UNIVERSITY OF MALTA
FACULTY OF ARCHITECTURE & CIVIL ENGINEERING
B.E. & A. (Hons.)
YEAR 2
SEPTEMBER 2011 SUPPLEMENTARY EXAMINATION SESSION
Unit Code: BCE 2001
Unit Title: CONSTRUCTION SYSTEMS
AND MATERIALS III
Date: Friday 9th September 2011
Time: 09.15-11.15
________________________________________________________________________
ANSWER ALL QUESTIONS
ALL QUESTIONS CARRY EQUAL MARKS
1.
It is required to design a C30 mix having a 30 – 60 mm slump. The
limitations made by the client are a maximum w/c ratio of 0.5 and a max
cement content of 400 kg/m3 and a minimum of 300 kg/m3
Explain how you would proceed with the trial mix calculations if:
(i)
the resulting w/c ratio is higher than specified
(ii)
the resulting cement content is lower than the minimum specified
(iii)
the resulting cement content is higher than the maximum specified
2.
Define target mean strength, characteristic strength and margin. What is
the formula connecting the three? Given that concrete strength follows
the normal distribution, illustrate your answer by an appropriately labelled
diagram.
3.
A cube and a cylinder were cast from the same batch of concrete. Which
of the two would exhibit the higher strength when tested in
compression? Why is there a difference? State three other factors that
can affect measured strength even of specimens having the same shape.
4.
Why is concrete compressive strength considered the most important of
concrete properties? What is compliance testing? Considering the
Page 1 of 3
seriousness of a failure of a compliance test in compression what should
be the first practical step to be taken?
5.
State three reasons which might lead to a concrete building requiring an
in-situ strength assessment. Briefly outline some of the steps involved in
the planning of such an investigation.
6.
Cores may be taken to determine actual (in-situ) or potential strength.
Discuss the situations where these may be required. What information
other than strength may be obtained from such cores?
7.
State one advantage and one disadvantage for each of the following
methods of non-destructive testing: (i) Rebound Hammer, (ii) Ultrasonic
Pulse Velocity (iii) coring (iv) load testing
8.
What are the objectives behind the repair of a concrete of a concrete
structure/element? Assuming that repairs are necessary, what is the first
essential fact to be determined?
9.
Draw up a list of the intrinsic and extrinsic factors that could lead to
concrete deterioration.
10.
What should a good concrete specification ensure? Distinguish between
the following:
(i) a performance and a prescription specification,
(ii) a designed and a designated mix,
(iii) a target value and a class value (e.g. for slump)
11.
What are the three factors contributing to concrete porosity? How can the
effect of these factors be minimised? Distinguish between porosity and
permeability.
12.
State any five items that should always be stated in a Ready Mixed
Concrete delivery ticket. State three other items that should also be on
the ticket in the case of a designed concrete mix.
13.
How would you distinguish between plastic and long-term drying
shrinkage cracks in concrete? How may the former be classified? Give
two examples of each type of plastic crack.
14.
State four factors affecting paste shrinkage. Why would a given volume of
paste shrink less in concrete than as a paste? Explain why two concretes
having the same w/c ratio could show different amounts of long term
drying shrinkage.
Page 2 of 3
15.
Distinguish between falsework and formwork. Account for the occurrence
of failure of concrete formwork. ? Name five types of imposed load
which may act on formwork
16.
Formwork safety is of great importance. What is the main principle behind
the design of safe formwork? What are the stages involved. Apart from
strength what are the two other formwork properties to consider with
respect to safety?
17.
Timber and steel are the two main materials used as formwork materials.
State three advantages and two disadvantages for each. Name two other
materials used as formwork material stating one particular use for each.
18.
Draw a graph for the stress-strain response of concrete to loading and
unloading. Account for (i) the area under the curve and (ii) the fact that a
second loading cycle would not start at the same point as the first. Why
does the stress-stain curve for concrete differ from that for (i) steel (ii)
glass (iii) timber.
19.
Distinguish between Static and Dynamic Modulus of Elasticity. Given that
the former is used in normal design, what type of design would require the
use of the latter? State two apparata/methods used to determining its
value. Given that this modulus is rarely ever used in practice, why is it
often still determined?
20.
What factors favour the corrosion of steel in concrete? What are the first
signs that corrosion is taking place?
Page 3 of 3
UNIVERSITY OF MALTA
FACULTY FOR THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
B.E. & A. (Hons.)
YEAR II
SEPTEMBER 2011 EXAMINATION SESSION
Unit Code: BCE 2003
Unit Title: STRUCTURES 1
Date: Monday 12th September 2011
Time: 09.15 – 11.15 hrs
________________________________________________________________________
Candidates are allowed the use of programmable calculators during the examination.
Answer any THREE (3) of the following questions.
Q1
The pin jointed truss shown in Figure 1 is loaded at its joints.
Calculate:
(a) The value of the vertical load P applied to the truss at point H
(b) The values of the reactions at A and E
(c) The force in members; DC, AC, DF,FG and AB
by using any suitable method.
(30 marks)
Q2
A three-pinned arch structure shown in Figure 2, is subjected to a concentrated
load as shown. For this structure,
(i)
The vertical and horizontal reactions at each support.
(6 marks)
(ii)
Find the position and magnitude of the maximum bending moment.
(ii)
the position and magnitude of the maximum shear force in the left hand span of
the arch.
(12 marks)
(12 marks)
Q3
(a) Describe, using sketches, what an influence line is?
(4 marks)
(b) Draw the influence line diagram for bending moment and shear force, for
a point “X” located 3.5 metres from the left hand support of a simply
supported beam having an overall length of 10 metres.
(8 marks)
(c) Using the influence lines obtained in (b) above determine the maximum
moment and the maximum +ve shear and –ve shear forces at point “X” when
a uniformly distributed load of 100kN/m of length 6 metres traverses the
beam from left to right. (NB. the uniformly distributed load may be placed
partially on the length of the beam)
(18 marks)
Q4
(a) Write short notes on the following;
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
Squash load
Euler Elastic critical buckling of perfect struts
Buckling of imperfect struts
Effective length of buckling
(16 marks)
(b) The average stress to cause first surface yield in an axially loaded column,
having an initial imperfection wo at mid-length is given by
σy

= 0.5  ( σ o + ( 1 + η )σ E ) −

[(σ
+ ( 1 + η )σ E ) − 4 σ o σ E
2
o
]
1
2



where
wo y
, σ 0 = 275 N / mm 2
2
r
is the initial column imperfection.
is the distance from the NA of the cross-section to the outermost
fibre on the column.
is the radius of gyration of the column cross-section.
η=
wo
y
r
What is the axial load to cause failure of a pin ended axially loaded steel
strut of length L = 4.5m, having a constant cross-section along it’s length, such
that the breadth B = 75mm, and the depth D =120mm. Assume that the initial
imperfection wo is equivalent to L/200 for buckling about the x-x axis ( major
axis), and L/1000 for buckling about the YY axis (minor axis) of the column.
Young’s modulus of elasticity is E = 205 kN/mm2
(14 marks)
Q5
A beam of span L is subjected to a load P at a distance L/3 from the left hand
support, the beam has a constant flexural rigidity, EI along its length. Using
MacCaulay’s method, in terms of P, L, and EI:
(a) Determine the central deflection of the beam.
(15 marks)
(b) Find the slope at the left hand support.
(15 marks)
Q6
For the three pinned portal frame shown in Figure 3, determine the vertical and
horizontal reactions at the supports, draw the bending moment, shear force and
axial force diagrams, indicating the position of the maximum sagging and
hogging moments, as well as the position of the maximum shear.
(30 marks)
UNIVERSITY OF MALTA
FACULTY OF THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
B.E. & A. (Hons.)
SEPTEMBER 2011 EXAMINATIONS SESSION
Unit Code: BCE2009
Date: Friday 9th September 2011
Unit Title: Building Physics
Time: 09.15 - 11.15 a.m.
SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS
ANSWER ANY TEN QUESTIONS.
1.
Describe the following terms as used in acoustic design of buildings and noise
control:
(a) A-weighted sound level; (3 marks)
(b) Equivalent continuous sound level, Leq; (3 marks)
(c) Sound reduction index of a building element. (4 marks)
2.
