The present study focuses on the assessment of indoor air quality in wooden buildings, with a particular emphasis on the detection of radon in selected buildings exhibiting varying levels of radon exposure risk in Slovakia. Radon ²²²Rn is part of the uranium decay chain and occurs naturally in the air. It enters the atmosphere mainly from soil air. Based on research, radon is considered a very serious carcinogen, which represents a serious risk factor for human health. Long-term exposure to high volume activity of radon can cause lung cancer. The study focused on the detection of radon using a Radosys RSKS (CR-39) detector in several wooden buildings in the Liptov and Zvolen regions during short-term (63 to 78 days) and long-term (395 to 406 days) exposures. In some cases, we also used a continuous Corentium PRO sensor. During decay, radon and its decay products release α-particles, which leave local damages on the detectors, based on which we can evaluate the volume activity of radon in objects. We analysed the tracks of α-particles using a scanning electron microscope and a digital microscope.

This article presents the results of an experimental program focused on the shear capacity of reinforced concrete beams that were initially preloaded and subsequently strengthened using various methods. It focuses primarily on the application of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) wraps, comparing the measured data with the latest design models according to the second generation of Eurocode 2. To provide a comprehensive perspective on the subject, the efficiency of CFRP strengthening of the beams is compared with traditional techniques, such as additional reinforcement and concrete jacketing.

This article addresses the transfer of data from a BIM model to Building Energy Modeling (BEM) environments using the gbXML format. A case study of a two-storey family house with a flat green roof is used to analyze the workflow, including data export from a BIM tool via a dedicated plugin and subsequent processing in external software provided by BIMTWIN. The modified gbXML model is then imported into energy assessment tools (e.g., DEKSOFT). The focus is on data quality and consistency, which often suffer from issues related to geometry, material properties, and the definition of constructions and openings. The model includes realistic construction assemblies and different approaches to modeling openings. The aim is to evaluate the usability of gbXML and identify critical points in this workflow.

The current shortage of apartments and the slow construction of new apartments lead to the conclusion that it would be useful to extend the service life of current buildings. Buildings – apartment buildings built in the 1930s in the then fashionable functionalist style – appear to be suitable for extending the service life. These apartment buildings used modern building materials developed at that time, used new technologies for housing and their layout corresponded to modern housing requirements valid to the present day.
The article deals with the description of a specific apartment building built in 1932, which gradually underwent the necessary modernization and replacement of elements with a short service life. The building modifications increased the usable area of the house by 25%. Appropriate construction and regulatory measures reduced the energy consumption of the house to approximately 40% of the original value, which is documented by measurements and graphs. It is currently fully functional for providing energy-efficient housing.

In the Czech and Slovak Republics, several roof failures involving post-tensioned trusses have occurred. Prestressing failures of trusses occur mainly due to problems at joint interfaces between segments or to insufficient grouting of cable ducts with mortar. This can cause corrosion of the prestressing cables over time, leading to partial or complete loss of prestressing and subsequent failure of the roof structure. This article describes the experience with diagnostics of pre-tensioned switched roof trusses, which the authors have implemented on several buildings in Slovakia.

Radiation emergency events represent a specific type of crisis that requires targeted and effective crisis management responses. Effective management of such situations requires rapid threat identification, coordinated response between government agencies, emergency services, and international organizations. This article focuses on the key factors of crisis management in the case of a radiation emergency, including prevention, public protection, and communication with the media and the public. Additionally, the role of international cooperation in managing cross-border radiation events is examined. By analysing past radiation emergencies and the lessons learned, this paper provides insights into improving crisis management systems and enhancing resilience in the face of such high-stakes incidents.

This article explores the potential for rental housing in existing single-family home areas in the suburbs of Prague through soft densification. It opens a discussion on the possible incremental transformation of these unsustainable locations, responding to their circumstances, including the current housing affordability crisis and demographic aging of the population. The aim of the research is to quantify the spatial reserves in the built-up areas of municipalities that would allow for the development of housing units without the need to occupy new land. Through GIS analysis, more than 31,500 plots in 40 municipalities strongly affected by suburbanization were examined. The results show significant spatial reserves for the creation of additional housing units, either on the plots or inside family houses within their spatial reserves. The study confirms that the adaptation of the existing stock of family houses represents a significant and yet untapped source of housing units,that would lead to increasing population density, supporting social sustainability, and more efficient use of infrastructure in satellite municipalities.

