Research of development and application of modular integrated construction (MiC)

Lean construction is an important technological driver for the building industry towards Construction 2.0. Among them, modular integrated construction, a new type of construction, is becoming more popular. This research group focused on the MiC Development in Hong Kong, and aims to analyse the feasibility of Promoting the further development of the Hong Kong construction industry towards smart construction through mic application. At the same time, through a more in-depth study of MiC buildings, It is possible to understand how this type of construction method can be combined with ICT technologies such as IoT, AI, BIM, VR, etc., to make the necessary contribution to the formation of a smart city, which will improve the directness of life of the inhabitants and lead to a more economical, environmental and socially sustainable city.

In advancing MiC approach within Hong Kong's construction sector, the focus on sustainability and carbon reduction is becoming increasingly crucial. Future research will focus how MiC, when combined with renewable energy sources and sustainable materials, can dramatically lower the carbon footprint of new buildings. By implementing energy-efficient modules, which are constructed with precision and uniformity, MiC not only minimizes material wastage but also ensures optimal energy performance in the long term. This research also examines the lifecycle carbon emissions of MiC projects, comparing them to traditional construction methods to provide a comprehensive understanding of their environmental impact. The ultimate goal is to establish MiC as a leading construction methodology that not only meets the growing demands for housing and infrastructure in Hong Kong but does so in a way that is environmentally responsible and aligned with the global push towards carbon neutrality.

The current phase of the research team's on MiC includes analyses of the sustainable development of prefabricated buildings[1], the application and development of the BEANIE platform[2], and the study of the environmental impact of mic through agent-based models[3].

[1] R. W. M. Wong and B. P. Y. Loo, 'Sustainability implications of using precast concrete in construction: An in-depth project-level analysis spanning two decades', J. Clean. Prod., vol. 378, p. 134486, Dec. 2022, doi: 10.1016/j.jclepro.2022.134486.
[2] B. P. Y. Loo and R. W. M. Wong, 'Towards a Conceptual Framework of Using Technology to Support Smart Construction: The Case of Modular Integrated Construction (MiC)', Buildings, vol. 13, no. 2, p. 372, Jan. 2023, doi: 10.3390/buildings13020372.
[3] B. P. Y. Loo, X. Li, and R. W. M. Wong, 'Environmental comparative case studies on modular integrated construction and cast-in-situ construction methods', J. Clean. Prod., vol. 428, p. 139303, Nov. 2023, doi: 10.1016/j.jclepro.2023.139303.