An improved modal strain energy method for bridge damage identification

Abstract

This thesis improved a modal strain energy (MSE) based damage detection method to detect the damage in bridges. Firstly, an elemental MSE and a sensitivity matrix were mathematically established. Then, it was numerically and experimentally tested on some models such as a fixed-end beam, a three-story frame, the 4-DOF three-story structure of Los Alamos National Laboratory and the I-40 Bridge in New Mexico as a real bridge. The results showed the capability of the proposed method. The research findings will contribute to academic studies and bridge industry to minimize the loss of lives and property by identifying the structural damages.