Discuss the following aspects of building acoustics:
(a) Impact sound transmission in buildings;
(b) The reverberation time of an indoor space. (5 marks for each)
3.
You have been commissioned to carry out a site investigation for a proposed new
building. What are the factors that you would consider when analyzing the situation with
respect to noise annoyance from external sources and possible noise generation by the
proposed development? (10 marks)
4.
Discuss the following statements:
(a) Noise barriers can be effective in reducing noise levels from road traffic.
Discuss.
(b) Noise transfer between rooms, to a large extent, can be designed out by good
planning and zoning of the building at the earliest stages of design. (5 marks for each
part)
5.
(a) What type of construction would you recommend for the roof of a building
located close to a major airport. Give reasons for your choice.
(b) How would you reduce impact noise from rain in the design of a lightweight
roof. (5 marks for each part)
6.
What are the important factors to be considered when designing constructions to
achieve adequate sound insulation between separate spaces? (10 marks)
7.
(a) A community hall of about 400 square metres floor area is designed primarily
for speech activities and occasionally for musical performances. What would you suggest
in the finishing of the hall to ensure an adequate reverberation time for both situations?
(b) In open-plan areas it is essential to provide good speech intelligibility and to
secure freedom from aural distraction by more distant sound sources and by background
noise. Suggest how this can be achieved in practice. (5 marks for each part)
8.
(a) Describe the basic requirements in the design of a professional recording
studio.
(b) Show how a small practice room for music, to be used by not more than four
performers at a time can be designed for the music department of a secondary school
(5 marks for each part)
9.
Design for daylight is an important consideration when designing new buildings.
Discuss this statement indicating the importance of natural light in buildings and ways to
admit daylight into buildings. (10 marks)
10.
The consideration of the type of light sources is important when designing an
artificial lighting system for a building. Describe the typical light sources which can be
used for providing electric lighting in the various spaces of a school (10 marks)
11.
Describe the following terms as used in the lighting design of an interior:
(a) Standard overcast sky; (3 marks)
(b) Daylight factor; (4 marks)
(c) Uniformity ratio for daylighting. (3 marks)
12.
(a) What is meant by amenity lighting? (2 marks)
(b) Discuss how much the lighting level should differ between two adjacent
spaces in a building. (2 marks)
(c) Distinguish between disability glare and discomfort glare. (4 marks)
(d) Why is it that it can be dangerous to light rotating machinery with fluorescent
lamps only.(2 marks)
13.
In warm periods of the year, the sun’s rays, the infiltration of hot air into the
building, and the internal gains from the activities of the occupants and from equipment,
can all lead to unacceptable internal conditions. Discuss the measures to be taken to
achieve a comfortable internal temperature. (10 marks)
UNIVERSITY OF MALTA
FACULTY OF THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
B.E. & A. (Hons.)
SEPTEMBER 2011 EXAMINATIONS SESSION
Unit Code: BCE3001
Date: Friday 9th September 2011
Unit Title: Construction Technology 4
Time: 09.15 - 11.15 a.m
SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS
ANSWER QUESTION 1 AND ANY OTHER SEVEN QUESTIONS
FIGURE 1
1.
Figure 1 shows a sketch of the section through a proposed building which
includes a basement over part of the floor plan of the building. The building is
constructed of concrete block masonry, all walls being loadbearing. The site consists of
rock covered with a layer of topsoil about 1 metre deep. All topsoil has to be removed
before building operations commence. All external walls must have a U-value not
exceeding 0.4 W/m² K. By means of a well-labelled drawing, drawn approximately to
scale, draw the details marked A, B, C in Figure 1. You may make any reasonable
assumption as to materials and finishes other than the ones indicated. (10 marks for each
detail)
1
2.
Describe the role of the following sources of information in the preparation of
working drawings: (a) technical reports, (b) manufacturers’ organisations, (c) product
catalogues, (d) testing organisations, (e) professional associations (2 marks for each
part.)
3.
A small fully-detached single storey building is being planned. What types of
foundation for this building would you recommend in the following situations. Illustrate
your answer with suitable drawings:
(a)
The site is mostly rock close to the surface with a thin layer of topsoil.
(b)
The site consists of a filled-up quarry about 20 metres deep. The fill is poorly
compacted and may include non-inert materials. (5 marks for each part)
4.
(a) Semi-permeable walls and impermeable walls are very popular forms of
construction. Show how these type of walls ensure that no water penetration takes place
through the wall, indicating the precautions necessary in practice to satisfy this
requirement. (6 marks)
(b) The traditional form of construction locally was the fully permeable wall.
What are the two reasons which made it possible for this type of wall to ensure dry
conditions on its internal surface? (4 marks)
5.
(a) A groundfloor must prevent damp penetrating the building. How can this be
carried out in practice? (3 marks)
(b) Where would you consider putting a layer of hardcore beneath the groundfloor
slab? (3 marks)
(c) To raise the groundfloor level to the required level, fill material is normally
used. What are the basic requirements for a suitable fill material? (4 marks)
6.
(a) What are the problems likely to be encountered in the construction of a
basement if its floor level is below the water table? (4 marks)
(b) Where would you consider the installation of subsurface drainage on the
outside of a basement wall? (3 marks)
(c) When is it appropriate to use internal waterproofing in the construction of a
basement?. (3 marks)
7.
(a) The need for access and egress is an important consideration in the design of
external walls. Discuss. (5 marks)
(b) A building on fire may set nearby buildings on fire. Discuss this problem and
show what measures are normally taken to reduce this risk. (5 marks)
8.
(a) The insulation in a wall can be internal or external to the structure. Discuss
how the position of the insulation affects indoor thermal conditions. (4 marks)
(b) By means of a suitable sketch show how the insulation may be placed within
the cavity and on the inner surface of a cavity wall built in masonry. You may not fill the
whole cavity with insulant. Show the actual details how the insulation may be placed and
retained in position, and protected where necessary. (6 marks)
2
9.
(a) Discuss how the closure of the cavity in a cavity wall can be achieved to
ensure that no thermal or damp bridging occurs. (5 marks)
(b) A lintel is normally used to form the head of an opening on an external wall.
What are the requirements which have to be satisfied in the design of a lintel? (5 marks)
10.
Distinguish between blockwork and brickwork in the construction of walls and
describe the advantages of blockwork over brickwork. (10 marks)
3
UNIVERSITY OF MALTA
FACULTY OF THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
B.E. & A. (Hons.)
SEPTEMBER 2011 EXAMINATIONS SESSION
Unit Code: BCE3002
Unit Title: Environmental
Date: 12 September 2011
Control Systems 2
Time: 09.15 – 11.15 a.m.
SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS
ANSWER SECTION A ON A SEPARATE BOOKLET
ANSWER THREE QUESTIONS FROM SECTION A, FOUR QUESTIONS FROM SECTION B
AND ONE QUESTION FROM SECTION C.
Section A
1.
(a) Fresh water originates from one or more of three sources. Describe briefly
these three sources and show how eventually water reaches the consumer. (4 marks)
(b) What is the main advantage of the use of the direct system to supply cold
water within a building? However, the indirect system is frequently more popular. Why?
(3 marks for each part)
2.
(a) What are the requirements which apply in the design for all types of sanitary
appliances? (4 marks)
(b) How is the WC outlet connected to the drainpipe and why is this system
necessary? (3 marks)
(c) Three types of flushing mechanisms for WC’s are normally available.
Describe. (3 marks)
3.
The functional requirements of a drainage system depend in general on the
hydraulic performance of the installation. Describe the basic principles to be followed in
the design and execution of drainage works and the basic solution to these requirements.
(10 marks)
4.
Describe the following components as used in a foul water drainage system:
(a) access points, (4 marks)
(b) sewer gas interceptor, (3 marks)
(c) flexible joints to pipe connections. (3 marks)
Section B
5.
Both water and air can be used as a medium for the distribution of heating and
cooling around a building.
(i) What are the main differences between water and air based systems? (4
marks)
1
(b) Name the components required for a water-based air conditioning system and
describe the installation requirements. (6 marks)
6.
(a) Write notes on the difference between a single phase and a three phase
electrical installation, giving examples of different applications for each of the two
installations. (4 marks)
(b) Describe suitable methods of reducing the energy requirements for lighting in
a shopping centre operating seven days a week, giving consideration to
i. the building design
ii. the type of light source
iii. the lighting controls. (6 marks)
7.
