Peer Review Policy

The Annals of Civil and Environmental Engineering (ACEE) maintains a rigorous, transparent peer review system to uphold the quality, originality, and ethical integrity of all manuscripts.

Review Model: Double‑Blind Peer Review

We follow a **double-blind review** process: authors’ identities are concealed from reviewers, and reviewer identities remain anonymous to authors. This approach minimizes bias and fosters impartial evaluation.

Review Process Overview

  • Every submission undergoes initial editorial assessment for scope, novelty, and compliance.
  • Manuscripts deemed suitable are sent to **two or more independent expert reviewers** in the relevant field.
  • Reviewers evaluate validity, novelty, methodology, clarity, ethical compliance, and contribution to the field.
  • Reviewers submit detailed anonymous reports and recommendations.
  • The Editorial Board, including the Editor-in-Chief, makes final publication decisions based on peer feedback and journal standards.

Timelines & Communication

Authors can expect an initial editorial decision within 1–2 weeks. Peer reviews are typically completed within **4–6 weeks**. If delays occur, authors are promptly notified and may choose to withdraw.

Reviewer Confidentiality & Integrity

  • Reviewers must treat manuscript content and peer reports as confidential and must not share or disclose any information externally.
  • Any potential conflict of interest must be disclosed prior to review, and conflicted individuals will be recused.
  • Reviewers should focus feedback on scholarly content, without bias or personal language.
  • Abusive or coercive reviewer behavior is not tolerated and may result in removal from reviewer lists.

Reviewer Responsibilities

  • Assess manuscripts objectively, promptly, and ethically.
  • Decline invitations if scope or expertise is inadequate or if workload prevents timely delivery.
  • Ensure reviews are constructive, evidence-based, and supported by relevant literature.
  • Maintain confidentiality and recuse in case of perceived biases.

Appeals & Dispute Resolution

Authors may appeal decisions by providing new data or substantive reasoning. Appeal cases are reviewed by an impartial editorial member or a review committee. Final decisions are communicated with transparency and fairness.

Quality Assurance & Compliance Standards

ACEE adheres to the recognized principles for transparent peer review. Information about review types, manuscript handling steps, reviewer expectations, and decision mechanisms is openly stated to ensure reliability and accountability.

Handling Special Cases

Certain article types (e.g. Editorials, invited commentaries) may undergo internal editorial review only. Any deviations from the standard review process are transparently disclosed to authors.