Document Type
Conference Paper
Disciplines
2. ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY, Civil engineering, 2.7 ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING
Abstract
The construction sector significantly contributes to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, resource consumption, and waste generation, with structural materials accounting for up to 40% of embedded carbon. This study investigates the integration of Building Information Modelling (BIM), Finite Element Analysis (FEA), and Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) tools to promote sustainable structural design. Using a BIM model of a Valencian barraca, three scenarios were evaluated: traditional materials (adobe and wood), concrete with steel, and concrete with Cross- Laminated Timber (CLT). Results show that natural materials generate lower impacts, while steel and concrete exhibit higher emissions. This work proposes a workflow integrating BIM, FEA, and LCA to incorporate sustainability metrics, ensure regulatory compliance, and support informed decision-making. Key recommendations include improving Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs), developing structure-specific benchmarks, and achieving real-time BIMLCA interoperability. Keywords: BIM, LCA, structural.
DOI
https://doi.org/10.4995/EUBIM2025.2025.21154
Recommended Citation
Selfa, Oscar; McAuley, Barry; and Lakhera O'Shea, Kieran, "Exploring BIM Capabilities For Life Cycle Assessment In Structural Projects: A Valencian Barraca Case Study For Sustainable Material Choices" (2025). Conference Papers. 18.
https://arrow.tudublin.ie/archastrocon/18
Creative Commons License

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Included in
Architectural History and Criticism Commons, Other Engineering Science and Materials Commons
Publication Details
© 2025,of the current edition: Editorial Universitat Politècnica de València. www.lalibreria.upv.es
Ref.: 6017_02_01_01
ISBN: 978-84-1396-354-9
doi:10.4995/EUBIM2025.2025.21154