NO.7 • DECEMBER 2008 - The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

NO.7 • DECEMBER 2008

CONTENTS 目 錄
Special Feature 專 題 介 紹 01
Joint Structural Division Special Award 2008 01
2008
Technology Transfer and Research Developments 技 術 轉 移 與 科 技 發 展 07
1. Renewable Energy Projects in Ma Wan Theme Park 07
2. Nondestructive Evaluation Methods as Evaluation Tools of the Quality of Reinforced Concrete Structures 08
3. CSE Researchers Conducting Air-quality Study during the Beijing Olympics 09
4. Odour Survey at the Olympic Stables of the 2008 Olympic Equestrian Event 09
2008
5. PolyU Spearheads Construction Virtual Technology Development 10
6. Environmental Improvement Project Receives Support of HSBC 11
Awards and Achievements 學 者 學 生 成 績 斐 然 12
1. International Society for New Institutional Economics Best Dissertation Award 12
2. The Gino Cassinis Award for Professor Zhilin Li 13
ISPRSGino Cassinis
3. LSGI Researcher Wins Best Paper Award 13
4. LSGI Scholar Leads International Commission on Geographic Information Science 14
5. CSE Academics Appointed to Important Professional Posts 14
6. Professor Jianhua YIN Receives John Booker Medaland Gave a Keynote Speech at 12th IACMAG Conference, Goa, India 15
(IACMAG)
7. Entry Scholarship for the Postgraduate Scheme in Construction and Land Use 15
8. BRE Graduate Won Merit Dissertation Award 16
9. The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Student Chapter of CIB Best Final Year Dissertation Competition 2008 16
2008
Recent Events 活 動 剪 影 17
1. Gammon Construction Limiteds HK$1.65 Million Support for Construction Virtual Prototyping Laboratory and Division Opening Ceremony 17
2. Faculty of Construction and Land Use Seminars 18
3. BRE Students Joining Study Tour Student Accounts 19
4. BRE Received a HK$1 Million Donation from China Overseas Holdings Limited 20
100
5. BRE Graduate, Mr. Ng Wing Hong, Receiving the Honor of Building Naming in PolyU 20
6. 34th International Symposium on CIBW062 Water Supply and Drainage for Buildings 21
34
7. Symposium on Architectural & Environmental Acoustics in Hong Kong, Shanghai & Taipei 21
8. The 9th International Symposium on Building and Urban Environmental Engineering (BUEE) 22
9. Amazing Summer in ACBC 2008 Workshop 22
ACBC 2008 Workshop
10. BRE Students Stepping into the University of Cambridge 23
11. Professor K.T. Chau Visited Sichuan After the 512 Earthquake 23
512
New Academic Staff 學 院 新 教 員 24
Forthcoming Events 最 新 動 向 25

Special Feature
專 題 介 紹
The Hong Kong Institution
of Engineers (HKIE) and
The Institution of Structural
Engineers (IStructE)
(Hong Kong Division)
Joint Structural Division
Special Award 2008
()
「 卓 越 結 構 大 獎 2008」
Introduction 引 言
This article is written to draw attention to advances taking place in the Hong
Kong construction industry, and the continued positive and close symbiotic
relationship that exists between the faculty and alumni. The focus is on
the Hong Kong Institution of Engineers (HKIE) Joint Structural Division (JSD)
awards for outstanding structures of 2008, announced on the 30th April.
Firstly, influences which have encouraged developmental change in the
construction industry are touched upon, followed by brief descriptions of
features which have made the JSD award winning structures special. The
latter is made possible by the kind co-operation of our participating alumni, Ir
Mr Wallace W.Y. Cham from The Hong Kong Science Park Corporation and
Ir Mr Wilson Y.S. Cheung of Siu Yin Wai and Associates Ltd and Professor S.L.
Chan from the Department of Civil and Structural Engineering (CSE).
2008430
()2008
--
01

Special Feature
專 題 介 紹
The Award Winners
The JSD awards for 2008 were given to The Hong Kong Science Park,
Phase 2, MGM Grand, Macau and Mega Box. For this article we are
focusing on two of these structures, the Science Park and the MGM project.
The structures are innovative and contain unique features. The architectural
style of each, boldly targets a specific clientele and in so doing provides
us with striking structural contrasts. The style of the former is exciting with
its golden eggauditorium, and its focus on the management of natural
beauty, environmental concerns and waste management. It invites the
participation of the cerebral customer by providing an organised, refreshing
and stimulating environment. The style of the latter is raunchier and exudes
vitality, energy and provokes the imagination, concerning what might bein
terms of entertainment and maybe indulgence.
However, our particular interest in these two structures is stimulated by the fact
that Faculty alumni, Ir Mr Wallace W.Y. Cham, (the Science Park Project), Ir
Mr Wilson Y.S. Cheung (the MGM Project) and Professor S.L. Chan (CSE)
took leading roles in the development of these structures, hence presenting us
with pleasing evidence of the synergy which exists between the Faculty, our
alumni and the construction industry.
Since the days of the establishment of the Trade School in 1939, the building
industry has moved hand in hand with the needs of Hong Kong people and
developed in line with the economic, social and political conditions. Looking
at Hong Kong now, it is difficult to believe that as short a time ago as the
late 1940s, and early fifties tallbuildings were around seven or eight
storeys in height, and the construction in 1960 of a twenty storey building at
North Point was news. Air conditioning existed only in the Hong Kong Bank,
and no flyovers existed until 1963.
A question often repeated by alumni of the sixties and seventies is, I wonder
what we would have achieved if we had the opportunities of the Faculty
students of today? This question can never be answered with any degree
of certainty, but it draws attention to the perceived better facilities, equipment,
technology, international communications, materials, management methods,
advances in the use of information technology and the greater social political
and economic stability evident today. All have led to the development of
the industry. The justified proud claim of one engineer in 1955, that wheel
barrows rather than shoulder poles were used for carrying materials on
the Alexandra House site, is today well overshadowed by the presence
of the assortment of sophisticated equipment and plants on sites. Likewise
calculations by slide rule and calculator are well overshadowed by the
power of advanced construction software now available to engineers.
Contributory to positive value changes in the construction industry are
changes in attitudes and cultures. Management systems have been
designed to improve site safety and new technology while ordinances have
been introduced to control noise and protect the environment in the face
of global warming and climate change. The focus continues to be, on
the development of ways to reduce energy wastage in buildings. Further
contributions to change are provided by advancement in teaching methods,
a broadening of curriculums, and widening of research areas in line with
societal and professional expectations, a stronger relationship between
the industry and the work of academia to expose areas of clear cut mutual
benefit.
The Growth of Information Technology
A prominent promoter of change, is the dramatic growth in information
technology usage. In the 60s, batch processing was the mode of computer
utilization. Within the FCLU, the Civil and Structural Engineering Department
was the first to have a 4k Wang mini computer system, followed soon after
by Hewlett Packard desktops. Computer growth in Information Technology
was first seen nationally in the 60s and 70s, in the use of Computer
Aided Design(CAD) for the production of drawings, calculation programs
such as fluid flow and structural analyses, calculations for bills of quantities
and also the development of critical path analysis systems, such as the now
commonly used Primavera software.
獎 項 得 主
200708
Mega Box
()1937
1960
1963
--
1955
資 訊 科 技 發 展
4k
(CAD)
(Primavera)
40
02

Special Feature
專 題 介 紹
Now, less than 40 years later, the concept of performance based design has
entered the construction industry and represents a major philosophical shift
from the traditional rule based or prescriptive formula design. The introduction
of this concept takes advantage of the powerful software modeling systems
which have recently emerged and which are now being adopted by the
more adventurous, pioneering practitioners.
Software, in this category, includes computational fluid dynamics for
modeling the spread of fire and smoke. Computer systems for air
conditioning control are another type of software available. The systems are
linked to sensors and intelligently interpret information to optimize the use
of energy, but keep within the required comfort
parameters of the user.
資 訊 科 技 及 得 獎 項 目
(NIDA)
NIDA2000
Detailed graphical models are also being used
as central to the whole project information
systems. Some of these models enable the actual
construction sequences to be simulated and
displayed on the computer screen in fine realistic
detail. The obvious effect of this is to enable
the identification, in advance, possible site
problems, hence enhancing construction speed
and reducing wastage on all fronts.
IT and The Winning
Projects
To return to our theme and interest in the two
2008 JSD awards, the Science Park and the
MGM project, we must draw attention to the
contribution of Professor S.L. Chan, to these
structures. He developed a software package
Nonlinear Integrated Design and Analysis (NIDA) to enable advanced
structural analysis for predicting failure beyond the usual elastic range, and
extending to the stresses and deformations which occur up to the point of
structural collapse. The software was launched in 2000 and is the first of its
kind in Hong Kong. It makes faster, safer innovative design possible. It has
now been used in many real cases by pioneering practitioners. Examples
include, the Singapore International School, the glass wall of West Kowloon
station, the Birds Nest in Beijing.
The two JSD award winners amply illustrate the benefits accrued from the use
of such software, as opposed to the traditional use of prescriptive formula.
Not only does the NIDA software enable the aesthetics of a building to be
realized in the form of a slimmer and lighter appearance, it also enables
the creation of a building, which at one time would have been thought
not structurally possible. NIDA also enables a more economical use of
design time, materials and space. In the Science Park, dramatic examples
are provided by the ability of the new technology to create areas with
an atmosphere of unfettered space, such as the sweeping contours of the
amphitheatre . These innovative structures are not only exciting to view but
also fulfill their functional promise. Both designs made use of NIDA.
JSDNIDA
NIDA
60
The American company MGM wanted to bring to Macau the feeling of Las
Vegas, with its sense of extravagance and land mark constructions. Again,
the NIDA software package was used and as for the Science Park, S.L.
Chan worked with the project teams, throughout the duration of the project,
contributing to the delivery of the unique constructions the company had in
mind. Visitors to Macau are provided with the unforgettable spectacle of the
extremely slender and unique wave frontage of the hotel tower as well as
the startling 60 metre wide, glass roofed conservatory, without any central
columns in sight.
03

