L. Gaspar

7102412234

Publications - 15

Improving Material Tracking for Sustainable Construction: A Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) Framework for Resource Efficiency

Francisco Silva Pinto Rana Ahmad Maya Dema Munef Ahmad Hummam Mohammed Shaheen Talal Ahmad Al-Shihabi L. Gaspar

Publication Name: Buildings

Publication Date: 2025-06-01

Volume: 15

Issue: 11

Page Range: Unknown

Description:

Inefficient material tracking continues to be a major challenge in sustainable construction, often leading to unnecessary waste, budget overruns, and project delays. While many digital tools have been introduced in recent years, there is still a lack of practical, field-tested frameworks that combine these technologies with clear, structured procedures, especially in resource-constrained environments. This study introduces a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) framework designed to improve materials tracking systems (MTSs) by integrating QR codes, GPS tracking, and cloud-based dashboards. Together, these tools support more accurate planning, smoother coordination, and real-time monitoring from the early design stages to on-site implementation. A mixed-methods approach was used, combining surveys with construction professionals and focus group discussions with engineers, IT specialists, and logistics staff. The findings highlight procurement and implementation as the phases most prone to inefficiencies, particularly around material receiving, quality checks, and on-site placement. The validated SOP framework shows strong potential to improve tracking accuracy, reduce material waste, and streamline construction workflows. It offers a flexible, easy-to-use system for integrating sustainability into everyday project practices. Looking ahead, this study also points to future opportunities for applying AI-based tools—such as predictive tracking and automated quality checks—to further improve decision-making and resource efficiency in construction projects.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.3390/buildings15111941

Optimizing Foamed Bitumen Mixtures: AI-Based Determination of Ideal RAP and FBC Percentages Using HWTT and ITS Data

A. Saleh L. Gaspar

Publication Name: Applied Sciences Switzerland

Publication Date: 2025-04-01

Volume: 15

Issue: 7

Page Range: Unknown

Description:

The combination of reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) and foamed bitumen content (FBC) in bitumen mixtures presents a viable and economically advantageous approach to asphalt pavement construction. This investigation delves into the optimal combinations of RAP and FBC to attain a perfect performance, particularly concerning rutting resistance and tensile strength, as assessed through the Hamburg Wheel Tracking Test (HWTT) and the Indirect Tensile Strength (ITS) test. Advanced artificial intelligence (AI) methodologies, such as Random Forest, Support Vector Regression (SVR), and Linear Regression, were utilized to check performance data and attain optimal mix designs. The findings indicate that RAP content ranging from 60% to 80%, in conjunction with FBC levels between 1.5% and 1.8%, yield the most adequate performance under both wet and dry conditions, confirming enhanced rutting resistance and tensile strength.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.3390/app15073780

Optimizing Sustainability in Bridge Projects: A Framework Integrating Risk Analysis and BIM with LCSA According to ISO Standards

Rana Ahmad Maya Dema Munef Ahmad L. Gaspar

Publication Name: Applied Sciences Switzerland

Publication Date: 2025-01-01

Volume: 15

Issue: 1

Page Range: Unknown

Description:

Building bridges sustainably is essential for advancing infrastructure development and ensuring long-term environmental, social, and economic viability. This study presents a framework that integrates risk management strategies and Building Information Modeling (BIM) with Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment (LCSA) standards to enhance bridge project sustainability. Through a targeted survey, the study evaluates risks across bridge lifecycle phases, identifying the main processes that significantly impact sustainability. Using the Pareto Principle, the framework prioritizes these processes and associated risks, guiding the creation of targeted improvement guidelines aligned with ISO 9001:2015, BIM, and LCSA standards, which support high quality and efficiency. The results reveal that 38 of 55 identified risks account for 80% of the lifecycle impact, and they include the majority of those derived from international standards, underscoring their significance in sustainability efforts. Additionally, 36 of 47 main processes are subject to 80% of the impact from these vital risks, highlighting phases like Construction and Supervision as priority areas for intervention. By linking specific risks to each process within these phases, the study outlines essential guidelines and strategic measures, ensuring a focused approach to sustainable bridge development that aligns with international standards and maximizes lifecycle sustainability outcomes.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.3390/app15010383

Optimizing Foamed Bitumen Bound Asphalt Mixture Design Using Neural Network

A. Saleh L. Gaspar

Publication Name: Periodica Polytechnica Civil Engineering

Publication Date: 2024-09-20

Volume: 68

Issue: 4

Page Range: 1040-1051

Description:

