Life cycle costs and impacts of massive slabs with varying concrete cover

Abstract

Considering construction costs, predicted service life, and related environmental impacts, this paper evaluates the influence of varied concrete cover thicknesses in the life cycle of a reinforced concrete structure. Environmental impacts and costs of a structural element (slab) are evaluated using Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Life Cycle Costs (LCC) varying the concrete cover thickness. Larger covers increase material consumption (16.27% of steel reinforcement), initial costs (up to 2.44%), and environmental impacts (from 6.46% to 12.51%). However, the enlarged structure service life (durability) provides lower yearly costs (reduction of 74.39%) and environmental impacts (up to 73.15% for ODP). The results highlight that an increase in concrete cover thickness enhances the structure’s durability, reduces costs and environmental impacts per year of predicted service life, contributing to reach more sustainable structures.