The growing use of combustible façade materials and the expansion of multi-storey timber buildings increase the demand for effective passive fire protection. Façade fire barriers (fire belts) limit vertical fire spread, but their design in tall timber structures is challenged by non-combustibility requirements. The paper reviews European approaches and the Czech regulations, including Annex K of ČSN 73 0802 ed. 2 + A1 (2025), which permits DP2-type fire barriers for timber buildings above 12 m fire height. The Envilop Fire façade panel was experimentally assessed as a DP2 barrier in three medium-scale MiniFUR furnace tests under ISO 834 exposure. Timber-frame temperatures were monitored with a 350 °C limit, supported by visual evaluation. The DP1 reference panel passed. The first DP2 variant with a single lining failed due to unsealed joints causing local charring and smouldering, while the second variant with a double lining met all criteria. The results demonstrate DP2 barriers as a viable norm-compliant option for high-rise timber façades, provided that joints and detailing are properly executed.

Building with earth is gaining increasing attention, partly because there are many high-quality historical and contemporary earthen buildings in our country. Documenting the extent of the earthen building heritage has the potential to strengthen the perception of earthen construction as a valuable part of cultural heritage and as a promising tool for sustainable construction. This article presents the research framework, methodology, and starting points for the upcoming map output Historical Earthen Buildings in the Czech Republic, which aims to systematically map the occurrence, frequency, and typology of these structures.

The article presents research focused on a detailed analysis of cement-bonded particle boards modified with waste dust. This dust is produced during the grinding and cutting of cement-bonded particle boards. The emphasis was mainly placed on the behavior of boards with a modified composition with regard to their hygroscopicity and useful properties. The properties of three types of boards were analyzed – reference (Portland and blended cement) and dust-modified (filler and matrix – based on Portland and blended cement, substitution with waste dust in an amount of 8%). The boards were exposed to an environment with variable relative humidity (0% to 96%), with a gradient of increase and decrease of 10%. The output of this measurement is sorption curves. Subsequently, the mechanical properties (strength characteristics and modulus of elasticity) were tested on the test specimens. The obtained sorption isotherms confirmed the different behavior of individual composites in response to changes in ambient relative humidity. The results indicate that the composition of the mixture has a significant influence not only on sorption processes, but also on the stability of the wood filler itself, specifically spruce chips contained in the material. However, the behavior of the analyzed types of boards in terms of hygroscopicity is very similar. An increase in strength and modulus of elasticity was observed in all tested board variants. This finding is a positive sign for the further use of stabilized alternative raw materials in cement-bonded particle boards. The use of waste dust has significant potential to positively impact the environment, i.e., by consuming waste that would otherwise be a burden on the environment.

This article outlines the assessment and market placement of External Thermal Insulation Composite Systems (ETICS) in the Czech Republic and the EU. It compares national (STO) and European (ETA/EAD) procedures, focusing on manufacturers’ duties in quality management and conformity assessment. Key changes include the new EAD 040083-01-0404, the phase-out of ETAG 004, and the forthcoming harmonized standard EN 17237. Selected test methods—hygrothermal performance, water absorption, mechanical resistance, adhesion, and pull-through resistance of anchors are presented. The paper describes the role of certification bodies.

Recycling materials is an effective way to reduce the consumption of primary resources in construction. However, challenges arise when integrating recycled materials into construction products, primarily due to the variability of their quality, which can impact production processes. This paper explores the balance between recycling and decarbonization goals in the manufacturing of ceramic materials, examining both legislative pressures and environmental objectives. The paper emphasizes the need for optimized recycling strategies and innovative solutions that align with circular economy principles to meet sustainability targets in construction.

This paper deals with methods used for estimation of masonry moisture contens as part of building technical survey. General description comes from WTA 4-11 Recomendation and Czech standard CSN P 730610 “Waterproofing of buildings. Rehabilitation of damp masonry”. Different practise, used during survey, caused by unspecified procedures, is discussed. Also misinterpretation of measured values, caused by waterproofing and water repelent layers on masonry is being shown.

