Enhancing Construction Material Management via a Blockchain-Enabled Platform: Design, Implementation, and Case Evaluation

Blockchain has witnessed rapid development in recent years due to its unique features such as decentralization, transparency, and immutability. It is widely applied in various industries for material management. In terms of management, blockchain technology can play an important role in enhancing efficiency, security, and reliability. In this paper, we present a blockchain-based process traceability management platform for construction material quality. The platform offers various functional modules, including planning management, raw material management, acceptance sampling, and other functions for different roles such as construction workers, material suppliers, test personnel, and so on. By leveraging the immutability, traceability, and other features of blockchain technology, the platform ensures the transparency, security, and integrity of data exchange and management throughout the supply chain. We conducted a case study with a large construction company in China to demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of our platform. The platform has been deployed across 475 construction sites covering various provinces in China. Practice shows that the reinforcing steel loss rate is reduced from 5% to 3%, resulting in an annual reduction of steel loss by 800 000 t. Improve the efficiency of problem material positioning from day to minute level. Our work lays a foundation for the digital transformation of the construction industry.