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Pro-Reuse

Process-Ontology – Characterisation of Reuse

Abstract

The Pro-Reuse project is developing a framework to advance automated, data-driven circular deconstruction and reuse of concrete components. The project uses a process ontology-based approach to create structured, interoperable and machine-readable knowledge covering the entire life cycle of concrete elements, from material detection and extraction to quality inspection and reintegration into new structures.

The framework addresses key technical and organisational challenges of comprehensive documentation of (de-)construction process, certification and assessment of concrete components for reuse. Furthermore, it focusses on the development of a transparent Circular Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment (C-LCSA) as well as digital product passports. Core activities of the project include defining data requirements, classifying circular pathways, and encoding sustainability and circularity concepts in a machine-readable ontology to ensure consistent use across digital tools. Complementary non-invasive testing strategies, multimodal sensor data and resistance prediction models enhance the reliability of reclaimed component qualification.

A prototype system integrating data collection and an ontology-based assessment method will be validated at the CARE*Site. By enabling traceability, recertification, and scenario-based sustainability evaluation, the project directly contributes to the goals of climate neutrality and resource efficiency while supporting the wider adoption of circular construction practices.

The Team behind the project

  • Sigrid Brell-Cokcan
    Prof. Dr. techn.
    Sigrid Brell-Cokcan
    Principal Investigator
    RWTH Aachen University
    Chair of Individualized Production in Architecture

    brell-cokcan@ip.rwth-aachen.de
  • Martin Claßen
    © M. Wother.
    Prof. Dr.-Ing.
    Martin Claßen
    Principal Investigator
    RWTH Aachen University
    Chair and Institute of Structural Concrete

    mclassen@imb.rwth-aachen.de
  • Marzia Traverso
    Prof. Dr.
    Marzia Traverso
    Principal Investigator
    RWTH Aachen University
    Institute of Sustainability in Civil Engineering

    marzia.traverso@inab.rwth-aachen.de
  • Katharina Kleinschrot
    Prof. Dr.-Ing. Dipl.-Wirt.-Ing.
    Katharina Kleinschrot
    Principal Investigator
    TU Dresden
    Institute of Construction Management

    katharina.kleinschrot@tu-dresden.de
  • Iremnur Tokac Celikyay
    Dr.-Ing.
    Iremnur Tokac Celikyay
    Research Assistant
    RWTH Aachen University
    Chair of Individualized Production in Architecture

    tokac.celikyay@ip.rwth-aachen.de
  • Jan Hendricks
    M.Sc.
    Jan Hendricks
    Research Assistant
    RWTH Aachen University
    Chair and Institute of Structural Concrete

    jhendricks@imb.rwth-aachen.de
  • Karl Giese
    Dipl.-Ing.
    Karl Giese
    Research Assistant
    TU Dresden
    Institute of Construction Management

    karl.giese@tu-dresden.de
  • Pranav Shevkar
    M.Sc.
    Pranav Shevkar
    Research Assistant
    RWTH Aachen University
    Chair of Individualized Production in Architecture

    shevkar@ip.rwth-aachen.de
  • Arij Chabrawi
    Ph.D.
    Arij Chabrawi
    Research Assistant
    RWTH Aachen University
    Institute of Sustainability in Civil Engineering

    arij.chabrawi@inab.rwth-aachen.de
  • Zaid Hashash
    M.Sc.
    Zaid Hashash
    Research Assistant
    RWTH Aachen University
    Institute of Sustainability in Civil Engineering

    zaid.hashash@inab.rwth-aachen.de
  • Emre Ergin
    M.Sc.
    Emre Ergin
    Associate
    RWTH Aachen University
    Chair of Individualized Production in Architecture

    ergin@ip.rwth-aachen.de
  • Davide Picchi
    Dr.-Ing.
    Davide Picchi
    Associate
    RWTH Aachen University
    Chair of Individualized Production in Architecture

    picchi@ip.rwth-aachen.de
  • Görkem Can Ertemli
    M.Sc.
    Görkem Can Ertemli
    Associate
    RWTH Aachen University
    Chair of Individualized Production in Architecture

    ertemli@ip.rwth-aachen.de