A design approach to implement reuse of existing concrete bridge girders

Master thesis (2023)

Authors

R.E. Groeneweg Civil Engineering & Geosciences

Contributors

Y. Yang Concrete Structures - CEG (mentor)
M.A.N. Hendriks Concrete Structures - CEG (graduation committee member)
A.C.B. Schuurman Applied Mechanics - CEG (graduation committee member)
Faculty
Civil Engineering & Geosciences, Civil Engineering & Geosciences
Copyright: © 2023 Romy Groeneweg
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Published Date

18-08-2023

Language

English

Reuse Rights

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Faculty

Civil Engineering & Geosciences

Abstract

To stop the depletion of natural resources, reduce climate change and fight biodiversity loss a circular economy in 2050 is pursued. In the upcoming years a challenging opportunity arises. Many existing bridges and viaducts with bridge decks consisting of prefabricated concrete girders have to be replaced. These girders although not designed according to circularity concepts have potential to be reused in a new structure, which is in line with the highest achievable level of circularity. However, the construction market is not ready for this innovation. So, while current research still aims at the feasibility and suitability of the girders for reuse in new structures, this research aims at the next step of preparing the construction market. This is of high relevance because it speeds up the introduction process of the innovation and thereby safes girders from demolition.

In this research the focus is on the adaptions and modifications needed in the traditional design process to ensure a more frequent implementation of reuse of existing bridge girders in new designs. After a literature review into the type of bridge girders in the Netherlands, the structural feasibility, obstacles for reuse identified by the industry, the design process and environmental impacts a design approach is developed. Simultaneously to the development of this design approach a case study is performed to give a more practical view to design aspects. In this way the approach could be verified, adapted and modified.

The design approach consists of roadmaps, possible procedures and recommendations that guides project teams through each step of the system and preliminary design. In the case study a bridge deck for a 107 [m] long bridge, divided over 5 spans with reuse of existing girders is designed. The design approach is suspectable to changes due to experiences, gained knowledge and developments in the construction industry. Therefore, it needs review over time. The design approach concentrates on inverted T-girders but can be extended and applied to other girder types as well.

In conclusion, this research provides the foundations for a changed design approach that is needed to prepare the construction market for reusing existing girders. By giving guidance to project teams, the view shifts from using new girders to reusing existing girders. This is valuable to reach the environmental objective of a circular economy in 2050.