Model-Based Interpretation of Measurements for Fatigue Evaluation of Existing Reinforced Concrete Bridges

New methods are required for sustainable and economical management of bridges. Efficient management can be achieved by a detailed understanding of bridge behavior through monitoring and model-based data interpretation. This paper presents a methodology to evaluate the fatigue safety of existing bridges based on conducting measurements onsite and interpreting measurement data using physics-based behavior models. The methodology combines data from different nondestructive measurements with structural models to develop a suitable set of feasible models that describe accurately structural behavior. The methodology is illustrated with a case study of a composite steel-concrete road viaduct instrumented with acoustic emission channels and strain gauges. Information from measurements is used to update a set of structural models and then evaluate the fatigue safety of the viaduct. While commonly used curve-fitting methods are inaccurate, this methodology is useful to accurately employ the measured behavior of existing civil infrastructure for evaluating nonaccessible elements and scheduling inspections and decision-making related to actions such as strengthening and retrofit.

Automated summary

A new methodology is presented to evaluate fatigue safety of existing bridges by conducting onsite measurements and interpreting data using physics-based behavior models. The methodology combines nondestructive measurements with structural models to develop feasible models accurately describing structural behavior. This methodology is useful for evaluating nonaccessible elements of civil infrastructure and making decisions related to actions such as strengthening and retrofit.