Life-Cycle Cost Optimization of Slab Bridges with Lightweight Concrete

경량 콘크리트를 이용한 슬래브교의 생애주기비용 최적설계

This study presents a life-cycle cost (LCC) effectiveness of a concrete with lightweight aggregate. A number of researchers have made their efforts to develop a lightweight concrete, since it is difficult to apply conventional concrete using general aggregate to heavy self-weight structures such as long span bridges. In this study, an optimum design for minimizing the life-cycle cost of concrete slab bridges is performed to evaluate the life cycle cost effectiveness of the lightweight concrete relative to conventional one from the standpoint of the value engineering. The data of physical properties for new concrete can be obtained from basic experimental researches. The material properties of conventional one are acquired by various reports. This study presents a LCC effectiveness of newly developed concrete, which is made by artificial lightweight aggregate. A number of researchers have made their efforts to develop a lightweight concrete, since it is difficult to apply conventional concrete using general aggregate to heavy self-weight structures such as long span bridges. From the results of the numerical investigation, it may be positively stated that the new concrete lead to, the longer span length, the more economical slab bridges compared with structures using general concrete.