ECO-STRENGTHENING: Environmental Carbon Optimization for Structural Strengthening Decisions
Year: 2026
Type: software
Abstract: ECO-STRENGTHENING is a web-based decision-support application developed within the SITAR project to support the sustainable strengthening of existing reinforced concrete structures. The tool enables users to compare alternative strengthening strategies and replacement scenarios based on both structural performance and embodied carbon emissions. The application evaluates textile-reinforced mortar/concrete (TRM/TRC), fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP), new member design, and retrofit versus replacement solutions using a unified framework. It assists engineers and decision-makers in identifying low-carbon interventions while achieving the required increase in flexural capacity. The tool consists of four integrated modules: Design Charts for rapid parametric exploration of strengthening solutions. Worked Example for detailed assessment and optimization of a specific reinforced concrete member. New Member Design for embodied-carbon optimization of newly constructed reinforced concrete elements. Retrofit vs. Replacement for direct environmental comparison between strengthening and demolition-and-rebuild strategies. Key Features Comparison of TRM/TRC and FRP strengthening systems. Embodied carbon assessment and ranking of alternative strengthening solutions. Evaluation of retrofit versus replacement scenarios. Optimization of reinforced concrete member design based on environmental performance. Interactive graphical outputs for engineering decision-making. Access the online application https://sitar-strengthening-tool.streamlit.app/ This Zenodo record provides the official user manual and documentation for the application. The source code is not included in this repository. Support and Feedback Users are encouraged to test the application and provide feedback regarding functionality, usability, and future improvements. Continuous development and refinement of the tool are ongoing. Contact [email protected]
Author: Azdejkovic, Lazar
Institution: FH Kärnten
Language: English
Subfield: Building and Construction
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7225409486