Comparative Assessment of Structural Floor Systems in Hot-Arid Climates: Cost, Constructability, and Embodied Carbon Implications for Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Early-stage structural system selection strongly influences project cost, construction efficiency, structural performance, and embodied carbon. In Saudi Arabia, these decisions are amplified by hot-arid climatic conditions, accelerated delivery programs, and sustainability targets under Vision 2030.

This paper presents a quantitative and qualitative comparison of five commonly adopted floor systems: reinforced concrete flat slabs, post-tensioned slabs, waffle slabs, precast hollow core slabs, and steel frames with composite decks. A standardized 1000 m² floor plate with a 9 m × 9 m column grid is analyzed using preliminary design quantities and internationally recognized embodied carbon factors. Sensitivity analyses consider span variation and carbon factor uncertainty.

Results indicate that post-tensioned and hollow core systems can reduce embodied carbon by up to 55% compared to conventional flat slabs, while steel systems offer constructability advantages at higher environmental cost. This study provides a practical decision-oriented framework for regional engineering practice.