Special Feature
專 題 介 紹
Special Features of the Award Winning
Projects
As mentioned above, alumni, Wallace Cham, Wilson Cheung and Professor
SL Chan all generously gave their time to discuss these award winning
projects, and draw attention to features of interest. Their enthusiasm and
dedication was palpable.
Polyu alumnus, Wallace Cham who added an MSc in 2007 to his many other
qualifications, was a member of the project team for the Hong Kong Science
Park Phase 2, being the Senior Manager of Projects for that corporation.
得 獎 項 目 簡 介
2007
()
1) The Science Park Phase II 科 學 園 二 期
The Science Park Phase 2 is a complete unit, following the completion of Phase
1 and preceding the future extension into Phase 3. The market role of the park is
unique and pioneering in Hong Kong. Its aim is to create an area which provides
every conceivable means to encourage and enable innovation and research
and development (R&D) activities for high tech and high value industries, such as
electronic, precision engineering, IT/telecommunications and biotechnology. The
Phase 2 buildings are already more than 30% occupied with further clients ready
and waiting. Wallace and his team found great satisfaction from the fact that not
only were they contributing to providing a means to educate the next generation,
they were also contributing to the enhancement of the reputation of Hong Kong,
not only in terms of technological recognition but also in the provision of a truly
beautiful place which marries natural and technological beauty.
solution to satisfying structural stability, architectural and acoustic requirements. The
supporting inclined columns (labeled crazy columns) and ring beams, effectively
combine to distribute, by arching action, both gravity and lateral loads.
/
One reason, given by Wallace for the Science Park project reaching such a
satisfactory conclusion is the harmonious and unstinting cooperation of all parties
involved. Valuable briefing meetings were conducted before the designs were
finally decided and operations commenced.
Common to all parties involved in the project, was the aim for sustainable
development and environmental friendliness. Such philosophies, in the face of
climate change, are now beginning to underpin the more enlightened construction
activities world wide. Among others, contributions to sustainability were made by
the introduction of a waffle floor system, whereby the high degree of repetition
promoted the use of system formwork. In addition, precast formwork for pile
caps and tie beams was used, thus saving timber. In the area of sustainability,
Wallace drew particular attention to the 700 metre underground service tunnel
and basement linking different buildings throughout the whole Phase 2 area. The
majority of the services are housed inside the service tunnels, enabling ease of
maintenance and quick-fix of problems. Functionality is also provided by the two
energy towers which house the A/C chiller plants and cooling towers for all the
Phase 2 buildings.. In this connection, there is no need to provide such plants in
individual buildings. Maintenance savings, as well as cost, materials and time
savings are obvious results.
All who visit or use the Science Park feel that the public have been presented
with a structure which has to be experienced from the exterior, interior and as a
functional work unit, in order to be fully appreciated. A visit to and participation
in events held in the auditorium or amphitheatre enable a fuller appreciation of the
design creativity and innovation on display.
(PTFE)
The design and construction of the amphitheatre, which is a large tension
membrane fabricated from architectural grade Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) coated
fiberglass fabric is inspiring, being the first amphitheatre covered by a tensile
fabric steel structure to be approved by the Hong Kong Government authorities. A
unique structure is the oval auditorium, mentioned above and which has become
known as the golden egg. The hybrid concrete-steel structure gives an efficient
04

Special Feature
專 題 介 紹
2) The MGM Grand Macau 澳 門 美 高 梅 金 殿
Polyu Alumnus, Wilson Cheung, who graduated in 1992, is at present an
Associate Director of Siu Yin Wai and Associates Ltd. He and his team were the
structural designers of the JSD award winner, MGM Grand Macau, which from
the very beginning they were confident would be a success. Particular pride is
taken in the speed of construction. Piling work began in June 2005 and the
occupation permit was delivered in December 2007.
The structure offers the viewer, in terms of beauty and building utilization, a
totally different experience from that of the Science Park. Where the latter offers
space and tranquility conducive to reflection and academic activity, the MGM
Grand, with its gleaming golden façade and voluptuous wave frontage shouts
an invitation to the bold and the adventurous. The appearance and layout of the
former stimulates curiosity and reflection, the latter stimulates the search for more
physical, even hedonistic pleasures.
The MGM Grand, Macau is a casino and hotel project bound by the Avenidas
Dr Sun Yat- Sen, 24 De Junho and the Rua Cidade De Porto. A waterfront view
calms the senses and is in contrast to the opulence of the building. The contract
sum was over 4 billion.
One of the most exceptional considerations of this project is the wind + seismic
deflection requirement of the hotel tower. The Macau wind code is based on
200 years return period which is nearly 50% higher than the Hong Kong code.
The hotel tower is exceptionally slim, 150 metres high with an aspect ratio of
approximately 9. To deal with these unique criteria, wind tunnel testing was
adopted to find the wind load of the tower structure. The result is an enhanced
core wall and shear wall to resist these high lateral pressures.
The MGM project consists of four levels of podium, which house the casino,
gaming areas, shops, restaurant, theatre, a conservatory for casual meetings, a
basement level car-park and at the front, a 35 storey hotel tower. The pleasure
which can be gained from what is seen or anticipated is in part due to the skills
of those like Wilson Leung and the construction teams. The visitor can admire and
wonder at the unique appearance of the hotel towers design, with its three layers
of rolling waves, every crest in contradiction with those crests, above and below.
One tower layer is yellow gold, the second, white gold and the third, rose gold.
Other memorable features include the glass and steel elliptical canopy of the main
entrance, measuring 26x60 metres, the 56x60 light weight glass roof over the
conservatory, both designed to enable these areas to be flooded with whatever
light effects nature can provide.
The conservatory, which provides a grand and imposing transition area for those
passing from the hotel to the casino, provides what appears to be limitless space,
without any central columns in sight. The clear span of the space frame is about
60 metres, which is a similar size to a 20 storey building laid horizontally
A large curved steel frame supporting the largest LED display in Macau is found at
the North East entrance.
1992Associate
Director
20056200712
200
1509
35
26x60
56x60
60
20
05

Special Feature
專 題 介 紹
The MGM Grand Macau
Conclusion
To return to the question posed by many alumni of the sixties and seventies,
What could we have achieved if we had the benefits of the students of
today?It is sufficient to repeat that this question can never be truly answered
but remains a matter of tantalizing speculation, made more enticing by the
startling rise to high office in the private and public sectors of the construction
industry of such a high proportion of Technical College graduates of that era.
總 結
The Science Park Phase II
06

Technology Transfer and Research Developments
技 術 轉 移 與 科 技 發 展
Technology Transfer
& Research Developments
技 術 轉 移 與 科 技 發 展
Renewable Energy Projects in Ma Wan Theme Park
馬 灣 公 園 可 再 生 能 源 基 地
Supported by the Sun Hung Kai Properties Ltd., our Renewable Energy
Research Group (RERG) from the Department of Building Services Engineering
developed various renewable energy (RE) projects in the Ma Wan Theme
Park in 2006. Seven different RE projects have been used and demonstrated
to the public in the Park including the following:
Photovoltaic roof of 3kW for power generation
3kW
• a grid-connected solar photovoltaic (PV) system
• a grid-connected wind power generation system
• two hybrid solar-wind lighting systems
• an auto-tracking solar PV system
• a ground-coupled heat pump system for air condition and hot water heating
• a hydro power system and a biomass system
The electric energy produced by the solar energy and wind energy systems
are connected to the local utility grid for power supply to the Park, hence
conventional energy consumption can be reduced for cost saving and
environmental protection. All the instant performance data of the main
systems are monitored and displayed by a data collection system for
demonstration and research purposes. Not only can this renewable energy
provide an educational platform of renewable energy applications to visitors,
aiming to build its awareness and environmental protection, but also serve
to provide important on-site research facilities for the RERG. A lot of visitors
have been attracted and
the projects have been
widely published in local
j o u r n a l s , m a g a z i n e s
and newspapers. Our
efforts in the research and
development of renewable
energy applications have
been greatly publicised in
the territory.
2006
Professor H.X. Yang
楊 洪 興 教 授
Email
behxyang@polyu.edu.hk
Department of Building
Services Engineering
Dr. Vivien Lu of the BSE Department introducing the
RE systems to Mr. John Tsang Chun-wah during his
visit to the Ma Wan Theme Park
Two 6kW wind turbines
with wind speed/direction
measurement
6kW
07