In 2025, the ČSN 74 4505 standard was updated. The article presents the main changes compared to the previous version published in 2012.

This article concludes a series of studies on the use of OSB claddings as passive fire protection for steel structures. Based on furnace experiments and numerical simulations (CFD and FE), OSB has been shown to significantly slow down steel heating and extend the time to reach critical temperature by up to 45 minutes. The summary highlights a paradoxical yet effective approach, where a combustible material provides protection through the formation of a char layer. The discussion addresses the main limitations, including cladding detachment, joint performance, and sensitivity to moisture. Practical applications are outlined with respect to current standards and fire codes. Finally, the article suggests directions for further research and the potential integration of wood-based materials into the normative framework as an alternative fire protection system.

The third part of the series focuses on numerical modeling of a steel beam protected by OSB cladding using the Finite Element (FE) method. The first stage involved thermal analysis, which described heat transfer in detail, included the material properties of OSB, and accounted for condition-dependent cladding detachment. The subsequent mechanical analysis, based on the thermal results, enabled assessment of deformations and load-bearing capacity of the steel member at elevated temperatures. Simulations were carried out in ANSYS Mechanical, showing good agreement with experimental data, particularly up to the moment of cladding failure. Deviations appeared in later stages, as the models did not incorporate viscoplastic steel behavior or explicit simulation of cladding failure. The study confirms that FEA modeling is a suitable tool for designing fire protection, but requires further development with advanced material models and dynamic failure simulation.

This review describes Phase Change Materials (PCMs) as an advanced solution for improving building energy efficiency and thermal comfort. It synthesizes insights into their evolution, categorization, and practical construction applications. It discusses PCMs history, operational principles, diverse typologies, and classification, including composite PCMs. It elucidates specific building applications, illustrating their integration based on recent research. The aim is to provide an overview of PCMs development and underscore their significance as a sustainable instrument for mitigating energy operating costs and elevating thermal comfort in contemporary construction. Concurrently, it delineates current obstacles and proposes strategic research directions, focusing on thermophysical property optimization, economic viability, and ecological sustainability.

The second part of the series presents a comprehensive approach to evaluating the effectiveness of OSB claddings as passive fire protection for steel beams. A large-scale furnace test demonstrated that OSB boards significantly delay steel heating until the moment of cladding failure. A single-layer cladding extended the time to critical temperature by about 17 minutes, while a double-layer system achieved up to 30 minutes. The main weakness of the system was identified at the panel joints, where premature failure occurred. A CFD model developed in FDS successfully reproduced the heating trend, especially for unprotected members and protected profiles up to the loss of cladding integrity. Deviations appeared only after cladding detachment, highlighting the need to incorporate mechanical failure into future models. The findings confirm the protective potential of OSB claddings and provide a foundation for developing design methods that account with cladding stability, joint-gaps, and time-dependent failure prediction.

This article addresses the issue of passive fire protection of steel structures using wood-based board materials, specifically OSB panels. Although steel is non-combustible, it rapidly loses its mechanical properties at temperatures above 400–600 °C and therefore requires effective fire protection. The study demonstrates that timber claddings, despite being combustible, can paradoxically slow down steel heating and extend load-bearing capacity due to the formation of a charred layer. In the experiment, beams with different OSB claddings were tested, showing that multi-layer systems can increase fire resistance by several tens of minutes. These findings were further validated by numerical modeling (CFD and FE analyses), enabling a detailed description of heat transfer, pyrolysis processes, and structural response. The study provides a methodological basis for the design and assessment of timber claddings as an alternative fire protection system for steel members, emphasizing safety, architectural integration, and sustainability.

The paper focuses on the issue of returnable dust content generated during the production of hot asphalt mixtures in asphalt plants, which represents a long-standing unresolved problem in waste material management. It describes the current state of solutions to this issue, including an overview of legislative and technical requirements related to the utilization of returnable dust. The article deals with the specification of returnable dust quantities in individual narrow aggregate fractions and their potential usability. The next part includes verification of the applicability of returnable dust in cement mortar used for grouting layers partially stabilized with cement mortar. Laboratory tests were conducted to examine the mechanical properties of these mortar mixtures and their suitability for construction applications.