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.