LIFE-CYCLE COSTS VERSUS LIFE-CYCLE PERFORMANCE

The use of life cycle costs as part of the decision criteria in evaluating alternatives for material to be used in bridge construction is discussed. The problems associated with implementing models for evaluating the life cycle costs of bridge construction alternatives are noted. The difficulty with using life cycle cost criteria is due primarily to the lack of reliable, consistent data on which to base an analytical model, and to the significant variations among bridges that are in service in terms of their structural characteristics, usage, and the environment. The feature of life cycle cost models are discussed, as well as performance, the National Bridge Inventory, in-service review of bridges, their design and corrosion.