INTEGRATING BIM AND AI TO ENHANCE FORMWORK DESIGN, REINFORCEMENT PRACTICES, AND CONCRETE PERFORMANCE IN MODERN CONSTRUCTION

Abstract

This study examines the practical and technical challenges associated with concrete formwork, reinforcement installation, and concrete pouring in cast-in-place construction. Drawing from both literature and interviews with five experienced construction professionals, the research highlights critical factors influencing structural performance, safety, and construction efficiency. The findings show that formwork integrity depends heavily on engineered design, proper material selection, and adherence to installation standards, while failures often result from excessive concrete pressure, insufficient bracing, poor supervision, and premature formwork removal. Reinforcement design must balance structural requirements with constructability and safety, as bar size, spacing, concrete strength, and consolidation significantly affect steel–concrete bonding and long-term durability. The study emphasizes the essential role of proper curing, noting that inadequate hydration, extreme temperatures, or mismanagement of admixtures can compromise compressive strength. Modern digital technologies—specifically BIM, Buildots, and Togal.AI—were found to greatly enhance planning accuracy, real-time quality assurance, and productivity by automating formwork layout optimization, monitoring site progress, and improving material estimation. However, human factors such as worker competence, communication, training, and physical well-being remain central to successful execution. Safety risks, including falls, rebar injuries, equipment hazards, and concrete burns, underscore the need for rigorous protective measures and task-specific planning. Overall, the study concludes that effective concrete construction requires an integrated approach that combines engineered design, technological support, experienced human judgment, and continuous monitoring to improve structural integrity, efficiency, and worker safety.