Beyond building structure. Estimating the material stock of mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems
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Author (Corporation)
Publication date
2026
Type of student thesis
Course of study
Type
01A - Journal article
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Parent work
Sustainability
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DOI of the original publication
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Series
Series number
Volume
18
Issue / Number
4
Pages / Duration
2093
Patent number
Publisher / Publishing institution
MDPI
Place of publication / Event location
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Abstract
Current national-scale building stock models mainly focus on structural materials, overlooking the significant resource potential of Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) systems. These systems are resource-intensive and contain standardized components with high-value materials such as copper and steel, yet their potential remains largely untapped due to fragmented data. This study introduces the novel systematic framework to estimate MEP components at high granularity and national scale. It integrates harmonized public data, machine-learning imputation (>90% accuracy under sparse conditions), and parametric rules reflecting building type, energy system, and construction decade. A Swiss case study yields scalable material stock estimates and lifespan-based turnover projections, showing strong consistency with existing GHG benchmarks. The framework highlights contrasting patterns across regions and building types, indicating where policy and industry can upscale reuse and recovery. Its modular design enables transferability and integration with circular economy planning and material-efficiency targets.
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ISBN
ISSN
2071-1050
Language
English
Created during FHNW affiliation
Yes
Strategic action fields FHNW
Publication status
Published
Review
Peer review of the complete publication
Open access category
Gold
License
Citation
Xiong, S., Krych, K., Zea, E., & Habert, G. (2026). Beyond building structure. Estimating the material stock of mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems. Sustainability, 18(4), 2093. https://doi.org/10.3390/su18042093