Implementing BIM and Lean Construction Methods for the Improved Performance of a Construction Project at the Disassembly and Reuse Stage: A Case Study in Dezhou, China

Abstract

The construction industry is adopting a collaborative paradigm by combining Lean construction (LC) principles and BIM capabilities. Existing studies lack sufficient case studies and performance evaluations, especially for the disassembly and reconstruction stage, creating a gap in the practical application of BIM and Lean construction (BIM-LC) in China. To bridge this gap, this study quantitatively assessed the BIM-LC methodology in a relocation project in Dezhou, China. The project employed BIM-LC practices such as the Last-Planner System (LPS), Just-In-Time (JIT), Kanban, Value-Stream Mapping (VSM), and Continuous Improvement to enhance construction efficiency and minimize waste. Two main areas of the relocation process were investigated: (i) the identification of common barriers and on-site solutions to the implementation of BIM-LC; (ii) evaluation of the construction efficiency, construction and demolition waste (CDW), and carbon-emission performance. The results showed that the BIM-LC strategy improved labor efficiency and productivity by 3.4% and 12.9%, shortened the construction period by 11 days, reduced construction costs by 8.07% (i.e., USD 9093.8), and reduced transportation costs by 12.5% (i.e., USD 1875). The CDW generation rate ranged from 1–5%, which is comparable to the rates observed in residential construction across various countries. The total weight was 1903.8 kg (10.4 kg/m2). Moreover, the carbon emission during the relocation process was 15,288.4 kgCO2e, with a carbon intensity of 83.5 kg/m2. This study extends the knowledge systems on the application of the BIM-LC method in relocation projects and supports data-driven decision making. It also plays a crucial role in fostering new markets for recycled components, contributing to the realization of a sustainable built environment.