The Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute (PCI) is partnering with the Canadian Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute (CPCI) and the National Precast Concrete Association (NPCA) to perform a life-cycle assessment (LCA) of precast concrete components.
"Overall, the objective of this research is to foster a better understanding of the use of precast/prestressed concrete components and, if needed, make modifications to our processes to reduce our environmental impact," noted Emily Lorenz. P.E., LEED AP, PCI's director of sustainability.
Phase one of the research, scheduled to be completed by September 2009, is a life-cycle assessment of the precast concrete from cradle to completion and occupancy of the structure — including the impacts of raw material extraction and precast concrete product manufacturing to product transportation and building construction.
Phase two, scheduled to start immediately following phase one, will model the actual use of the building.
To learn more about this research and sustainability, visit www.pci.org.