Technology Transfer and Research Developments
技 術 轉 移 與 科 技 發 展
Nondestructive Evaluation Methods as Evaluation Tools of the Quality
of Reinforced Concrete Structures
無 損 檢 測 方 法 可 診 斷 鋼 筋 混 凝 土 結 構 的 質 量
The ability of a civil engineering and building structure to withstand
earthquake is dependent on its structural design and quality control during
construction. After the Sichuan earthquake, sub-standard constructions have
been accused as a major cause of a large number of structural collapses,
especially to schools which led to huge numbers of casualties. The alleged
sub-standard constructions included (1) deficiency in steel reinforcement
inside the concrete structures, and (2) poor concrete quality. There may be
a need to scientifically examine the quality of the building structures after the
buildings have been completed. Nondestructive evaluation (NDE) methods
can be used to visualizethe internal conditions and assess the quality
of large-scale reinforced concrete structures without damaging the already
built structures. Amongst the many NDE methods being used in the civil
engineering discipline, ground penetrating radar (GPR) and ultrasound pulse
velocity (UPV) are the two most effective methods in the case of Sichuan.
basic GPR system costs less than US$50,000; while a basic UPV system
costs about US$5,000; (5) user friendly: 1-2 day training is adequate for
personnel with a civil engineering background, and (6) portable: typically,
these systems weigh about a few kilograms which makes mobilization and
handling very convenient.
12
Figures 1
GPR reveals the arrangement
of steel reinforcements
embedded in a concrete wall.
Figures 2
The UPV set up
GPR transmits high-frequency electromagnetic (EM) wave into the internal
concrete structure via a small transmitting antenna placed on the concrete
surface. Anomalies (such as steel reinforcement) embedded in the reinforced
concrete reflect the EM wave back to the receiving antenna differently from
that of the surrounding concrete matrix. Using a portable computer, the
measured EM signal can be used to quantify the number and spacing of
steel reinforcement present in the concrete in real-time. Figure 1 shows the
typical results of such measurements of a reinforced concrete wall. We can
clearly seethe internal distribution and alignment of the steel reinforcements
(including quantity, spacing and depth) embedded 25mm beneath the
concrete surface.
The working principle (transmission and reflection) of UPV (Figure 2) is
somehow similar to that of GPR, except that its transmission is by sound
wave. Transmission of ultrasound in a material is highly correlated with its
density, which is a determining factor of the compressive strength of concrete.
Hence, this correlation may be used as a rough indicator of the quality of the
examined concrete. In general, a concrete with a UPV higher than 3500m/
s may be regarded as a good concrete.
The advantages of the above two NDE methods are: (1) reasonably
accurate; (2) totally nondestructive to the structure; (3) results are obtained
real-time and on-site during the evaluation such that sample collection and
associated laboratory tests are not required, typically, a general inspection
of a 3-storey building takes about 2 days; (4) relatively inexpensive: a
()
( )25
(,)
3,500
()()()
()
5
5,000
()
()
Professor C.S. Poon
潘 智 生 教 授
Email
cecspoon@polyu.edu.hk
Department of Civil and
Structural Engineering
08

Technology Transfer and Research Developments
技 術 轉 移 與 科 技 發 展
CSE Researchers Conducting Air-quality Study during the Beijing Olympics
土 木 及 結 構 工 程 學 系 人 員 於 奧 運 期 間 研 究 北 京 市 空 氣 質 素
In an attempt to improve the air quality during the Beijing Olympic Games,
The Central and Beijing city government implemented drastic measures
to reduce the emissions of air pollutants from industries, road traffic, and
construction sites. To help assess the effectiveness of these measures
and to study their impact on atmospheric chemistry, Civil and Structural
Engineering (CSE) researchers led by Prof. Wang Tao, in collaboration with
scientists at the Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences and
Shandong University, collected comprehensive atmospheric data at three
locations in Beijing before and during the Olympics. The data will be used
for atmospheric chemistry and climate change studies. The initial results
have also been reported to high-level officials at Chinas Ministry of the
Environmental Protection to support the assessment of the air quality during
the Olympics. This activity has been funded jointly by PolyUs Niche Area
Development Scheme, Chinas National Basic Research Program (973
program), and a Research Grant Council – General Research Fund grant.
(973
)
Professor Wang Tao
王 韜 教 授
Email
cetwang@polyu.edu.hk
Department of Civil and
Structural Engineering
Advanced instruments for measuring a wide range of atmospheric pollutants
Prof. Wang (first from the left) and some members of the study team at a field site in Beijing
Odour Survey at the Olympic Stables of the 2008 Olympic Equestrian Event
2008 奧 運 馬 術 賽 馬 厩 氣 味 調 查
Prof. X. Z. Li
李 湘 中 教 授
Email
cexzli@polyu.edu.hk
Department of Civil and Structural
Engineering
Requested by Ove Arup &
Partners Hong Kong Ltd. the
Odour Research Laboratory in
Civil and Structural Engineering
(CSE) led by Prof. X. Z. Li
recently conducted a twoday
odour patrol survey at the
Olympic stables for the 2008
Olympic Equestrian events.
The objective of this was to
ascertain that the new stable area would not cause any odour
nuisance to the surrounding environment. The odour patrol exercise
was conducted on the 4th and 5th of August 2008 just before the
Olympic 2008 equestrian event in Hong Kong.
Odour patrol in front of Hong Kong Olympic
Equestrian venue (Shatin)
Odour patrol in competition arena
2008845(
)
Odour patrol beside the horse stable
Odour patrol at the opposite side of Shing
Mun River
09

Technology Transfer and Research Developments
技 術 轉 移 與 科 技 發 展
PolyU Spearheads Construction Virtual Technology Development
理 大 建 築 虛 擬 模 型 技 術 創 業 界 先 河
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU)s Department of Building
and Real Estate (BRE) has made great strides in tailoring construction virtual
technology to facilitate scenario planning for mammoth projects, thus
enabling property developers and project managers to achieve better costsaving
and avoid unnecessary delays.
In developing this technology, Prof. Li Heng and his 12 member team have
not only published many research papers in international journals, but also
turned theory into practice through working closely with industrial partners.
They are now able to turn two dimensional technical drawings into vivid 3D
images of skyscrapers and other complex building structures with details of
nuts and bolts. More importantly, they can mimic every step of the actual
construction process through visualizing the workflow as well as the logistics
arrangement.
Construction planning is a complicated process that involves optimal use
of resources in a changing site environment. Owing to the limited functions
of traditional planning tools, there is strong need for new technology which
can visualize the construction process and enable contractors to try different
methods, so that they can produce a feasible plan with optimal use of
resources and within the shortest time,said Prof. Li.
This advanced virtual technology, which is now being adopted by major
construction contractors such as Gammon Construction Ltd and China
Overseas Holdings Ltd, has been put to good use in the planning process of
many complex construction projects during the past few years. These include
the Island East Commercial Building in Quarry Bay, Tseung Kwan O Sports
Stadium (venue for the East Asian Games), Tuen Mun Police Quarters and
the Venetian Hotel in Macau, to name but a few.
To support the further advancement of this technology, PolyU has established
a Construction Virtual Prototyping (CVP) Laboratory. This initiative is also
backed by strong industrial support, as China Overseas Holdings Ltd and
Gammon Construction Ltd have each donated over $1 million for the
establishment of this Laboratory.
Earlier this year, the Central Governments Ministry of Construction has
given research funding amounting to RMB500,000 to support PolyUs CVP
Laboratory. This was also the first time that a local tertiary institution received
funding from the Ministry.
The use of this new technology is
spreading across the border. Two major
mainland developers, namely the Vanke
Group and China State Construction
International Holdings Ltd, have also
employed this technology in their
projects.
Prof. Li Heng
李 恆 教 授
Email
bshengli@polyu.edu.hk
Department of Building
and Real Estate
The CVP Laboratory is now offering
i n d u s t r y p e r s o n n e l t w o t y p e s o f
professional services: (1) rapid prototyping of projects at the tender stage for
contractors to vividly and dynamically present the feasibility of construction
methods; (2) visual prototyping of projects at the construction stage to
develop a detailed and improved construction programme with minimum
time and optimal use of resources.
( )
()
()
10

