Emergency constructions in catastrophe affected

regions. Development of a constructive solution in

advanced composite materials.

André Miguel Pereira Castelo

Extended Abstract

Masters Dissertation in Civil Engineering

Supervisor: Prof. João Pedro Ramôa Ribeiro Correia

Co-Supervisor: Prof. Fernando António Baptista Branco

March 2014

Abstract The increasing number and intensity of natural disasters and human conflicts leads to an

increase in demand for constructive solutions for emergency housing with quality, capable of fast

assembly and at a reduced cost. Such housing must have the ability to comply with international

requirements and, at the same time, have the ability to provide comfort for its users.

In this dissertation, a study was performed of several constructive solutions existing in the

market for this type of housing, in which the different types of materials, construction processes and

the main advantages and disadvantages were analyzed. The study was divided considering two

kinds of solutions, the ones with high performance and the ones with reduced performance. After the

individual study of each constructive solution, a comparative analysis of solutions was performed.

This analysis allowed obtaining qualitative knowledge about the general advantages and

disadvantages of this type of housing, with the objective to apply the information obtained in the

design of a constructive solution in composite materials.

After the comparative analysis, a constructive solution in composite materials was also

designed, in particular with glass fibers reinforced polymer (GFRP). This material has a good

resistance to aggressive agents and high stiffness/weight and strength/weight ratios, allowing a

competitive option compared to the traditional materials commonly used in this type of housing. The

constructive solution composed of pultruded GFRP profiles and sandwich panels consisting of two

sheets of GFRP with a rigid polyurethane foam core, allows obtaining a lightweight, easy to

assemble modular structure, while featuring a high structural stability, good thermal performance at a

moderate cost.

Keywords: Disaster zones; Emergency housing; Comparative analysis of constructive

solutions; Pultruded profiles in GFRP; Sandwich panels in GFRP.

1

1. Introduction In disaster situations a shelter is crucial to the survival of the populations affected [1]. It

becomes necessary to provide security, privacy, protection from atmospheric conditions and defense

against diseases. Having a shelter is essential for the sustainability of a given population or family, so

that they can recover from the impact caused by the disaster.

Accordingly, it is essential for governments and international organizations to help to ensure

and promote the reconstruction of the affected areas and the relocation of populations who have lost

their homes. It thus becomes necessary to provide a home that brings them comfort and meets the

minimum requirements for temporary human habitation, sometimes for several years.

Due to different climate changes, extreme natural disasters occur more and more often (e.g.

earthquakes, floods, tornados), increasing the number of affected regions. Armed conflicts generate

an uprising number of displaced/refugees who are forced to leave their homes and /or they are

destroyed. In addition to the disasters mentioned earlier, there is also a need for temporary housing

in the construction industry, usually associated with the execution of works in underdeveloped and /

or developing countries.

The use of polymer matrix composite materials (FRP – fiber reinforced polymers) has been

increasingly used in the construction industry in various forms, such as pultruded profiles and

sandwich panels. These materials exhibit a high stiffness/weight and resistance/weight ratios. These

features enable FRP structures to withstand high loads, while being considered lightweight in

comparison with similar structures in conventional materials (e.g. steel structures).

This dissertation has the objective of studying constructive solutions in different materials

available in the market for use in disaster areas. Initially, a study was made regarding the

requirements set by international agencies for disaster zones, with particular interest in the

requirements set for temporary housing.

A survey of the state of the art was made, having been studied for each type of constructive

solution, the type of materials applied, the constructive processes used and the main advantages

and disadvantages for each solution.

Subsequently, a comparative analysis of the performance of these solutions to different

criteria was made. This analysis was aimed to an understanding of the main advantages of the

existing solutions in the market, so that they could be applied in the development of the solution in

composites to be designed.

In order to allow the design of a solution in composites of glass fiber reinforced polymer

(GFRP) a study was made concerning the materials and manufacturing processes used in the

construction of pultruded profiles and sandwich panels.

2

2. Regulatory Requirements for temporary housing

2.1. General considerations

The constructive solution must provide the minimum conditions of habitability and reduce the

vulnerability of families affected by the disaster to the local climate and the associated health risks.

However, whenever possible, the constructive solution should take into account the risk reduction of

the structure to other disasters and should not increase the danger of life for people.

