Bridge Infrastructure Research Articles

A Simheuristic Approach to Scheduling Sustainable and Reliable Maintenance for Bridge Infrastructure

Designing maintenance strategies for a vast portfolio of aging infrastructures requires decision-makers to ensure adequate safety levels while addressing the requirements on service interruptions, costs, and workforce availability. This study addresses the problem of scheduling maintenance interventions for a portfolio of bridges, aiming to minimize CO2 emissions while meeting minimum reliability requirements and adhering to workforce and budget constraints. To achieve this, we present a Simheuristic algorithm that combines a metaheuristic core based on the Adaptive Large Neighborhood Search metaheuristic with a Monte Carlo simulation module. This integration allows for the evaluation of optimized scheduling solutions, accounting for the inherent randomness in the structural deterioration process. The proposed approach is tested in a comparative analysis against traditional time-based and condition-based scheduling methods. Results from diverse bridge portfolios demonstrate that the proposed algorithm offers improved performance in terms of both total costs and CO2 emissions.

Seismic isolation effect and parametric analysis of simply supported beam bridges with multi-level sliding friction adaptive isolation bearing

In response to the shortcomings of isolation bridge limit devices and friction dampers, a sliding friction bearing exhibiting multi-level working behavior (MSFB) is proposed. Its structure and mechanism are introduced, and a multi-condition quasi-static test is conducted using ABAQUS software. Through comparative analysis of theory and experiment, the theoretical model's accuracy and multi-level sliding friction mechanism of MSFB are verified. The mechanical parameters of MSFB are analyzed, clarifying the influence of various main mechanical parameters on the mechanical performance. The performance parameters of the MSFB are optimized based on a two-degree-of-freedom analysis model for a high-speed railway single-pier bridge equipped with MSFBs. The findings indicate that the seismic responses of MSFB is comprehensively affected by all the parameters, and the variation pattern is complex. By optimizing these performance parameters, MSFB can satisfy the multi-level performance demands of bridges subjected to varying earthquake intensities, and achieve the optimal control effect. The MSFB offers superior isolation efficiency during minor and moderate earthquakes and can substantially decrease the internal forces within the bridge substructure when utilized as a bridge isolation and limit device. During intense and infrequent earthquakes, the MSFB demonstrates remarkable displacement-limiting capacity and good self-centering and energy dissipation abilities.

Evaluation of Static Displacement Based on Ambient Vibration for Bridge Safety Management.

The evaluation of bridge safety is closely related to structural stiffness, with dynamic characteristics and displacement being key indicators. Displacement is a significant factor as it is a physical phenomenon that bridge users can directly perceive. However, accurately measuring displacement generally necessitates the installation of displacement meters within the bridge substructure and conducting load tests that require traffic closure, which can be cumbersome. This paper proposes a novel method that uses wireless accelerometers to measure ambient vibration data from bridges, extracts mode shapes and natural frequencies through the time domain decomposition (TDD) technique, and estimates static displacement under specific loads using the flexibility matrix. A field test on a 442.0 m cable-stayed bridge was conducted to verify the proposed method. The estimated displacement was compared with the actual displacement measured by a laser displacement sensor, resulting in an error rate of 3.58%. Additionally, an analysis of the accuracy of displacement estimation based on the number of measurement points indicated that securing at least seven measurement points keeps the error rate within 5%. This study could be effective for evaluating the safety of bridges in environments where load testing is difficult or for bridges that require periodic dynamic characteristics and displacement analysis due to repetitive vibrations, and it is expected to be applicable to various types of bridge structures.

Life-Cycle Performance Modeling for Sustainable and Resilient Structures under Structural Degradation: A Systematic Review

The performance of structures degrades during their service life due to deterioration and extreme events, compromising the social development and economic growth of structure and infrastructure systems. Buildings and bridges play a vital role in the socioeconomic development of the built environment. Hence, it is essential to understand existing tools and methodologies to efficiently model the performance of these structures during their life cycle. In this context, this paper aims to explore the existing literature on the life-cycle performance modeling, assessment, enhancement, and decision making of buildings and bridge infrastructure systems under deterioration and extreme events for a sustainable and resilient built environment. The main objectives are to (1) systematically review the existing literature on life-cycle performance modeling of buildings and bridges based on the PRISMA methodology, (2) provide a bibliometric analysis of the systematically assessed journal articles, (3) perform an analysis of the included articles based on the identified components of life-cycle performance modeling, and (4) provide a discussion on the utilized tools, techniques, methodologies, and frameworks for buildings and bridge infrastructure systems in the life-cycle context. The provided systematic literature review and subsequent discussions could provide an overview to the reader regarding the individual components and existing methodologies of life-cycle performance management under deterioration and extreme events.

