Comparison of mass timber structure and RC structure with regard to sustainability by life cycle assessment

Abstract

Since the 18th-century Industrial Revolution, high-rise have played a crucial role in addressing urbanization challenges, remaining a primary solution for urban living. However, this architectural advancement has also contributed to environmental decline. Presently, steel and concrete stand out as the predominant materials for high-rise construction, with well-documented significant carbon emissions. This paper delves into the potential of timber as an environmentally friendly alternative in high-rise construction to address such environmental concerns. Furthermore, it examines the impact of these structures on land load. The paper conducts a comprehensive review of life cycle assessment (LCA) studies and offers a comparative analysis of the climate change impacts associated with timber versus conventional materials like reinforced concrete (RC), underscoring the urgent need for sustainable development in the vertical expansion of our cities. The findings demonstrate that both the mass and carbon emissions of high-rise timber structures, in comparison to RC structures, can be reduced by approximately half. The paper aims to underscore the benefits of timber in comparison to conventional reinforced concrete methods, thereby informing material selection in favor of sustainable urban development.