(a) Name two solutions for the production of hot water in a domestic application
(2 marks)
(b) How would the hot water requirements differ in a commercial environment
such as a hotel? Describe the main equipment components required in this application
(4 marks)
(c)
Discuss the energy and fuel requirements for hot water production in
different applications. (4 marks)
8.
Describe solutions for energy saving that would be appropriate for a small twentyroomed guest house in Malta. (10 marks)
9.
Write short notes on the design parameters to be considered when selecting the
lifts for an apartment block consisting of two floors of underground parking, and eight
floors of apartments. (10 marks)
Section C
10.
(a) Describe the general layout and operation of each of the following three types
of air-conditioning system, and refer to the main applications and advantages of each
system
(i) Chilled water systems
(ii) All air (ducted) systems
(iii) Split-type units. (9 marks)
(b) The size of the air conditioner for a room can be determined by calculation
taking into account a number of influential factors. List and explain the factors which
influence this size selection (8 marks)
(c)
Calculate the U value of a wall as follows:
Cavity constructed wall with 105mm brick outer leaf, 50mm cavity and 60mm
polystyrene insulation, 105mm concrete block inner leaf and 12mm internal plaster, with
the following data:k- values :Brickwork
0.84/W m K
Polystyrene
0.04 W/m K
2
Plaster
Concrete block
Thermal resistances:Inside surface
Outside surface
Cavity
0.14 W/m K
1.2 W/m K
0.12 m2 K/W
0.06 m2 K/W
0.18 m2 K/W
(13 marks)
11.
Discuss the services requirements in connection with the design of a five-star
hotel with three hundred bedrooms. List five typical services to be installed in the hotel
and write short notes on each one. (30 marks)
3
UNIVERSITY OF MALTA
FACULTY FOR THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
B.E. & A. (Hons.)
YEAR III
SEPTEMBER 2011 EXAMINATION SESSION
Unit Code: BCE 3003
Unit Title: STRUCTURES 3
Date: Tuesday 6th September 2011
Time: 0915 – 1115hrs
___________________________________________________________________________
ANSWER ALL PARTS OF QUESTION No.1 IN SECTION A
ANSWER ANY THREE QUESTIONS IN SECTION B
CANDIDATES ARE ALLOWED THE USE OF PROGRAMMABLE CALCULATORS
_________________________________________________________________________________
SECTION A
1.
(a) A translational spring system is composed of three springs each having an axial
stiffness of k N/mm. Determine the ratio of the equivalent spring stiffnesses for the
springs arranged in series and for the springs arranged in parallel.
[8 Marks]
(b) A cantilever of span L is discretized into 5 nodes (one at the fixed support, one at
the free end and the others spaced equally at L/4). The flexibility influence coefficient
giving the displacement at the ith node due to a unit force applied at the jth node is
defined as fij. Using the Principle of Superposition, obtain an expression for the
deflection at the cantilever tip if point loads of P2 and P5 are applied respectively at
nodes 2 and 5 along the beam.
[9 Marks]
(c) Explain concisely the differences between the Flexibility and Stiffness Methods of
analysis of indeterminate structures, indicating in which circumstances it would be
preferable to use one method instead of the other.
[8 Marks]
_________________________________________________________________________________
1
_________________________________________________________________________________
SECTION B
General Notes
(i) All Numerical integration is to be carried out using Simpson's Rule.
(ii) The end-moments of a fixed-ended beam AB of span L subjected to a load W at a
distance a from the left-hand support A and a distance b from the right-hand support B
are given by :
MA =
2.
W a b2
L2
and
MB =
W a2 b
L2
With reference to the frame shown in Fig.Q2, determine the vertical deflection at point
B, the mid-span of member AC, due to the applied external loading using the Principle
of Virtual Work. Assume that all members are prismatic and have equal flexural
rigidities, EI.
[25 Marks]
3.
Using the Flexibility Method, analyse the frame shown in Fig.Q3 and draw the
corresponding bending moment and shear force diagrams.
Assume that Young’s
Modulus of Elasticity, E = 210 x 106 kN/m2 and the moment of inertia of the smallest
member cross-section, I = 5.50 x 10−3 m4.
[25 Marks]
4.
Using the Direct Stiffness Method, analyse the continuous beam shown in Fig.Q4 and
draw the corresponding bending moment and shear force diagrams.
[25 Marks]
5.
Using the Moment Distribution Method, analyse the continuous beam shown in Fig.Q5
and draw the corresponding bending moment and shear force diagrams. Assume that
Young’s Modulus of Elasticity, E = 210 x 106 kN/m2 and the moment of inertia of the
smallest member cross-section, I = 4.50 x 10−3 m4.
[25 Marks]
_________________________________________________________________________________
2
STRUCTURES 3
W
A
5m
C
B
C
35 kN
B
EI
L
2W
5m
5m
3EI
2EI
EI Constant
E
60 kN
D
1m
L
D
A
L
Fig. Q2
Fig. Q3
2wL
wL
2w
L
3EI
A
L/2
2EI
B
3L/2
wL
C
L/2
L
Fig. Q4
25k
A
EI
4m
B
10k
5kN/m
2m
2EI
4m
Fig. Q5
3
C
EI
EI
2m
D
D
UNIVERSITY OF MALTA
FACULTY OF THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
B.E. & A. (Hons.)
SEPTEMBER 2011 EXAMINATIONS SESSION
Unit Code: BCE3005
Date: Thursday 13th September 2011
Unit Title: Construction Technology 5
Time: 09.15 – 11.15 a.m
SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS
ANSWER QUESTION 1 AND ANY OTHER SEVEN QUESTIONS
DETAIL A
CAST IN-SITU CONCRETE ROOF
ANY TYPE OF ROOF SHAPE FOR THE ATRIUM IS ACCEPTABLE
YOU MAY CHOOSE A FLAT OR A PITCHED ROOF (OR ANY OTHER ROOF SHAPE)
TWO OPTIONS ARE TO BE INDICATED:
ONE IN CONCRETE AND THE OTHER A LIGHTWEIGHT STEEL ROOF
10m
ATRIUM
Figure 1
1.
Figure 1 above shows a sketch of a section through a proposed two-storey
building, where the accommodation is located around a central atrium (10m x 10m). The
building is to be constructed of concrete block masonry, with the roof of the building
(excluding the atrium) being made of cast in-situ concrete.
(a) In the design brief for the building, the following specifications are required
for the roof of the atrium:
(i) it should be constructed primarily of concrete;
(ii) the roof should be designed to allow the penetration of substantial
amounts of daylight into the atrium space;
(iii) it should allow for controlled ventilation especially in warm weather;
(iv) excessive noise from rain falling on the roof is not acceptable.
(v) both a flat roof or a pitched roof are acceptable (choose one).
By means of a suitable sketch of detail A, properly labeled, indicate how you
propose to carry out this construction. (20 marks)
(b) An alternative solution with a lightweight roof in steel has been proposed. By
means of a suitable sketch, show how this construction may be carried out, if it is
necessary to satisfy the same requirements as for a concrete roof. (10 marks)
1
2.
Describe the following terms as used in joinery: (a) tongued and grooved
joint; (b) countersunk screw; (c) easy-clean hinge; (d) dowelled joint; (e) rising or falling
butt hinge. (2 marks for each)
3.
The roof of a building is to be constructed of cast in-situ concrete with external
insulation, water proofing, etc. Describe the constituent parts of the roof, indicating the
function of each part. (10 marks)
4.
(a) What are the functions of a subfloor as used beneath the floor finish of an
interior?
(b) Safety in use is an important criterion in the selection of an appropriate
flooring for an indoor space. Discuss. (5 marks for each part)
5.
(a) Describe the different types of windows in terms of the way they can be
opened. (4 marks)
(b) Which type of window would you recommend for the following situations:
(a) a large window with an aluminum frame;
(b) a window to provide ventilation, and good privacy from overlooking;
(c) a window where high levels of controlled ventilation are needed, but
where the window should not project into the interior. (2 marks for
each part)
6.
Where would you recommend these types of doors for use in a building:
(a) revolving door;
(b) a two-leaf door;
(c) an up-and-over garage door;
(d) an automatic opening door;
(e) a folding-shutter door. (2 marks for each part)
7.
