Search

Carbon-based nanodots have garnered recent interest for their simple synthesis and versatile utility, ranging from biomedical to (opto) electronic applications, evolving into a tunable and biocompatible material. Here, for the first time, a biochar (lotus leaf) derived carbon nanodots was synthesized through hydrothermal carbonization. The synthesized hollow spherical biochar was engineered via functionalization by grafting –SO3H active sites. The attained catalyst was broadly analyzed by XRD, FTIR, TGA, BET, SEM–EDX, TEM, and XPS analysis after which it was applied for the acetalization reaction of crude glycerol (a biodiesel by-product) to form solketal, a potential fuel additive to valorize the large waste stream generated from biodiesel industry. Employing the RSM-CCD methodology, the experimental matrix was executed, and subsequent data were scrutinized through multiple regressions to model a quadratic equation. Under specific reaction parameters—a reaction duration of 14 min, a molar ratio of 7.5:1, and a catalyst loading of 5.7 wt.%, maximum solketal yield (95.7%) was attained through the ultrasonication method. Finally, to conclude, life cycle cost analysis (LCCA) for solketal production was studied here which determined the overall cost of solketal production per kilogram to be 0.719 USD ($), indicating high commercial applicability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents a comprehensive Life Cycle Cost Assessment (LCCA) of geothermal-assisted hydrogen liquefaction, explicitly focusing on the Afyon Geothermal Power Plant (AGPP) as a case study. The study evaluates the economic viability and sustainability of integrating geothermal energy into hydrogen liquefaction. The results of the LCCA contribute to the ongoing discourse on sustainable energy solutions, offering a nuanced understanding of the economic considerations associated with geothermal-assisted hydrogen liquefaction. The study serves as a model for assessing the economic feasibility of similar systems, fostering informed decision-making in the pursuit of cleaner and more economically sustainable energy pathways. This study has conducted a technical and economic investigation of liquid hydrogen production using geothermal heat and electricity effects. Geothermal water pre-cools the hydrogen by providing heat to the absorption system. Then, the electricity generated in the geothermal plant is used to work in the liquefaction cycle. The generated electricity is used to liquefy hydrogen in the liquefaction cycle. The capacity of the electricity generated from the AGPP produced here is 2621 kW. The proposed system can be achieved by pre-cooling unit H 2 up to −30 °C at 120 °C and 150 kg/s geothermal source. In the liquefaction cycle, 0.84 kg/s H 2 can be liquefied. As a result, the total energy efficiency of the proposed system can be calculated as 32.4% and exergy efficiency as 15.4%. The system's net present value (NPV) was calculated as 65,320,000 $. When life cycle cost analysis was performed using the levelized annual cost (LAC) method, the project's levelized cost was calculated as 7,673,000 $/yr. The unit cost of the liquid hydrogen produced is 1.252 $/kg. This system's discounted payback period (N dpp) is calculated as 3.48. Configuration of geothermal assisted hydrogen generation system. [Display omitted] • A techno-economic evaluation of a hydrogen liquefaction system is introduced. • The Life Cycle Cost Assessment of liquefied hydrogen is conducted. • Using geothermal water in an absorption system, H 2 gas can be pre-cooled to −30 °C. • In the liquefaction cycle, using geothermal energy, 0.84 kg/h H 2 can be liquefied. • Liquefied hydrogen market cost and system payback period are calculated as 1.252 $/kg and 3.48 years, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing demand for sustainable air mobility has led to the development of innovative aircraft designs, necessitating a balance between environmental responsibility and profitability. However, despite technological advancements, there is still limited understanding of the maintenance implications for hydrogen systems in aviation. The aim of this study is to estimate the maintenance costs of replacing the hydrogen storage system in an aircraft as part of its life cycle costs. To achieve this, we compared conventional and hydrogen-powered aircraft. As there is insufficient data for new aircraft concepts, typical probabilistic methods are not applicable. However, by combining global sensitivity analysis with Dempster–Shafer Theory of Evidence and discrete event simulation, it is possible to identify key uncertainties that impact maintenance costs and economic efficiency. This innovative framework offers an early estimate of maintenance costs under uncertainty, enhancing understanding and assisting in decision-making when integrating hydrogen storage systems and new aviation technologies. • Examining hydrogen storage exchange necessity in an aircraft's life cycle. • Pioneering use of evidence theory and global sensitivity analysis amid data scarcity. • Identifying maintenance impact on hydrogen aircraft life cycle costs. • Uncertainties in maintenance events have a high economic impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to investigate potential strategies to reduce energy consumption and environmental impacts of a recently converted rural complex into an agri-spa in a high environmental value area within the province of Viterbo (Italy). Actual operational data on appliances, climate, and energy consumption are employed for the energy audit. While this analysis generally provides energy-saving solutions, such options are not examined for their life cycle environmental impacts. The current article is based on the experimentation of a consolidated methodological approach in the scientific literature, integrating the energy audit, life cycle assessment (LCA), and economic analysis (Life Cycle Cost) to assess a series of energy-efficiency measures designed for the new wellness centre function. The combined use of these well-established procedures provides a comprehensive assessment of intervention scenarios for a particularly energy-intensive type of case study, not yet widely documented in the literature. The results reveal that energy consumption related to heating/cooling is marginal compared to the actual electrical consumption in the specific case study. Therefore, the most efficient scenarios involve installing photovoltaic systems and replacing gas boilers with high-efficiency heat pumps, especially with economically advantageous insulation. This leads to a 51% reduction in energy consumption and an 81% decrease in heating, DHW, and electricity costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the last decade, restructuring of railway systems has resulted in infrastructure management assets demanding increased performance and reliability while adopting budget limits and reduced time available for maintenance. In fact, the current routine and major programmed maintenances are such capital-intensive activities that transport operating companies always attempt to optimise the operational procedures and related assets' performances towards minimising the costs. Characteristically, the use of macro synthetic fibre reinforcement is proposed to improve the structural performances and service life of the sleeper component. Accordingly, this study addresses the economic feasibility of implementing macro synthetic fibre reinforced concrete (MSFRC) as an alternative material for railway sleeper applications. Through a life cycle costing (LCC) approach, the study evaluates the impact of different asset phases such as acquisition, operation and maintenance, and end-of-life towards a cost comparison of MSFRC with conventional sleeper materials. Hence, the most financially viable option is identified, although key economic parameters are varied to simulate future market values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, due to the insufficient resources of renewable natural gas, the development of renewable pathways to integrate into the natural gas-industry portfolio can reduce many concerns about the reserves depletion and the environmental crises. In the present article a structure-oriented framework for gas networks is developed to compare and prioritize different investment scenarios for renewable natural gas production projects. In this regard, different pathways to produce renewable natural gas through the waste-to-natural gas process were discussed and compared based on different waste feedstocks. To discuss and compare different pathways, a decision-making structure and framework under life cycle cost analysis (LCCA) and life cycle environmental analysis (LCEA) is employed to choose the appropriate pathway for the waste-to-natural gas process. The optimal pathway is identified through different multi-variable decision-making scenarios (under different geographical conditions, access to different feedstocks, and different interests of stakeholders). From the outcomes, under the neutral and Pro-economic scenarios, the renewable natural gas production pathway driven by landfill gas integrated with the pressure swing adsorption- biogas upgrading unit is the optimal and desirable option. While under an Eco-friendly scenario, the pathway driven by animal manure integrated with the pressure swing adsorption-upgrading unit is an optimal and desirable pathway. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study verified the technological and economic feasibility of converting urban air mobility (UAM) to a fuel cell–battery hybrid propulsion system from an existing battery–only propulsion system. The battery–fuel cell hybrid propulsion UAM was conceptually designed through reverse engineering and redesigned of the existing battery–only propulsion UAM. Under various design conditions, the economic feasibility of the hybrid propulsion system was verified through life cycle cost (LCC) analysis. Hybrid propulsion UAMs designed with appropriate hybridization ratios had 10% lower life cycle costs than battery-only propulsion UAMs. In particular, this cost–saving effect was more noticeable when UAM's flight distance became longer. The life cycle cost increased proportionally as the number of UAM passengers increased, but was relatively unrelated to energy storage technology improvements. Considering the current electricity and hydrogen price changes, the economic feasibility of fuel cell–battery hybrid UAM is expected to continue to improve in the future compared to batteries alone. • The technical and economic feasibility of the fuel cell-battery hybrid propulsion UAM was verified. • The fuel cell-battery hybrid propulsion UAM was conceptually designed through reverse engineering technology. • A properly designed hybrid propulsion UAM had a 10% lower life cycle cost than a battery-only propulsion UAM. • Considering energy price trends, the economics of hybrid UAM are expected to continue to improve. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the applicability of a tracking photovoltaic (PV) system installed in the roof area of a commercial building. Because PVWatts is the only PV module with a tracking feature in EnergyPlus, its electricity generation was validated through comparisons with detailed PV modules in EnergyPlus. The tracking PV system generated 26.8–35.5% more electricity annually than a fixed system in the climate of Incheon (S. Korea). The load coverage analysis of the tracking PV system was conducted with the reference commercial building model in EnergyPlus. Approximately 14% of the total building electric demand, including heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning; lighting; and equipment, was met by one PV array. Finally, the life cycle cost analysis of the tracking PV system was conducted by considering the net present value, which includes the initial installation and operation costs. The initial investment was returned after approximately 8 years, assuming between two and six tracking PV arrays were installed. Moreover, up to 26.8% cost savings were achieved in 15 years compared to the case without any PV arrays. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to present the life cycle cost (LCC) for 1 kg of pear produced using organic technology in Southern Romania. Two principal stages were depicted: production stage costs (PC) and Transport costs (TC). For each stage, investment and operational costs were determined. Pear orchard establishment (POE), the first I-III years of orchard management (without harvest) (OM.I-III), and IV-XX years of orchard management (OM.IV-XX) were analyzed considering the elemental activities included. Three scenarios were applied for fertilization: (S1) compost produced at the farm level using a composter Oklin GG-50S combined with the one produced on outdoor platform in the farm, mainly from vegetable sources. (S2) compost from the outdoor platform for organic residues, and (S3) acquisition of a commercial organic fertilizer. The total LCC for 1 kg of pear ranged between 0.400 € (S2), 0.481 € (S3), and 0.496 € (S1). Details regarding the LCC components and optimization were presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Decarbonizing buildings is crucial in addressing pressing climate change issues. Buildings significantly contribute to global greenhouse gas emissions, and reducing their carbon footprint is essential to achieving sustainable and low-carbon cities. Retrofitting buildings to become more energy efficient constitutes a solution. However, building energy retrofits are complex processes that require a significant number of simulations to investigate the possible options, which limits comprehensive investigations that become infeasible to carry out. Surrogate models can be vital in addressing computational inefficiencies by emulating physics-based models and predicting building performance. However, there is a limited focus on investigating feature engineering and selection methods and their effect on the model's performance and optimization. Feature selection methods are considered effective with interpretable models such as multi-variate linear regression (MVLR) and multiple adaptive regression splines (MARS) for achieving stable prediction stability. This study proposes a modelling framework to create, optimize, and improve the performance of surrogate predictive models for energy consumption, carbon emissions, and the associated cost of building energy retrofit processes. The investigated feature selection methods are wrapper and embedded methods such as backward-stepwise feature selection (BSFS), recursive feature elimination (RFE), and Elastic Net embedded regularization in order to provide insights into the model's behavior and optimize the model's performance. The most accurate surrogate models developed achieved a mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) of 0.2–1.8% compared to the used test data. In addition, when calculated for a million samples, all developed surrogate models reduced the computational time by one-thousand-fold compared to physics-based models. The study's findings pave the way towards low-computational accurate models that can comprehensively predict building performance in near real-time, ultimately leading to identifying decarbonization measures at scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the performance of different cooling technologies from energy and economic perspectives were evaluated for six different prototype residential Nearly Zero Energy Buildings (NZEBs) within a planned future city district in central Sweden. This was carried out by assessing the primary energy number and life cycle cost analysis (LCCA) for each building model and cooling technology. Projected future climate file representing the 2050s (mid-term future) was employed. Three cooling technologies (district cooling, compression chillers coupled/uncoupled with photovoltaic (PV) systems, and absorption chillers) were evaluated. Based on the results obtained from primary energy number and LCCA, compression chillers with PV systems appeared to be favorable as this technology depicted the least value for primary energy use and LCCA. Compared to compression chillers alone, the primary energy number and the life cycle cost were reduced by 13%, on average. Moreover, the district cooling system was found to be an agreeable choice for buildings with large floor areas from an economic perspective. Apart from these, absorption chillers, utilizing environmentally sustainable district heating, displayed the highest primary energy use and life cycle cost which made them the least favorable choice. However, the reoccurring operational cost from the LCCA was about 60 and 50% of the total life cycle cost for district cooling and absorption chillers, respectively, while this value corresponds to 80% for the compression chillers, showing the high net present value for this technology but sensitive to future electricity prices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen has gained significant attention in recent years as a clean and sustainable energy source, with the potential to revolutionize the energy industry. However, one of the challenges associated with hydrogen as an energy source is its storage and transportation. Hydrogen is a highly compressible gas, making it difficult to store and transport in its natural state. The study presents different varieties of hydrogen tanks that are used for the storage and transportation of hydrogen gas. The methods for compressing hydrogen are described, with a focus on their advantages and disadvantages. The study concludes by comparing different methods for compressing hydrogen and discussing the factors that influence the choice of method for a specific application. The importance of continued research and development in this area is emphasised, as the efficient compression of hydrogen is crucial for the widespread adoption of hydrogen as a clean and renewable energy source. Life cycle cost analysis can evaluate the economic feasibility of using different hydrogen compressor technologies by estimating the total cost of owning and operating the compressors over their entire lifespan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we aimed to provide a practical method to estimate the economic and environmental impact of vehicle and work activities throughout the entire service life of a pavement area to support pavement management strategies and decisions. To achieve this, we integrated two key life cycle analysis methods, life cycle assessment (LCA)) and life cycle cost analysis (LCCA). The integrated model not only considers CO2 emissions associated with the four main modules—the materials module, the work activities module, the work zone module and the usage module—mentioned in LCA, it also considers agency costs and user costs related to highway usage, work activities, work zone traffic delays and detours in the LCCA process. We used detailed and integrated methods to compute CO2 emissions and costs based on the four modules and two components of agency and users mentioned above. A case study based on a real freeway project in China was used to verify the applicability of the integrated model. The results of the application of the integrated LCA-LCCA model indicate that maintaining the typical activity profile could be beneficial in terms of both CO2 emissions and cost, with savings of 36.8 ton/lane/km of CO2 emissions and 10,530 USD/lane/km (in 2007 dollars) representing the total benefits during the pavement's service life. This means that timely maintenance could help to achieve savings in terms of financial costs and CO2 emissions simultaneously. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The literature statistics unmistakably highlight the critical need to enhance the construction industry's sustainability to lower environmental damage and conserve natural resources. This study aims to evaluate the life cycle performance of mortar by assessing its ecological impacts, economic performance, and social feasibility, alongside a thorough technical performance evaluation. The technical performance evaluation performed through physio-mechanical performance revealed that 20% natural sand replaced by granite cutting waste (GCW) is best suitable for rendering application. The compatibility of GCW as natural sand is advocated by SEM and FTIR analysis. The three pillars of sustainability are evaluated as life cycle environmental impacts assessment (LCIA), life cycle cost analysis (LCCA) and social feasibility assessment (SLCA). For LCIA purposes, nine environmental impact (EI) categories have been studied. For LCCA, raw material procurement, transportation, repair, and maintenance have been utilized to obtain the life cycle costing. Social LCA (SLCA) was performed qualitatively through a five-point Likert scale-based questionnaire survey, and responses from 125 stakeholders were analysed using mean item score (MIS). The finding revealed that for GP20 mortar, all the nine EI categories had shown 10–13% lower environmental impacts and 7.2% lower cost than the GP0 mortar mix. The SLCA, comprising five subcategories, i.e., access to material resources, social acceptance, employment creations, safe and healthy living conditions, and community engagement, has positively impacted society when 20% GCW is utilized in rendering mortar as sand. The consolidated index calculation with higher ECM values for the GP20 mortar mix strongly endorsed a sustainable and viable alternative. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biowaste-to-biogas processes have been introduced to design a valuable and green renewable plant to achieve a sustainable society and environment. The biomethane production process through biogas upgrading instead of designing a combined heat and power (CHP) system can be more attractive. This study presents a life cycle analysis (LCA) from both cost and environmental standpoints for four biowaste-to-biogas/biomethane process scenarios. Biogas production is achieved through anaerobic co-digestion of the organic fraction of municipal solid waste (OF-MSW) and secondary sewage sludge (S-SS), incorporating a pre-treatment process based on the dark co-fermentation process (DCFP). Each scenario offers distinct methods for utilizing the hydrogen-rich gas and biogas, with varying degrees of energy recovery and efficiency. Two sensitivity studies were conducted under various utilizations of the recovered biomethane and the anticipated electricity mix. Scenario SC-1 (CHP-from-biogas) was found to be the most co-friendly favorable in eight out of eleven impact categories (under the CML/IA technique). Further, biogas upgrading-integrated options exhibited lower impacts. Replacing biomethane instead of petrol in scenarios with upgraded biogas was identified as the most effective approach against climate change. Financial analysis indicated that all layouts are economically viable, each demonstrating a positive NPV over a 20-year period (up to $11.57 million). • Life cycle analysis for different biowaste-to-biogas/biomethane scenarios. • Anaerobic co-digestion process of MSW organic fraction and secondary sewage sludge. • Different method for utilizing the hydrogen-rich gas stream and biogas. • Biogas upgrading-integrated options exhibited less impact in the respective items. • Economically viable, all option demonstrating a positive NPV over a 20-year period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, due to the advent of several additives and innovations, asphalt mix design has become more complex. The mixes meeting the volumetric mix design requirements may still fail prematurely in the field. Thus, a transition from a simplistic volumetric-based mix design to a performance-based mix design is required, which was also envisioned in the Strategic Highway Research Program (SHRP) and Superpave mix design. In addition to performance verification, asphalt mix designs should also be evaluated for the life-cycle costs and environmental impact to encourage durable as well as sustainable and cost-effective alternatives. In this study, three asphalt mixtures with different reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) contents and additives were evaluated for cracking and rutting performance by using different performance thresholds for asphalt mixtures that are generally used in the construction of high-volume roads in Oregon. A balanced mix design process was followed to determine the required binder content for the three mixtures. Based on the life cycle cost and environmental impact analyses, the mixture with warm mix additive (WMA) was selected as the most economically and environmentally viable asphalt mixture to be used for construction in Oregon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the life cycle costs of railway projects involving hybrid diesel-electric vehicles are analysed. Specifically, the analysis focuses on the comparison of 3 lithium-ion battery technologies (NMC, LTO and LFP) and 8 energy management strategies (including rule-based and optimization-based strategies). In order to develop this analysis, a methodology that returns the life cycle cost of each proposed case is presented. The methodology includes the optimization of the diesel generator and lithium-ion battery sizing. A scenario based on a real railway line is introduced, and the obtained results are compared to a traditional diesel-electric railway vehicle to develop a techno-economical discussion. The best lithium-ion battery technologies are found to be LTO and NMC, and the most appropriated strategy a state-machine controller optimised by a genetic algorithm approach. The best case obtains a life cycle cost reduction of the 4.0% and diesel savings of the 13.7% compared to a traditional diesel-electric railway vehicle. The proposed analysis is claimed to be potentially helpful for the cost-optimal design and operation definition of powertrains for hybrid railway vehicles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The study is conducted to supply a multi-zone complex via a renewable energy cycle. • A hybrid PV/T–GSHP system has been opted as the source. • Overall COP of the system for the main scenario of the cycle is 2.866. • Winter holidays raise the COP by 16.85% and reduce the LCC by 3.67%. This paper introduces a novel cycle to supply the demands of a huge case study incorporating eight thermal zones with sports and administrative applications for space heating, space cooling, domestic hot water, and electricity. Choosing this complex is one of the most important innovations of the current study. A combination of photovoltaic/thermals and ground-source heat pumps are connected to the storage tanks, heaters, heat exchangers, and some other elements to provide energy for the mentioned buildings. This cycle is simulated numerically using TRNSYS 16, and the amounts of heating and cooling loads of the buildings are estimated via TRNBuild 3.0. The cycle is then discussed to investigate its capability of supplying the demands over the period of 20 years; reaching the coefficient of performance and life cycle cost of 2.866 and 164,451 €, respectively, with less than 0.03 °C drop in ground temperature at the end of the given period. In addition, as an important novelty, defining a number of scenarios provides a thorough examination of the important parameters of the cycle, including environmental, operational, and economic features under different conditions. This comprehensive analysis shows that adding winter holidays or insulating the walls of the buildings are the best ways of improving the system's performance. Lastly, the operation of the system in Iran is also compared with some other countries; showing that installing this system is not economically suitable in Iran. Portugal with a payback time of 3.84 years is the best country to install the designed cycle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to make recommendations about the convenience of using low-noise pavements to mitigate traffic noise under