Optimising Pile Foundation Design for Embodied Carbon Reduction in Construction

: (Alternative format Thesis)

Abstract

The construction industry is a major contributor to global carbon emissions, yet efforts to reduce embodied carbon in substructures, particularly deep foundations, remain limited. While operational carbon reduction has been widely studied, there is a critical gap in optimising embodied carbon and particularly in pile foundations. This thesis addresses this gap by developing a systematic optimisation framework that minimises the embodied carbon of pile designs while maintaining structural performance.

The research begins by identifying key relationships between pile design parameters and embodied carbon using a simplified iterative modelling tool. A hybrid genetic algorithm is then introduced to optimise pile geometries and materials, comparing solid and hollow concrete, steel, and timber piles under compression and tension loads. Laterally loaded pile optimisation is also explored, demonstrating the advantages of pile geometry optimisation. Finite element modelling is used to validate optimised designs, and real-world case studies assess their feasibility in practice. The findings challenge conventional cost-driven design approaches by demonstrating that significant carbon reductions can be achieved with minimal cost implications.

This research provides a novel and adaptable optimisation framework for low-carbon foundation design. By integrating advanced computational methods with geotechnical engineering principles, the findings offer practical guidance for engineers and policymakers to incorporate sustainability into early-stage design decisions. The results highlight the potential for substantial carbon savings in foundation engineering, promoting a shift towards more sustainable construction practices and contributing to global decarbonisation efforts.

Date of Award	10 Sept 2025
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	University of Bath
Supervisor	Will Hawkins (Supervisor), Tim Ibell (Supervisor) & Loizos Pelecanos (Supervisor)