Discuss:
(a) The application of wall profiles is an alternative to traditional systems of
bonding in the construction of an internal masonry partition;
(b) The use of folding / sliding or relocatable partitions. (5 marks for each part)
8.
A staircase is to be located within a fully-enclosed compartment, 5 metres by 2.4
metres. The doors to the compartment, (900 mm opening leaf), are located on each of the
longer sides, at the lower and upper level, and both open inwards into the compartment.
Each step must be rectangular in shape (flier), and proper landings are to be designed to
ensure the proper construction of the balustrade (to be made of metal). The staircase is to
be made of cast in-situ concrete clad in marble. Design this staircase, making any
reasonable assumptions as to the dimensions of the individual steps and the overall
staircase.
Note: The sum of the going of a parallel step plus twice its rise should not be less than
585mm or more than 610mm.
2
9.
(a) Describe the types of rooflights which can be used to admit daylight into an
interior. (6 marks)
(b) Screeds are commonly used to finish heavy roofs and to provide a base for the
roofing system. Descibe how such a screed may be prepared and laid. (4 marks)
10.
Give a brief description of the use of portal frames in the construction of medium
and long span roofs. Illustrate your answer with appropriate sketches. (10 marks)
3
UNIVERSITY OF MALTA
FACULTY FOR THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
B.E. & A. (Hons.)
YEAR 3
SEPTEMBER 2011 EXAMINATION SESSION
Unit Code: BCE 3008
Unit Title: CIVIL ENGINEERING 2
Time: 0915 - 1115hrs
Date: Monday 5th September 2011
________________________________________________________________________
SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS
$16:(5$//48(67,216 86($&$/&8/$725:+(15(48,5('
1.
Describe the different waste streams which usually characterise solid waste
generated in a particular territory (25 marks)
2.
Outline in detail the principles upon which a solid waste management strategy
should be developed. (25 marks)
3.
Describe the considerations one would need to take into account when forecasting
water demand. (25 marks)
4.
Elaborate the principles of better sanitation programmes. (25 marks)
UNIVERSITY OF MALTA
FACULTY FOR THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
B.E. & A. (Hons.)
SEPTEMBER 2011 EXAMINATION SESSION
Unit Code: BCE2005
Unit Title: Soil Mechanics and Geotechnics 2
Date: 13/09/2011
Time: 9:15hrs to 11:15hrs
Answer questions 1 to 6 and any one question from questions 7 and 8
If required, you can assume the unit weight of water to be equal to 10 kN/m3
A major road is in the process of being reconstructed. 100m of this road are located over
a shallow clay slope as shown in the diagram below.
The existing road has been resurfaced many times, but the uppermost level of the road
has remained practically the same over the years. A trial pit dug through the road
buildup indicates several tarmac layers adding up to a total thickness of 350mm, a 1.5m
layer of granular fill, and then clay. The road surface is all cracked and it is known that
the surrounding fields are temporarily flooded after a heavy storm. A similar trial pit,
dug 500m away showed only one layer of tarmac, and the road was seen to be built on a
layer of solid rock.
1.
Using your knowledge of how ground materials behave, explain what you think are
the problems that have resulted in the need of rebuilding of this particular stretch of
road.
(10 marks)
Page 1 of 4
1
2.
The road is retained by a gravity structure as shown. Notwithstanding, the cracks
running parallel to the kerb clearly show that lateral movement has been
experienced. Use your knowledge of how retaining walls are engineered to explain
why this lateral movement could have occurred, taking into account the stratigraphy
of the site and the proportions of the retaining structure.
(10 marks)
3.
A decision has been taken to rebuild the retaining structure. The following structure
is being proposed by the engineers of the local service authority, who would like to
have easy access to the utilities servicing the nearby village. A large service culvert
is to be built below the sidewalk as shown. The walls of the culvert, and the 1.5m by
0.2m thick foundation are both in reinforced concrete (unit weight 24kN/m3). Would
you consider this to be an acceptable solution? Give your reasons.
(10 marks)
4.
Considering the permeabilities of the different layers, sketch a likely position of the
ground water table below this stretch of road, in the event of a heavy storm.
(5 marks)
5.
Suggest ways and means by which you can improve the situation below the road, in
terms of the water table that you have just sketched. Having done this, indicate how
you would expect the water profile to change after these improvements.
(5 marks)
6.
Prepare a design for the retaining structure that will ensure stability of the road,
making sure to incorporate the culvert anywhere below the sidewalk, and to take
into account your assumptions regarding the water table. Support your sketch with
the necessary calculations.
(30 marks)
Answer one question from questions 7 and 8 below:
7.
The owner of the field next to the retaining wall is reluctant to have heavy vehicles
trespassing his field during construction of the retaining wall. As a result, all
excavation and construction works have to be carried out from above, from within
the road itself. Explain how you would check the stability of the road without the
retaining wall, to ensure the safety of everyone concerned. Clearly explain how you
would include factors of safety in your analysis.
(30 marks)
Page 2 of 4
2
8.
An overhead footbridge needs to be built within this particular stretch of road. This
will be supported by 600mm by 600mm columns on either side of the road each of
which carries an unfactored dead load of 800kN and an unfactored transient (live)
load of 200kN. Taking into account the stratigraphy of the site, design a pad
foundation for one of these columns. You may assume that the footing can be built
below the founding level of the retaining structure. Clearly explain any factors of
safety that you use.
(30 marks)
The following information is available about the ground materials:
Undrained strength of clay: 100kPa
Typical effective stress parameters for this clay are c’=5 kPa, φ’ = 20°
Effective stress parameters for fill:
Loose: c’=0 kPa φ’ = 35°
Medium: c’=10 kPa φ’ = 35°
Dense: c’=40 kPa φ’ = 35°
Saturated Unit weight of clay = 19 kN/m3
Bulk unit weight of fill = 18 kN/m3
Some useful information
Ka=(1-Sin ϕ’)/ (1+Sin ϕ’)
Kp=(1+Sin ϕ’)/ (1-Sin ϕ’)
σ3’ = σ1’Ka - 2c√Ka
σ3 ’ = σ1’Kp + 2c√Kp
qultimate =icdcscSuNc+ (po+γD),
Nc=5.14
sc = 1+0.2 (B/L)
Page 3 of 4
3
B is the half width,
D is the embedment
depth
Q’f= icdcscc’Nc + iqdqsq(po + γ’D)Nq + 0.5 iγdγsγBγ’Nγ
Nq = tan2(π/4+ϕ’/2)eπtan ϕ’
Nc = (Nq -1 ) cot ϕ’
Nγ = 2(Nq -1 ) tan ϕ’
sc = 1+(Nq B)/(Nc /L)
sγ = 1-0.3(B/L)
sq = 1+sinϕ’(B/L)
dc = same as for the above chart,
dq = 1,
dγ = 1
In the above, B and L are full lengths unless otherwise stated.
.
Page 4 of 4
4
UNIVERSITY OF MALTA
FACULTY FOR THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
B.E. & A. (Hons.)
SEPTEMBER 2011 EXAMINATION SESSION
Unit Code: BCE2008
Unit Title: Soil Mechanics & Geotechnics 1
Date: Monday 5th September 2011
Time: 9:15am-11:15am (2 hours)
Answer ONLY four questions out of the five presented. The use of diagrams is
encouraged. Point form answers are preferred.
1. The Principle of Effective Stress is fundamental to soil mechanics.
a. Explain what this Principle is all about.
(8 marks)
b. Considering a typical sandy beach, comment on the applicability of this Principle
to explain the behaviour of the sand as you walk over it.
(10 marks)
c.
Sand and clay are typically very different materials. Is the Principle of Effective
Stress applicable to both? What is different between these two materials in this
respect?
(7 marks)
2. Before constructing a building or undertaking a civil engineering project it is advisable to
carry out a ground investigation.
a. Considering the geology of the Maltese Islands, explain why ground investigation
is important.
(6 marks)
b. Explain how you would carry out a ground investigation for a site which is known
to consist of a thick layer of building rubble overlying rock. You have no
information on the depth of the fill. The proposed project is a large storage tank
that will create a uniformly distributed load over a wide area.
(12 marks)
c.
Explain how you would change your instructions for this investigation if the
proposed tank is now to be supported on four large columns.
(3 marks)
d. At what stage of the proposed project would you conduct this investigation?
