Tunnel Carbon Calculator
Calculate the CO2 emissions created by a tunnelling project.
Input tunnel geometry
We use the method featured in the Tunnel Journal April/May 2021 edition. Read more about this method here.
Internal diameter
m
Enter a number between 2 & 15.
Thickness
mm
Enter a number between 50 and 750.
Length
m
Enter a number greater than 0.
Carbon emmissions prediction
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Total carbon emissions: - tonnes (CO2 eq)
Carbon emissions per m length: - tonnes/m (CO2 eq)
Assumptions:
Full construction lifecycle is considered (LCA) including production, construction, use and end-of-life and the estimate is best suited for a road or metro tunnel.
The estimate assumes that segmental primary lining considered only, constructed by TBM, SFRC of 35kg/m3 included and a C50/60 concrete is specified.
Does not include:
Secondary lining, Shaft construction, M&E or operation, no segment bar reinforcement, no optimised logistics or delivery method is considered.
Carbon reduction suggestions
Material Optimisations:
Estimated saving: - tonnes of CO2 (-%)This saving is equivalent to - round the world flights. ✈
Optimisation summary
| Original CO2 prediction | - tonnes CO2 eq |
| CO2 prediction with material optimisation | - tonnes CO2 eq |
Further details
Requirements for material optimisations:
- An inert single component annulus grout with lower cement content is specified, instead of a typical two component grout.
- An early strength enhancing material is specified in the segmental lining concrete mix to reduce curing time.
- There is a huge discrepency between the wider environmental impact of different types of grout.
- Read a more detailed explanaition of the requirements for these material optimisations here
Design Optimisations:
Our data indicates that an estimated tunnel lining thickness of -mm has been used on - similar projects.
Optimisation summary
| Original CO2 prediction | - tonnes CO2 eq |
| CO2 prediction with design optimisation | - tonnes CO2 eq |
Further details
- Analyse whether a reduced tunnel lining thickness of -mm would be suitable for this application.
- Typically as much as two-thirds of carbon emmissions come from cement, so any material reduction can have a signifcant effect on sustainability.
- Find more information on the CalcForge lining thickness prediction by running a full design prediction here.
Finalised carbon prediction
Once you are satisfied with your design optimisations generate your final prediction below.
Final Prediction
Carbon emissions predicted: - tonnes CO2 eq
Your finalised design saves approximately - tonnes of CO2 compared to your original design, equivalent to - round the world flights. ✈
