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CO2-Optimization of Post-Tensioned Concrete Slab-Bridge Decks Using Surrogate Modeling
Lorena Yepes-Bellver1, Alejandro Brun-Izquierdo1, Julián Alcalá2
1School of Civil Engineering, Universitat Politècnica de València, 46022 Valencia, Spain.
Materials (Basel, Switzerland)
|July 27, 2022
Summary
This study optimizes embedded carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in structural design using surrogate modeling. The research found that increasing structural slenderness and passive reinforcement can significantly reduce CO2 emissions while potentially lowering costs.
Area of Science:
- Civil Engineering
- Sustainable Design
- Environmental Engineering
Background:
- Optimizing embedded carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions is crucial for sustainable construction.
- Current structural design methods may not fully address CO2 emission reduction.
- A systematic approach is needed to balance structural performance and environmental impact.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and apply a sequential optimization method for reducing embedded CO2 emissions in structural designs.
- To investigate the relationship between structural parameters, CO2 emissions, and cost.
- To provide design recommendations for minimizing the environmental footprint of concrete structures.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing surrogate modeling and heuristic optimization techniques.
- Implementing a two-phase optimization process: diversification and intensification.
- Employing a Kriging metamodel for CO2 emission analysis and optimization.
Main Results:
- Achieved optimized structural designs with lower embedded CO2 emissions compared to the initial sample.
- Identified that maximizing structural slenderness (e.g., 1/30) and passive reinforcement is key to emission reduction.
- Demonstrated that increased passive reinforcement can be offset by reduced concrete and active reinforcement.
Conclusions:
- Structural optimization can systematically reduce embedded CO2 emissions.
- Design recommendations favor higher slenderness and passive reinforcement for lower environmental impact.
- Reducing CO2 emissions is directly linked to cost savings, with significant emission reductions achievable for minimal cost increases.
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