Performance of geosynthetic reinforced soil bridge abutments with modular block facing under fire scenarios

This paper investigates the effect of fire on the performance of geosynthetic reinforced soil bridge abutments using experimental tests and finite element analyses. Experimental programs were comprised of a series of tensile strength tests at elevated temperatures and fire resistance tests, which were performed on a physical model. Findings revealed the adverse effect of fire on geosynthetic reinforced soil bridge abutments when fire duration exceeded 60 min. Results show that the depth within the backfill affected by the fire is approximately 50 cm. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.