Due to the variability of climates throughout the planet, constructive solutions should be

differentiated according to the weather conditions of the location where they will be used, and should

be designed in order to fulfill the requirements mentioned below.

2.2. Technical specifications for temperate, hot and cold climates

A climate is defined according to the annual average temperature, which is an average of

the daily average temperatures throughout the year [2]. A climate is considered cold when the annual

average temperature is below 10ºC, temperate when the annual temperature varies between 10 and

25 ºC, and hot when the annual average temperature is above 25ºC.

For temperate climates, constructive solutions should be designed to be used in all weather

conditions usual for a temperate climate, and may have to withstand climatic extremes like cold days

and winters, and warm days and summers.

For cold climates, which is the most adverse climatic condition for human survival due to

cold winds and freezing temperatures, the constructive solution should be designed with walls, roof

and its connections must be resistant to high velocity winds and wind penetration and its materials

should be able to resist cyclic freeze-thaw action.

For hot climates, which easily cause dehydration, the constructive solution should be as

simple as possible allowing for an easy circulation of air through the interior, reducing the interior

temperature.

2.2.1. Common structural and architectural requirements

• Foundations: The constructive solution should be lightweight, but when assembled must

be strong and robust and have the capacity to withstand different weather. It should be

anchored to the ground by direct connection or by implementing small substructures which can

be connected to the structure of the solution.

• Roof: The constructive solution may have a flat, single-slope or gable roof. The advised

slope is around 30º with the horizontal depending on the design. The roof must be properly fixed

to the structure so that it does not detach or break in different weather conditions.

• Walls: The solution should have stability systems for walling that are appropriate to the

applied loads to transmit the roofing loads (especially wind uplift forces) to the

footings/foundations.

• Floor: The flooring solution should be designed to meet the external walling and

increase the structures stability. At least, a simple woven mat should be provided on the

proposed shelter without gaps to minimize dust and vector (plagues) penetration.

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• Partition: The solution should have a very lightweight partition system to provide privacy

during emergency or disaster.

• Door: The solution should have an insulated door with a simple lock for security. The

door size should be larger or equal to a minimum of 90 cm x 190 cm and should open to the

exterior.

• Window: The solution should have a minimum of two windows with simple type of lock

for security. The window size should be bigger or equal to a minimum of 60 cm x 60 cm and

should open to the exterior.

2.2.2. Structural and architectural requirements

Table 1 presents the main requirements for this type of housing, both architectural and

structural. The data shown is referring to a combination from the requirements for temperate, cold

and hot climates, and they are the requirements that should be used when developing the

constructive solution in composite materials.

Table 1- Architectural and structural requirements for emergency housing, adapted from [3].

Item Criteria Description Requisites

Architectural criteria Temperate

climate

1. Setting Up Should be very quickly transported and easy to setup with minimal application of construction tools.

Easy

1.1 Time Assembly time should be reduced. < 12 hours

1.2 Manpower 2-3 persons (maximum). However, increasing the number of manpower should reduce the required set up time.

2-3 Persons

1.3 Skill Should be assembled on-site with only basic tools (non-powered portable hand tools).

Unskilled labors

2. Shape

Should be rectangular, squared or circular, with a coefficient between length and width lower then 2, or any acceptable equivalent shapes. Proposed shelter shape should be designed to minimize air flow, particularly around door and window openings, to ensure personal comfort while also providing adequate ventilation for space heaters or cooking stoves.

--------

3. Size

Should have a minimum living space based on 5 persons, with a minimum of 3,5 m2 per person. For cold climates the minimum living space is 4,5 m2 per person.

17,5 m2 < A < 22,5 m2

4. Height

The internal floor-to-ceiling height should not be less than 2 meters. For cold climates a smaller height means a lower volume of air that requires heating. For hot climates a higher height aids the circulation of interior air.

2,0 m < H < 2,5 m

5. Life span Should be designed to last at least 1 to 2 years 1 2 years

6. Ventilation

Should be designed to optimize ventilation and entry of direct sunlight as well as efficient indoor air exchange. Proposed shelter design must accommodate ventilation systems (windows and ventilation openings) suitable to the issues of air quality. Indoor air speed should not be more than 0.2 m/s. Exhaust fumes and gases should be also eliminated through pipe/opening. For cold climates the air exchange should minimize the heat loss.

