Economic Analysis of Basalt Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Composites in Residential Buildings

Material and Construction Costs

From a materials perspective, the production cost of BFRP composites is higher than traditional steel rebar and ordinary concrete. However, their Lightweight, high-strength, corrosion-resistant properties, and long service life reduce material waste and lower long-term maintenance costs, ultimately decreasing the overall life-cycle cost.

In terms of construction costs, BFRP composites are lightweight, easy to process, and simple to install. Compared to traditional building materials, they reduce transportation and hoisting expenses, shorten construction periods, and thereby lower labor and machinery costs.

Maintenance and Durability

BFRP composites do not rust when exposed to moisture like steel rebar and are less susceptible to environmental degradation. This significantly reduces the cost of building repairs and replacements, increasing the overall service life of the structure.

In earthquake-prone regions, the superior seismic performance of BFRP composites can effectively reduce post-disaster repair costs, enhancing both the safety and economic viability of the building.

In conclusion, despite the higher initial investment, the long-term durability, low maintenance requirements, and construction efficiency of BFRP composites lead to superior economic benefits when analyzed over the entire life cycle. This makes them particularly suitable for residential buildings that require high durability and low maintenance.