(4 marks)
3. When considering foundation design, a soil is often discussed in terms of being drained
or undrained.
Page 1 of 2
1
a. What does this mean?
(6 marks)
b. Describe what happens to the soil as it is loaded, in each of these two states.
(6 marks)
.
c. A soil can change from the undrained state to the drained state. Is this transition
gradual or abrupt? What controls such a transition?
(4 marks)
d. What is the process of this transition called? Why is it so important for buildings
that are not founded on rock? Mention some practical consequences of this
process to a typical residential project.
(9 marks)
4. Soils can be tested in situ or in the laboratory.
a. Considering the nature of typical soils like gravels, sands, silts and clays, where
would you consider using in-situ tests rather than laboratory tests?
(5 marks)
b. Briefly describe one such in-situ test that you could use to obtain an indication of
the shear strength of a soil that predominantly consists of a sand with some
pebbles within.
(6 marks)
c.
The triaxial test is a versatile method of testing a wide variety of soils. Draw a
simple sketch of the triaxial equipment and explain how you would use it to find
the undrained strength of a clay, and the effective stress parameters φ’ and c’ of
this same clay.
(14 marks)
5. Darcy’s Law describes flow through a porous medium.
a. State Darcy’s Law, clearly explaining the meaning of each of the terms in the
equation describing this law.
(5 marks)
b. In Soil Mechanics, the terms total head, pressure head and elevation head are
often used. Describe what these mean and how they are related.
(8 marks)
c.
Analysis of flow through a porous medium requires knowledge about the
permeability of the material. Describe one method through which this can be
measured in the laboratory, and one method through which this can be measured
in situ. Describe the basis of the calculations required for each.
(12 marks)
Page 2 of 2
2
UNIVERSITY OF MALTA
FACULTY FOR THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
B.E. & A. (Hons.)
SEPTEMBER 2011 RESIT SESSION
Unit Code: BCE3007
Unit Title: Road Engineering
Date: 7th Sep. 2011
Time: 9.15am – 11.15am
Answer All Questions
This is an OPEN BOOK Exam
1.
a) Define Road Users. What are their main needs?
(3 marks)
b) If you need to make a choice about which mode/s of transport to use for a
particular journey, what travel options do you consider and what constraints
may you have?
(3 marks)
c) What role do information systems play in the shaping of future road
transport networks?
(4 marks)
2.
a) Which Act provides for the establishment of the Authority for Transport in
Malta?
(2 marks)
b) What functions do Local Councils have vis-a-vis roads?
(3 marks)
3.
a) Outline the hierarchy of roads in Malta.
(3 marks)
b) What do NA10, WD11, WU8 and GR6 stand for? Specify the locality
where each one is situated.
(4 marks)
4.
a) If a road has an AADT of 25,000 vehicles, what kind of road section would
you recommend? Present a sketch of the chosen road section, indicating the
position of the carriageway, the central reserve and the shoulders.
(4 marks)
Page 1 of 4
1
b) What is the minimum permissible radius, in a horizontal road curvature, if
the road has a super-elevation (or cross slope) of 2.5% and if the design
speed for that stretch of road is 70 km/h?
(3 marks)
c) By how much should a carriageway be widened if the horizontal radius of
a road curvature is 80m?
(3 marks)
5.
a) Outline the negative effects of congestion.
(2 marks)
b) List 6 effects which road construction and road traffic leave on the
environment.
(6 marks)
6.
a) What do we mean by containment levels when we specify safety barriers
for roads?
(3 marks)
b) What are Type II road marking systems? Describe the main components
of a thermoplastic road marking material.
(3 marks)
7.
Page 2 of 4
Determine the luminance in Cd/m2 of the road surface of the carriageway, for
the dry surface condition, for a stretch of a local road that has the following
characteristics:
•
Located in a built-up area
•
Speed limit is 50km/hr
•
Has an AADT of 8000 vehicles
•
Has a normal flow of cyclists
•
Has no parked vehicles along the carriageway
•
Has no intersections
•
Has no geometric measures for traffic calming
•
Has a normal difficulty of navigation
•
Has a high complexity of the visual field
•
Has medium ambient luminance
(10 marks)
2
8.
The peak hour traffic for each arm of a roundabout is indicated in the table
below:
Arms
Arm A
Arm B
Arm C
Arm D
Peak Hour
Traffic
(Vehicles per
hour)
Directions
Routes
QL
1
187
QC
2
584
QR
3
84
QL
4
100
QC
5
68
QR
6
325
QL
7
24
QC
8
654
QR
9
87
QL
10
62
QC
11
85
QR
12
20
a) Determine the values of Qz, Qk, the efficiency, and the waiting time for
each direction.
(18 marks)
b) Does the roundabout operate efficiently at the peak hour?
(2 marks)
9.
a) Name three properties which define the quality of aggregates used for
bituminous materials?
(3 marks)
b) What is the recommended range of bitumen content by weight of the total
mixture for: wearing, binder and base courses?
(6 marks)
10.
What are the number of passes required by a vibratory roller, having a mass
per metre width of 3000kg, if it is being used to compact Type 1A material,
which is being laid in 200mm layers?
(5 marks)
11.
a) Name three different layers of asphalt courses used in local road
construction.
(3 marks)
Page 3 of 4
3
b) If the design relevant loading B for traffic flowing on an arterial road is 2.5
Million (in equivalent 10t-axle passes), what road pavement shall one opt
for, if the plate bearing test has indicated a sub-grade strength of 40 MN/m2?
Please illustrate answer with a sketch showing the cross-section of the
selected pavement structure.
(7 marks)
Page 4 of 4
4
UNIVERSITY OF MALTA
FACULTY OF ARCHITECTURE & CIVIL ENGINEERING
B.E. & A. (Hons.)
YEAR 4
SEPTEMBER 2011 EXAMINATION SESSION
Unit Code: BEN 4002
Unit Title: BUILDING & LAND ECONOMICS
Date: Tuesday 6th September 2011
Time: 0915 - 1045hrs
________________________________________________________________________
ANSWER Question 1 and either Question 2 or 3.
Question 1 carries a maximum of 60 marks whilst Questions 2 & 3 carry a maximum of 40 marks each.
PROGRAMMABLE CALCULATORS CANNOT BE USED. VALUATION TABLES MAY BE
USED .
CORRECTIONS SHOULD BE CLEARLY CROSSED OUT AND NOT ERASED BY ANY OTHER
MEANS.
1. Baħrija Limited is considering investing in a dilapidated housing estate consisting of
twenty residential blocks. The property has been offered for sale for the sum of €20
million.
Baħrija Limited plans to rehabilitate the estate spending €1 million annually for 5
consecutive years rehabilitating four blocks at a time. It is estimated that the residential
blocks would be sold as follows :
Blocks 1 to 4 at the end of the second year for €2 million per block
Blocks 5 to 8 at the end of the third year for €2.25 million per block
Blocks 9 to 12 at the end of the fourth year for €1.75 million per block
Blocks 13 to 16 at the end of the fifth year for €1.75 million per block
Blocks 17 to 20 at the end of the sixth year for €1.5 million per block
If this project is to be financed at the rate of 7% per annum, assess the net present value
of the project. (An extract from Parry’s Valuation Tables is enclosed.) You may ignore
the effects of Capital Gains Tax in your calculations.
2. You are requested to carry out a valuation of a three bedroomed flat. Describe the
information you would require and the manner in which this is acquired.