≥ 2 openings

4

Table 1- Architectural and structural requirements for emergency housing, adapted from [3]. (continued)

Item Criteria Description Requisites

Architectural criteria Temperate

climate

7. Vectors control

Should prevent or aim to be resisting to vectors (plagues) such as mosquitoes, fleas, ticks and small animals like rats and birds.

Mesh/Net fixed in

ventilation openings

8. Maintenance

Should ensure a certain degree of sustainability, especially in term of durability, resistance to harsh weather conditions, and comfort for the users, with efficient cost implications. A serious consideration shall be given to maintenance requirements within the shelter life-cycle. It should be easily maintained by the family, easy cleaning, repairing and fixing missing or broken parts from simple materials available in local markets

Easy

9. Thermal

resistance

The different structural elements (walls, roof and floor), should be lightweight and with a low thermal capacity. It should also have an adequate resistance for solar exposure through the proposed lifespan. For cold climates the maximum thermal capacity will be around 0,3 W/m2K or to achieve a steady state condition by using a heat source with a capacity of 2,4W.

Hours of sun exposure

≥ 3500 hours

10. Fire

resistance

The materials used or their assemblies should prevent or retard the passage of excessive heat, hot gases or flames under condition or normal use. Therefore, the proposed shelter shall have sufficient structure stability under fire conditions with minimum fire-resistance rating not less than the referenced time.

FR ≥ 30 minutes

11. Water proof The used materials should remain waterproof after heavy rains and high humidity periods.

--------

Structural criteria Temperate

climate

12. Dead and live

loads

Depends on the shape and material components of the proposed solution. However, the proposed shelter should be designed to carry a live load on the roof of 1 kN/m2. If the proposed shelter has a structural element floor, the design live load of 1,6 kN/m2

on the floor should be used.

SC ≥ 1 kN/m2

13. Wind loads

The solution must have a shape that minimizes horizontal and vertical wind loads. Depends on the shape and type of support/footing of the proposed lightweight emergency housing, the combined wind load pressure required for the design should be a minimum of 0,6 kN/m2 with special design measure of wind uplift forces. However, the proposed shelter should be designed to resist a wind speed of 70 km/h.

SC ≥ 0,6 kN/m2

V ≥ 70 km/h

14. Snow load

Depends on the shape and type of roofing material of the proposed solution, the minimum roof snow load required for design should be 1 kN/m2, for flat, single-slope or gable roof. However, a ground snow load of 1,4 kN/m2

should be considered for design.

SC ≥ 1 kN/m2

SCP ≥ 1,4

kN/m2

15. Earthquake The proposed structure should withstand earthquake with low risk to human life in the event of structure failure due to the earthquake effects.

--------

16. Flood It is not expected that the proposed shelter will be subjected to high-velocity wave action.

--------

17. Rain / Storm The solution should be designed to withstand heavy rain for a medium period.

≥ 70 mm/h 15 min period

5

3. Analysis of existing emergency housing solutions In this chapter an individual analysis was made of 20 emergency housing solutions existing

on the market. For every solution an analysis was made considering different criteria such as

transportation, assembly time, manpower and skill, shape versatility, area and height, lifetime,

ventilation, vector control, maintenance, building and electrical installations, resistance to fires, water,

wind, earthquakes and floods, economic value and environmental impacts. For each criteria a score

from 1-5 was given, being 1 and 5 the lowest and the highest score respectively.

To each criteria a weight was given (0-100%), so that in the end a final score could be

obtained for each solution. After the analysis of each solution individually a comparative analysis was

made considering the final score from each solution, which allowed obtaining the best solutions

available in the market.

This study was performed considering two groups of constructive solutions, the high and the

low performance ones, obtained according to the level of comfort and the level of resistance

throughout time. For each group only the best 3 solutions obtained will be presented, being the rest

of the solutions only mentioned.

3.1. Analysis of the low performance constructive solutions.

In this section the following 11 solutions of low performance were analyzed: 1 - sandbags /

earth bags; 2 - plastic tents / tarps; 3 - inflatable tents; 4 - CMAX system (modules in hardened

plastic); 5 - TuffShel system (modules in hardened plastic); 6 - teal modular system panels (plastic

modular panels); 7 - IKEA system (system in metal structure and plastic panels); 8 - MDF panel

system; 9 - Shelter 2.0 (system on plywood) system; 10 - CGA system (system on plywood); 11 -

UBER shelter system (metal system).