Technology Transfer and Research Developments
技 術 轉 移 與 科 技 發 展
Environmental Improvement Project Receives Support of HSBC
環 保 教 育 項 目 獲 匯 豐 保 險 支 持
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
(PolyU) has recently received a generous
donation of HK$2 million from the Hong
Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation
( H S B C ) I n s u r a n c e t o k i c k o f f a n
environmental education and improvement
project. The plan is that the premises of 10
non-profit making schools will be paved
with eco-block, a new environmentally
friendly construction material which can
remove air pollutants, such as nitrogen
oxides.
The projects first beneficiary organization
is the Hong Kong Society for the Protection
of Children, which will use the eco-blocks
in its Mongkok headquarters and Ma
Tau Chung Service Building. The twoyear
project is expected to benefit 3,000
students and 200 teachers in Hong Kong.
Prof. Teng Jin-Guang, Dean of Faculty of
Construction and Land Use, thanked HSBC
Insurance for its generous support. PolyU is excited to work with HSBC
Insurance on this project that brings multiple environmental benefits. HSBC
Insurance and its customers are making a relevant and lasting impact on the
environment by supporting this project,he said.
The eco-block was developed by a team of PolyU researchers under the
leadership of Prof. Poon Chi-sun of the Department of Civil and Structural
Engineering (CSE) in 2002. The eco-blocks make use of recycled waste
glass derived from beverage containers plus construction and demolition
waste to replace sand and stone, which not only alleviates the waste
disposal pressure in Hong Kong but also minimises the environmental
degradation due to the extraction of natural materials. We have tested these
eco-blocks and proven that they can convert air pollutants into non-hazardous
materials,explained Prof. Poon, who is also the Director of the Research
Centre for Environmental Technology and Management at PolyU. The use
of recycled waste glass in the blocks has aided the air pollutant removal
effect. Experiment results show that at least 20% of nitrogen oxides can be
effectively removed under laboratory conditions.
According to Prof. Poon, the new material also meets the Hong Kong
Governments civil engineering work standard. Compared with conventional
blocks, the eco-blocks not only have similar life-span but also better
performance in terms of water absorption, hardness and aesthetic values.
Used as a paving and partitioning material for buildings, streets and
pavements, the eco-block contributes to improved air quality by removing
air pollutants emitted by buses, cars and other vehicles,added Prof.
Poon. Furthermore, it not only reduces the disposal of waste glass but also
conserves the use of natural materials such as river sand. This makes the ecoblock
a truly environmentally friendly product.
200
(From left, back row) Mr. Jason Sadler, Managing Director of HSBC Insurance in Hong
Kong, Prof. Poon and Mr. David Fired, Group General Manager and Regional Director of
Insurance for HSBC Asia-Pacific making eco-blocks with kids from Hong Kong Society for the
Protection of Children
()
2002
Prof. C.S. Poon
潘 智 生 教 授
Email
cecspoon@polyu.edu.hk
Department of Civil and Structural
Engineering
11

Awards and Achievements
學 者 學 生 成 績 斐 然
Awards
& Achievements
學 者 學 生 成 績 斐 然
International Society for New Institutional Economics Best Dissertation Award
新 制 度 經 濟 學 國 際 學 會 最 佳 論 文 大 獎
Dr. Lennon Choy of the Department of Building and Real Estate (BRE) has
won the Best Dissertation Award (2006 – 2008) at the 12th International
Society for New Institutional Economics (ISNIE) Annual Conference. His
thesis, under the supervision of Professor K.W. Chau of The University of
Hong Kong, studies information asymmetry in Hong Kongs housing market
through the lens of new institutional economics. In 2005, this study received
a fellowship by the Ronald Coase Institute, a research institute named after
Coase, the 1991 Nobel Laureate in Economics and the Founding President
of the ISNIE. A visiting scholarship was also awarded to this study by the
Graduate School of Business at The University of Chicago in 2006.
Dr. Choy was appointed as a Visiting Assistant Professor at The University of
Chicago Law School from February to July 2008. During his visit he worked
with Ronald Coase on a number of research projects in relation to the
structure of production. He was also engaged in organizing a conference
titled Chinas Economic Transformation, which was held in Chicago from
14 to 18 July. Participants of the conference included four Nobel Laureates
(Ronald Coase, Douglass North, Robert Fogel and Robert Mundell), leading
economists in China and experts on China issues in overseas countries.
(ISNIE)
2006-2008
20051991
ISNIE (Ronald Coase Institute)
2006
200827
71418
(Douglass North)(Robert Fogel)(Robert Mundell)
Dr. Lennon Choy shared
Ronald Coases office at
The University of Chicago
Law School
Dr. Lennon Choy receiving the award from
Benito Arrunada, Immediate Past President of
ISNIE and Chairman of the Award Committee
ISNIE
Benito Arrunada
12

Awards and Achievements
學 者 學 生 成 績 斐 然
The Gino Cassinis Award for Professor Zhilin Li
李 志 林 教 授 獲 ISPRS 頒 發 Gino Cassinis 大 獎
Professor Zhilin Li of the
Department of Land Surveying
and Geo-Informatics has
been presented with The
Gino Cassinis Award by
the International Society for
Photogrammetry and Remote
Sensing (ISPRS) at its XXI
Congress held in Beijing from
3 to 11 July 2008, for his
significant contribution to the
development of algorithmic
foundation of multi-scale
representation of spatial
d a t a . T h e a w a r d w a s
presented at the Gala Dinner of the Congress on the evening of 10 July
2008.
The ISPRS founded in Vienna, Austria in 1910, has over 100 country
members and holds its congress every four years where awards are
presented at each congress.
The Gino Cassinis Award is sponsored by the Italian Society for
Surveying and Photogrammetry (SIFET) and is presented to a person who
has significantly enhanced the mathematical/statistical foundations of
photogrammetry, remote sensing or spatial information sciences in the four
years preceding the Congress.
Prof. Li has recently authored a research monograph titled Algorithmic
Foundation of Multi-scale Spatial Representation published in 2007 by
CRC Press (Taylor & Francis Group). This book lays down an excellent
mathematical/algorithmic foundation for multi-scale representation and digital
map generalization. He carried out a systematic study of the geometric
transformations required for multi-scale representation and has differentiated
six groups with a total of 40 operations (while there are only 12 or fewer
operations in existing literature). After the appropriate operations have been
identified, Prof. Li has made at least one algorithm available for each of
them. All these operations and algorithms together form a mathematical
foundation for multi-scale representation and digital map generalization.
Awarded with the Schwidefsky Medal by ISPRS in 2004 for his original
research and publication in multi-dimensional modelling and related areas,
Prof. Li has become the third person honoured twice in ISPRS history.
(ISPRS)Gino Cassinis
20087311710
ISPRS1910
Gino Cassinis (SIFET)
ISPRS
/
2007
CRC Press
/
(
)
2004ISPRS
Schwidefsky Medal
LSGI Researcher Wins Best Paper Award
土 地 測 量 及 地 理 資 訊 學 系 研 究 員 獲 最 佳 論 文 獎
Dr. DENG Min, a Research Associate with Prof. Li Zhilin of the Department
of Land Surveying and Geo-Informatics, has recently won Best Papers by
Young Authors Awards from the International Society for Photogrammetry and
Remote Sensing (ISPRS) at its 21st Congress held in Beijing.
Best Papers by Young Authors Awards are presented to authors who are
less than 35 years of age and are the sole author of a high quality paper
presented at the Congress. Dr. Deng wins this prize for his paper entitled A
Hierarchical Representation of Line-Region Topological Relations.
Dr. Deng has been working with Prof. Li as a Research Associate for 4 years
and his work is currently supported by a Research Grant Council Competitive
Earmarked Research Grant (now General Research Fund) project entitled
Handling Spatial Inconsistency in Map Updating with Integrated Relational
Modelswith Prof. Li as the Principle Investor (PI).
35
A Hierarchical
Representation of Line-Region Topological Relations
4,
Handling Spatial Inconsistency in Map Updating with Integrated
relational Models
2005
13

