A Life Cycle Cost Analyzerfor Bridge Deck Economic Viability Analysis

摘要

The main objective of the research was to analyze the economic viability of Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) decks.A Life Cycle Cost Analyzer was developed for conducting such analysis. Three main differences that distinguishthe model from the existing models are: (1) the manufacturing cost of a FRP bridge deck was estimated usinglearning curve theory; (2) the model includes cost savings in support structures when FRP is chosen; and (3) theservice life was estimated based on factor method to minimize the subjectivity of the estimates. The results showthat FRP decks are financially viable under certain conditions.