3. Describe the different valuation methods in use explaining the circumstances in which
you would use each one of them.
extract Valuation Tables
Extract from Parry's Valuation Tables
A
years
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
B
years
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Year's Purchase Dual Rate
4.50%
0.9569
1.8601
2.7135
3.5208
4.2853
5.0101
5.6978
5%
0.9524
1.8429
2.6772
3.4599
4.1954
4.8876
5.5400
Sinking Fund @ 3%
5.50%
0.9479
1.8261
2.6418
3.4010
4.1092
4.7710
5.3907
6%
0.9434
1.8096
2.6074
3.3442
4.0265
4.6599
5.2492
6.50%
0.9390
1.7934
2.5738
3.2892
3.9470
4.5538
5.1149
7%
0.9346
1.7774
2.5411
3.236
3.8706
4.4524
4.9874
7.50%
0.9302
1.7618
2.5092
3.1844
3.7972
4.3554
4.8660
8%
0.9295
1.7464
2.4781
3.1345
3.7264
4.2626
4.7505
8.50%
0.9217
1.7313
2.4478
3.0862
3.6583
4.1737
4.6402
9%
0.9174
1.7164
2.4182
3.0393
3.5925
4.0883
4.5350
9.50%
0.9132
1.7018
2.3893
2.9938
3.5291
4.0065
4.4345
10%
0.9091
1.6874
2.3611
2.9496
3.4680
3.9278
4.3383
5.50%
0.9479
1.8463
2.6979
3.5052
4.2703
4.9955
5.6830
6%
0.9434
1.8334
2.6730
3.4651
4.2124
4.9173
5.5824
6.50%
0.9390
1.8206
2.6485
3.4258
4.1557
4.8410
5.4845
7%
0.9346
1.8080
2.6243
3.3872
4.1002
4.7665
5.3893
7.50%
0.9302
1.7956
2.6005
3.3493
4.0459
4.6938
5.2966
8%
0.9259
1.7833
2.5771
3.2121
3.9927
4.6229
5.2064
8.50%
0.9217
1.7711
2.5540
3.2756
3.9406
4.5536
5.1185
9%
0.9174
1.7591
2.5313
3.2397
3.8897
4.4859
5.0330
9.50%
0.9132
1.7473
2.5089
3.2045
3.8397
4.4198
4.9496
10%
0.9091
1.7355
2.4869
3.1699
3.7908
4.2305
4.7122
5.50%
0.9478673
0.8984524
0.8516137
0.8072167
0.7651344
0.7252458
0.6874368
6%
0.9433962
0.8899964
0.8396193
0.7920937
0.7472582
0.7049605
0.6650571
6.50%
0.9389671
0.8816593
0.8278491
0.7773231
0.7298808
0.6853341
0.6435062
7%
0.9345794
0.8734387
0.8162979
0.7628952
0.7129862
0.6663422
0.6227497
7.50%
0.9302326
0.8653326
0.8049606
0.7488005
0.6965586
0.6479615
0.6027549
8%
0.9259259
0.8573388
0.7938322
0.7350299
0.6805832
0.6301696
0.5834904
8.50%
0.9216590
0.8494553
0.7829081
0.7215743
0.6650454
0.6129451
0.5649264
9%
0.9174312
0.8416800
0.7721835
0.7084252
0.6499314
0.5962673
0.5470342
9.50%
0.9132420
0.8340110
0.7616539
0.6955743
0.6352277
0.5801166
0.5297868
10%
0.9090909
0.8264463
0.7513148
0.6830135
0.6209213
0.5644739
0.5131581
Year's Purchase Single Rate
4.50%
0.9569
1.8727
2.7490
3.5875
4.3900
5.1579
5.8927
5%
0.9524
1.8594
2.7232
3.5460
4.3295
5.0757
5.7864
C
Present Value of Lm1
years
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
4.50%
0.9569378
0.9157300
0.8762966
0.8385613
0.8024510
0.7678957
0.7348285
5%
0.9523810
0.9070295
0.8638376
0.8227025
0.7835262
0.7462154
0.7106813
extract Valuation Tables
D
years
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
E
years
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Years's Purchase of a Reversion to Perpetuity (after a given number of years)
4.50%
21.26528
20.34955
19.47326
18.6347
17.83225
17.06435
16.32952
5%
19.04762
18.14059
17.27675
16.45405
15.67052
14.92431
14.21363
5.50%
18.18182
17.23395
16.33550
15.48388
14.67667
13.91153
13.18629
6%
15.72327
14.83327
13.99365
13.20156
12.45430
11.74934
11.08429
6.50%
14.44565
13.56399
12.73614
11.95882
11.22894
10.54360
9.90010
7%
13.35113
12.47770
11.66140
10.89850
10.18552
9.51917
8.89642
7.50%
12.40310
11.99133
11.18073
10.42492
9.72021
9.06313
8.45047
8%
11.57407
10.71674
9.92290
9.18787
8.50729
7.87712
7.29363
8.50%
10.84305
9.99359
9.21068
8.48911
7.82406
7.21112
6.64619
9%
10.19368
9.35200
8.57982
7.87139
7.22146
662,519
6.07816
9.50%
9.61307
8.77906
8.01741
7.32183
6.68661
6.10649
5.5767
10%
9.09091
8.26446
7.51315
6.683013
6.20921
5.64474
5.13158
6%
1.0000
2.0600
3.1836
4.3746
5.6371
6.9753
8.3938
6.50%
1.0000
2.0650
3.1992
4.4072
5.6936
7.0637
8.5229
7%
1.0000
2.0700
3.2149
4.4399
5.7507
7.1533
8.6540
7.50%
1.0000
2.0750
3.2306
4.4729
5.8048
7.2440
8.7873
8%
1.0000
2.0800
3.2464
4.5061
5.8666
7.3359
8.9228
8.50%
1.0000
2.085
3.2622
4.5395
5.9254
7.4290
9.0605
9%
1.0000
2.0900
3.2781
4.5731
5.9847
7.5233
9.2004
10.00%
1.0000
2.1000
3.3100
4.6410
6.1051
7.7156
9.4872
11%
1.0000
2.1100
3.3421
4.7097
6.2278
7.9129
9.7833
Amount of Lm1 per annum
4.50%
1.0000
2.0450
3.1370
4.2782
5.4707
6.7169
8.0192
5%
1.0000
2.0500
3.1525
4.3101
5.5256
6.8018
8.1420
5.50%
1.0000
2.0550
3.1680
4.3262
5.5533
6.8448
8.2042
UNIVERSITY OF MALTA
FACULTY FOR THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
B.E. & A. (Hons.)
SEPTEMBER 2011 EXAMINATIONS SESSION
Unit Code: BLH2002
Date: Thursday 1st September 2011
Unit Title: Introduction to Conservation Studies
Time: 09:15 – 11:15
________________________________________________________________
Documents provided – Burra Charter and relevant Mepa policies.
Brief history of Majjistral Park and Chapel
HISTORY
The chapel forms part of a British army compound which was designed and built in the first
half of the twentieth century. It did not include any fortifications or heavy artillery positions.
It was mainly composed of residential dwellings, most of them Villas. The compound
included also an officer’s mess, washhouse, cookhouse and stores. It was designed to
accommodate British military personnel since Malta was at the time a British colony.
According to a former British army soldier, the compound was used as a resting place when
training in the North Western area of Malta was taking place. It was also often used as a
destination point for a training/walk starting from St Andrews compound. There are also
some archaeological remains in the area.
The main gate situated at the entrance of the compound was continuously guarded and only
authorized persons would be let in. After the British military left Malta the compound was
abandoned, and no maintenance took place. Various persons took advantage of this situation
and started occupying the buildings illegally. Some used them for residential purposes and
some for farming purposes. There seems to be the same tendency to date.
Chapel
The chapel was not only used as a place of worship but would occasionally also be used as a
cinema. A small room was added recently to serve as a bathroom. The chapel is a grade 1
scheduled building.
Chapel
CHAPEL
Radisson Hotel
Plan of Chapel
View A
View B
Choose either Project Scenario A OR Project Scenario B and answer the relevant
questions for the Project Scenario chosen.
Project Scenario A. Answer all the relevant questions.
The chapel is no longer consecrated and has long been in disuse. It is now forming part of a
Park and needs to cater for services to the visitors. It is envisaged to re-use the chapel as a
cafeteria offering snacks and hot/cold drinks.
Questions:
1. Discuss the proposed reuse with respect to theory of conservation by Cesare Brandi
and the Burra Charter. Give reasons as to whether you agree or not with this proposal
in particular viz-a-viz the compatibility of use. (85 marks)
2. Identify which Structure Plan policies favour such proposal and discuss why. (15
marks)
Project Scenario B. Answer all the relevant questions.
The chapel is considered to be ideal to use as offices for the Park. The roof structure is
defective and a decision was taken to remove the pitched roof. An extra floor is to be built
over the remaining structure and the new structure would be used as administrative offices for
the Park.
Questions:
1. Discuss this intervention in view of 20th century theory and the Charters. (85 marks)
2. Identify which Structure Plan policies will be breached through this proposal and
discuss why. (15 marks)
UNIVERSITY OF MALTA
FACULTY FOR THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
B.Cons(Hons.)