Bridge infrastructure in Ecuador: challenges and solutions

Bridge infrastructure in Ecuador: challenges and solutions

AI optimization and mathematical simulation validated by nondestructive testing for resonance frequency in advanced composite structures for bridge applications

This paper presents a novel approach integrating artificial intelligence (AI) optimization and mathematical simulation to predict the resonance frequency of nanoclay-reinforced concrete cylindrical shell structures intended for bridge applications. These composite structures, known for their enhanced mechanical properties, require precise evaluation of their vibrational behavior to ensure structural stability and longevity. Traditional methods for predicting resonance frequencies are often time-consuming and prone to inaccuracies, especially in complex materials like nanoclay composites. To address this, an AI-based optimization algorithm was developed, incorporating Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) and a mathematical modeling to simulate resonance characteristics under varying material and geometric parameters. The mathematical modeling is validated using nondestructive testing (NDT) techniques, such as modal analysis, which provided real-world resonance data without damaging the structure. The nondestructive testing results is compared against the mathematical model to ensure accuracy and reliability. The integration of nanoclay into the concrete matrix significantly altered the vibrational properties, enhancing the stiffness and reducing damping losses, which is crucial for bridge applications where dynamic loads are prevalent. The optimized model not only predicted resonance frequencies with high accuracy but also demonstrated its potential for large-scale bridge infrastructure. This methodology offers a streamlined and robust tool for engineers, reducing the need for physical prototyping and providing enhanced design capabilities. Future research will focus on expanding the model to incorporate additional material behaviors and load conditions, furthering its application in civil engineering.

Risk Assessment Protocol for Existing Bridge Infrastructure Considering Climate Change

The escalating impact of climate change on global weather patterns threatens the functionality and resilience of infrastructure systems. This paper presents a rigorous risk assessment protocol tailored to existing bridge infrastructure, integrating climate change projections, structural integrity, and socioeconomic factors. The protocol’s application involves five sequential steps: selecting a bridge, disassembling the structure into components, calculating utilization factors for design and projected temperatures, evaluating severity factors encompassing structural and socioeconomic aspects, and ultimately determining an overall risk rating. To demonstrate the protocol’s effectiveness, a case study was conducted on the Westminster Drive Underpass in London, Ontario. This study shows how the protocol systematically evaluates the vulnerability of each bridge component to projected temperatures under the Representative Concentration Pathway 6.0 model. The protocol provides a holistic risk assessment by incorporating both the structural response and socioeconomic implications of failure. The results rank the bridge’s risk level and highlight the urgency of intervention. The protocol emerges as a robust tool for decision-makers, practitioners, and engineers, offering a comprehensive approach to strengthen bridge infrastructure against the challenges of climate change.

Steel solutions for a sustainable bridge infrastructure of today and tomorrow

AbstractResponsible for 70% of the global CO2 emissions, infrastructure has a significant impact on our climate and the related consequences. Bridges are a major keystone of the infrastructure and take a leading position in its decarbonization. In this framework, low‐carbon emission steels play an important role. Low‐carbon emission steels, like ArcelorMittal's XCarb® recycled and renewably produced steels, are already available on the market. Combining scrap and renewable electricity, it offers very low levels of CO2 emissions per ton of finished steel. The present paper describes how different steel solutions can be combined to lower the material input, to simplify the construction process and to reduce the maintenance efforts in bridge construction. The impact of efficient design has been assessed by a Life‐Cycle Assessment (LCA) for bridge solutions with small and medium spans of up to 40 m. The paper concludes with a summary of recently realized bridge projects in Poland.