The best 3 solutions analyzed for this group, in order, were 11 (UBER system), 4 (CMAX

system) and 7 (IKEA system).

3.1.1. Constructive solution 11 – UBER Shelter

This constructive solution [4-7], presented in Figure 1, consists of an inner pre-fabricated

metal structure that is assembled in the disaster zone. Being a modular constructive solution, of low

packed volume, it has a high transportation capacity at a low cost.

3.1.1.1. Materials used

The constructive solution has an inner metal structure of galvanized aluminum C profiles,

which are joined together with metal bolts. The floor inside the solution is on plywood boards.

The outer walls and roof of the structure are made of polypropylene panels, without any

insulation, bonded together with plastic connectors. The panels are bound to the structure by flaps,

from the same material, attached to the frame by bolts.

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3.1.1.2. Constructive procedures

The constructive procedure starts with the assembly and leveling of the floor structure with

the telescoping arms. One then proceeds to the assembly of the inner metallic structure of the

solution, linked together by the interlocking of metallic profiles and bolts. After the conclusion of the

assembly of the metallic structure and the placement of the floor, the construction proceeds with the

placement of the plastic tabs, bolted to the frame, allowing the union of the facade panels to the

structure. The construction process concludes with the placement of the roof panels.

3.1.2. Constructive solution 4 – CMAX system

This constructive solution [8-9], presented in Figure 2, consist of the unfolding of pre-

fabricated modules. Due to his modular construction, it presents a very fast assembly and versatility

in the using of the solution.

Figure 1 - Constructive solution 11, UBER shelter, adapted from [4].

Figure 2 - Constructive solution 4, CMAX system, adapted from [8].

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3.1.2.1. Materials used

The constructive solution consists of a module of hardened plastic (which forms the core and

the floor of the solution), the windows are made of frosted acrylic and the sides/roof in waterproof

canvas.

3.1.2.2. Constructive procedures

The constructive procedure starts with the attachment of the module to the ground through

the folding legs, following the opening of the side flaps of the module and its attachment to the

ground. The construction process ends with the fixing of the inner bars in the limits of the roof

canvas.

3.1.3. Constructive solution 7 – IKEA system

This constructive solution [10-12], illustrated in Figure 3, is consisting on the assembly of an

inner metallic structure, with an outer shell in plastic panels with a thin isolation material. Above the

roof , a reflective mantle is fixed so that it can reflect part of the solar radiation and maintain the

solution cooler.

3.1.3.1. Materials used

The constructive solution has an inner structure in metallic tubes, connectors and cables

connected to each other. The panels used in side walls and roofs are similar, made of a flexible

rubber outer coating and an inner layer of thermal insulating foam. The connection between elements

is made using plastic links.

3.1.3.2. Constructive procedures

The process of building this solution starts by assembling the metal structure of the floor and

roof, this structure is assembled using metal tubes which bind to metal connectors. After the

assembly of the inner structure, one proceeds to the fixing of the roof panels, and then the placement

of the reflective mantle on top of the roof. After placing the reflective mantle the side panels are

installed using plastic connectors.

As this solution does not include a pavement, a plastic is added to the pavement of the

solution with a slight rise from the ground.

Figure 3 - Constructive solution 7, IKEA system [10].

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3.1.4. Other low performance constructive solutions

The other low performance constructive solutions studied are shown in figures 4 to 7.

Figure 4 - Constrictive solution 1 - Sand bags/earth bags [13](left), constructive solution 2 - tents [14] (right).

Figure 5 - Constructive solution 3 - inflatable tens [15] (left), constructive solution 5 - TuffShell system [16] (right).

Figure 6 - Constructive solution 6 - Teal Shelter [17] (left), constructive solution 8 - fiberboard (MDF) [18] (right).

Figure 7 - constructive solution 9 - shelter 2.0 [19] (left), constructive solution 10 - CGA system [20] (right)

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3.2. Analysis of the high performance constructive solutions.

In this section the following nine solutions of high performance were analyzed: 12 - folding

whare system (solution in wood sandwich panels); 13 - Liina system (solution in wood sandwich

panels); 14 - QuickHab system (wood SIP panels); 15 - Forts system (metallic structure); 16 -

AbleNook system (metal SIP panels); 17 - EDV-01 system (metal frame); 18 - CEMFORCE system

(concrete panels); 19 - concrete canvas system (concrete solution); 20 - ModPod system (composite

materials).

