BUILDING THE FUTURE: A LITERATURE REVIEW ON THE ADVANCEMENTS AND INNOVATIONS IN PREFABRICATED MODULAR STRUCTURES

Abstract

Prefabricated modular buildings have gained significant attention in the construction industry due to their potential to revolutionize the traditional building process. This paper presents a comprehensive literature review encompassing analytical, experimental, and model studies conducted worldwide to evaluate the structural stability of low, middle, and high-rise modular steel and concrete structures. By examining relevant data from diverse sources, the study analyzes the performance of prefabricated modular buildings in terms of structural integrity and safety. The literature review encompasses studies conducted in countries, including United States, Canada, Germany, Japan, and Australia, among others. These countries have been at the forefront of researching and implementing prefabricated modular buildings, contributing valuable insights into their structural behavior and performance. Each country brings unique perspectives and experiences in terms of design methodologies, construction techniques, and regulatory frameworks, enriching the global knowledge base in this field. Furthermore, the paper explores the contributions of these structures towards sustainable development, highlighting their environmentally friendly and energy-efficient characteristics. The research reveals that prefabricated modular buildings possess inherent sustainable attributes, including reduced construction waste, enhanced resource efficiency, and improved energy performance. The modular construction approach facilitates the use of recycled materials, minimizes site disturbance, and allows for better control over energy consumption during both construction and operation phases. The findings of this literature review support the assertion that prefabricated modular buildings have immense potential to meet the demands of sustainable development while maintaining structural stability.

Keywords: module connections; living buildings; prefabricated construction; finite element analysis; resource efficiency; sustainable construction