| This report discusses recent examples of the application of LCCA on FRP structures in Japan, and considers the necessary conditions for the adoption of FRP structural materials. The results shows that the cost of producing the FRP structures was around 50% - 100% more than a conventional structures, however lighter FRP structure enables savings on substructure and installation cost, and the overall initial cost compares favorably with the conventional structures. Where the initial costs are roughly equivalent and the structure is to be used in a high corrosive environment, ongoing maintenance costs are lower as a result the overall LCC will be lower. |
