A screening method for life-cycle inventory analysis for industrial material.

摘要

In this thesis, a screening method for inventory analysis for industrial material is presented. Life-cycle assessment is defined as a concept or methodology to holistically evaluate the environmental effects of a product, process or activity, by analyzing the entire life-cycle of the particular subject. It consists of three complementary components: (1) inventory analysis, the identification and quantification of energy and resource uses and environmental releases to air, water, and land; (2) impact analysis, the technical qualitative and quantitative characterization and assessment of the consequences on the environment; and (3) improvement analysis, the evaluation and implementation of opportunities to reduce environmental burdens. This screening method has been developed to identify and assess material characteristics of the product being surveyed throughout the entire life-cycle, from acquisition to disposal. Material flow analysis is used to trace material flows in the product's life-cycle. Each virgin material requirement is determined by balancing the life-cycle stages involved. Inventory matrix form has also been developed to facilitate management of the information involved in the screening procedure. Material useful life is measured and used to evaluate how well the material is being manipulated while serving. The employment of initial screening in material inventory analysis allows users to define attractive thresholds (i.e., products, components, processes, materials and life-cycle stages) at which more detailed life-cycle assessment should be conducted. A computer-based tool has also been developed to facilitate the screening method.