Awards and Achievements
學 者 學 生 成 績 斐 然
LSGI Scholar Leads International Commission on Geographic Information Science
土 地 測 量 及 地 理 資 訊 學 系 學 者 領 導 國 際 組 織 研 究 空 間 數 據 及 地 理 資 訊
Prof. John Shi Wenzhong of the Department of Land Surveying & Geo-
Informatics at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has been elected
President of Technical Commission II for a four-year term (2008 to 2012) at
the recently held Congress of the International Society for Photogrammetry
and Remote Sensing (ISPRS) in Beijing. This is the first time that a scientist
from Hong Kong serves as a Technical Commission President since the
Societys inception in 1910.
ISPRS is an international, non-profit, non-governmental organization
comprising of 176 professional societies and national organizations from
more than 120 countries. It is devoted to the development of international
cooperation for the advancement of knowledge, research, development
and education in photogrammetry, remote sensing and spatial information
sciences for the well being of mankind and sustainability of the environment.
ISPRS carries out its scientific and technical work through eight Technical
Commissions, each hosted by a member organization for a four-year term
between Congresses. Prof. Shi, representing Hong Kong, was entrusted
with leading the Technical Commission II, which addresses the fundamental
issues of spatial data handling and geographic information science. Prof. Shi
will take up the responsibilities of organising international working groups,
arranging a major Commission symposium and selecting academic papers
to be presented at the Congress.
Prof. Shi has been awarded the 2007 State Natural Science Award
(Second-class) by the State Council of China, and bestowed with the China
Science and Technology Progress Award in Surveying and Mapping (Firstclass)
by the State of the Bureau of Surveying and Mapping and Chinese
Society for Geodesy, Photogrammetry and Cartography in 2005. He
was also honoured with the Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI)
Award for Best Scientific Paper in GIS (first-place) by American Society of
Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing in 2006.
(ISPRS) (2008
2012)1910
ISPRS120176
ISPRS
ISPRS
I am honoured and privileged to be given this opportunity to contribute
to the mission of the Society. It is a recognition of academic leadership of
researchers in Hong Kong and PolyU by the international community in the
area of spatial information sciences,said Prof. Shi.
An internationally acclaimed expert in Geographic Information Systems (GIS),
Prof. Shi has developed a series of new mathematical models and improved
solutions for modelling uncertainties in spatial data and spatial analyses.
The breakthrough is considered setting the stage for the current research on
uncertainty modelling in GIS.
The dynamic data models and mathematical analysis built upon his theory
on spatial data quality and uncertainty can greatly improve the accuracy
and quality of spatial data, such as remotely sensed imageries from satellite,
thereby promoting the further advancement of GIS in both theory and
practices, such as building a high quality digital city.
A prolific researcher, Prof. Shi has authored 10 books and published more
than 350 research articles, including some 70 Science Citation Index (SCI)
papers. His theory is now included in the syllabus of many higher education
institutions in China and designated as a major subject of study.
ISPRS
(GIS)
()
10350
70Science Citation Index (SCI)
20072005
2006ESRI
CSE Academics Appointed to Important Professional Posts
土 木 及 結 構 工 程 學 系 教 授 獲 業 界 委 任 多 項 重 要 公 職
Prof. Wang Tao was appointed as an Associate Editor for the Journal of Geophysical Research- Atmospheres, a leading Geosciences
journal published by the American Geophysical Union. He was named as a Scientific Advisor to the Hong Kong Observatory from
2008-2013, providing advice to the agency on its long-term research and development. Prof. Wang was also appointed as a Senior
Consultant to the Chinese magazine Environment.
– (AGU)
(2008-2013)
14

Awards and Achievements
學 者 學 生 成 績 斐 然
Professor Jianhua YIN Receives ‘John Booker Medal’and gave a Keynote Speech at
12th IACMAG Conference, Goa, India
殷 建 華 教 授 獲 國 際 岩 土 力 學 計 算 方 法 與 進 展 協 會 (IACMAG) 頒 授 「 布 克 獎 」 並 發 表 主 題 演 說
The 12th International Conference of the International Association for
Computer Methods and Advances in Geomechanics (12th IACMAG
Conference) was held from 1-6 October 2008, Goa, India. Professor
Jianhua YIN of the Department of Civil and Structural Engineering was
awarded the John Booker Medalof IACMAG for excellent contributions
in test study of the nonlinear and time-dependent stress-strain behavior of
soils, development and applications of elastic visco-plastic constitutive
models, and consolidation analyses.
The awardees were selected by an international committee made of six
individuals prominent in Geomechanics. They performed comprehensive
reviews and recommended the awardees. The John Booker Medal
recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions in research
in geomechanics for nonlinear and time-dependent problems including
analytical and computational methods, constitutive modeling, consolidation,
and contaminant transport. Consideration is given to mathematical rigor
and elegance that leads to fundamental understanding and insight into
engineering and physical phenomena. The John Booker Medal
is a prestigious award and a great honor to scholars working in the
geomechanics field.
The 12th International Conference of the International Association
for Computer Methods and Advances in Geomechanics (12th
IACMAG) is the largest event of IACMAG and is held every
3 to 4 years at different countries around the World. This
conference was held for 5 days in the Hotel Marriott of
beautiful costal Goa, India and attracted 650 delegates
from 36 countries. On the first day of the conference,
Professor Jianhua Yin gave a keynote speech entitled The
Stress-Strain-Strength Behaviour of a Completely Decomposed Granite
Soil Using a New Advanced True Triaxial Testing System. Professor Yin is
Vice-President of the International Association for Computer Methods and
Advances in Geomechanics and a Co-Editor of the International Journal of
Geomechanics published by the American Society of Civil Engineers, an
official publication of IACMAG.
20081016
(IACMAG)
(John Booker Medal)
(
)
IACMAG
--
IACMAG
Entry Scholarship for the Postgraduate Scheme in Construction and Land Use
建 設 及 地 政 學 院 碩 士 組 合 課 程 新 生 獎 學 金 計 劃
The scholarship covered the tuition fees for the study of a MSc programme
of the Postgraduate Scheme in Construction and Land Use for the academic
year 2008/2009 (including Semesters 1, 2 and Summer Term). The
maximum amount for each awardee was HK$81,000. The conditions
included the recipients being entitled to a waiver of the tuition fees for
subjects they studyied in 2008/09 Semester 1 and the continuation of the
scholarship in 2008/09 Semester 2 being dependent on their results in
Semester 1. The cumulative GPA requirement was at least 3.2.
2008/09
()
$81,0002008/09
3.2
The Scholarship Awardees were as follows 2008/09
Mr. Chiu Wing Cheong Gerald
Miss Tian Jun
Miss Fung Lok Yan Esther
Mr. Sze Wai Ching
Miss Leung Shuk Yan
Mr. Chan Ho Tak
Miss M.A. Man Wah
Mr. Zhao Yang
MSc in Construction and Real Estate
MSc in Construction Law and Dispute Resolution
MSc in Project Management
MSc in Building Services Engineering
MSc in Facility Management
MSc in Fire and Safety Engineering
MSc in Environmental Management and Engineering
MSc in Civil Engineering

Awards and Achievements
學 者 學 生 成 績 斐 然
BRE Graduate Won Merit Dissertation Award
建 築 及 房 地 產 學 系 畢 業 生 榮 獲 優 異 論 文 獎
In June 2008, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University's Student Chapter
of The International Council for Research and Innovation in Building and
Construction (CIB), has offered the Undergraduate Division's Merit Award for
Best Final Year Dissertation Competition to the Department of Real Estate (BRE)
graduate Mr. Ricky Kwan Wai-Kit - BSc (Hons) Property Management. His
winning dissertation was titled An Empirical Study of Open Space Planning
in Hong Kong: A Case Study of Kwun Tong Districtwhich was supervised
by Dr Daniel W.M. Chan of the BRE.
()20086
(CIB)
The dissertation aimed to arouse the public concern about the problem of
open space planning in Hong Kong through a case study of Kwun Tong
District. The research was based on a questionnaire survey with adjacent
residents, in-depth face-to-face interviews with relevant District Councillors
and case studies.
The scope of study included the following:
• The definition, classification, function and advantages of these Open
Spaces
• Existing open space planning control in Hong Kong specific to Kwun Tong
• Public satisfaction with existing open space planning and future open
space planning expectations
• International experiences of open space planning
• Insights for the enhancement of future open space planning in Hong Kong
•
•
•
•
•
Photo of Mr. Kwan Wai-kit, Ricky (right) taken with
his dissertation supervisor, Dr Daniel Chan (left) after the
FCLU Graduation Ceremony 2008
()()
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Student Chapter of CIB
Best Final Year Dissertation Competition 2008
國 際 建 築 工 程 研 究 與 創 新 理 事 會 理 工 大 學 分 會 「2008 年 最 佳 畢 業 論 文 比 賽 」
Dr. John Fai-Yip YEUNG, who was a PhD graduate of the Building and
Real Estate Department (BRE) in November 2007, is currently a Postdoctoral
Fellow there. He received the Distinction Award under the Postgraduate
Division of the Best Final Year Dissertation Competition 2008 from The Hong
Kong Polytechnic University Student Chapter of the The International Council
for Research and Innovation in Building and Construction (CIB).
related issues in construction management and technology. It aims to bring
together both the undergraduate and postgraduate students to develop
research interests and meaningful exchanges between the entire spectrum of
building and construction interests and the global research community. The
Best Final Year Dissertation Award aims to recognise the efforts of final year
undergraduates and postgraduates on their projects and theses.
Johns PhD thesis is titled Developing a Partnering Performance Index (PPI)
for Construction Projects - A Fuzzy Set Theory Approach. It aims to set up
a comprehensive, reliable, objective and practical performance evaluation
model to evaluate the performance of partnering
projects through the Delphi survey technique and
Fuzzy Set Theory. With the development of Key
Performance Indicators (KPIs) as a performance
evaluation model for partnering projects, a
benchmark for measuring the performance of
partnering projects can be established. As a result,
construction senior executives and project managers
can apply it to measure, monitor and improve
the performance of their partnering projects. John
was supervised by Prof. Albert P.C. Chan (Chief
Supervisor) and Dr. Daniel W.M. Chan (Co-
Supervisor) of the BRE Department.
The HK PolyU Student Chapter of CIB is a newly
set up organization with the intent to develop the
desire, on the part of students, to become more
involved with the international construction research
community. The Chapter is designed to provide
a forum for sharing and discussing research-
Dr. John Yeung (middle) together with his research
supervisors, Prof. Albert Chan (right) and Dr. Daniel Chan
(left) after the Faculty Graduation Ceremony held on 5
November 2007
()()()
200711
(CIB)
2008
(PPI) –
(Delphi)
(Fuzzy Set Theory)
(KPIs)
CIB
16