Dynamic Load Balancing and Service Prioritization Algorithm for Cloud Computing Environments

Bridge infrastructure plays a critical role in ensuring the safe and efficient transportation of goods and people. This research paper investigates the strength characteristics of bridges with a focus on understanding the factors influencing their structural integrity and resilience. The study employs a comprehensive methodology that includes field inspections, laboratory testing, and advanced computational modeling techniques to assess the performance of various bridge types under different loading conditions. Findings reveal the complex interplay between design parameters, material properties, and environmental factors in determining bridge strength and durability. Moreover, the research highlights the importance of proactive maintenance strategies and innovative engineering solutions to enhance the resilience of bridge infrastructure against aging, deterioration, and extreme events. The insights gained from this study have significant implications for bridge design, maintenance practices, and public safety, ultimately contributing to the sustainability and reliability of transportation networks.

Seismic performance of precast UHPC pipe pile with two pile-cap beam connection types: An experimental and numerical study

To develop an effective pile foundation scheme for earthquake-prone regions, this study introduces a novel pile structure that integrates ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) with traditional prestressed high-strength concrete (PHC) pipe piles. The research focuses on assessing the impact of various connection forms between the pile and cap beam on the seismic performance of bridge substructures. Two 1/3-scale specimens were meticulously designed and tested: one featuring a cast-in-place (CIP) connection and the other incorporating precast assembly (PA) connection between the pipe pile and cap beam. Cyclic loading tests were conducted to evaluate the failure mode, lateral capacity, ductility, energy dissipation ability, residual displacement, rebar strain, curvature distribution and rotation of UHPC pipe piles with the two connection forms. The results indicate that the specimen with a CIP connection exhibits a higher horizontal load capacity and stronger energy dissipation ability, while the specimen with the PA connection displays superior self-centering ability, increased ductility, and causes less damage to the cap beam. Finally, finite element models were developed to analyze the effects of design parameters on the seismic performance of the pile connected by the two methods. This research may provide valuable design guidance for incorporating UHPC in pile foundations. To facilitate its practical implementation in engineering projects, further theoretical and experimental research is recommended in this paper.

Experimental study on seismic performance of a new precast segmental assembled single column bridge pier

Prefabricated bridge technology has come into wide spread use as fabricated technology has advanced, but engineering applications of fabricated bridge technology are primarily focused on the bridge superstructure, considerably restricting the use of prefabricated bridge technology for the bridge substructure due to the uncertainty in the seismic performance and damage mechanism of segmental assembled piers. Based on this, two new segment connection methods were proposed and applied to the prefabricated piers. Four specimens with a scale of 0.4 were designed and manufactured. The seismic performance of two new types of assembled single column piers, namely cone sleeve-FRC (CSF) wet joint segmental assembled pier and main reinforcement lap-UHPC (MRLU) wet joint segmental assembled pier, is investigated and compared with integral cast-in-place pier to analyze the effects of FRC and UHPC on the seismic performance of the piers, using the proposed static test. The results show that the pier connected by cone sleeve-FRC wet joint exhibits a good energy dissipation and ductility, small deformation, the highest peak bearing capacity and the best seismic performance. Based on the tests, finite element models of the members were created, and the member CSF-1, which has the best seismic performance, was parametrically analyzed by taking three influencing factors into account: axial compression ratio, longitudinal reinforcement area and hoop reinforcement spacing. It is indicated that a significant improvement in seismic performance can be achieved by reducing the hoop spacing, increasing the longitudinal reinforcement diameter and axial compression ratio.

Analisa Efektivitas Penggunaan Jembatan Penyeberangan Orang di Depan Mall Kota Jayapura

