Progressive-Collapse Simulation and Critical Region Identification of a Stone Arch Bridge

Abstract

Progressive collapses of arch bridges have repeatedly occurred in recent years, resulting in many casualties and significant property losses. Based on an actual recent and serious progressive collapse of a stone arch bridge, this paper simulated the complete progressive-collapse process using the general-purpose finite-element (FE) program, MSC.Marc. The simulation adopted a three-dimensional (3D) FE model and performed a nonlinear analysis using the contact algorithm in conjunction with the element-deactivation technique. The potential causes of the progressive collapse of the stone arch bridge were also evaluated. Furthermore, the importance of different components of the stone arch bridge was determined with the conception of generalized structural stiffness; thus, the most critical and vulnerable regions of the bridge were identified. The results of the simulated progressive-collapse process agreed well with the actual process, and the predicted critical regions were both correct and realistic. This study also provides important references for the analysis and prevention of progressive collapses of stone arch bridges.