Abstract
This paper proposes a method for monitoring the structural health of concrete bridges in Iran. In this method, the bridge condition index (BCI) of bridges is determined by the analytical hierarchy process (AHP). BCI constitutes eight indices that are scored based on the experts’ views, including structural, hydrology and climate, safety, load impact, geotechnical and seismicity, strategic importance, facilities, and traffic and pavement. Experts’ views were analyzed by Expert Choice software, and the relative importance (weight) of all eight indices were determined using AHP. Moreover, the scores of indices for various conditions were extracted from experts’ standpoints. BCI defines as the sum of weighted scores of indices. Bridge inspectors can examine the bridge, determine the scores of indices, and compute BCI. Higher values of BCI indicate better conditions. Therefore, bridges with lower BCI take priority in maintenance activities. As the case studies, the authors selected five bridges in Iran. Successful implementation of the proposed method for these case studies verified that this method can be applied as an easy-to-use optimization tool in health monitoring and prioritizing programs.
Highlights
IntroductionBridge condition evaluation has crucial importance for the proper maintenance and management of transportation infrastructures
This study presents a method for monitoring, assessing, and prioritizing bridges that is not confined to structural condition and considers other affecting factors
This study presents a new methodology for the determination of bridge condition index (BCI) in concrete bridges
Summary
Bridge condition evaluation has crucial importance for the proper maintenance and management of transportation infrastructures. The first step in the BMS is to prepare a technical profile for all bridges in the network This profile contains technical information such as the name of a bridge, its location, construction method, etc. Another major step of BMS is bridge maintenance. The proper maintenance and management of bridges need the evaluation of safety and lifetime conditions. In India, Sanjay and Kumar developed a bridge health index (BHI) using AHP They divided elements of the bridge into seven categories, including approaches, substructure, waterway/channel, foundations, superstructure, appurtenances/auxiliary works, and bearings. They drafted a questionnaire and distributed it among engineers and experts. BHI was developed by summing the score of all bridge elements [16]
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