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Bibliometric Review of Prefabricated and Modular Timber Construction from 1990 to 2023: Evolution, Trends, and Current Challenges

Author

Listed:
  • Nohelia Gutiérrez

    (Department of Civil Engineering, ISISE, Universidade de Coimbra, 3030-788 Coimbra, Portugal)

  • João Negrão

    (Department of Civil Engineering, Universidade de Coimbra, 3030-788 Coimbra, Portugal)

  • Alfredo Dias

    (Department of Civil Engineering, ISISE, Universidade de Coimbra, 3030-788 Coimbra, Portugal)

  • Pablo Guindos

    (Centro Nacional de Excelencia para la Industria de la Madera (CENAMAD), Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 7820436, Chile)

Abstract

Due to its inherent characteristics, such as a light weight and ease of workability, timber is ideal for prefabricated and modular construction. However, since the research in this field covers a wide range of niches such as structural engineering, building physics, design for assembly and disassembly, and life cycle analysis, among others, and since there has been considerable development of the field in past years—boosted by new mass timber products and tall timber construction—it is difficult to critically analyze the current state of the art, current trends, and research challenges. Therefore, this research aimed to cover a systematic review of 409 articles to assess the field of prefabricated and modular timber construction critically. The methodology comprised a co-word network approach using the Science Mapping Analysis Software Tool (SciMAT, Version 3) to illustrate their evolution from 1990 to 2023. The findings show that the circular economy and digital technologies significantly impact the development of these technologies, which can potentially provide practical solutions for designing buildings with a circular approach and improving productivity and efficiency in the construction process. However, it is essential to acknowledge a notable deficiency in the research and understanding of these subjects. Therefore, various sectors must take the lead in conducting a thorough reassessment to enhance research and development in the field. Finally, the findings from this research can significantly contribute to existing knowledge and serve as a comprehensive platform for the further exploration of prefabricated and modular timber construction.

Suggested Citation

  • Nohelia Gutiérrez & João Negrão & Alfredo Dias & Pablo Guindos, 2024. "Bibliometric Review of Prefabricated and Modular Timber Construction from 1990 to 2023: Evolution, Trends, and Current Challenges," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(5), pages 1-29, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:16:y:2024:i:5:p:2134-:d:1351181
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Mauricio Morales-Beltran & Pınar Engür & Ömer Asım Şişman & Gizem Nur Aykar, 2023. "Redesigning for Disassembly and Carbon Footprint Reduction: Shifting from Reinforced Concrete to Hybrid Timber–Steel Multi-Story Building," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(9), pages 1-21, April.
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