The best 3 solutions analyzed for this group, in order, were 15 (FORTSsystem), 20 (ModPod

system) and 16 (AbleNook system).

3.2.1. Constructive solution 15 – Forts system

This constructive solution [21-22], illustrated in Figure 8, consists of the expansion of

metallic pre-fabricated modules that expand into the final constructive solution. This solution has a

good thermal behavior and allows an efficient partition.

3.2.1.1. Materials used

The structure is composed of aluminum panels with inner insulation. The exterior foundation

supports are made of aluminum profiles with extendable arms at the ends, which allow the leveling of

the inside floor. The connections between panels are made through a system of pegs.

3.2.1.2. Constructive procedures

The construction process starts with the fixing and leveling of the exterior aluminum profiles

that are attached to the main structure by metal bolts. After all profiles are fixed and leveled, the

unfolding of the structure begins with the roof that is temporarily supported. Then the floor and

façade panels are unfolded and connected to the roof panel. The construction process terminates

with the unfolding and fixing of the side panels. The same procedure is made for the other side of the

structure.

3.2.2. Constructive solution 16 – ModPod system

This constructive solution [23-25], illustrated in Figure 9, consists of the expansion of a

compact module. This solution has a high volume and weight for transportation, but at the same time

has a very low assembly time. This solution incorporates a WC inner module.

Figure 8 - Constructive solution 15, Forts system [21].

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3.2.2.1. Materials used

The structure is composed of 70 mm thickness panels with two 10 mm polypropylene

honeycomb plates, coated with a vinyl ester reinforced with glass fibers and a fire retardant additive.

Between the panels is a welded 50 mm square profile with a thickness of 1,6 mm attached to the

plates. The honeycomb panels are produced in a vacuum environment which allows the panels to

have a very good thermal and acoustic behavior.

3.2.2.2. Constructive procedures

The module of the constructive solution, after being placed into its final position, is leveled

using the extendable arms of the base of the structure, two of which are protruding so that they can

support the part of the structure that will be expanded. After levelling the model is expanded by

sliding the compacted module through the arms.

The constructive process is completed with the external connection to the electricity network

and the connection to the water and wastewater network.

3.2.3. Constructive solution 16 – AbleNook system

This constructive solution [26-28], illustrated in Figure 10, consists of the assembly of SIP

metal panels that allow a big versatility in the shape of the solution, which allows the expansion of the

module in height and interior area. This module contains in the roof panels photovoltaic panels.

Figure 9 - Construction solution 20, ModPod system [23].

Figure 10 - Constructive solution 16, AbleNook system [26].

11

3.2.3.1. Materials used

The foundations of the structure are made of adjustable aluminum arms, which can be

adapted to the existing ground. The solution structure consists of aluminum profiles joined together

by aluminum connectors. The side, floor and roof panels are composed of structural SIP OSB panels

with a thermal insulation core, lined with aluminum plates with different finishing according to the

area of the structure where the panel will be placed. The floor and wall panels have the same

dimensions. The window panels have aluminum frames. The floor is covered with a prefabricated

wood panel.

3.2.3.2. Constructive procedures

The construction process of this solution begins with the assembly of the foundation

structure and the adjustment of the extendable arms to the ground. The SIP panels fit into the

existing structure, by the gaps existing in the aluminum frame, therefore, each section of the

structure cannot be closed without the panels having been placed inside.

The construction then proceeds with the assembly of the vertical frame and the fitting of the

wall and window panels. The process is repeated until all the floor, wall and window panels are put

into place. The construction of the solution ends with the placement of the curved roof panels with

the photovoltaic panels.

3.2.4. Other high performance constructive solutions

The other high performance constructive solutions studied are shown in figures 11 to 13.

Figure 11 - Constructive solution 12 - Folding whare system [29] (left), constructive solution 13 - liina system [30](right).

Figure 12 - Constructive solution 14 - QuickHab system [31] (left), construction solution 17 - EDV-01 system [32](right).

