An Application of Discrete-Event Simulation in Estimating Emissions from Equipment Operations in Flexible Pavement Construction Projects

Abstract

Abstract. This paper presents a comprehensive model with an application of discrete-event simulation (DES) that facilitates an estimation of CO2 emissions resulting from equipment operation in flexible pavement construction. While there are a number of past studies applying a DES technique to the construction process, they mostly concentrate on a single process rather than an entire project. The constructed model aims to improve the current body of knowledge in two aspects: (1) the development of a comprehensive construction operation diagram representing flexible pavement construction and (2) the application of DES that contributes to a more reliable result of the environmental impact. An application example of the real expressway project in Thailand was analyzed to demonstrate the use and capabilities of the developed model in evaluating the environmental impact in terms of CO2 emissions. The findings will provide a holistic environmental perspective to transportation planners and help them in analyzing their resource allocation in order to make the projects more eco-friendly.

Design of Supply Chain Transportation Pooling Strategy for Reducing CO2 Emissions Using a Simulation-Based Methodology: A Case Study

“…For instance, Sopha et al [25] developed an integrated approach based on agent-based modeling and DES to evaluate CO 2 emission to decide between the existing evacuation plan for the Mount Merapi volcano eruption. Li and Lei [26] and Limsawasd and Athigakunagorn [27] applied DES in estimating and analyzing CO 2 emission construction engineering projects.…”

“…However, Gansterer et al [9] have not quantified explicitly the CO 2 emissions and the environmental aspect is not considered. In other examples [13][14][15][16][17][18][19][20][21][22][23][24][25][26][27][28], the GHG emissions is explicitly studied as benefits of supply chain collaboration.…”

Effective Crew Allocation Using Discrete-Event Simulation: Building Scaffolding Case Study in Thailand

“…As DES has been widely recognized in constructionoriented research, it has been adopted to address many aspects in construction projects. For example, [5], [6], and [11] used DES in evaluating the environmental impacts due to construction activities. In addition, [3] and [15] demonstrated an application of DES in planning construction processes that depend greatly on the utilization of heavy equipment fleets.…”

“…Evidence [3][4] has been presented on the successful implementation of computer-based modelling and simulation in analyzing construction operations over the past decades. Several studies have enumerated applications and the advantages of using computer modelling and simulation tools in construction [5][6][7][8][9][10][11].…”