Effective design of bituminous mixes for road pavements requires a robust understanding of their mechanical properties to ensure durability and safety. Conventional experimental methods for assessing these properties are time-consuming and costly. To address this challenge, advanced machine learning techniques have gained prominence in predicting bituminous mix behaviour. In this study, we focus on predicting Marshall Stability (MS) and Flow (MF) of foamed bitumen bound asphalt pavements using essential input parameters: Temperature, Foam Content, Expansion Ratio, and Half-Life. Leveraging a neural network model, accurate prediction equations and surface analyses were developed for optimizing pavement design. Furthermore, integration equations are also introduced to enhance the accuracy of the methodology. Sensitivity and Parametric Analyses provide insights into parameter impacts, and R-squared measures model goodness of fit. The research work presented not only streamlines pavement design but also advances the understanding of intricate input-output relationships in bituminous mixtures.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.3311/PPci.23898

Laboratory and Numerical Investigation of Pre-Tensioned Reinforced Concrete Railway Sleepers Combined with Plastic Fiber Reinforcement

Szabolcs Fischer Mykola Sysyn Zoltán Major Sarah Khaleel Ibrahim Dmytro Kurhan Vivien Jóvér Szabolcs Szalai Hanna Csótár Klaudia Madarász András Pollák Dániel Harrach Bálint Molnár L. Gaspar Bence Hermán Szabolcs Kocsis Szurke Attila Németh I. Fekete Richárd Nagy Gusztáv Baranyai Miklós Kuczmann M. Movahedi Rad

Publication Name: Polymers

Publication Date: 2024-06-01

Volume: 16

Issue: 11

Page Range: Unknown

Description:

This research investigates the application of plastic fiber reinforcement in pre-tensioned reinforced concrete railway sleepers, conducting an in-depth examination in both experimental and computational aspects. Utilizing 3-point bending tests and the GOM ARAMIS system for Digital Image Correlation, this study meticulously evaluates the structural responses and crack development in conventional and plastic fiber-reinforced sleepers under varying bending moments. Complementing these tests, the investigation employs ABAQUS’ advanced finite element modeling to enhance the analysis, ensuring precise calibration and validation of the numerical models. This dual approach comprehensively explains the mechanical behavior differences and stresses within the examined structures. The incorporation of plastic fibers not only demonstrates a significant improvement in mechanical strength and crack resistance but paves the way for advancements in railway sleeper technology. By shedding light on the enhanced durability and performance of reinforced concrete structures, this study makes a significant contribution to civil engineering materials science, highlighting the potential for innovative material applications in the construction industry.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.3390/polym16111498

Optimizing asphalt foaming using neural network

A. Saleh L. Gaspar

Publication Name: Pollack Periodica

Publication Date: 2024-03-22

Volume: 19

Issue: 1

Page Range: 130-136

Description:

This study uses a three-layer backpropagation neural network combined with particle swarm optimization to control the foamed bitumen in cold recycling technology. The foaming process of bitumen is non-linear and depends on dynamic temperature. By developing a neural network model, this study effectively captures the complex relationships between temperature, water content, air pressure, and the expansion ratio and half-life of foamed bitumen. The integration of particle swarm optimization enhances the accuracy and convergence of the neural network model by optimizing the initial weights. This optimization process improves the model's ability to predict and control the quality of foamed bitumen accurately. It serves as a valuable tool for the rapid development of high-quality cold asphalt design.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.1556/606.2023.00896

The Role of BIM in Managing Risks in Sustainability of Bridge Projects: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis

Zsolt Bencze Rana Ahmad Maya Dema Munef Ahmad L. Gaspar

Publication Name: Sustainability Switzerland

Publication Date: 2024-02-01

Volume: 16

Issue: 3

Page Range: Unknown

Description:

With the significant and rapid growth observed in bridge projects worldwide, the associated environmental, economic, and social concerns are on the rise. A systematic review of bridge sustainability with meta-analysis according to the PRISMA guidelines was performed, aiming to improve understanding of the importance of using building information modeling (BIM) in bridge projects by investigating the role of proper implementation of this technology to avoid and mitigate risks and improve sustainability. The relevant international literature was collected and scrutinized. The findings demonstrated that the accurate implementation of BIM significantly enhances the efficient management of risks in bridge projects. Consequently, this has a positive effect on improving the three essential (environmental, economic, and social) aspects of sustainability. The impact mentioned is especially apparent in enhancing the management of information throughout the entire lifespan of a bridge. This, in turn, facilitates precise decision-making during the design phase, aligns with assessments of environmental impact, enables real-time monitoring during execution, effectively manages the maintenance of the structure, facilitates efficient allocation and utilization of resources, and improves design practices by providing designers with accurate information. Delving into the nuances of this review has shed light on the transformative potential of BIM in shaping sustainable bridge projects, laying the groundwork for future advancements in this critical field.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.3390/su16031242

