"Sustainable Marine Pier Construction: A Lifecycle Assessment of Reinforcement Bars and Concrete, with Emphasis on Eco-Friendly Materials and Case Studies"

Abstract

Marine infrastructure supports global commerce and coastal communities, but harsh environmental conditions drive material degradation. This dissertation compared traditional reinforcement bars and concrete with eco-friendly alternatives like Ground Granulated Blast-Furnace Slag (GGBS)- enhanced concrete and Glass Fibre Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) rebars for marine pier construction to assess their lifecycles. This study employs the One Click LCA software to evaluate the environmental consequences of these materials in relation to CO2 emissions, cost efficiency, and durability in marine environments. The research findings suggest that although the initial expenses associated with GGBS and GFRP are greater, their long-term advantages in terms of reducing maintenance frequency, extending the lifespan of structures, and minimising environmental effect make a strong argument for their implementation. The comparison research reveals considerable decreases in CO2 emissions when these sustainable materials are employed, verifying their capacity to greatly enhance the sustainability of marine pier building. This study provides empirical evidence to support the shift towards more sustainable construction processes that meet global sustainability goals and offer economically viable alternatives to standard materials.