12

3.3. Comparative analysis considerations

Analyzing all the 20 constructive solutions, in order to obtain a good final classification, the

constructive solution in composite materials must be able to accomplish the following requirements:

easy to transport and assemble; non skilled labor; allow an effective internal architectural partition;

indoor area between 15 m2 and 20 m2; structure with elevation from the ground and insulation from

the outside; allow the installation of building and electrical networks; high thermal resistance;

adequate resistance to fire, wind and earthquakes; resistance to small floods; price between 15001

and 25000 USD, and reduced environmental impact, with the possibility of reuse elsewhere and use

of renewable energy.

4. Constructive solution in composite materials

4.1. Materials applied in the constructive solution

4.1.1. GFRP materials

GFRP materials are formed by mixing two components, glass fibers and polymer matrices.

Additives can also be used to improve some basic behavior of GFRP.

The fibers used in GFRP are glass fibers. These give the material a high strength while

maintaining a reduced cost. This type of material presents as main disadvantages [35] the low

modulus of elasticity, the possibility of creep rupture, and sensitivity to humidity and alkaline

environments. However, the composition of the glass fibers and the type of matrix can be altered to

improve the characteristics of the final product.

The fibers may be placed in different ways in order to increase their strength in different

directions. The polymer matrices act as the binder of the glass fibers, which keeps the fibers in

position when the load is applied. The polymeric matrix (resin) ensures a uniform load distribution

throughout the fibers, preventing buckling effects and allows the protection of the fibers from the

outer environment. The resins used can come from two different groups, the thermoplastic resins and

the thermosetting resins, the latter being the most commonly used.

4.1.1.1. GFRP pultruded profiles

The GFRP profiles used in the constructive solution are manufactured by the pultrusion

process. The pultrusion allows the production of constant, hollow or solid, section profiles. The main

advantages of this manufacturing process are the continuous and automatic production, requiring

little manual labor after the start of the process [36].

Figure 13 - Constructive solution 18 - CEMFORCE system [33] (left), constructive solution 20 - Concrete Canvas system [34] (right)

13

The properties of these profiles depend on the characteristics of each component,

depending on the type and orientation of the fibers as well as the polymer matrix used to bind them.

Due to the manufacturing process, these profiles have an anisotropic behavior, showing a set of

superior mechanical properties in the axial direction of pultrusion, compared to any other direction

[35].

4.1.1.2. GFRP sandwich panels

The sandwich panels are made by two layers of GFRP with a core of hardened

polyurethane. The panels are manufactured by the hand lay-up process [37]. This process requires

that all the panels have to be manufactured manually, which involves a skilled workforce and makes

it a time consuming process.

However, this allows the manufacturing of more adaptable panels to different constructive

requirements, such as the reinforcement of the outline and inner of the panel.

4.1.2. Other materials

The connections between structural profiles are made using M8 bolts, metal plates, angle

connectors and U shaped metallic profiles. The connection between profiles and panels, when

necessary, are made using M8 bolts.

The door and windows are made from aluminum, and have a double-glass window, for

better thermal behavior. The door has a dimension of 1.20 m x 1.90 m and the windows have a

dimension of 0.80 mx 1.20 m.

The connection between the solution and the ground is made through small concrete

footings of 0,32 m x 0,32 m x 0,15 m, where 4 M20 bolts are fixated and attached to the frame

through the bolting system used in the foundations.

With the aim of making the solution partially self-sustainable, solar panels linked to a battery

will be added at the rooftop, allowing the accumulation of solar energy during the day, so that it can

be used at night.

4.2. Description of the constructive solution

The constructive solution in composite materials, illustrated in Figure 14, is composed by

modules of 2,40m x 2,40 m which can be assembled in series or in parallel to obtain a constructive

solution with the intended characteristics and geometry. These modules are composed by sandwich

panels and various (horizontal and vertical) profiles, which form and dimensions vary according to

their final position in the structure.

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4.2.1. Singular profiles

For the developed solution 4 types of singular profiles were used, illustrated in Figure 15.

For the horizontal and vertical profiles two types of squared profiles were used: the SHS 120 x 120 x

10 (green profile) with a structural function and the SHS 50 x 50 x 5 (red profile) with a panel

attachment function. For the panels a rectangular and a U profile were used: the RHS 100 x 50 x 7.5

x 5 (magenta profile) with a panel connection function and the U 60 x 55 x 5 (blue profile) with a

panel edge reinforcement and attachment function.

