Monitoring and detailed Modelling for extending the Lifespan of a 30 Year Old Prestressed Concrete Bridge

• Type: Article in International Conference Proceedings Book
• Date: 2008

Authors

Mário Jorge Pimentel (Author) FEUP; José Santos (Author) FEUP; Joaquim Figueiras (Author) FEUP

Conference proceedings International

Title: Structural Faults & Repair 2008 - 12th International Conference

Edinburgh, 10 a 12 de Junho de 2008

Scientific classification

CORDIS: Technological sciences > Engineering > Civil engineering > Structural engineering

Other information

Abstract (EN): In this work a case study is presented were the results of advanced structural analysis methods were applied in the assessment of an existing post-tensioned box-girder bridge. The bridge, built in the late 70’s was the first bridge to be built by the balanced cantilever method in Portugal. A recent inspection revealed a consistent cracking pattern in the deck and some signs of prestressing corrosion. The approach taken by the authors to explain the cracking origin is described as well as the main results from the load test, from a detailed inspection campaign and from the ongoing investigation to evaluate the current safety level of the bridge. A nonlinear analysis model was developed to evaluate the ultimate load of the bridge taking into account the redundancy of the structural system. Some research needs that were identified in the present work in order to allow more accurate safety examinations of existing bridges are also presented.

Language: Portuguese

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific