostering awareness and providing a blueprint for future investigations.

air quality
Rotterdam
Amsterdam
highrise
Ultrafine particle
Black carbon
Particulate Matter
Cross-laminated timber
Emission
bio-based
Construction
Climate change

http://resolver.tudelft.nl/uuid:0b538992-d6d2-42ae-8b6a-d601df9d8352

Student theses

master thesis

© 2023 Gabriel Aranda Morales