Master’s thesis collaboration for sustainability and innovation at VESAM
VESAM is proud to share the results of the master’s thesis by Dilara Sözen, a student at Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences and Technischen Hochschule Mittelhessen, conducted in collaboration with our team.
In the context of growing demand for resource-efficient, recyclable, and sustainable construction methods, the thesis focused on optimizing modular platforms through weld-free beam-to-column connections. The primary goal was to enable complete steel reuse, avoiding the need for melting or recycling the material, and supporting circular construction practices in the steel construction sector.
Study Approach
To evaluate the feasibility of this innovative solution, three complementary methods were applied:
- Numerical Method: advanced simulations for detailed structural analysis.
- Analytical Method: using component method DIN EN 1993-1-8.
- Laboratory Testing: physical component experiments to validate practical performance.
The results demonstrated that all proposed solutions met the required load-bearing, stiffness, and stability criteria, showing that traditional welded joints can be replaced with detachable connections without compromising structural safety. In addition to technical feasibility, this approach offers significant environmental and economic benefits, as it allows for the full reuse of steel components.
This project reinforces VESAM’s mission to continuously innovate, combining practical experience with advanced research to deliver sustainable, efficient, and high-value solutions for the construction industry.
