Experimental investigation of soil‐structure interaction for the transition slabs of integral bridges

Abstract

This paper presents the results of an experimental test series carried out to investigate the soil‐structure‐pavement interaction in the vicinity of the transition slab at the end of an integral bridge. The main function of transition slabs is to ease the transition between the bridge deck and the embankment in the case of differential settlement. Additionally, in the case of integral bridges, transition slabs can solve the problem of moderate imposed longitudinal deformations at the bridge ends. In this case the displacements imposed on the transition slab can lead to vertical and longitudinal surface displacements and to cracking of the pavement. Based on the observed behaviour, some recommendations are proposed for the geometry and surface conditions in order to optimize the behaviour of transition slabs.

Strategies and tools for the monitoring of concrete bridges

“…Complex multidisciplinary problems related to the monitoring of concrete bridges can be seen to stimulate the development of advanced experimental and theoretical research activities 47–58 …”

“…Complex multidisciplinary problems related to the monitoring of concrete bridges can be seen to stimulate the development of advanced experimental and theoretical research activities. [47][48][49][50][51][52][53][54][55][56][57][58] The presented classifications of strategies and tools that are available when monitoring concrete bridges ought to be a step in the discussion regarding the directions of further research and the final standardization at international level during the development of the fib MC2020. 17 ORCID Mieszko Ku_ zawa https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1562-9616…”

Temperature‐driven fatigue life of reinforced concrete integral bridge pile considering nonlinear soil–structure interaction

“…An extensive literature is available focusing on thermomechanical fatigue of single‐span FIB abutments 17–19 . Some of the authors experimentally tested FIB prototype models for finding the location of crack initiation and propagation by applying monolithic point loading at different locations 5,20 . The stress generated by the thermomechanical loading produces yielding and plastic deformation in abutments, piers, piles, girder, and joints of multispan FIB.…”

Non-Linear FEM Analysis of Integral Bridges Transition Area

“…[2] Generally. Three dimensional numerical model presented in this paper is based on experiment of transition area [1], to which results obtained via numerical analysis are compared. Concrete members are modeled with plane quad elements.…”

“…First analysis was performed using area elements to represent the bridge structure, and volume elements to represent embankment, while second analysis was performed in more conservative way using spring based method proposed by Křížek [3], as representation of the surrounding soil. Results obtained via both methods are compared with each other as well as with data obtained from experimental measurment of a transition area conducted in Switzerland [1].…”