Lifecycle and Multi-Criteria Assessment of Waste-Derived EPS Geosynthetics for Cold-Region Infrastructure

Cold-region infrastructure faces significant challenges due to freeze–thaw cycles, frost heave, and moisture-induced degradation. While waste-derived Engineered Polystyrene Textiles (EPT) offer a sustainable alternative to conventional geosynthetics, selecting the optimal formulation for both performance and environmental impact remains critical. This project aims to conduct a life-cycle assessment (LCA) combined with a multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) to identify the most suitable EPS-based geotextile formulation produced via alkali-silicate solvent treatment. Laboratory testing will evaluate mechanical strength, permeability, and freeze–thaw resilience for different solvent ratios and curing conditions. LCA will quantify environmental impacts, including carbon footprint, energy consumption, and waste generation, while MCDA will integrate performance, environmental, and cost criteria to determine the optimal treatment formulation. A Master’s student from UNBC will undertake this 12-week internship at the University of Oulu, Finland under the mentorship of Dr. Priyadarshini Perumal, gaining hands-on experience in sustainable materials analysis, LCA methodology, and decision-support frameworks. The project will provide actionable insights into cost-effective, high-performance, and environmentally friendly EPS-based geosynthetic textiles for soil stabilization in cold climates, advancing circular economy practices and supporting low-carbon infrastructure development in northern and remote regions.

Faculty Supervisor:

Chinchu Cherian

Student:

Partner:

University of Oulu

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Education

University:

University of Northern British Columbia

Program: