Work

Optimization of steel-UHPC composite girder bridges for lightweight and eco-efficient design

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Infrastructure construction demands fast and industrialized methods to deliver more sustainable and durable solutions. The application of composite structures using Ultra-High-Performance-Concrete (UHPC) emerges as a potential strategy to enhance structural efficiency, extend service life, reduce environmental impacts, and design lightweight structures. However, there is still a lack of studies applying automated optimization techniques to steel-Ultra-High-Performance-Concrete (UHPC) for those purposes. In bridge projects, the superstructure alone accounts for approximately 50% of carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions during material supply, transport, and manufacturing. In this context, this study aims to replace an ordinary concrete slab with UHPC, and the composite section is optimized using heuristic optimization combined with a nonlinear finite element model. The optimization resulted in a weight reduction of up to 38% and a 4% smaller carbon footprint than the original section. Thus, the solutions will have an extended life cycle with a smaller carbon footprint, combined with an accelerated construction process due to more lightweight components.

Source: Structures

DOI: 10.1016/j.istruc.2026.112496

Authors: Gustavo Moura, Vinicius Parolin, Paula O. Ribeiro, Pablo A. Krahl

Institutions: Universidade Estadual de Maringá, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, Universidade Presbiteriana Mackenzie

Language: English

Topic: Structural Engineering and Materials Analysis

Subfield: Civil and Structural Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

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

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,510