The People Crossing Bridge (JPO) is one of the important infrastructures in the urban transportation system. JPO is designed to facilitate pedestrians to cross the highway safely without being disturbed by vehicle traffic. This infrastructure not only serves to improve safety but also supports mobility efficiency in dense urban areas. On Jalan Dr. Sam Ratulangi, Jayapura City, a pedestrian bridge infrastructure was built, which is located in front of Jayapura Mall, Jayapura City. According to its purpose, the pedestrian bridge was built to reduce the occurrence of traffic accidents in locations with heavy activities, including city centers with shopping that certainly has high mobility. The data collection method in this study uses the survey method. In this study, the researcher conducted a survey of JPO facilities at pedestrian trap sites. This research is the output of the stages that have been carried out by the author. Based on the results of observations that have been carried out on July 8 and 13, 2024, at 07.00 – 17.00 WIP, the results were found that more pedestrians chose to cross using the available JPO with a total of 147 people (65%), compared to 92 people (35%) who did not use the JPO. Meanwhile, using JPO can help and facilitate and shorten the travel time of the crossing, by climbing and descending stairs you can enjoy the atmosphere around. In the condition of the JPO floor, this is due to the presence of mischievous individuals so that public facilities are starting to be unattractive to see. For this reason, public facilities are assets that we need to take care of together so that they are suitable for use. Factors that affect the effectiveness of the JPO located on jl. Dr. Sam Ratulangi in front of the Jayapura City Mall that needs to be concerned is the cleanliness at the location is the top priority.

Structural integrity of aging steel bridges by 3D laser scanning and convolutional neural networks

For steel bridges, corrosion has historically led to bridge failures, resulting in fatalities and injuries. To enhance public safety and prevent such incidents, authorities mandate in-situ evaluation and reporting of corroded members. The current inspection and evaluation protocol is characterized by intense labor, traffic delays, and poor capacity predictions. Here we combine full-scale experimental testing of a decommissioned girder, 3D laser scanning, and convolutional neural networks (CNNs) to introduce a continuous inspection and evaluation framework. Classification and regression CNNs are trained on a databank of 1,421 naturally inspired corrosion scenarios, generated computationally based on point clouds of three corroded girders collected in lab conditions. Results indicate low errors of up to 2.0% and 3.3%, respectively. The methodology is validated on eight real corroded ends and implemented for the evaluation of an in-service bridge. This framework promises significant advancements in assessing aging bridge infrastructure with higher accuracy and efficiency compared to analytical or semi-analytical approaches.

Chloride Resistance of Assembled Bridge Piers Reinforced with Epoxy-Coated Steel Bars

To reveal the influence of joint type and epoxy-coated steel bar surface damage on the durability of assembled bridge piers, this study simulated the potential damage to epoxy-coated steel bars at various stages of an actual construction process by bending, scratching, and knocking. The pier inter-segmental joint and the pier-bearing platform joint were designed to highlight the critical zones affecting the durability of sea-crossing bridge substructures. The migration of chloride ions into the concrete was accelerated by applying a constant voltage DC electric field. The electrochemical indexes of epoxy-coated steel bars and chloride ion content in concrete were measured regularly. Results show that the corrosion risk and corrosion rate of steel bars increase significantly when the damaged area ratio of epoxy coating is higher than 5%. The chloride ion transport rate at the interface of the pier-bearing platform joint is about 5 times that of the pier inter-segmental joint. The service life of the pier-bearing platform joint is only 1/2 that of the pier inter-segmental joint when epoxy-coated steel bars with the same treatment are used.

Effects of Road and Bridge Infrastructure Development on the Local Economy in Tabalong Regency

Effects of Road and Bridge Infrastructure Development on the Local Economy in Tabalong Regency

Intelligent condition prediction model for bridge infrastructure based on evaluating machine learning algorithms

PurposePrediction models are essential tools for transportation agencies to forecast the condition of bridge decks based on available data, and artificial intelligence is paramount for this purpose. This study aims at proposing a bridge deck condition prediction model by assessing various classification and regression algorithms.Design/methodology/approachThe 2019 National Bridge Inventory database is considered for model development. Eight different feature selection techniques, along with their mean and frequency, are used to identify the critical features influencing deck condition ratings. Thereafter, four regression and four classification algorithms are applied to predict condition ratings based on the selected features, and their performances are evaluated and compared with respect to the mean absolute error (MAE).FindingsClassification algorithms outperform regression algorithms in predicting deck condition ratings. Due to its minimal MAE (0.369), the random forest classifier with eleven features is recommended as the preferred condition prediction model. The identified dominant features are superstructure condition, age, structural evaluation, substructure condition, inventory rating, maximum span length, deck area, average daily traffic, operating rating, deck width, and the number of spans.Practical implicationsThe proposed bridge deck condition prediction model offers a valuable tool for transportation agencies to plan maintenance and resource allocation efficiently, ultimately improving bridge safety and serviceability.Originality/valueThis study provides a detailed framework for applying machine learning in bridge condition prediction that applies to any bridge inventory database. Moreover, it uses a comprehensive dataset encompassing an entire region, broadening the model’s applicability and representation.

