Urban Integration of Post-Disaster Modular Systems: An Analysis Through Disassembly and Circularity

Abstract

The increasing frequency of natural disasters poses a threat to urban resilience, requiring a comprehensive re-evaluation of post-crisis housing strategies. The short lifespan of existing post-disaster structures leads to problems with environmental waste and urban integration. This study aims to evaluate the urban integration potential of disaster-focused temporary modular systems through the perspectives of design for disassembly and circular economy principles. For this purpose, a comparative case study methodology is employed to analyze six prototypes based on parameters including disassembly potential, circularity, installation speed and logistics, spatial adaptability, and urban integration. The findings indicate that modular systems with a high capacity for disassembly not only accelerate logistical and deployment processes but also exhibit the adaptability requisite for diverse crisis scenarios. Furthermore, their integration into the existing urban fabric significantly mitigates resource efficiency. Consequently, this research reveals that reconfiguring post-disaster spatial requirements through modular and circular strategies plays a fundamental role in cultivating urban resilience.