Recent Events
活 動 剪 影
Recent Events
活 動 剪 影
Gammon Construction Limited’s HK$1.65 Million Support for Construction
Virtual Prototyping Laboratory and Division Opening Ceremony
金 門 建 築 捐 出 一 百 六 十 五 萬 港 元 及 成 立 「 理 工 金 門 虛 擬 施 工 研 究 部 」
Under the leadership of Professor Heng Li, the Department of Building and
Real Estates Construction Virtual Prototyping Laboratory (CVP Lab) has
been enjoying great success in being widely used in 27 projects, earning
excellent reputation in Hong Kong and the China Mainland since it launched
in 2004. Its achievement has gained the attention of local and overseas
media through extensive coverage.
Since 2005, Gammon Construction Limited, one of the leading construction
companies in Asia, and the CVP Lab have been joining hands in developing
a wide range of large-scale international projects including The Venetian
Macao, One Island East, commercial buildings, shopping malls
and infrastructure construction. In the different phases from planning to
construction, the CVP Lab constructs virtual graphical simulations so as to
verify and optimize construction operations as well as to achieve cost-saving.
The CVP Lab successfully fits Gammons needs to pursue excellence in the
Construction Industry.
The CVP Lab was given a new leaf on 28 October 2008 when a big
cheque of HK$1.65 Million financial support was received together with
the promise of an extra support of HK$6 Million for the coming four years.
The PolyU-Gammon Virtual Construction Research Divisionwas officially
launched in the Gammon Cheque Handover
cum Division Opening Ceremony.
The Division realizes the belief of
pursuing a sustaining collaboration for
strategic benefits and advancements
in both areas of research and
commerce. This combination
of expertise and resources will
surely address the increasingly
dynamic challenges in the
C o n s t r u c t i o n I n d u s t r y a n d
accomplish the aspiration of
extending joint efforts globally.
200427
2005--
20081028
17

Recent Events
活 動 剪 影
FACULTY OF CONSTRUCTION AND LAND USE SEMINARS
建 設 及 地 政 學 院 研 討 會
Dynamic Response of Fibre Metal Laminates
Subjected to Impact
Dr. Zhongwei Guan, Senior Lecturer in Structural Engineering at the University
of Liverpool, UK discusses the Dynamic Response of Fibre Metal Laminate
(FMLs) Subjected to Impact. FMLs, thin layers of metal sheets and
unindirectional fibre layers embedded in an advhesive system were patented
over two decades ago, and have superior material properties to resist impact
loading and fatigue. Currently they are being used in the manufacturing of
the American C-17 transport aircraftscargo doors whilst Glass-Reinforced
(GLARE) FMLs are being used in the manufacturing of the upper fuselage of
the A380.
Using FMLs as skins, novel sandwich structures can be made with metallic
foam core or SLM lattice core. They developed numerical models using
explicit algorithms to simulate deformation and failure modes of FMLs
subjected to projectile impact and blast loading. All models are validated
against experimental results, which are used to optimize FMLs. Such work
had huge potential in developing impact/blast resistant structures, especially
in the aerospace industry.
(FMLs)
Zhongwei Guan (FMLs)FMLs
C-17
/GLARE
A380
Consideration of Vertical Acceleration Effects in Seismic
Design of Concrete Highway Bridges
Sashi K. Kunnath, Professor of Structural Engineering at the University of
California at Davis conducted this seminar based on a comprehensive
series of simulations carried out on a range of typical bridge configurations
to isolate the effects of vertical motions on the seismic response of ordinary
reinforced concrete highway bridges. Results reveal that vertical ground
motions can have a significant effect on (i) the axial force demand in
columns; (II) moment demands at the face of the bent cap, and (iii) moment
demands at the middle of the span.
The first two issues are less of a concern in the present study since the axial
capacity of the columns and the moment capacity of the girders at the face
of the bent cap are generally adequate to resist the increase in the respective
demands due to vertical effects. On the other hand, the amplification of
negative moments in the mid-span section is identified as the primary issue
that should be addressed in the context of existing seismic guidelines in
California. In particular, for the current requirement, the vertical effects are
considered as the equivalent to 25% of the dead load applied in the upward
and downward directions. The reinforcement resulting from this requirement
is found to be inadequate for a significant number of cases examined in this
study.
Sashi K. Kunnath
(i) (ii)(iii)
25%
18

Recent Events
活 動 剪 影
BRE Students Joining Study Tour — Student Accounts
建 築 及 房 地 產 學 系 學 生 參 加 遊 學 團 — 活 動 後 感
Berlin
Seoul
Berlin, the capital of Germany was destroyed seriously during World War
II (WWII) yet has recovered and transformed itself into an international city.
As Germany thinks highly of the conservation of historical buildings and the
implementation of new ideas into them, we feel this to be the way forward
for future property development in Hong Kong. Hence we selected Berlin
as the destination of our study tour.
During our seven-day tour, we visited the local government department,
the Federal Office for Building and Regional Planning to investigate the
topic of the development and application of public-private partnership
(PPP). Although the application of PPP in Germany was still in its infancy,
there were some great achievements. We visited Faculty VI of Technische
University Berlin and have discussed with them the topics of the property
market both in Hong Kong and Berlin. We also made presentations to
them based on the topic of the redevelopment achievements in Hong Kong.
Finally, we participated in an exhibition organized by the DENA Agency to
visit three energy-efficient buildings.
After WWII, Germany concentrated on the issues of town planning,
focusing on the rehabilitation of historical monuments. In our study
tour, we visited two monuments, the Reichstag Building and the Kaiser
–Wilhelm –Gedächtniskirche, both of which are excellent examples of
the fusion of ancient and modern styles with minimum destruction to their
original characteristics. The Reichstag Building has retained its outlook but
incorporated modern features, for example, the iconic large glass dome
at the top of the building. The Kaiser –Wilhelm –Gedächtniskirche and the
newly-built neighborhood church have induced an impressive harmonized
effect. With the aid of our tour guide – Debra, we have all learned a lot
about the history and architecture of Germany.
In the previous summer vacation, I have been to
Seoul, Korea with my colleagues. During these
7-days, we had visited two famous Korean
Universities - Hanyang University and Seoul National
University. They presented some of their research on
Korean construction projects to us and provided a
sharing sessionfor discussion.
We also visited the Hyundai Engineering &
Construction Company who enlightened us with
the implementation of advanced technology
in housing as we visited their construction
sites. This enhanced our knowledge of Korean
building technology. Compared to Hong Kongs
construction sites, the environment of the Korean
ones are better. Unfortunately, we encountered a
political demonstration on the trip, thus some of our
destinations were cancelled.
During the preparation stage, we had to face many
problems such as communicating with the Korean
Universities, seeking sponsorship and planning the
schedule etc. As President of the Study Tour, I have
gained valuable experience from the challenges.
I would like to thank my professors and committee
members for their help in the tour because as they
have contributed so much to the trip.
-
Debra
–
19