Development of Guo Tourism Village through the Restoration of Ba Atok Bridge as an Effort to Preserve Minangkabau Cultural Wisdom

Bridge infrastructure is critical in connecting one region with other areas separated by rivers or ravines. In Minangkabau, a type of bridge is built using the Ba Atok Bridge roof. This bridge structure is characterised by pointed roof-like buffalo horns, where the Minangkabau people are known as Gonjong. The remaining Ba Atok Bridge is located in Padang City, specifically in Guo Village, Jalan Lubuak Tampuruang, Kuranji Village, Kuranji District, Padang City, with a bridge length of 16 meters. The community needs the Ba Atok Bridge as a bridge to cross the river to gardens, schools, madrasas, mosques, and other villages. Its unique shape has charm, and this is one of the cultural heritage assets that must be maintained as a characteristic bridge between the nuances of traditional Minangkabau culture. Therefore, the Community Service Team of the Faculty of Engineering, Andalas University, is also collaborating with the Tourism Awareness Group (POKDARWIS), which also has the same initiative, namely carrying out bridge restoration with traditional Minangkabau cultural nuances. Restoration begins with identifying damage, discussing it with community groups, making an architectural design, submitting a proposal to Bank Nagari, and repairing the bridge's upper frame. The Ba Atokini bridge restoration activities impact crossing access and have become characteristic of the Guo Tourism Village, which POKDARWIS manages.

Full life-cycle vibration-based monitoring of a full-scale masonry arch bridge with increasing levels of damage

Structural health monitoring (SHM) is of great significance to maintain the safe operation of infrastructure, particularly for historic structures such as masonry arch bridges, as their material properties are deteriorating under effects such as climate change, but the demands of modern transport systems increase significantly. Vibration-based SHM has become a prevalent method for assessing the vulnerability of masonry arch bridges. However, one of the most critical limitations lies in the inability of correlate bridge’s damage accumulation with the variation trends in its modal parameters. To address this issue, in the present study, full life-cycle vibration-based monitoring was conducted on a full-scale masonry arch bridge, progressing from an undamaged state to failure under laboratory conditions. Accumulated damage was induced by applying point loads with increasing magnitudes until the bridge failed. Vibration data, collected after each loading test, were analysed utilizing the stochastic subspace identification (SSI) method, and frequency and damping ratio for the first five modes were identified. The results demonstrated that the first-order frequency had the most pronounced correlation with the stiffness degradation and the damage accumulation in the masonry arch bridge. The evolution of early-stage damage, the formation of the first hinge, and the activation of a four-hinge mechanism were successfully captured through the frequency degradation. The findings of the study may provide valuable insights into the damage assessment of historic masonry arch bridge infrastructures.

Fatigue performance of composite-steel injected connectors at room and elevated temperatures

The integration of Glass Fibre-Polymer composite (a.k.a. GFRP) deck panels in bridge infrastructure is hindered by lacking a robust connection technology. A promising bolted connection, utilising injected steel reinforced resin (iSRR) material, has demonstrated lower creep deformation and sustained significantly more shear load cycles than conventional bolts. Nonetheless, the production and testing conditions in all prior experimental campaigns followed idealized lab set-ups. This study bridges the gap between laboratory conditions and the challenges arising during connector’s fabrication under representative conditions, coupled with cyclic load testing at room and elevated temperatures. The iSRR connectors design is modified and tested in actual composite sandwich web core panels, revealing excellent fatigue performance. The statistical analysis yielded F-N curves for shear performance of the connectors that can be used in the design. The slopes of the F-N curves of − 6.6 and − 5.8 were found at room and elevated temperatures, respectively. Finally, with post-cyclic static tests displaying significant connectors’ residual stiffness, resistance, and ductility, the research provides a step forward in enabling the integration of glass fibre composite deck in infrastructure.

Evaluating Bridge Substructures for Structural Integrity and Durability

Evaluating Bridge Substructures for Structural Integrity and Durability