Abstract
This paper describes a study evaluating increase in design strength, performance and capacity when including bridge parapets in a bridge analytical model. Traditionally, concrete parapets are treated solely as superimposed dead load in an overall bridge structural design. Parapets are detailed from a safety standpoint to resist impact forces from vehicle loading. However, in the global design models, the inherent strength of the parapets is not considered as a contributing factor to the overall strength of the bridge structure as a system. As part of an evaluation of global performance of bridge structures, the authors have prepared a set of three-dimensional finite element models of a simple span, composite concrete – steel stringer bridge. These models evaluate the overall strength and deflections under standard traffic loadings, with and without the stiffness contribution of the concrete parapets. These models predict a substantial increase in strength when including the parapets as a structural elemen...
Published Version
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