Recent Events
活 動 剪 影
BRE Received a HK$1 Million Donation from China Overseas Holdings Limited
中 國 建 築 捐 資 100 萬 予 建 築 及 房 地 產 學 系
China State Construction International Holdings Limited has recently donated
HK$1 million to the Department of Building and Real Estate (BRE). The
donation, to be used on virtual construction study and collaboration, further
strengthened the strategic partnership of China State Construction and the
Faculty of Construction and Land Use (FCLU) in order to achieve a win-win
situation.
516
100
The cheque presentation ceremony was held on the 16th May 2008. Mr.
Zhou Yong, Vice-chairman and the Chief Executive Officer of China State
Construction presented the cheque to Professor Teng Jin-Guang, Dean of the
FCLU.
100
Mr. Zhou Yong (right), Vice-chairman
and Chief Executive Officer of China
State Construction presents the cheque
of HK$1 million to Professor Teng Jin-
Guang, the Faculty Dean
()100
BRE Graduate, Mr. Ng Wing Hong, receiving the Honor of Building Naming in PolyU
理 大 教 學 大 樓 以 建 築 及 房 地 產 學 系 畢 業 生 伍 永 康 先 生 命 名
of Japanese occupation and
1973s oil crises were tough
times for Mr. Ng. Fortunately,
the University referred jobs to
him, which was a significant
milestone to his stay in the
Construction Industry for over
50 years.
Presently, as Honorary Life Director of the PolyU Development Fund, Mr. Ng
is an exemplary PolyU alumnus and plays an essential part of good role
model for the young generation.
(from right) Mr. and Mrs. Ng, Prof. Poon Chung Kwong, PolyU President and Dr. Ng Tat Lun
Deputy Chairman of PolyU Council
( )
One of the first building graduates in 1939, Mr. Ng Wing Hong received
the honor of the ST Wing Naming on the campus, giving unwavering
support to the University over the past 70 years.
On 19 September 2008, the Naming Ceremony of the Ng Wing Hong
Building was officiated by Mr. Ng along with Dr. Ng Tat Lun, Deputy
Chairman of the PolyU Council and Prof. Poon Chung Kwong, President
of PolyU. The Naming Ceremony means a lot to the University. Despite
Mr. Ngs leave from the campus, Mr. Ng keeps a very close tie with us
and shows his great enthusiasm by his active participation in our activities
and generous contributions to the University. In recognition of his care and
passion for the University, the ST Wing was officially named Ng Wing
Hong Buildingin the Ceremony.
In the unstable war years, Mr. Ng had no choice but to start his job in the
construction industry instead of studying when he was only 15 years old.
His work taught him the importance of professional education, hence he
furthered his study in the Department of Building of the then Government
Trade School in 1937. Mr. Ng then continued his construction work in his
own company. However, the community encountered the difficult periods
ST
2008919
ST
1939
1937
1973
20

Recent Events
活 動 剪 影
34th International Symposium on CIBW062 Water Supply and Drainage for Buildings
第 34 屆 國 際 建 築 給 排 水 學 術 研 討 會
With the support of the International Council for Research and Innovation
in Building and Construction (CIB) W062 commission members, the 34th
International Symposium on Water Supply and Drainage for Buildings
(CIBW062 2008 Hong Kong) was held at The Hong Kong Polytechnic
University from 8-10 September 2008. The symposium was organized by
the Department of Building Services Engineering (BSE) and supported by
PolyU. The organizing committee chairman, the programme manager and
the conference secretary were Dr. L.T. Wong, Dr. K.W. Mui and Miss S.M.
Leung respectively.
The symposium welcome speech was delivered by Prof. W.K. Chow, Chair
Professor of Architectural Science and Fire Engineering and Acting Head
of the Department of Building Services Engineering, PolyU. An opening
speech was delivered by Prof. K.C. Ho, Dean of the School of Science
& Technology of The Open University of Hong Kong on the Protection of
Drinking Water Quality in Hong Kong.
Over 60 overseas delegates were from Belgium, USA, Brazil, Japan, UK,
France, Taiwan, Germany, Portugal, Slovenia, Switzerland, Holland and
over 10 professionals were from Hong Kong. Forty-three papers presented
in 8 plenary sessions illustrated current research areas in water demands
and consumptions, hot water system designs, water quality, water system
planning and standardization, testing and evaluations for drainage systems,
modelling, sustainable designs and planning.
More details about the event were available at:
www.bse.polyu.edu.hk/wsdb2008/index.html
(CIB)W062
2008981034
60
10
843
www.bse.polyu.edu.hk/wsdb2008/index.html
Symposium on Architectural & Environmental Acoustics in Hong Kong, Shanghai & Taipei
香 港 、 上 海 及 臺 北 三 地 建 築 聲 學 與 環 境 聲 學 專 業 交 流 會 議
On 20 June 2008, the Department of Building Services Engineering (BSE)
of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and Hong Kong Institute
of Acoustics jointly organized a one-day symposium on the Architectural &
Environmental Acoustics in Hong Kong, Shanghai & Taipeiat the PolyU.
The purpose of the symposium is to keep local professionals updated on
the latest acoustical development and technology within the three cities.
There were about 60 participants from consulting companies, contracting
companies, universities and government departments in the symposium. There
were several speakers from Hong Kong, Shanghai and Taipei including Ir.
Dr. C.M. Mak from the BSE, PolyU.
Speakers shared their invaluable experiences on architectural design, noise
control ordinances, noise mapping, as well as latest research developments.
Professionals were invited to express their views on how to deal with the
different issues encountered, stimulating ideas in two open forums. Prof. W.K.
Chow, Head of the BSE, PolyU gave the closing speech. Souvenirs ware
presented to speakers at the end of the symposium.
2008628
60
21

Recent Events
活 動 剪 影
The 9th International Symposium on Building and Urban Environmental Engineering (BUEE)
第 九 屆 建 築 與 城 市 環 境 工 程 國 際 研 討 會
The 9th International Symposium on Building and Urban Environmental
Engineering (BUEE2008) was held successfully from 7 to 10 July 2008 at
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU). Major topics covered in this
symposium were: indoor environment; urban environment; building facility
and systems; ecological environment; and sustainable buildings.
The Symposium was jointly organized by the Department of Building Services
Engineering, PolyU, Tokyo Institute of Technology and Hangyang University,
Seoul. Professor W.K. Chow and Dr. K.T. Chan from PolyU were the
Organizing Chairman and Secretary. The symposium was partially financed
by a conference support grant from the Faculty of Construction and Land Use
of PolyU and was supported by The Chartered Institution of Building Services
Engineers – Hong Kong Branch.
20087710
(BUEE2008)
()
The BUEE2008 welcome speech was delivered by Professor J.G. Teng,
Associate Vice President and Dean, Faculty of Construction and Land Use,
PolyU. Two opening speeches were delivered by Ir. Vincent Tse, Managing
Director of Parsons Brinckerhoff (Asia) Ltd and Chairman of the Departmental
Advisory Committee, Department of Building Services Engineering, PolyU;
and Professor Ronald Chin, Assistant Director, Architectural Services
Department, Government of the HKSAR.
Over 80 delegates from Canada, Japan, Korea, China and Taiwan
attended the symposium. Sixty-two papers were presented in twelve plenary
sessions and one poster session. The Best Paper Award and Best Poster
Award were also presented.
Amazing Summer in “ACBC 2008 Workshop”
建 築 及 房 地 產 學 系 「ACBC 2008 Workshop」
This Summer, the students of BSc(Hons) Building Engineering and
Management enjoyed an amazing and fruitful holiday as their overseas
friends from Osaka University and the University of Seoul flew out to our
Campus to join the Asian Coalition for Building Science and Construction
Engineering 2008 Workshop.(ACBC 2008 Workshop).
Jointly organized by the three leading universities since 2006, the ACBC
Workshop aims at furthering learning opportunities and international
exposure among universities and students in the areas of Building Sciences
and Construction Engineering.
Management Systems in the Hong Kong Construction Industry. Site visits
were also organised to the citys prominent construction projects, the Atrium
Hotel Renovation Projectand the HKCEC Expansion Project.
()2008
2008
2006
With the theme of Sustainability-Construction Engineering in the Context
of Hong Kong, the highlights of this years ACBC Workshop included
the industrial professionalspresentations International Commerce Centre
– Green and Safe Constructionand the Development of Sustainable
---
Group picture of all participating
students and staff in ACBC 2008
Workshop
2008
22

