The Mineta Transportation Institute (MTI) at San Jose State University (SJSU) has published their latest research on "Frameworks & Life Cycle Assessment for Reinforced Concrete Bridges for Sustainability in Transportation".

Bridge structures are critical components of California’s transportation network, with reinforced concrete (RC) bridges being among the most widely used. Extending the lifespan of these structures can lead to significant reductions in environmental impacts. However, California’s frequent seismic activity has repeatedly exposed the vulnerability of existing RC bridges, highlighting the urgent need for seismic retrofitting and maintenance to improve infrastructure resilience against earthquakes and to increase sustainability.

This MTI research used detailed computer simulations known as nonlinear finite element models, which are highly detailed computer models, incorporating section damage indices to predict damage and assess structural deficiencies in RC bridges during earthquake events. The proposed modeling framework enables accurate evaluation of seismic performance and damage states, supporting informed recommendations for retrofitting. By extending the service life of existing bridges, the approach contributes to lower environmental impacts compared to complete replacement.

Additionally, a life-cycle assessment (LCA) is used to compare the environmental impacts of retrofitting versus rebuilding an RC bridge, considering the full process from construction to demolition. Since new bridge construction demands substantial resources and energy, retrofitting is shown to be a more sustainable solution for minimizing environmental damage following seismic events.

Read the Full Report