Work

Modeling the urban stock and lifecycles of bridges: An integrated framework for dynamic-locational material flow analysis

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The paper introduces a dynamic-locational MFA model to analyze the urban stock of bridges by integrating quantity, time, and location in one framework. The model is developed to assess existing materials in the urban stock, predict future demolition activities, quantify material flows, and analyze their spatial distribution. The derived framework depends on the structural conditions to anticipate lifetime and survival. For the empirical analysis and demonstration, a dataset of >12,000 bridges in North Rhine-Westphalia was compiled to provide the required information such as location, area, type and material. The analyses demonstrate significant variability in material flows across different times and locations. Some regions exhibited exceptional material flows, while others had very low flows, highlighting the importance of temporal and spatial aspects. The results also predict significant material flows over the next two decades in the investigated region, underscoring the urgency of circular economy and closer cooperation between stakeholders.

Source: Resources Conservation and Recycling

DOI: 10.1016/j.resconrec.2025.108232

Authors: Stefan Lange, Ali Abdelshafy, Grit Walther

Institution: RWTH Aachen University

Language: English

Topic: Sustainability and Ecological Systems Analysis

Subfield: Environmental Engineering

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Sustainable cities and communities, Responsible consumption and production, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $5,270