<p>The design of structural systems depends on a wide range of compliance criteria. More specifically, with respect to earthquake resistant bridges, the issue of economy (cost-effectiveness) is mostly affected by the basic concept of their design, namely the selection of the optimum structural system for specific conditions and requirements. The present study focuses on the cost-effectiveness of four different bridge systems: (a) a fully-integral bridge with an innovative full-height integral abutment, (b) a quasi-integral bridge, which was the “reference” system, (c) a semi-integral bridge, and (d) a “floating deck” bridge, whose deck is supported on piers through bearings. The accommodation of both the in-service and the seismic requirements of bridge systems were studied with the objective of minimizing structural and final costs.</p>
<p>The Egnatia motorway running across northern Greece is an impressive project. Not only is it currently one of the most ambitious highway projects anywhere in the world, but also carving its way through Greece’s mountainous backbone has brought many design and constructional challenges. In this paper the bridge inventory, the design philosophy from the feasibility stage to the detailed design, the procurement methods, and the technological advances implemented for earthquake resistant structures are presented. Case studies are also discussed stating the design details, which lead to more durable low maintenance structures, structural concepts in reference to demanding ground conditions and site-specific requirements.</p>
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