Experimental investigations on the structural behaviour of a distressed bridge

摘要

Distressed structures require necessary remedial measures in order to restore their original structural properties like strength and stiffness. Validating the effectiveness of the proposed qualitative remedial measure experimentally is of utmost importance as there is no well-established analytical method to verify the effectiveness of the same quantitatively. Prototype testing which would have been the best option for this purpose would not only prove costly but also be associated with numerous practical difficulties; hence model testing is resorted as the only option for the purpose. This paper presents one such typical experimental study on the structural behavior of a distressed bridge, mainly observed in the form of prominent tilt in the bearing plate in transverse and longitudinal direction on downstream side. The main focus of the proposed experimental investigation is to assess the structural behavior particularly the load carrying capacity. The extent of deformation of some models with specific structural arrangements and some models with specific need based remedial measures were also studied. This study also assessed the contribution of each remedial measure towards restoration individually and collectively.