Carbon fiber reinforcement compared to steel as areinforcement method

This study analyzes how the choice between steel and carbon fiber reinforcement affects climate impact, use of space and the cost of strengthening existing concrete structures. A constructed case study is evaluated, in which columns and slabs have reduced load-bearing capacity and require reinforcement. The investigation is based on carbon fiber products from the company Sika and the steel reinforcement is from an anonymous manufacturer. The analysis is based on approximate bearing capacity calculations to acquire the required amount of reinforcement materials, which is translated to weight, volume and carbon dioxide equivalents for each material. A sensitivity analysis was conducted to account for uncertainties by varying the degree of structural damage and the climate impact of carbon fiber. Results show that in the studied case carbon fiber reinforcement reduces material weight by 97% and volume by 87% compared to steel. Despite having higher emissions per kilogram the low weight of carbon fiber leads to a 70% reduction in climate impact. The purchase cost increases by approximately 128%. The study concludes that carbon fiber is a suitable alternative in confined projects with strict environmental goals. It also aims to raise awareness within the construction industry that carbon fiber exists as a practical and sustainable alternative for structural reinforcement.