For decades, the construction industry has been a major contributor to global energy consumption and CO2 emissions. In addition, construction projects account for a significant portion of air pollution, drinking water contamination, and landfill garbage, which can affect the lives of millions of Australians in the long run.
With environmental impact at an all-time high, major efforts to elevate sustainable construction have emerged in recent years. Many developers have adopted various practices that allow them to design, construct, and operate without depleting natural resources and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Adopting fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) materials is a proactive approach to transforming construction projects. As one of the most sustainable building materials, FRP ensures that structures are long-lasting, safe to use, and have minimal environmental impact.
Understanding the Carbon Footprint of Traditional Materials
Construction companies heavily rely on steel, concrete, aluminium, and wood for different projects. However, the production, transport, and use of these traditional materials strain the supply of natural resources and cause significant carbon emissions. In fact, the sector accounts for up to 21% of global GHG emissions.
For instance, the cement and concrete industry, commonly used for some of the most important infrastructures, such as bridges, roads, and dams, releases an enormous amount of carbon emissions. The sector produces around 2.3 billion metric tons of carbon annually, while the iron and steel sector also contributes up to 2.6 billion tonnes of emissions.
In addition to this, there is also the problem of waste generation, as traditional materials often generate a large amount of waste in the construction and demolition phases. Most materials are also designed to be single-use, and they can end up in landfills, which contributes to long-term environmental degradation.
What Makes FRP Structures More Sustainable?
The shared need of every construction-related business to lower carbon emissions and find the best alternatives led to the rise of FRP adoption. FRP’s characteristics are adjustable depending on the application, giving modern contractors flexibility in design and functionality. In addition, FRP has several advantages that make it generate much less carbon during its lifetime.
Lower Energy Consumption in Manufacturing
Yes, resin infusion, pultrusion, or compression moulding will require high temperatures to turn the polymer matrix into an FRP product, typically not exceeding 200°C. However, the process of making FRP still requires significantly less energy than the energy needed to produce traditional building materials.
Steel usually melts at over 1200°C, while aluminium melts at over 660°C. Meanwhile, concrete production relies on high-temperature cement kilns that also consume vast amounts of energy.
The lower energy requirement for FRP production translates into fewer GHG emissions during production, lowering the structure’s carbon footprint.
Lightweight Nature and Transportation Benefits
Transporting materials requires frequent trips and a significant amount of fuel, especially for heavier materials like concrete. But one of the standout features of FRP is its lightweight nature, allowing them to be transported faster and in fewer trips. They are often 25%-75% lighter than concrete or steel (depending on application), providing several logistical benefits, including:
- Reduced Transport Emissions: The lighter weight allows for more FRP materials to be transported per trip, reducing the required number of shipments.
- Fuel Usage: Lesser trips to transport FRP to the project site mean less fuel consumption and GHG emissions.
- Simplified Logistics: Handing FRP is much easier, reducing the need for heavy machinery that also adds to carbon emissions when loading or unloading the material.
Longevity and Durability
FRP products are built to last. Their remarkable lifespan can outperform traditional materials, reducing the cumulative carbon emissions associated with frequent maintenance work or material turnover.
In addition, FRP’s longevity results in minimal replacements over time (unless it is really damaged and no longer functional). Traditional materials are highly prone to rust, cracks, moisture, and fire damage. FRP is built to withstand extreme usage, allowing developers to save on material costs and on energy required to manufacture and install replacements.
Resistance to Environmental Damage
FRP’s remarkable resistance to damage caused by natural disasters and conditions also contributes to its durability and sustainability. When exposed to high levels of moisture or chemicals, it does not corrode as easily as steel, reducing the need for regular maintenance work like painting and sealing.
This also translates to a lower lifecycle environmental impact as the reduced upkeep needed requires fewer resources for the lifecycle of FRP structures.
Real-World Applications of FRP in Sustainable Construction
FRP products are increasingly being employed in various construction projects as they align with modern sustainability goals. Here are some ways FRP helps contractors achieve sustainable construction.
Bridges and Other Infrastructure Projects
The use of FRP in bridges and other public infrastructures offers several sustainability advantages. A study on ResearchGate showed that bridges made with composites have significantly lower carbon emissions from production, delivery, and maintenance compared to those made with structural steel, stainless steel, aluminium, and reinforced concrete.
FRP allows for lightweight construction of these infrastructures, simplifying the logistical and installation process without compromising safety. Their ability to withstand heavy loads and extreme conditions makes them ideal for highways, pedestrian walkways, and overpasses.
Marine and Waterfront Structures
Structures made on marine and waterfront structures, such as boardwalks, boat ramps, jetties, and floating farms, are subject to moisture that can cause degradation over time. Steel can easily rust in these conditions, while wood is at risk of water damage that can make structures unsafe for use.
FRP’s corrosion resistance properties allow it to remain unaffected by exposure to salt, humidity, and other marine conditions. This makes it suitable for docks, piers, seawalls, and other structures where sustainability and durability are paramount.
Industrial and Commercial Buildings
FRP can also be used for various structures in industrial and commercial settings, providing optimal energy efficiency and sustainable operations. FRP handrails, panels, ladders, and platforms are much lighter than those made with steel, simplifying the installation process and reducing the energy required to transport them to the site.
Moreover, FRP claddings offer remarkable resistance to weathering, UV radiation, and chemicals, ensuring that they maintain integrity even with minimal maintenance work. Their high strength-to-weight ratio also makes them ideal for load-bearing elements, including beams, columns, and trusses.
Conclusion
The efforts to curb the high levels of carbon emissions in the construction industry make FRP the ideal solution for countless projects. Using FRP aligns with the goals of significantly reducing the sector’s environmental impact, allowing for more sustainable and durable construction of structures that can be used for a long time.
If you are interested in adopting FRP for your upcoming projects and are looking for the best Australian supplier, DM Composites is for you. We have been the standout choice for many Australian public and private organisations, consistently delivering quality and sustainable solutions to our partners.
Visit www.dmcomposites.com.au/contact-us if you have inquiries about our products and services.
Read More:
Why FRP Adoption Will be the Trend for Australian Projects in 2025
Understanding the Role of FRP’s Fire Resistance Qualities in Industrial Safety Measures
