Abstract
This paper presents a framework to assess the safety of existing structures, combining deterministic model identification and reliability assessment techniques, considering both load-test and complementary laboratory test results. Firstly, the proposed framework, as well as the most significant uncertainty sources are presented. Then, the developed model identification procedure is described. Reliability methods are then used to compute structural safety, considering the updated model from model identification. Data acquisition, such as that collected by monitoring, non-destructive or material characterization tests, is a standard procedure during safety assessment analysis. Hence, Bayesian inference is introduced into the developed framework, in order to update and reduce the statistical uncertainty. Lastly, the application of this framework to a case study is presented. The example analyzed is a steel and concrete composite bridge. The load test, the developed numerical model and the obtained results are discussed in detail. The use of model identification allows the development of more reliable structural models, while Bayesian updating leads to a significant reduction in uncertainty. The combination of both methods allows for a more accurate assessment of structural safety.
Highlights
Structural assessment comprises all activities required to evaluate the condition of structures for future use, namely their safety
A probabilistic-based structural assessment framework, combining deterministic model identification and reliability assessment, is presented and tested on a composite steel-concrete bridge subjected to a performance load test
A sensitivity analysis is used to identify the most influential parameters on the overall structural response at both service and ultimate loading conditions. These parameters are found considering a model identification algorithm, which consists in an optimization procedure minimizing the difference between observed performance and performance predicted using a non-linear numerical model
Summary
Structural assessment comprises all activities required to evaluate the condition of structures for future use, namely their safety. Neglecting the reinforcements at support sections and at bridge span, as well as all the other non-structural elements (e.g. safety guards, cornices, etc.), lead to a less stiff structure These modelling assumptions result in a conservative assessment, associated with a lower reliability index and, a higher failure probability. Such influence is stronger in plate 1 (σy,p1) and plate 2 (σy,p2) located in the first and second span, for the considered LCs. Obtained results indicate as critical parameters: (1) concrete elasticity modulus (Ec);. From 20 evaluated parameters, 5 of them are considered as critical
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