Assessment of existing concrete bridges by load testing: barriers to code implementation and proposed solutions

As the existing bridge stock is aging, the task of assessing these bridges becomes increasingly important. One of the assessment methods for existing bridges is load testing. Improvements in the field of diagnostic load testing are related to the use of numerical models. Improvements in the field of proof load testing focus on the safety of...

Proof Load Testing Method by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials and Suggestions for Improvement

Because of the aging of infrastructure, methods are explored by which the reliability of existing bridges and viaducts can be assessed. In cases in which limited information of the structure is available or its condition is of concern, proof load testing may be used to demonstrate sufficient live load carrying capacity. Proof load tests in...

Shear Experiments of Prestressed Concrete Bridge Girders

For the assessment of existing slab-between-girder bridges, the shear capacity and failure mode are under discussion. Previous research showed that the static and fatigue punching capacity of the slabs is sufficient as a result of compressive membrane action. The girders then become the critical elements. This research studies the shear capacity...

Applying Experimental Results to the Shear Assessment Method for Solid Slab Bridges

The combination of increased live loads and a more conservative shear capacity in the recently implemented Eurocodes, resulted in a large number of existing solid slab bridges in the Netherlands being shear-critical upon assessment. However, an enhancement of the shear capacity can occur in slabs under concentrated wheel loads due to transverse...