Recent Events
活 動 剪 影
BRE Students Stepping into the University of Cambridge
建 築 及 房 地 產 學 系 畢 業 生 負 笈 劍 橋 大 學 深 造
This academic year, with outstanding achievements, two of our very own
students, Vivien Chan Wai Yan, BSc(Hons) in Property Management and
Stephanie Chan Wai Fan,, BSc(Hons) in Surveying, joined the internationally
acclaimed Cambridge University to further their studies in MPhil - Real Estate
Finance.
Having graduated with First Class Honours, Vivien Chan ranked first in her
class and was awarded a range of honours including the Innovative Prize
of CIB Dissertation Competition, the Scholarship of the Royal Institution of
Chartered Surveyors (Hong Kong), the Deans Honours List and so on.
Stephanie Chan also graduated with First Class Honours for her first degree
in 2008. She had been in the U.K. for an exchange programme during
semester 2 of her year 2 and actively joined a number of extra-curricular
activities and community events.
2008
()
( )
2
Stephanie Chan in the U.K.
Vivien Chan (1st in the front row) with her team mates
after seminar
()
Professor K.T. Chau Visited Sichuan After the 512 Earthquake
周 錦 添 教 授 四 川 視 察 512 地 震 災 後 情 況
From 23 to 25 May 2008, Professor K.T. Chau of the Department of Civil
and Structural Engineering visited various sites severely affected by the
magnitude 8 Sichuan Earthquake of 12 May 2008. He stopped at Mianzhu
City, Dujiangyan City, and Leigu City (5km south of Beichuan County)
and called upon Fu Xin Second Primary School at Mianzhu City, Ju Yuan
Secondary School near Dujiangyan City, both completely collapsed, as well
as the severely damaged Lei Gu Junior High School at Leigu City.
200852325
512
The remains of an un-reinforced
brick column at the Fu Xin Second
Primary School at Mianzhu, unable
to resist any earthquake shaking
The brick was found inside a
damaged beam at the Ju Yuan
Secondary School near Dujiangyin.
The quality control of construction
was obviously bad
The ruins of the Fu Xin Second
Primary School at Mianzhu
Professor K.T. Chau (second from the left) with earthquake engineering experts from the
Institute of Engineering Mechanics (IEM), China Earthquake Administration, at Dujiangyin (the
Rescue Center of Sichuan Earthquake)
512
23

New Academic Staff
學 院 新 教 員
Ms. Esther Cheung
張 泳 沁 女 士
Tutor
Department of Building and
Real Estate
Esther Cheung, BEng(Hons), MPhil,
obtained her BEng (Hons) degree
in Environmental Engineering at The
University of Nottingham in England.
After several years of working in waste management research, she further
studied for an MPhil degree looking at the photocatalytic behaviour of
recycled products. She successfully obtained her MPhil degree from the
Department of Civil Engineering at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University.
She is currently registered as a PhD student looking at Public Private
Partnerships, in the School of Built Environment at Queensland University of
Technology in Australia.
()
Dr. Cheung Hiu-dan
張 曉 丹 博 士
Tutor
Department of Building
Services Engineering
Dr. Cheung Hiu-dan obtained her BEng
Degree in Building Services Engineering
from the Hong Kong Polytechnic
University in 2000. After graduation, she
gained practical experience by working in a building services engineering
consultancy. She completed her PhD degree at PolyU in 2006 and worked
as a Teaching Associate at the Hong Kong Institute of Vocational Education
before returning to PolyU for her current position. Her major research interests
are the utilization of daylight in dense urban surroundings and the assessment
of interior lighting environments based on subjective sensations.
2000
2006
Dr. DAI Jian-Guo
戴 建 國
Assistant Professor
Department of Civil and Structural
Engineering
Dr. DAI Jian-Guo was born in Jiangsu
P r o v i n c e , C h i n a i n 1 9 7 4 . H e
graduated with his BSc degree from
Dalian University of Technology in 1994 and obtained his PhDs from Dalian
University of Technology and Hokkaido University in 2000 and 2003
respectively. Before joining PolyU, he worked as a Post-Doctoral Research
Fellow for the Center of Excellent (COE) project System for Sustainable
Infrastructurein Hokkaido University for two years, and then as a researcher
in the Life Cycle Management Research Center, Port and Airport Research
Institute, Japan for two and a half years. His research interests and main
fields of experience are Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) composites for
repair and strengthening of concrete structures, Durability and life cycle
management of concrete structures under marine environment, and fiber
reinforced concrete.
19741994
20002003
20087
FRP
Mr. Sam Hung T. S.
孔 德 心 先 生
Tutor
Department of Building and
Real Estate
Mr. Sam T.S. Hung obtained his
Masters degree in Electronic Business
from the Edith Cowan University, his
Postgraduate Diploma in Arbitration
from the College of Estate Management, a Bachelors degree in Law from
the University of Wolverhampton, and a Higher Diploma in Building from the
City University of Hong Kong. He has many years of contract administration
experience in serving main contractors, property developers and public
authorities. He is also a member of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators,
the Chartered Institute of Building and the Royal Institution of Chartered
Surveyors.
24

New Academic Staff
學 院 新 教 員
Dr. Tareef Hayat Khan
Tutor
Department of Building and
Real Estate
Dr. Tareef Hayat Khan obtained his
Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) degree
from the Bangladesh University of
Engineering and Technology (BUET),
Dhaka, Bangladesh in 1995. He
obtained his Masters of Architecture
in Human Settlements (M.Arch) from the Catholic University of Leuven
(KULeuven), Belgium, in 2000, and completed his PhD in 2008 at the
Department of Architecture, The University of Hong Kong (HKU). In between
his studies, he was engaged in both academic and professional fields. He
joined the Department of Architecture at the Ahsanullah University of Science
and Technology (AUST). In Dhaka, Bangladesh he was a Lecturer in 1996
and became Assistant Professor in 2001. Besides his teaching career he is a
registered Architect in Bangladesh and continues professional practice as a
freelance Architect. He also obtained a Masters in Artificial Intelligence (MAI)
from KUL, Belgium in 2001.
On a personal level, Tareef is actively engaged in music and sports. He is
accomplished in two North Indian Style Classical instruments Tablaand
Sarod. He performed in different occasions and has disciples around the
world including Hong Kong. He is also an avid Cricketplayer and part of
the Bangladesh Cultural Centre Hong Kong (BCC-HK) Cricket team, playing
in the Social League in Hong Kong. He is also a keen Badminton player.
Dr. Khan showed his organizing skills both in Hong Kong and in Bangladesh
as the immediate President of the CIB Student Chapter of HKU, and was
convener of major events in AUST, Dhaka, including annual departmental
festivals and annual cultural programs during his stay.
Dr. Tareef Hayat Khan 2000
2001
2008
1995Ahsanullah
2001
Dr. Khan
Dr. Khan
Ahsanullah
Dr. Zhu Songye
朱 松 曄 博 士
Assistant Professor
Department of Civil and
Structural Engineering
Dr. Songye ZHU recently joined the
Department of Civil and Structural
Engineering (CSE) as an Assistant
Professor. He received his B.Sc. and M.Sc. degrees in Structural Engineering
from Tongji University, Shanghai in 2000 and 2003 respectively, and his
Ph.D. degree in Civil Engineering from Lehigh University, Bethlehem, USA
in 2008. His major research interests include smart material and structures,
structural health monitoring, multi-hazard mitigation and performancebased
design methodology. As one of his primary objectives, Dr. Zhu will
dedicate himself to promoting the development and application of advanced
technology in structural engineering via his research and teaching at PolyU.
20081
Forthcoming Events
最 新 動 向
Date Event Venue Organizer(s) Enquiries
16-18 July
2009
18th International Symposium
of Transportation and Traffic
Theory
Chiang Chen Studio
Theatre, PolyU
Department of Civil and
Structural Engineering
Co-organizer:
Hong Kong Society for
Transportation Studies
Prof. William Lam
Department of Civil and Structural Engineering
Tel: (852) 2766 6070
Fax: (852) 2334 6389
E-mail: secretary@isttt18.org
Website: www.isttt18.org
9-11 December
2009
6th International Conference
on Advances in Steel Structures
Hong Kong
Department of Civil and
Structural Engineering
Prof. S.L. Chan
Department of Civil and Structural Engineering
Tel: (852) 2766 6047
Fax: (852) 2334 6389
E-mail: ceslchan@polyu.edu.hk
25

FCLU News is published quarterly by the Faculty of
Construction and Land Use for students, staff, alumni and
friends of the Faculty. The newsletter contains information
known as of December 2008. For electronic version,
please visit www.polyu.edu.hk/fclu/newsletter.
200812
www.polyu.edu.hk/fclu/newsletter
FCLU Newsletter Working Group
Chairman: Prof. Jin-Guang Teng
Members: Prof. L.Y. Shen,
Department of Building and Real Estate
Dr. K.T. Chan,
Department of Building Services Engineering
Prof. William Lam,
Department of Civil and Structural Engineering
Dr. Lilian Pun,
Department of Land Surveying and Geo-Informatics
We welcome your articles, news and updates. All
correspondence should be directed to:
FCLU News
Faculty of Construction and Land Use
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
Hung Hom, Kowloon
Hong Kong
Tel: (852) 2766 5034
Fax: (852) 2362 2574
Email: clfclu@polyu.edu.hk