Composite
resistant to salt and frost
Composite is resistant to salt and frost, and can be very advantageous compared to concrete and steel. The weight is of the essence. A composite bridge has a weight that is 40% lower than steel, and 30% lower than concrete.
The environmental benefits are also optimal. In a study, in which the accumulated energy level and C02 footprint of different types of bridges are compared, the results show that composite materials have greater environmental benefits compared to steel and concrete:
| Material choice: | The accumulated energy content: (Prod. of raw materials, prod. process, transport, disassembly and recirculation) | CO2 footprints: (Total content of GHG through the lifecycle) |
|---|---|---|
| Steel bridge | 3380 GJ | 178 tons CO2 |
| Composite bridge w/ carbon fiber | 2210 GJ | 108 tons CO2 |
| Concrete bridge | 1978 GJ | 145 tons CO2 |
| Composite bridge w/glassfiber | 652 GJ | 75 tons CO2 |