Comparison of energy consumption, CO2 emissions between normal concrete and UHPC in rural bridge application

Abstract

Due to its outstanding mechanical properties and durability, Ultra High-Performance Concrete (UHPC) hasbeen gradually used for different types of structures in recent years. However, the analysis of environmental impacts and the assessment of the overall sustainability performance of UHPC applications is quite limited.This study presents the results of determining the total energy embodied and CO2 emissions causing the greenhouse effect of a rural bridge using UHPC compare to the normal concrete (NC) one by the life-cycle analysis (LCA) method. Environmental impacts are comprehensively considered at all stages from material production; materials and structures transportation; in-situ construction and installation; maintenance and repair during the service life; and finally demolished at the end of the project’s life. The analysis shows that the UHPC application in rural bridge construction can reduce the total volume of materials used by 40-58%, lower 65% total energy consumption and eliminate up to 76% CO2 emissions compared with a conventional concrete bridge. The results also confirm that using UHPC is a viable technical and eco-friendly option for rural bridge construction in Vietnam.