ImSelection – an approach for material selection that integrates mechanical design and life cycle environmental burdens

Abstract

This paper presents an approach and computer program for material selection which integrates the environmental life cycle impacts of materials into traditional engineering material selection process. This computer prototype can be used as a decision support tool for material selection with comprehensive consideration of material properties, manufacturing processes, costs, and environmental impacts of a material's life cycle. This integrated tool makes life cycle analysis more practical and easier for engineers and can help them select materials with considerations of environmental life cycle impacts in the design stages.