Quantitative Framework for Assessing Bridge Component Reusability: Case Studies of Florida Bridges

This study presents a quantitative framework for evaluating the feasibility of bridge component reuse to support circular-economy principles in bridge infrastructure. Unlike prior studies that focused mainly on whole-bridge reuse or qualitative assessments, this study develops a component-level method reflecting how material recovery decisions are made during bridge demolition. The framework was developed through a review of quantitative assessment methods, including whole-bridge-level evaluations and component-level approaches from other infrastructure and building contexts. Based on this review, bridge-specific metrics were identified and adapted to account for structural and logistical conditions. The proposed framework introduces a reusability index, a composite metric that integrates factors such as disassemblability, uniqueness, and transportability to determine whether individual bridge components are suitable for reuse. The framework was demonstrated through three bridge case studies in Florida. Results show that reusability varies substantially by bridge type and component characteristics, with reusable portions ranging from 0% for concrete bridges to approximately 9% for steel-girder bridges. In contrast, all bridges examined were found to be fully recyclable at the end of their service life. Cost analysis further demonstrates the economic benefits of sustainable demolition strategies over conventional landfill disposal, including 49.10% savings from reusing a steel girder and recycling-related savings ranging from 17.75% to 84.93% across different components and locations. Interviews with engineers from the Florida Department of Transportation validated the framework’s assumptions and confirmed its alignment with real-world demolition and material recovery practices. Overall, these findings carry implications at multiple levels: for contractors, the framework offers a practical tool for identifying reusable components; for project managers, the cost analysis demonstrates the economic case for sustainable demolition; and for policymakers, promoting standardized component designs in new bridges could accelerate circular-economy adoption.