Skid Resistance of Asphalt Pavements

Szabolcs Rosta L. Gaspar

Publication Name: Eng

Publication Date: 2023-06-01

Volume: 4

Issue: 2

Page Range: 1597-1615

Description:

Skid resistance of a road pavement surface is the force developed when a tyre is prevented from rotating and slides along the pavement surface. This property comes from the combination of the macro- and micro-texture of pavement. The skid resistance of an asphalt pavement is an important parameter influencing driving safety on a road since there is a proven relationship between skid resistance and accident parameters. This paper deals with the measurement principle of pavement skid resistance (surface friction) including longitudinal and transverse friction. A high number of measuring devices of skid resistance are also introduced, highlighting their advantages and limitations. Moreover, the measurement policies in the European Union and in Hungary are outlined. Pavement surface texture is investigated, dealing with the levels of surface texture, the most common measuring techniques, the macro-texture features of asphalt types, as well as the Hungarian regulation in the field. As a related topic, the aggregate properties and their implication in the relevant Hungarian specification are introduced briefly as well. Some outcomes of the EU’s COST Action 354 on the development of unified European macro-roughness and skid resistance performance indicators and indices are also presented.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.3390/eng4020091

Numerical Investigation of Pre-Stressed Reinforced Concrete Railway Sleeper for High-Speed Application

Szabolcs Fischer Zoltán Major Szabolcs Szalai Mykola Sysyn Attila Németh Dmytro Kurhan Dóra Harangozó M. Movahedi Rad Sarah Khaleel Ibrahim Dániel Harrach Szabolcs Kocsis Szurke Gusztáv Baranyai Géza Herczeg L. Gaspar

Publication Name: Infrastructures

Publication Date: 2023-03-01

Volume: 8

Issue: 3

Page Range: Unknown

Description:

The current paper deals with the numerical investigation of a unique designed pre-stressed reinforced concrete railway sleeper for the design speed of 300 km/h, as well as an axle load of 180 kN. The authors applied different methodologies in their research: traditional hand-made calculations and two types of finite element software. The latter were AxisVM and ABAQUS, respectively. During the calculations, the prestressing loss was not considered. The results from the three methods were compared with each other. The hand-made calculations and the finite element modeling executed by AxisVM software are adequate for determining the mechanical inner forces of the sleeper; however, ABAQUS is appropriate for consideration of enhanced and sophisticated material models, as well as the stress-state of the elements, i.e., concrete, pre-stressed tendons, etc. The authors certified the applicability of these methodologies for performing the dimensioning and design of reinforced concrete railway sleepers with pre-stressing technology. The research team would like to continue their research in an improved manner, taking into consideration real laboratory tests and validating the results from FE modeling, special material models that allow calculation of crackings and their effects in the concrete, and so that the real pattern of the crackings can be measured by GOM Digital Image Correlation (DIC) technology, etc.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.3390/infrastructures8030041

Dynamic Viscosity Prediction of Blends of Paving Grade Bitumen with Reclaimed Bitumen

Szabolcs Rosta L. Gaspar

Publication Name: Periodica Polytechnica Transportation Engineering

Publication Date: 2023-01-01

Volume: 51

Issue: 3

Page Range: 263-269

Description:

The recycling of reclaimed asphalt pavement is of significant economic and environmental benefits. In this case, however, the satisfactory performance of the final product needs scientific planning of the mixture and thorough quality control. Before its use, a number of tests must be performed to verify that the binder meets the relevant requirements and can be used in asphalt mixtures. The binder characteristics in the reclaimed asphalt pavement and the expected properties of the binder blend in the new asphalt mixture must be known. For its prediction and calculation, a European standard offers the calculation of the penetration or softening point of the binder blend in the mixture with reclaimed asphalt content. However, in some countries, the determination of paving grade bitumen types (categories) is based not on dynamic viscosity measured with DSR instrument, so other validated test and calculation methods are in force. A viscosity-based method has not yet been validated for paving grade bitumens standardized on a penetration basis, although this method is more advantageous in many aspects when monitoring daily production processes; it is much shorter and requires less material than measuring softening point or penetration. The article deals with the measurement of the dynamic viscosity of bitumen blends of asphalt mixtures made using reclaimed asphalts, determined with a dynamic shear rheometer at different frequencies (0.1–10.0 Hz sweep). Furthermore, the relationships between the different composition ratios of national paving grade bitumens classified on the bases of penetration level and bitumens from reclaimed asphalt pavement are examined.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.3311/PPtr.21926

Investigation of Tramway Line No. 1, in Budapest, Based on Dynamic Measurements

Szabolcs Fischer Vivien Jóvér L. Gaspar

Publication Name: Acta Polytechnica Hungarica

Publication Date: 2022-01-01

Volume: 19

Issue: 3

Page Range: 65-76

Description:

Determining the deterioration of superstructure systems is technical and has national economic importance. In addition to geometric deterioration, it is also very difficult to monitor the changes in the dynamic characteristics of the vehicles. The data from geometric and dynamic measurements should be properly analyzed to determine the deterioration, lifetime/life-cycle costs of superstructure systems and the casual relationships should be researched between the characteristics. In this paper, the geometric and dynamic measurement results of the two examined sections are compared. This analysis is the first step in exploring and understanding the relationship between each feature. The authors recommended methodologies for using the synchronized (static and dynamic) measurements and their evaluation possibilities related to tramway tracks. The method is a well-known solution for public railways; however, the tramways greatly differ. In Hungary, there is a great opportunity to introduce the static-dynamic parallel method, which can be applied for the determination of the life-cycle costs (LCC) of the tramway tracks that are assembled with different (super)structures.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: DOI not available

Advantages and limitations of using foamed bitumen

A. Saleh L. Gaspar

Publication Name: Acta Technica Jaurinensis

Publication Date: 2021-08-25

Volume: 14

Issue: 3

Page Range: 300-314

Description:

Foamed asphalt refers to a bituminous mixture of road-building aggregates and foamed bitumen, produced by a cold mix process. There are a lot of related issue that has not been sufficiently investigated so far. It is worthwhile to overview the main theoretical and practical results in the field in several countries including those of the authors of the paper. It is clear that the foamed asphalt is usually characterized by high quality and reasonable cost, can be used in cold road pavement rehabilitation, in addition to it the technique is environ-mentally friendly preserving natural resources. Using foamed bitumen reduces the emissions of carbon dioxide and gases resulting from combustion, especially when it is used as a cold rehabilitation binder and mixed with re-claimed asphalt pavement materials.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.14513/actatechjaur.00587

Functional and environmental impacts of the use of reclaimed asphalt pavement materials and of foamed asphalt

A. Saleh L. Gaspar

Publication Name: Acta Technica Jaurinensis

Publication Date: 2021-05-26

Volume: 14

Issue: 2

Page Range: 212-227

Description:

Environmental safety related to asphalt mixing plants has been a growing concern due to the high temperature of asphalt mixture production resulting in a lot of energy used and much air pollutants released. Asphalt mixtures with foamed bitumen and RAP can reduce this problem. This paper deals with their functional and environmental effects. In the paper, it was introduced that the hot mix asphalt mixtures bound by foamed bitumen and containing RAP materials provides a good workability, in comparison to “traditional” hot mix asphalt mixtures. However, producing foamed bitumen needs special technological steps before using it as asphalt binder. The use of RAP materials reduces environmental harm and construction costs, besides it preserves the limited resources of stone, sand and gravel.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.14513/actatechjaur.00590

Development of a sustainable optimization model for the rehabilitation of transport infrastructure

András Bakó L. Gaspar

Publication Name: Acta Polytechnica Hungarica

Publication Date: 2018-01-01

Volume: 15

Issue: 1

Page Range: 11-33

Description:

About twenty years ago, the research activities aiming at the development of the optimal maintenance and rehabilitation strategies (models) of roads and bridges started in several countries, including Hungary. In the first foreign models, the deterioration depending on time and other parameters was given by Markov transition probability matrices. Due to the inaccuracies and inconsistencies of earlier models, a continuous model upgrading could have been carried out by many researchers world-wide. Besides, basically new models appeared in the literature, which are able to describe the actual processes more reliably. The research work of the authors of the paper has concentrated on Pavement Management Systems (PMSs) and Bridge Management Systems (BMSs). Since a common financing of roads and bridges is typical, a combined model of road pavement and bridge managements was developed by the authors increasing considerably the efficient use of available funds.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.12700/APH.15.1.2018.1.2

Calibration of Leontief Input/Output table parameters

J. Gáti András Bakó A. Szeghegyi L. Gaspar

Publication Name: Ines 2013 IEEE 17th International Conference on Intelligent Engineering Systems Proceedings

Publication Date: 2013-12-12

Volume: Unknown

Issue: Unknown

Page Range: 183-186

Description:

Leontief Input/Output tables are widely used for solving various economic problems. This algorithm predicts the effect of changes in an economy sector on others. The same model can also be used for solving traffic forecasting problems. The solution algorithm applied is the so-called RAS one where a certain exponential opposition function is used. A simple and fast algorithm for the determination of the parameters of this opposition function will be presented. © 2013 IEEE.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.1109/INES.2013.6632807