Multi-level decision-making strategy for preparation of proof load and failure tests

Load testing and in some cases failure (or collapse) testing of bridges is a method to learn more about the behaviour of full-scale bridges in site conditions. Since such experiments, especially failure tests, are expensive, an extensive preparation of these tests is important. This paper addresses the question of when a bridge is a good...

Capacity of prestressed concrete bridge decks under fatigue loading

In The Netherlands, existing slab-between-girder bridges with prestressed girders and thin transversely prestressed concrete decks require assessment. The punching capacity was studied in a previous series of experiments, showing a higher capacity thanks to compressive membrane action in the deck. Then, concerns were raised with regard to...

Monitoring Shear Behavior of Prestressed Concrete Bridge Girders Using Acoustic Emission and Digital Image Correlation

In the Netherlands, many prestressed concrete bridge girders are found to have insufficient shear–tension capacity. We tested four girders taken from a demolished bridge and instrumented these with traditional displacement sensors and acoustic emission (AE) sensors, and used cameras for digital image correlation (DIC). The results show that AE...

Extended Strip Model for slabs subjected to load combinations

The loads that are used for the assessment of existing reinforced concrete slab bridges are the self-weight, superimposed loads, and distributed and concentrated live loads. As such, the shear capacity of reinforced concrete slabs under a combination of distributed and concentrated live loads is a topic of practical relevance. For slabs...

Shear capacity of the Ruytenschildt bridge

In August 2014, the Ruytenschildt Bridge, a reinforced concrete solid slab bridge (reinforced with plain bars) in the Friesland province in the Netherlands was tested until failure. One of the goals of proof loading and testing this bridge to failure, was to study the failure mode of existing slab bridges. The combination of smaller shear...