Prioritizing Bridge Design and Construction Alternatives: A Life Cycle Assessment Approach
摘要
Bridges are critical infrastructure elements that enhance transportation efficiency by reducing travel distances. Recent advancements in the construction industry have yielded diverse bridge design and construction methods. However, selecting the best alternative remains a significant challenge for investors. This study aims to rank three bridge material alternatives based on their environmental performance, i.e. ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC), conventional concrete (CC), and steel. A life cycle assessment (LCA) was conducted using a cradle-to-grave system boundary to evaluate the whole life cycle of each bridge type. Results indicate that while UHPC exhibits the highest environmental impact during material production, it emerges as the most environmentally preferable option overall, followed by steel and CC. The production phase contributes most to the overall environmental impact, whereas the use phase has a minimal influence. These findings offer valuable insights to inform investor decision-making.