different traffic and population scenarios. To do so, a life cycle approach has been applied by performing a Life-cycle Assessment (LCA) and Life-cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA). To account for the noise mitigation achieved by the road surfaces, which is the main benefit compared to conventional road surfaces, the damage effect of traffic noise has been incorporated in both analyses. Thus, open source noise emission and propagation modelling and Geographical Information System (GIS) tools have been used to determine the noise level at which residents are exposed. The impact of noise emissions on human health is estimated and expressed in disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) and the related external cost have been calculated by monetarizing the environmental impacts and by integrating them within the cost assessment. The methodology followed allowed the comparison of different scenarios and the results show a huge potential for reducing environmental impacts and costs when using low-noise road surfaces although accurate information about the acoustic aging of the materials is key in order to ensure that benefits are obtained. [Display omitted] • The feasibility of low-noise road surfaces has been evaluated combining LCA and LCCA. • Noise exposure is assessed using open-source GIS and noise modelling tools. • Population and traffic density influence low-noise surfaces viability. • Traffic noise impacts significantly outweigh other LCA/LCCA categories. • Acoustic ageing estimates of low-noise surfaces affect low-noise surfaces viability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oil-Based Drill Cuttings (OBDC) are one of the hazardous wastes of the oil and gas industry. In this study, Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement (RAP), OBDC and Fly Ash (FA) geopolymer were used in Cold Central Plant Recycling (CCPR) mixtures. The dynamic modulus test was used to appraise the viscoelastic properties of CCPR mixtures. The Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP) test was also utilized to investigate the long-term contaminants leaching. In addition, a cradle-to-grave Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA) were conducted to evaluate the potential environmental burdens and economic costs of pavement structures containing CCPR mixtures. Moreover, Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) analysis using four different methods was performed to determine the optimal sample. The results revealed that the recycling of OBDC and RAP in stabilized CCPR mixtures with FA geopolymer can improve the viscoelastic properties and prevent the leaching of contaminants from these waste materials. Furthermore, recycling of the mentioned waste materials in CCPR mixtures has caused a significant reduction in global warming, acidification, eutrophication, smog, respiratory effects, Human toxicity, ecotoxicity, and cumulative energy demand up to 41%, 36.6%, 73%, 43%, 47%, 34%, 73%, and 13%, respectively. Additionally, using CCPR mixtures containing the OBCD, RAP, and FA geopolymer in the pavement structure has led to economic benefits of up to 31% compared to the conventional pavement system. [Display omitted] • OBDC and RAP were recycled as alternative aggregates in CCPR mixtures. • Replacing RAP with OBDC enhanced the viscoelastic performance of CCPR mixtures. • Recycling OBDC and RAP in CCPR-stabilized mixtures with geopolymer lowers leaching. • LCA and LCCA reveal benefits from recycling OBDC and RAP compared to landfilling. • MCDM analysis was performed in order to determine the optimal mixture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research quantified the impact that truck mix, distress severity, and climate have on pavement damage and maintenance costs based on Long-Term Pavement Performance (LTPP) sections. Cost analysis was conducted using in-situ records of maintenance and rehabilitation data from 1988 to 2016. The paper quantified damage cost per VMT and ESAL-mile for each FHWA truck class. Economies of scale are evident in the cost per ESAL-mile relative to total pavement loading as segments carrying higher traffic loads require additional maintenance and rehabilitation, however additional cost for these procedures is outpaced by the increase in traffic resulting in a reduction in the pavement damage cost per ESAL-mile. The cost per ESAL-mile varied from $0.01 to $0.37 per ESAL-mile depending on total loading, a relationship that is accurately modeled (R2 = 0.97) using the developed power function. Results also show that vehicle class, and thereby the number and distribution of ESALs, significantly impacts the pavement damage cost. The research developed an accurate and robust model correlating pavement damage cost per ESAL-mile to the accumulated number of ESALs during the pavement service life. Transportation agencies can utilize this model to determine a fair variable compensation for the pavement damage imposed by individual trucks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Subsidy incentive programs for accelerating the replacement of construction equipment are widely considered effective for reducing emissions from construction equipment. However, there are no known effective models for determining the optimal subsidy levels for voluntary early replacement of in-use high-emission construction equipment. In this study, a novel quantitative model is developed to address this problem by integrating emission reduction targets and life cycle cost of construction equipment to calculate the reduced service life of an item of construction for early replacement. The economic life of construction equipment and its corresponding equivalent uniform annual cost (EUAC) can be determined by using a traditional life cycle cost analysis model. Optimal subsidy levels are obtained on the basis that the subsidized EUAC of a piece of construction equipment over its shortened service life is not more than that over its normal economic life. The applicability of the proposed model is demonstrated through a case study of a crawler crane used in Hong Kong, whereby the subsidy levels for accelerating its replacement are determined. An interview with the contractor's equipment manager responsible for the crawler crane is conducted to validate the findings of the model. It is found that the optimal subsidy levels determined by the model can accelerate the replacement of construction equipment and achieve the goal of reducing emissions from construction equipment. Replacing construction equipment earlier than its economic life is a plausible strategy for emissions reduction but places a heavy financial burden on contractors if there is no financial compensation. This study shows that the subsidy levels determined by the proposed model can adequately compensate for the extra costs incurred from early replacement and would therefore not financially discourage contractors. This model also shows that the cost-effectiveness of subsidies increases as emission reduction targets are set at higher levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transferability between input variables of life cycle cost analyses for concrete bridges Life cycle cost analyses are a method for prioritizing structures and measures in the context of building maintenance management. Life cycle cost analyses take into account a large number of different input variables, which in turn are themselves based on different parameters, because often infrastructure and real estate operators do not have all input variables available. This paper deals with the transferability of the different input variables and parameters in order to be able to perform a homogeneous life cycle cost analysis. For this purpose, a literature review and a subjective estimation of cross‐correlations were performed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Communication towers are vital assets in our daily lives as they transfer signals between cell phones facilitating communication and commerce among people and businesses all around the world. Wind loads are crucial in the communication towers design since they are tall and slender. With climate change bringing more storms and higher wind speeds, it is more crucial to research the finest tower structure that withstands such conditions with the least life cycle cost. Therefore, in this paper, a comparative case study is performed between 45 m height lattice tower and monopole tower in Egypt. Two locations were considered, the first is inside the city and the second is an open terrain. In addition, two load scenarios were investigated. The comparison parameters are the behavior under critical wind loads taking into account three wind speeds which are 100 km/hr, 130 km/hr and 140 km/hr, and life cycle cost analysis. It was found that the lattice tower behaves better under critical wind loads with a maximum tilting equal to 0.4784 degrees at location 1, load 2, and a wind speed of 140 km/hr compared to 0.5806 in the case of the monopole tower. Similarly, the lattice tower behaves better at the second location as well. However, the monopole tower has less life cycle cost with a total life cycle cost of 3,201,846.80 EGP compared to 4,380,419.91EGP in case of lattice tower. Therefore, based on the location, wind speed, and available land area, and life cycle cost assessment, the optimum