4.2.2. Vertical and horizontal combined profiles.

In the development of the constructive solution in composite materials, three types of vertical

profiles were considered, the PV1, PV2 and PV3, illustrated in Figure 16. The PV1 and PV3 profiles

are identical in format and sizes varying only in the holes made for the fixing system; both profiles are

used in the corners of the solution connecting a column (the profile) to two beams. The PV2 profile is

used in the areas of continuum walling connecting a column (the profile) to three beams.

For the floor structure four types of profiles were considered: the PF1, PF2, PF3 and PF4,

illustrated in Figure 17. The PF1 and PF4 profiles are identical in format sizes varying only in the

holes made for the fixing system and the side gap; both profiles are used in the outline of the

solution. The PF2 profile is specially made for the outline frame where the door will be placed. The

PF4 profile is used in the connection of vertical profiles through the interior of the solution.

For the roof of the structure three types of profiles are considered: the PC1, PC2 and PC3,

illustrated in Figure 18. The PC1 and PC2 profiles are identical in format and sizes varying only in

the holes made for the fixing system and the side gap; both profiles are used in the outline of the

solution. The PC3 is used in the connection of vertical profiles through the interior of the solution.

Figure 14 - Constructive solution in composite materials.

Figure 15 - Singular profiles used.

15

4.2.3. Wall, roof and floor panels

All the panels used throughout the structure are identical, with the exception of the areas

where doors and windows will be placed. The standard panel, illustrated in Figure 19 is the most

used panel in the structure, including the roof and floor. The door panel consists of an overhanging

smaller panel. The window panel consists of two smaller panels.

The floor and roof panels are fixed into the horizontal profiles, through bolts, as illustrated in

Figure 20.

Figure 17 - Foundation profiles.

Figure 19 - Standard panel (left), door panel (center) and window panel (right).

Figure 18 - Roof profiles

Figure 16 - Vertical profiles: PV1 (left), PV2 (center) and PV3 (right).

16

4.2.4. Constructive procedure

The construction of the solution starts by connecting the vertical profiles to the concrete

footing and the assembly of the first section of the floor structure, followed by the placing of the floor

panels. This operation is repeated for the three floor sections. After having placed all the floor panels

into place, the remaining foundation profile can be put into place, thus closing the structure.

After the floor is closed, the assembly proceeds with the placing of the wall panels and the

RHS profile in the gaps between. Only afterwards can the door and window panels be fixed into

place.

The roof is assembled using the same procedure of the floor, with the intercalated assembly

of the roof structure and the placement of the roof panels.

5. Conclusions With the conclusion of the dissertation, one can consider that the initial objectives have been

achieved.

Initially, a survey was carried out concerning the main requirements specified by

international entities for disaster-affected regions, particularly the requirements for emergency

housing. With this study, a better understating of the needs and characteristics that should be taken

into consideration in the design of emergency housing was obtained.

A study of 20 different constructive solutions currently available on the market was carried

out. This study was made considering two groups of solutions: the reduced performance solutions

(11) and the high performance solutions (9).

After the individual study of each one of the 20 solutions, a comparative analysis between all

solutions was made, which allowed the identification of the solutions with best overall behavior. This

analysis also allowed to identify the main features that the constructive solution to be designed

should have in order to have a better performance.

With this analysis it was still possible to conclude that most of the studied solutions do not

meet the requirements set for this type of housing. The reduced performance solutions do not meet

the requirements because the materials usually used in these solutions do not have the capacity to

bear the design loads that should be considered. The high performance solutions usually require

skilled labor or do not have the minimum area proposed, except through the adding of more

modules, which increases the cost of the solution.

Figure 20 - Connection detail between the floor and wall panels and the floor profile.

17

In order to better understand the main features of the materials used in the design of a

constructive solution in composite materials, a brief study was made concerning GFRP materials, in

particular GFRP pultruded profiles and sandwich panels. The study focused on the main features

and components of the materials and their manufacturing processes.

The final part of the dissertation presented the designed solution, describing the main

features and constructive procedures. In similarity to the previously studied solutions, an analysis

was made considering the previously set criteria, which allowed obtaining a score for the designed

solution. The obtained score confirmed that a composite material solution is a very competitive

solution in comparison to the existing solutions, with the advantage of allowing a resistant but

lightweight and durable structure.

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18

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19

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