Blockchain-driven integration technology for the AEC industry

In the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry, blockchain-driven integration technology (BDIT) has witnessed rapid development. A critical literature review of BDIT can contribute toward innovation for the AEC industry. In this study, a quantitative mapping of 247 BDIT literatures from 2017 to 2022 was conducted. Following the clue of quantitative work, two critical levels of technological development and application for BDIT were analyzed. The findings suggest: (1) the technological developments of BDIT may involve technological integration (i.e., integration of blockchain and internet of thing/building information modeling/edge computing) and knowledge framework; and (2) the technological applications of BDIT may involve information automation management and building information management. To further explore the trends of BDIT, some future evolutions (i.e., integration of blockchain and federated learning/digital twin/cloud-edge-end), application scenarios and challenges of BDIT were discussed. This study provides valuable theoretical and practical references for future research on BDIT in the AEC industry.