tower structure could be selected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The European policy as well as the national legislation framework set targets toward energy reduction and decarbonization in all sectors. Considering the building sector a number of regulations have been defined in order to ensure the energy as well as the environmental upgrade of the building stock. The paper’s main target is to evaluate from the environmental perspective the green roofs technology in Southern Europe. Therefore, a Life Cycle Assessment has been performed following the international standards of ISO 14040 series, supported by SimaPro Software. The aim is to define the proposed green roof system, analyze its environmental impact and evaluate the air pollutants levels related to the life cycle of its construction materials. A comprehensive review of similar roof applications is presented and results are compared with the ones regarding conventional roof typologies. The economic feasibility of the proposed roof types is assessed and evaluated based on a Life Cycle Cost Analysis. Thus, an integrated evaluation approach for the examined solutions is introduced, mainly focusing on Mediterranean climatic conditions. Moreover, a sensitivity analysis is conducted in order to define the impact of green roofs construction’s life span in terms of maintenance and renovation. As concerns the comparison of the suggested two roof types, and based on the sensitivity analysis the Traditional Horizontal Roof is proved to cause less environmental impact comparing to the Extensive Green Roof mainly because of the components use. Finally, the use of different insulation materials is examined and evaluated from an environmental point of view for the suggested typologies that are most suitable for the Mediterranean climatic conditions. More specific based on the sensitivity analysis’ results, and as far as global warming category, in both green technologies, levels have dropped by approximately 61% (from 2,13 to 1,52 kgCO2 and from 3,08 to 2,46 kgCO2, respectively) when recycled extruded polysterene is used in the construction stages for insulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A life cycle framework for a new integrated classification system for buildings and the identification of renovation strategies that lead to an optimal balance between reduction of seismic vulnerability and increase of energy efficiency, considering both economic losses and environmental impacts, is discussed through a parametric application to an exemplificative case-study building. Such framework accounts for the economic and environmental contributions of initial construction, operational energy consumption, earthquake-induced damage repair activities, retrofitting interventions, and demolition. One-off and annual monetary expenses and environmental impacts through the building life cycle are suggested as meaningful performance metrics to develop an integrated classification system for buildings and to identify the optimal renovation strategy leading to a combined reduction of economic and environmental impacts, depending on the climatic conditions and the seismic hazard at the site of interest. The illustrative application of the framework to an existing school building is then carried out, investigating alternative retrofitting solutions, including either sole structural retrofitting options or sole energy refurbishments, as well as integrated strategies that target both objectives, with a view to demonstrate its practicality and to explore its ensuing results. The influence of seismic hazard and climatic conditions is quantitatively investigated, by assuming the building to be located into different geographic locations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ground source heat pumps (GSHPs) in tropical regions require a large-scale ground heat exchanger (GHE) owing to the excessive cooling load and high subsurface temperatures, resulting in increased initial costs and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in all phases, excluding the operation phase. However, investigations of the compatibility of GSHPs in tropical regions have been limited to evaluations based on energy consumption in the operation phase, leading to a lack of clarity regarding the contribution of increased initial cost and GHG emissions to the environmental compatibility and economic feasibility based on lifecycle aspects. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the GHG emissions over the entire life cycle and the cost payback time of a 20-kW capacity GSHP in Bangkok, Thailand, designed with a predicted 50-year heat sink temperature. The results confirmed that the required scale of GHEs is twice as large in tropical regions as in mid‒high latitude regions; nevertheless, the energy-saving of the GSHP resulted in an 8.8 % reduction in GHG emissions over the entire life cycle compared to an air source heat pump. However, the capital investment cannot be recovered within the lifetime of the GSHP, requiring incentives and cost reduction due to the growth of the GSHP market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considering the global energy consumption, it is imperative to focus on energy‐efficient buildings. For a multi‐storey factory building case study, the base case and design case energy consumption were compared with the actual one. The simulation proved that the design case values were less than that of the base case, and 18.9 % of energy saving could be achieved. The design case value was compared with the actual value and the simulation accuracy was assessed in terms of mean base error and cumulative root mean square error. A comparison was done for two conventional heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems with evaporative cooling pad system, which was found to be both energy‐ and cost‐efficient. A model for integrating the key factors during the construction of an energy‐efficient building is suggested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A growing world population with increasing levels of food consumption will lead to more dairy and swine production and increasing amount of manure that requires treatment. Discharge of excessive nutrients and carbon in untreated animal manure can lead to greenhouse gas emissions and eutrophication concerns, and treatment efforts can be expensive for small scale farmers in marginalized communities. The overall goal of this study was to determine the environmental and economic sustainability of four animal manure management scenarios in Costa Rica: (1) no treatment, (2) biodigesters, (3) biodigesters and struvite precipitation, and (4) biodigesters, struvite precipitation, and lagoons. Life cycle assessment was used to assess the carbon footprint and eutrophication potential, whereas life cycle cost analysis was used to evaluate the equivalent uniform annual worth over the construction and operation and maintenance life stages. Recovery of biogas as a cooking fuel and recovery of nutrients from the struvite reactor reduced the carbon footprint, leading to carbon offsets of up to 2,500 kg CO2 eq/year. Offsets were primarily due to avoiding methane emissions during energy recovery. Eutrophication potential decreased as resource recovery processes were integrated, primarily due to improved removal of phosphorus in effluent waters. Resource recovery efforts led to equivalent uniform annual benefits of $825 to $1,056/year, which could provide a helpful revenue source for lower-income farmers. This research can provide clarity on how small-scale farmers in marginalized settings can utilize resource recovery technologies to better manage animal manure, while improving economic and environmental sustainability outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Life cycle cost (LCC) analysis of MSW treatment systems was conducted for Mumbai. • Scenario with recycling and landfill was economically preferred than others. • Scenario with recycling, composting and incineration was the most cost-intensive. • Sensitivity analysis was done to measure the impact of crucial factors on net LCC. This study quantifies and compares the cost of municipal solid waste (MSW) management systems under different scenarios using life cycle cost (LCC) analysis approach. LCC analysis was performed for six integrated MSW management scenarios for Mumbai city, India which generates over 9000 metric tonnes of MSW daily and disposes most of it in open dumps. The scenarios are the combinations of recycling, composting, anaerobic digestion, incineration with electricity generation, and landfill with biogas recovery. To perform LCC analysis of scenarios, present worth method was used. The present worth of operations and maintenance (O&M) cost and revenue generated was estimated using a discount rate of 11.25% for a 20-year life span. Results show that the incineration based scenario is the most cost-intensive option with a net LCC of US$38 per tonne of MSW due to the high capital cost involved in case of incineration. While the scenario with a combination of recycling and sanitary landfill was the most economically viable option with a net LCC of US$19 per tonne of MSW due to comparative lower operating cost. The sensitivity analysis shows that the O&M cost was the most sensitive parameter and a change of ±10% and ±20% in O&M cost, the net LCC