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Published in
Visionary Voices
Development of Thermomechanical Steel-Post for Use in Modular Drying System
Visionary Voices, 2(4), 30-31, ISSN: 3082-4389, 2026.
Recommended Citation:
Er-er, D. K. R. M. (2026). Development of Thermomechanical Steel-Post for Use in Modular Drying System. In Visionary Voices (Vol. 2, Number 4, pp. 30–31). Lakbay-Diwa Publishing. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.19688813
Author(s)
Er-er, Datu Kresmedereh Ronie M.
Description
This study developed and evaluated a thermomechanical steel-post modular drying system designed to accelerate the construction of one-story rural housing columns. The research aimed to provide a technologically advanced, cost-effective alternative to traditional timber formwork while enhancing structural curing efficiency through controlled thermal hydration. Experimental Approach: Utilizing a developmental and experimental design, the system integrated a graphene heating element for thermostatic curing control (32°C ±10°C). Structural performance was validated through Universal Testing Machine (UTM) and Digital Rebound Hammer (ZC3-A) trials across multiple sites, including the SNSU Mechanical Shop and DPWH District locations. Socio-economic viability was assessed using a DOST-TEEPS (Technological, Economic, Environmental, Policy, and Social) framework, administered to industry stakeholders (N=40). Highlights of Results: Mechanical validation confirmed that the steel-post system achieved a yield strength of 27.67 MPa, significantly exceeding the yield strength of traditional lumber. Empirical data from the structural performance log showed that concrete cured within the modular system for only 14 days reached an average compressive strength of 29.73 MPa via UTM testing. This exceeds the 20.7 MPa (3,000 psi) standard set by the National Structural Code of the Philippines (NSCP) and the DPWH Standard Specifications, which typically require 28 days of ambient curing. While Rebound Hammer trials showed lower surface hardness averages (15.87MPa grand mean) due to early-stage surface moisture, volumetric integrity remained well within safe operational margins. The TEEPS evaluation yielded an overall mean of 4.34, with Social Acceptability ranking highest at 4.75. Conclusions: The thermomechanical steel-post system is a structurally superior, time-efficient, and sustainable alternative to wooden formworks. The findings indicate that the system effectively promotes circular economy principles by reducing timber waste and labor time. Recommendations: Adopt a rental-based business model to make the technology accessible for rural housing while reducing construction costs without compromising structural quality. Future research should improve the graphene–steel bond to achieve more consistent surface hardness and explore solar-powered curing to reduce the carbon footprint further.
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