SEPTEMBER 2011 RE- SIT SESSION
Unit Code:CRS 3203
Unit Title: Conservation Treatments of Stone and Mosaics
Date:12/09/2011
Time: 9.15 – 11.15
INSTRUCTIONS TO STUDENTS: ANSWER ALL QUESTIONS IN SECTION A AND ALL
QUESTIONS IN SECTION B.
USEFUL INFORMATION:
EDTA stands for ethylene-diaminetetra-acetic acid. Glycine is a simple amino acid with
the following structure: H2N-CH2-COOH
SECTION A: ANSWER ALL QUESTIONS IN THIS SECTION. THIS SECTION
CARRIES 60 MARKS. YOU SHOULD SPEND APPROXIMATELY 70 MINUTES
(C.17 MINUTES PER QUESTION) ANSWERING THIS SECTION.
1. This question concerns the use of surfactants for cleaning stone surfaces.
a. Alkaline surfactant solutions are used to clean oily and greasy deposits from
stone surfaces. Give three advantages and one disadvantage of using
surfactants over organic solvents for cleaning stone.
[4 marks]
b. Surfactants fall into two main categories: ionic and non-ionic. Which category
is the one used in conservation. Given a reason for your answer.
[3 marks]
c. The cleaning efficiency of an aqueous surfactant solution is greatly enhanced
when the concentration of surfactant is present above the critical micellar
concentration (CMC).
(i)
Page 1 of 5
Define the term critical micellar concentration;
1
(ii)
Explain with a suitable diagram how this enhancement is
brought about?
[3 marks; 5 marks]
2. This question deals with metal derived stains and their removal from Limestone.
a. Account for the occurrence of iron and copper metallic stains on local
Globigerina Limestone. List typical colours observed for copper and iron
derived stains.
[5 marks]
b. Chelating agents are often incorporated into cleaning formulations to dislodge
metal derived stains from stone surfaces. Define the term chelating agent.
[3 marks]
c. Copper carbonate (CuCO3) is practically insoluble in water (Ksp ~ 1.4 x 10-10).
Briefly explain how a chelating agent such as the amino acid glycine functions
to release the stain-forming metal ions off the Limestone surface.
[3 marks]
d. Suggest a reason why the chelating agent EDTA is not a good candidate for
the removal of iron and copper stains in limestone?
[4 marks]
3. Give a reason for the following; include chemical equation/s where applicable:
a. When a marble object is cleaned with distilled water or water based cleaning
solution, it is recommended to equilibrate the water with marble chips before
application onto the surface.
Page 2 of 5
2
[4 marks]
b. Strong cation exchange resins of the type [RES-SO3]- H+ should not be used
on limestone surfaces for cleaning purposes.
[4 marks]
c. Modern Portland cement should not be used as a repair material for ancient
and historic architectural structures made of limestone.
[3 marks]
d. A lime mortar prepared from a ratio of 1:3 lime (CaO) to fine aggregate sets
in atmosphere. When crushed pottery sherds are added to the mortar mix, the
mortar sets in damp conditions.
[4 marks]
4. This question concerns a laboratory based test for evaluating consolidant
treatments for local Globigerina Limestone.
In order to evaluate the efficacy of a stone consolidation treatment, consolidated
stone samples are subject to a salt crystallization test. The test involves
submersing dried pre-consolidated stone samples in an aqueous concentrated
solution of sodium sulphate for 2 hours followed by overnight drying in an oven
set at 110oC to drive away water. The experimental procedure is repeated for a
number of cycles until the treated stone samples show clear signs of failure.
Three different consolidant types were applied to Globigerina Limestone samples
which were then subjected to the salt crystallization test. The results of the test are
presented in Figure 1 together with results for a blank test (using untreated stone
as the sample). Consolidants A and B are hydrophilic inorganic materials while
consolidant C is a hydrophobic, water repellant polymer.
Page 3 of 5
3
Figure 1: Plot of experimental results
a. Explain briefly how the ‘salt crystallization test’ induces damage in the
limestone test samples and state how this test can be used to evaluate the
consolidant treatment.
b. Why is it important to perform the test on an untreated stone sample (the
blank)?
[2 marks]
c. Samples treated with Consolidant A and B and the untreated stone
experienced an increase in mass. Give a reason for this increase in %
mass.
[3 marks]
Suggest a reason why limestone sample treated with Consolidant C did not experience a
change in mass throughout the test.
[3 marks]
Page 4 of 5
4
d.
In your opinion, which consolidant treatment would you recommend for
use on local Globigerina Limestone? Give a reason for your answer.
[4 marks]
Section B. Answer all question in this section. This section carries 40
marks. You should spend approximately 50 minutes answering this Section.
1. A mosaic was recently discovered in Malta, during road works. This
mosaic was then carefully uncovered, and it seems to have large lacunae
and loose tessarae. As the conservator, called on site, discuss the remedial
steps you would consider to preserve this mosaic, until further works
could be done.
2. Describe the physical (mechanical) cleaning techniques used for the
cleaning of an archaeological Limestone artefact and a modern Limestone
artefact, including their advantages and disadvantages.
Page 5 of 5
5
UNIVERSITY OF MALTA
FACULTY FOR THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
B. CONS. (Hons.)
SEPTEMBER 2011 EXAMINATION SESSION
STUDY UNIT NAME: Conservation Treatments of Stone and Mosaics
DATE:
12TH SEPTEMBER 2011
STUDY UNIT CODE: CRS 3203
TIME:
09:15 – 11:15
CREDIT VALUE: 2 CREDIT(S)
DURATION: 2 HRS.
INSTRUCTIONS TO STUDENTS: ANSWER ALL QUESTIONS IN SECTION A AND ALL QUESTIONS
IN SECTION B.
USEFUL INFORMATION:
EDTA stands for ethylene-diaminetetra-acetic acid. Glycine is a simple amino acid with the
following structure: H2N-CH2-COOH
SECTION A: ANSWER ALL QUESTIONS IN THIS SECTION. THIS SECTION CARRIES 60 MARKS.
YOU
SHOULD SPEND APPROXIMATELY
70
MINUTES
(C.17
MINUTES PER QUESTION)
ANSWERING THIS SECTION.
1. This question concerns the use of surfactants for cleaning stone surfaces.
a. Explain the term surfactant. Your answer should include a description of the
general structure of a surfactant molecule and how this structure helps in a
cleaning process?
[3 marks]
1
b. Non-ionic surfactants are common encountered in conservation cleaning
formulations for stone. The same cannot be said of ionic-type surfactants. Give a
reason for this fact.
[3 marks]
c. Alkaline surfactant solutions are used to clean oily and greasy deposits from stone
surfaces. Give three advantages and one disadvantage of using surfactants for
cleaning stone.
[4 marks]
d. Define the term critical micellar concentration in relation to aqueous surfactant
solutions.
[2 marks]
e. Explain with a suitable diagram how a surfactant solution above its critical
micellar concentration (c.m.c.) helps to remove an oily deposit from a
limestone surface. For simplicity, assume the surface of the stone is flat and
without pores.
[3 marks]
2. This question deals with metal derived stains and their removal from Limestone.
a. Account for the occurrence of iron and copper metallic stains on local Globigerina
Limestone. List typical colours observed for copper and iron derived stains.
[5 marks]
b. Chelating agents are often incorporated into cleaning formulations to dislodge
metal derived stains from stone surfaces. Define the term chelating agent.
[3 marks]
c. Copper carbonate (CuCO3) is practically insoluble in water (Ksp ~ 1.4 x 10-10).
Briefly explain how a chelating agent such as the amino acid glycine functions to
release the stain-forming metal ions off the Limestone surface.
[3 marks]
d. Suggest a reason why the chelating agent EDTA should not be used to remove
iron and copper stains in limestone?
[4 marks]
3. Give a reason for the following; include chemical equation/s where applicable:
2
a. The marble flooring of St. John’s Co-Cathedral was recently conserved. Distilled
water used for cleaning the flooring was left overnight in contact with calcium
carbonate chips before use.
[4 marks]
-
+
b. A strong cation exchange resin of the type [RES-SO3] H was accidentally mixed
in a poultice and applied to a soiled limestone surface during a cleaning campaign.
Strong effervescence was noted and the conservator quickly detached the poultice
off the surface.