of scenarios changes in the range of 14–33% and 29–65%, respectively. This study provides an economic comparison of MSW treatment scenarios from a life cycle perspective, which facilitates the decision-making process for improvement in cost estimation and planning of waste management strategies in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, research has been carried out in which the optimum insulation thickness for the thermal insulation of buildings in all city centers of Turkey is determined according to life cycle cost analysis. Besides, the total annual net savings of the buildings in all city centers and the payback period of the insulation were concluded according to the determined optimum insulation thickness. In the calculations, it is assumed that natural gas is used for heating the buildings, and electrical energy is used for cooling. Besides, four different insulation materials (XPS, EPS, PUR, and Rock wool) were selected as the most preferred thermal insulation material in Turkey. The methods applied to determine the buildings' optimum insulation thickness are very time-consuming and dependent on many parameters. Twelve different models have been developed for all city centers that determine the optimum insulation thickness depending on the number of Degree-Days of buildings that need only heating, cooling only, heating and cooling to create a practical approach in determining the optimum insulation thickness. The regression analysis models' suitability using MATLAB R2019a program, with R2 values being the main criterion, SEE (Standard error estimate), and RMSE (Root mean square error) values are considered. Accordingly, when the similarity between the developed models and optimal insulation thicknesses obtained from theoretical calculations was examined, it was determined that R2 values were between 0.9683 and 0.9997. It is predicted that this study will provide a practical solution for researchers and designers working on this subject. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

How does the issue of the discount rate intersect the research on building energy efficiency and the topics into which it has branched? This contribution tries to answer the previous question through a comprehensive review of related studies. Those studies usually rely on two alternative assumptions. The first refers, explicitly or implicitly, to the notion of cost of capital and, hence, to the position of private stakeholders involved in the decision processes focusing on the adoption of energy-efficient measures in buildings. The second assumption relates to the notion of the social discount rate, which is meant to pursue intergenerational equity and environmental sustainability. As far as the results are concerned, the literature agrees that the discount rate is among the key parameters--possibly the most prominent--affecting the evaluation. However, despite the crucial role it plays, its calculation seldom relies on acknowledged methods and models. Furthermore, data sources sometimes lack consistency and accuracy. Some guidance and suggestions are provided as to the improvement of the discount rate estimation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, three different composite materials were produced from mixtures of natural and waste materials in different proportions. The produced composites were used to determine the insulation thickness of exterior walls of buildings located in 12 provinces selected from the four different climate zones of Turkey. The selection of provinces was made according to Turkish standard TS 825. The produced materials are thermal insulation elements that can be used instead of construction elements, such as brick, on the exterior walls of the buildings. In this study, only the heating of the buildings was considered and the number of heating degree days of the provinces was taken into account to determine the insulation thickness. The life cycle cost analysis method was used to determine the optimum insulation thickness. It was determined that the optimum insulation thickness values calculated for four different fuel types for the selected provinces varied between 0.170 m and 1.401 m. The annual energy requirement for the unit surface area of the exterior walls of the insulated buildings was determined to be 11,213–965,715 kJ·m−2 per year. Moreover, it was determined that the insulation costs ranged between $ 22,841 m−2 and $ 114,841 m−2, and the payback period ranged from approximately 2.5 to 6.5 years. It was concluded that using these new types of materials in the determined regions were advantageous in terms of thermal insulation, fire resistance, mechanical properties, production costs, extra labor costs, and optimum insulation thickness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to deal with one of the technical difficulties of private and social cost–benefit analysis, i.e. the choice of the proper cost–benefit aggregation rule (or method) to use, when a private capital investment decision has to be taken or a public project appraisal has to be carried out. Design/methodology/approach: Although the considerable amount of existing literature, the problem of the choice of the right mathematical aggregation rule is still an open one. The majority of authors claim that net present value is a superior method and thus it is the one to be always used. Other authors try to show that various aggregation methods, under specific conditions, arrive at the same recommendation. An exceptional case is the field of education economics where the internal rate of return is widely used. Findings: This paper offers a survey of this controversial topic which focuses on some clear cut formal properties of the various aggregation methods and considers the empirical characteristics of the different fields of application. Its main conclusion is that no "correct" aggregation rule, always applicable in all decision frameworks, can exist. Originality/value: Its main objective is to supply clear guidelines to orient practitioners and help the teaching on this topic. Its main conclusion is that no "correct" aggregation rule, always applicable in all decision frameworks, can exist. On the contrary, even if one restricts her/himself to a particular class of investments, often no clear-cut selection can be made. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to calculate the performance of the novel design of wet cooling tower (NDWCT) using first law (energy) and second law (exergy) of thermodynamics. Moreover, it determines the economic feasibility (cost savings and payback period) and sustainability of the NDWCT using the life-cycle cost (LCC) and environmental assessment method. An appropriate mathematical model is developed and simulated in Engineering Equation Solver to calculate water savings, performance and payback period of additional investment. The simulation results have a good agreement with the experimental outcomes (error 2.6%). Simulation results revealed that the NDWCT consumes 34.48% less water than the conventional wet cooling tower (WCT). The installation of heat exchanger improves the performance of WCT by 6% because the consumption of water to air ratio increases. Moreover, the exergy destruction in the NDWCT is 1.23 MW lower than the conventional WCT. Additionally, the heat exchanger costs k$30.7 to save an annual fuel cost of k$72 which could be recovered within a payback period of 0.37 years. Lastly, the environmental assessment proves that the NDWCT relinquishes the particulate matter emission by 0.042 g/s. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A framework for optimal design of lead rubber bearing (LRB) system is introduced based on the initial and life cycle cost of structures. The purpose of this framework is to minimize the initial and life cycle cost of building and simultaneously improve the seismic performance of the base isolated structure. Endurance time (ET) method is used to predict the seismic response of the building at continuous levels of hazard intensity. Before implementing the optimization process, a full factorial design is utilized, and the seismic performance of a total of 128 lead rubber base isolated structures with varying LRB design parameters is assessed using the ET analysis method. Accordingly, the parameters with the most significant impact on the responses are determined by the analysis of variance. These parameters are used as design variables in a multi-objective genetic algorithm to minimize the initial and life cycle cost of the building with LRB system. The cost analysis of the system requires evaluation of initial costs including the costs associated with the implementation of LRBs. To date, no appropriate cost model has been proposed for LRB systems in the literature; therefore, a simplified cost model for LRBs is developed. Also, a life cycle cost model is used to evaluate the structural performance in the form of economic measures based on the results obtained from the ET analysis. In order to illustrate the method, a prototype six-story building is studied here. According to the results, the proposed approach is found to be effective in reducing the initial and life cycle cost of the building with an acceptable amount of computational effort. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the economic and environmental impacts of insulation material are determined for different sizes of heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) duct. The optimum insulation thickness (OIT), energy-saving (ES) and payback period (PP) for HVAC duct are estimated using Life cycle cost (LCC) analysis. The analysis considers coal, natural gas (NG), liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), fuel oil (FO), bagasse, rice husk (RH) and geothermal as an energy source and the fiberglass as an insulation material. The results indicate the OIT and PP for an HVAC duct increase with the size of the duct while ES decreases. The maximum value of OIT, ES and minimum value of PP for different sizes and energy sources are determined as 48.27 mm in size A (300 mm) and NG, 84.91% in size E (500 mm) and LPG, and 0.2035 years in size A and NG, respectively. Additionally, the environmental analysis results indicate emission of CO2, CO and SO2 decreases with insulation thickness. The maximum value of CO2 and CO emission is determined for size E and NG i.e. 81.8% and SO2 emission for size E and FO i.e. 76.66%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change impacts such as extreme temperatures, snow and ice, flooding, and sea level rise posed significant threats to railway infrastructure networks. One of the important questions that infrastructure managers need to answer is, "How will maintenance costs be affected due to climate change in different climate change scenarios?" This paper proposes an approach to estimate the implication of climate change on the life cycle cost (LCC) of railways infrastructure assets. The proportional hazard model is employed to capture the dynamic effects of climate change on reliability parameters and LCC of railway assets. A use-case from a railway in North Sweden is analyzed to validate the proposed process using data collected over 18 years. The results have shown that precipitation, temperature, and humidity are significant weather factors in selected use-case. Furthermore, our analyses show that LCC under future climate scenarios will be about 11 % higher than LCC without climate impacts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cold-in-place recycling (CIR) is a sustainable road pavement maintenance technology for its on-site operation and complete reuse of reclaimed asphalt pavement. However, its sustainable performance has not been thoroughly investigated. This study aims to systematically assess and compare CIR against three alternative maintenance technologies from technical, cost and environmental perspectives, specially taking into account different numbers of repaired layers. The technical improvement in full-depth loading resistance is evaluated using a newly developed multi-sequenced repeated load (MSRL) test. Environmental impacts are assessed through life cycle assessment (LCA), while cost analysis is conducted using life cycle cost analysis (LCCA), with consistent system boundary applied. Additionally, a nexus analysis is performed using a modified Boston Consulting Group (BCG) matrix to comprehensively examine the sustainable performance of different treatments and further explore the synergies and trade-offs among various assessment aspects. The multi-dimensional sustainable assessment results reveal the influence factors in each perspective. Final BCG matrix shows that CIR can achieve the comparable technical performance to the conventional maintenance treatment, while reducing GHG emissions by 60.8% and cost by 45.8%. The methodology and findings of this study are expected to provide helpful insights for decision-makers in reducing negative impacts and promoting integrated management for sustainability. • CIR achieves comparable tech performance to conventional maintenance, reducing GWP by 60.8% and cost by 45.8%. • Material activities contribute most to GWP (74.1%–89.8%) and cost (69.5%–83.6%). • Pavement condition before maintenance is vital for enhancing rutting resistance during maintenance. • Thickness of new layer impacts construction cost, with potential increase of 30.5%–40.8% for every additional 2 cm thickness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Magnetically separable biomass-derived nanocatalyst for biodiesel production. • RSM-CCD enables efficient optimization of reaction parameters. • A high biodiesel yield of 96.5 % was obtained under microwave irradiation. • Catalyst reusability is displayed up to 6 reaction cycles achieving 80.6 % yield. • According to life cycle cost analysis price of 1 kg of biodiesel is merely $1.05. An active, high surface area, recyclable, magnetic, basic, iron oxide-based nanocatalyst was developed from banana leaves waste and used for microwave-assisted transesterification of soybean oil to biodiesel. According to the Hammett indicator, the catalyst has a high total basicity of 15 < H < 18.4. After optimization through the response surface methodology, the reaction allows 96.5 % biodiesel yield in the presence of 24:1 methanol to soybean oil molar ratio, 6 wt% BLW@Fe 3 O 4 , 0.5 h at 65 °C. The magnetic nature of the catalyst improves reusability for up to 6 cycles. Thermodynamic analyses showed that transesterification of soybean oil to biodiesel is an endothermic reaction. Moreover, the catalyst has the potential to reduce biodiesel production costs by utilizing abundant biomass waste materials. The calculated cost for 1 kg of catalyst is $1.14, while the biodiesel's cost per kg produced in this work is merely $1.05, showing high commercial viability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to determine the thermal, acoustic, and hygroscopic properties of materials designed for building thermal insulation. These materials are composed of cardboard reinforced with fibers sourced from date palm trees. The composite formulation involves a mixture of 40% date palm components, including pinnate leaves, clusters, trunk petioles, and palm fibers, along with 60% cellulose-based cardboard waste. Water is used as the binding agent, eliminating the need for additional chemicals or additives. For the assessment, thermal conductivity, thermal diffusivity, normal transmission loss (TL), and the acoustic absorption coefficient were measured using the hot plane method, flash method and acoustic impedance tube, respectively. The results indicate that the developed composites have thermal conductivity values ranging from 0.074 to 0.081 W/m.K for a density ranging from 226.6 to 312.8 kg/m³. Additionally, the sound transmission loss coefficients exceed 5 dB in the frequency range of 500–1400 Hz, and the acoustic absorption coefficient is greater than 0.4 across a wide range of frequencies from low to high frequencies (200 Hz–1400 Hz). Furthermore, after 6 h of water immersion, a minimal capillary water absorption coefficient of 203% is achieved. What sets this study apart is the comprehensive life cycle cost analysis performed, shedding light on the sustainability of these materials. The optimization of insulation thickness was also conducted, determining optimal values based on climate conditions and energy sources. Overall, this innovative approach offers environmentally friendly and sustainable insulation options for the construction industry, integrating thermal and acoustic properties, life cycle cost analysis, and insulation thickness optimization. [Display omitted] • The materials studied are based on cardboard waste and date palm fibers. • The thermal conductivity of materials developed is between 0.074 and 0.081 W/m.K. • The sound absorption coefficient of materials developed is greater than 0.4. • The materials developed help to enhance comfort thermal and reduce energy consumption. • The optimum thickness is determined based on climatic conditions and energy sources. • The materials developed are eco-friendly, and contribute to reducing GHG emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Textile envelope integrated flexible photovoltaic (TE-FPV) systems gain more attentions in recent years because of their lightweight structure and innovative design. Three types of TE-FPV systems are designed as a sunshade for a teaching building in Politecnico di Milano to replace the current PV glazing sunshade. The environmental and economic feasibility of TE-FPV systems is investigated by applying life cycle assessment (LCA) and life cycle cost analysis (LCCA) in a cradle-to-cradle approach. LCA provides carbon footprint of systems to quantify the environmental performance. LCCA study considers the contribution of life cycle cost, building owner income, and social and environmental benefits. The results are compared with the PV glazing sunshade. From the results, all TE-FPV systems can achieve the economic benefits for the whole society while producing renewable and clean energy. Building owner can even earn benefits from the TE-FPV systems in Norway. The proved success of economically feasible TE-FPV systems in Bergen, Norway serves as compelling evidence for the broad applicability of such systems across the most areas within Europe. • The concept of the TE-FPV system is reinforced for the diffusion. • The influence of social and environmental factors on profitability is involved. • The feasibility of perovskite solar cells in the real projects is investigated. • The technical improvement of perovskite solar cells is considered. • TE-FPV systems are feasible for the most areas within