Life Cycle Assessment of Root-Inspired Ground Anchors and Conventional Ground Anchors
Publication: Geo-Congress 2023
ABSTRACT
This paper presents the methodology and results of cradle-to-gate life cycle assessments (LCAs) performed for full-scale, root-inspired ground anchor (RIGA) prototypes, and conventional straight-shaft ground anchors (CGAs). LCAs performed in this study quantified the total environmental emissions of each ground anchor system in lb CO2e emissions per anchor installed, for anchors anticipated to have equivalent ultimate capacities. Based on preliminary load-displacement pullout test results, comparison is made between a temporary 55-foot long CGA and a 38-foot-long RIGA. The CGA is estimated to emit 942 lb CO2e, while the RIGA is estimated to emit 703 lb CO2e per anchor, a 25% reduction. Material savings of 191 lb of cement and 28 lb of ferrous products per anchor are also expected. System boundary limits, manufacturing process assumptions, and assessment implications are discussed.
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Geo-Congress 2023
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Published online: Mar 23, 2023
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