Development of an Environmental Load Estimation Model in the Planning Stage of Steel Box Girder Bridges

Abstract

Currently, there is increased concern regarding environmental pollution, and research has been conducted to assess the life cycle of environmental pollutants to determine environmental compatibility. In particular, an SOC facility is expected to severely affect the environment since various materials are used through complex processes. However, countermeasures and research regarding environmental pollution in SOC facilities are insufficient. This study built design data about the steel box girder bridges of 120 that have been designed since 2000, and life cycle assessments were carried out in the planning stage. First, a standard classification of steel bridges was established, and a detailed statement of the design for basic design data and input materials for each target bridge was analyzed, and the environmental load amounts for each material that is used was estimated by applying LCI DB, presented as a characteristic value and weighted value. A correlation analysis was conducted to select the influence during the planning stage. We developed an environmental load amounts calculation model using casebased reasoning. The environmental load amounts and the estimation of the environmental load models was derived from this study and considered to be useful to produce basic data in life cycle assessment when designing steel bridges.