Europe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the importance of achieving carbon neutrality continues to grow, green hydrogen energy has emerged as a promising solution as a clean and sustainable energy source. One of the environmentally friendly methods of producing hydrogen is through offshore wind energy, which generates no pollutants during the process. While there have been economic analyses conducted on this production process, the subsequent life cycle study of hydrogen transport scenarios is often overlooked. To bridge this gap, this study focuses on conducting a comprehensive life cycle cost analysis of two hydrogen transport scenarios that utilize ammonia as the carrier. The analysis encompasses various aspects, including life cycle cost analysis, net present value, and the calculation of the levelized cost of hydrogen. Comprehensive sensitivity analysis is performed, considering indicators such as boil-off gas leakage rate and annual transportation mass. Furthermore, this study analyzes the operational risk rate and payback period of the two transportation scenarios. The findings reveal that for transportation distances within 100 km, the life cycle construction cost for the pipeline transport scenario amounts to 761 M$, whereas for ship transportation, it is 201 M$. The annual transport mass for the pipeline is estimated to be 12,000 metric tons, while for the ship, it is 8600 metric tons. The levelized cost of hydrogen is calculated to be 14.62 $/kg for pipeline transportation and 15.54 $/kg for ship transportation. Notably, the annual transport mass emerges as a significant factor impacting the levelized cost of hydrogen in both scenarios. Furthermore, by achieving an annual transport mass of 18,000 metric tons, the levelized cost of hydrogen can be reduced to 10.42 $/kg when the transportation distance extends to 450 km. This highlights the importance of considering the annual transport mass to optimize the cost-efficiency of hydrogen transportation. [Display omitted] • Life cycle cost analysis is conducted for ammonia-based hydrogen transport. • Two typical offshore hydrogen transport scenarios are studied comparatively. • Net present value, leveling cost of hydrogen, and contribution rate are considered. • Annual transport mass is a vital factor affecting levelized cost of hydrogen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highway pavement construction with recycled solid waste materials had become a sustainable topic of great concern recently, due to the potential environmental and economic benefits behind. This review focused on the emerging Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA) studies concerning the recycling of solid waste in highway pavement. Firstly, based on the existing studies, the application of most recycled solid waste materials (e.g. recycled asphalt pavement, steel slag and coal fly ash) in highway pavement performed satisfactorily from the environmental and economic perspectives, concretely manifested in the reduction of energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, costs and other indicators. However, several factors, such as lengthened transport distance of recycled waste solid materials and potential leaching of heavy metals, might hinder the recycling. Moreover, it was necessary to pay more attention to pavement use phase, allocation procedure and transport distance of recycled solid waste materials, which had significant impacts on LCA result. In terms of existing LCCAs, the importance of analysis period and discount rate was highlighted and the most practical economic indicator was Net Present Value (NPV). For future study, allocation was still an important issue for future LCA studies and further sensitivity analyses could focus on the selection of transport modes (in LCA), analysis periods and discount rates (in LCCA). Meanwhile, future research should emphasis on the recycling of solid waste in pavement maintenance and rehabilitation projects rather than new construction. A multi-criteria assessment integrated LCA and LCCA as well as other considerations (e.g. an advanced risk assessment) was recommended to determine the most sustainable recycling scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) ducts distribute the conditioned air to different zones. They are installed outside in a harsh environment which escalates the energy loss due to heat transfer. This study aims to estimate the economically feasible and environmental amiable insulation thickness for HVAC duct using life cycle cost (LCC) and environmental assessment method. It deems five insulation materials for the duct and eight energy sources for chiller operation in selected countries. It uses the design and operating parameters of the duct installed in a renowned pharmaceutical company at Jamshoro/Pakistan. An apropos mathematical model is developed using the collected parameters to calculate optimum insulation thickness (OIT), LCC, maximum energy savings (ES) at minimum payback period (PP) and emission reduction in the insulated duct. It examines the effect of insulation thickness on economic and environmental outcomes using the linear slope line regression method. The results revealed that the use of EP and natural gas has minimum LCC of 13.66 $/m-year (− 0.484), 95% ES (0.248) corresponding to OIT (64.64 mm) with minimum PP of 1.2 years (decreasing at a rate of − 3.69 with insulation thickness). Fuel consumption reduces dramatically (− 0.79) and once OIT is achieved, further increasing insulation thickness has a negligible impact on fuel savings (− 0.041). Higher fuel cost produces maximum ES in the duct and reduces PP of insulation cost in selected countries but they do not affect the variation in fuel consumption and CO, CO 2 and SO 2 emission. Additionally, OIT of EP for duct reduces CO and CO 2 emission at a maximum rate of -0.134 in case LPG (96%) and − 0.484 (95%) in the case of natural gas, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Photovoltaic (PV) greenhouses generate solar electricity while providing a suitable environment for crop production. Energy and life cycle cost (LCC) analysis were employed to study the potential for installing semi-transparent photovoltaic (STPV) cladding on the roof of a greenhouse that employs supplemental lighting located in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada (45.4°N). The study was conducted using current and future projected (future projection study) values for the efficiency of PV and horticultural lighting technology. The STPV cladding generated solar electricity but also caused internal shading that was counteracted by augmenting supplemental lighting by as much as 84%, which in turn reduced heating energy use by up to 12%. Although STPV cladding increased lighting electricity use, it generated 43.7% of the electricity that was consumed for supplemental lighting in the present study and 107.2% in the future projection study. Therefore, in the future, a STPV roof could potentially displace all the greenhouse's electricity needs for supplemental lighting. Currently, STPV cladding would not an economically attractive investment. However, a nearly 23% reduction in LCC was achieved in the future projection study. STPV will increasingly become a promising cladding alternative for improving energy efficiency and economics of greenhouse operations. Highlights • Greenhouse envelope design was performed using energy and economic analysis. • A semi-transparent photovoltaics (STPV) roof was investigated for Ottawa, Canada. • Up to 23% reduction in life cycle cost was achieved in the future projection study. • In the future, STPV could produce all lighting electricity needed for crop growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recovery of water, energy, and nutrients from water resource recovery facilities (WRRFs) is needed to address significant global challenges, such as increasing water demand and decreasing availability of nonrenewable resources. To meet these challenges, innovative technological developments must lead to increased adoption of water and resource recovery processes, while addressing stakeholder needs (e.g., innovators, practitioners, regulators). A test bed network of over 90 partner facilities within the United States and abroad will help accelerate innovation and widespread adoption of novel processes through multiscale testing and demonstration of technologies. In this paper, we define a common set of environmental, economic, technical, and social performance metrics for innovative technologies, that will meet the needs of multiple stakeholders in the decision‐making process. These triple bottom line performance metrics can be used to track the sustainability of technologies in a consistent and transparent manner, while aiding the decision‐making process for WRRFs. Practitioner points: The Facilities Accelerating Science and Technology (FAST) Water Network includes over 90 test bed facilities dedicated to accelerating innovation and adoption of water energy, and nutrient recovery systems.A common set of environmental, economic, technical, and social performance metrics should be measured and reported when a new technology is evaluated in the FAST Water Network.Performance metrics can aid sustainable decision‐making at WRRF, while meeting the needs of multiple stakeholders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]