Life cycle assessment of CSR autoclaves lightweight concrete production in Malaysia

Abstract

[Abstract]: This project is seeks to investigate the product of CSR autoclaves lightweight concrete (ALC) as well as to produce an outline of life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology and lastly to set up a model. In order to achieve the aim of the project, literature review of Life Cycle Assessment related to building and construction industries have been carried. Damage to human health, ecosystem quality and resources will be shown in the LCA model. These results can be used as guidance for future improvement of the CSR ALC products. The improvement also can minimise the occupational health and safety risks in the process. LCA model is an idea tool to reduce the environment impact and help to achieve sustainable development. It is internationally recognized as a method which complies with international standards (ISO 14040-14049). LCA also is a potentially powerful tool which can assist regulators to formulate environmental legislation. Besides that, LCA helps manufacturers analyse their processes, improve their products, and perhaps enable consumers to make more informed choices. History of life cycle assessment is introduced in the first section in this chapter. Life Cycle assessment is made of the methodology, data demand and software. These are the three main components to make a Life Cycle Assessment. At the present time, it is used by industry, government and consumers. Last but not least, even though LCA is largely used today, but there are some of limitations encounter during the process. Usually the limitations are due to lack of knowledge, databases, finance and long duration of time to carry out the job. The inventory results have proved that CSR block is an environmental friendly product. Even though, the most serious impacts on environment are caused by cement, which is up to 79.2 % of the total impacts. The least environmental impact caused by the product or process in each stage its life cycle is the truck (0.249%), Cutting process (0.17%) and the remaining process is 0.146%.