[4 marks]
c. Modern Portland cement has been widely used in the past to restore historical
limestone buildings. This practice is no longer considered ethical.
[3 marks]
d. A lime mortar prepared from a ratio of 1:3 lime (CaO) to fine aggregate sets in
atmosphere. When crushed pottery sherds are added to the mortar mix, the mortar
sets in damp conditions.
[4 marks]
4. This question concerns a laboratory based test for evaluating consolidant treatments
for local Globigerina Limestone.
In order to evaluate the efficacy of a stone consolidation treatment, consolidated stone
samples are subject to a salt crystallization test. The test involves submersing dried
pre-consolidated stone samples in an aqueous concentrated solution of sodium
sulphate for 2 hours followed by overnight drying in an oven set at 110oC to drive
away water. The experimental procedure is repeated for a number of cycles until the
treated stone samples show clear signs of failure.
Three different consolidant types were applied to Globigerina Limestone samples
which were then subjected to the salt crystallization test. The results of the test are
presented in Figure 1 together with results for a blank test (using untreated stone as
3
the sample).
Consolidants A and B are hydrophilic inorganic materials while
consolidant C is a hydrophobic, water repellant polymer.
Figure 1: Plot of experimental results
a. Explain briefly how the ‘salt crystallization test’ induces damage in the
limestone test samples and state how this test can be used to evaluate the
consolidant treatment.
[3 marks]
b. Why is it important to perform the test on an untreated stone sample (the
blank)?
[2 marks]
c. After cycle 1, limestone samples treated with Consolidant A and B and the
untreated stone experienced an increase in mass. Give a reason for this
increase in % mass.
[3 marks]
d. Suggest a reason why limestone sample treated with Consolidant C did not
experience a change in mass throughout the test.
[3 marks]
e.
In your opinion, which consolidant treatment would you recommend for use
on local Globigerina Limestone? Give a reason for your answer.
[4 marks]
4
SECTION B. ANSWER
MARKS.
YOU
ALL QUESTION IN THIS SECTION.
SHOULD SPEND APPROXIMATELY
50
THIS
SECTION CARRIES
40
MINUTES ANSWERING THIS
SECTION.
1.
As a conservator, you have been sent to do a consolidation intervention on a
mosaic that was bulged and clearly is detached from its underlying layers. Explain
the qualities you would require from a consolidant and list the steps taken for such
an intervention.
[20 marks]
2.
Describe the physical (mechanical) cleaning techniques used for the cleaning of
an inlayed marble tombstone, including their advantages and disadvantages.
[20 marks]
5
UNIVERSITY OF MALTA
FACULTY FOR THE BUILT ENVIRNOMENT
B.E. & A. (Hons)
September 2011 SESSION
BCE 2003 STRUCTURES 1
Monday 12th September 2011
Programmable calculators are permitted
09.15 - 11.15 hrs
P kN
50 kN
The axial force in AD = 185 kN(tension)
Figure 1
100 kN
B
R
C
A
Figure 2
UNIVERSITY OF MALTA
FACULTY FOR THE BUILT ENVIRNOMENT
B.E. & A. (Hons)
September 2011 SESSION
BCE 2003 STRUCTURES 1
Monday 12th September 2011
Programmable calculators are permitted
09.15 - 11.15 hrs
15 kN/m **
30 kN
**across the the whole lenth
of the horizontal member
Figure 3
UNIVERSITY OF MALTA
FACULTY FOR THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
B.E. & A. (Hons.)
SEPTEMBER 2011 RESIT SESSION
Unit Code: BCE3007
Unit Title: Road Engineering
Date: 7th Sep. 2011
Time: 9.15am – 11.15am
Answer All Questions
This is an OPEN BOOK Exam
1.
a) Define Road Users. What are their main needs?
(3 marks)
b) If you need to make a choice about which mode/s of transport to use for a
particular journey, what travel options do you consider and what constraints
may you have?
(3 marks)
c) What role do information systems play in the shaping of future road
transport networks?
(4 marks)
2.
a) Which Act provides for the establishment of the Authority for Transport in
Malta?
(2 marks)
b) What functions do Local Councils have vis-a-vis roads?
(3 marks)
3.
a) Outline the hierarchy of roads in Malta.
(3 marks)
b) What do NA10, WD11, WU8 and GR6 stand for? Specify the locality
where each one is situated.
(4 marks)
4.
a) If a road has an AADT of 25,000 vehicles, what kind of road section would
you recommend? Present a sketch of the chosen road section, indicating the
position of the carriageway, the central reserve and the shoulders.
(4 marks)
Page 1 of 4
1
b) What is the minimum permissible radius, in a horizontal road curvature, if
the road has a super-elevation (or cross slope) of 2.5% and if the design
speed for that stretch of road is 70 km/h?
(3 marks)
c) By how much should a carriageway be widened if the horizontal radius of
a road curvature is 80m?
(3 marks)
5.
a) Outline the negative effects of congestion.
(2 marks)
b) List 6 effects which road construction and road traffic leave on the
environment.
(6 marks)
6.
a) What do we mean by containment levels when we specify safety barriers
for roads?
(3 marks)
b) What are Type II road marking systems? Describe the main components
of a thermoplastic road marking material.
(3 marks)
7.
Page 2 of 4
Determine the luminance in Cd/m2 of the road surface of the carriageway, for
the dry surface condition, for a stretch of a local road that has the following
characteristics:
•
Located in a built-up area
•
Speed limit is 50km/hr
•
Has an AADT of 8000 vehicles
•
Has a normal flow of cyclists
•
Has no parked vehicles along the carriageway
•
Has no intersections
•
Has no geometric measures for traffic calming
•
Has a normal difficulty of navigation
•
Has a high complexity of the visual field
•
Has medium ambient luminance
(10 marks)
2
8.
The peak hour traffic for each arm of a roundabout is indicated in the table
below:
Arms
Arm A
Arm B
Arm C
Arm D
Peak Hour
Traffic
(Vehicles per
hour)
Directions
Routes
QL
1
187
QC
2
584
QR
3
84
QL
4
100
QC
5
68
QR
6
325
QL
7
24
QC
8
654
QR
9
87
QL
10
62
QC
11
85
QR
12
20
a) Determine the values of Qz, Qk, the efficiency, and the waiting time for
each direction.
(18 marks)
b) Does the roundabout operate efficiently at the peak hour?
(2 marks)
9.
a) Name three properties which define the quality of aggregates used for
bituminous materials?
(3 marks)
b) What is the recommended range of bitumen content by weight of the total
mixture for: wearing, binder and base courses?
(6 marks)
10.
What are the number of passes required by a vibratory roller, having a mass
per metre width of 3000kg, if it is being used to compact Type 1A material,
which is being laid in 200mm layers?
(5 marks)
11.
a) Name three different layers of asphalt courses used in local road
construction.
(3 marks)
Page 3 of 4
3
b) If the design relevant loading B for traffic flowing on an arterial road is 2.5
Million (in equivalent 10t-axle passes), what road pavement shall one opt
for, if the plate bearing test has indicated a sub-grade strength of 40 MN/m2?
Please illustrate answer with a sketch showing the cross-section of the
selected pavement structure.
(7 marks)
Page 4 of 4
4
UNIVERSITY OF MALTA
FACULTY FOR THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
B.E. & A. (Hons.)
YEAR II
SEPTEMBER 2011 RE-EXAMINATION SESSION
Unit Code: AUD 1003
Unit Title: URBAN STUDIES I
Date: Friday, 2nd September 2011
Time: 09.15 – 11.15 hrs
______________________________________________________________________
ANSWER ANY THREE QUESTIONS
SECTION A:
1.
The cities of the Industrial Revolution exacerbated urban problems,
whilst the principles behind the subsequent Utopian City concepts
sought to resolve such issues. Discuss this statement. (33.3 marks)
2.
Outline the potential consequences of ignoring sustainable development
policies in contemporary urbanisation processes. (33.3 marks)
SECTION B:
3.
GIS is a valuable tool for monitoring landuse changes in the Maltese
Islands. Discuss this in terms of how it can be used by architects. (33.3
marks)
4.
Does the Maltese population fit the land area available to it? Discuss
how one may tackle population growth in the future. (33.3 marks)
______________________________________________________________________
page 1 of 1