A Systematic Analysis on the Applications of Local Materials in Civil Engineering

Abstract

This article presents a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of the utilization of local materials in civil engineering projects, examining their role in fostering sustainable construction practices. Through a systematic review spanning from 2004 to 2024, the study delves into various dimensions of sustainability within civil engineering, emphasizing the critical importance of employing local materials. It underscores the environmental, economic, and socio-cultural benefits of integrating local resources into construction, while also highlighting the challenges associated with their variability, limited availability, and the need for standardized testing. The methodology involves a detailed bibliometric analysis, including data collection from prominent databases, and employs bibliometric software for data analysis, focusing on identifying key trends, research gaps, and emerging themes in the domain. The results reveal a stable annual growth rate in publications, with a significant emphasis on conference papers, indicating an active discourse within academic and professional forums. The study identifies China as a leading contributor to research in this area, showcasing a global interest with varying degrees of focus. Additionally, the analysis of keyword co-occurrences maps out the central research themes, reflecting a strong integration of traditional civil engineering concerns with modern sustainability challenges. The conclusion advocates for a continued emphasis on sustainable building practices, integrating local materials as a fundamental component of civil engineering projects to enhance environmental outcomes and societal value.