Blockchain-driven smart contracts: an overview of application areas and gap identification in construction management literaturee

The dynamics in industry 4.0 have continued to transform construction contract execution. Blockchain and smart contract technologies represent the future of construction contracts delivery in the built environment, although, they are still in the infancy in the construction sector. While studies on the potentials of Blockchain-based smart contracts in construction have continued to increase as evident in the extant literature, there is yet to be a consensus on the most crucial application areas in construction. This emerging technology requires more attention; therefore, this study presents the result of a critical review of blockchain-enabled smart contracts studies in construction. Forty documents were obtained from the Scopus and Web of Science databases, and they formed the basis for the review and analysis. The top application areas of smart contract technology were identified and discussed. Furthermore, the application areas that require to be explored are refurbishment contracts, consultancy contracts, long-term PPP projects, circular economy, and waste management. The adoption of blockchain-based smart contracts in these areas will improve sustainable construction targets and enhance the diffusion of blockchain-enabled smart contracts among key built environment experts.