Experimental Study of Bridge Expansion Joint Damage Based on Natural Frequency

Abstract

In this paper, three studies on modal bridge expansion joints were conducted through experiments. The advantages and disadvantages of acceleration and fiber optic strain sensors in the tested modal expansion joints were compared. Secondly, the variation in the natural frequency of the modal bridge expansion joints at different concrete curing periods was investigated. Finally, the effect of damage on natural frequency in different parts (the center beam, the support bar, and concrete in the anchorage zone) of the modal bridge expansion joint was analyzed. For this purpose, three specimens were cast, each with six damage states. Manual methods damaged the specimens. An impact hammer was used to excite the corresponding parts of the different components. The results showed that the acceleration sensor is optimal for the modal bridge expansion joint test. The specimen’s natural frequency increased with the curing time’s growth. The natural frequency increased by 10 Hz from day 3 to day 28 of curing. With the gradual increase in damage, the natural frequencies of the center beam and support bar showed a gradual decreasing trend. The damage to the concrete in the anchorage zone caused less significant changes in the natural frequency, but the overall natural frequency still had a decreasing trend. The sensitivity of each frequency to the damage was different in different parts.

Impact of Variable Parameters of Expansion Joints and Bearing Supports on the Vehicle-Induced Vibration of Curved Girder Bridges

“…Zhang et al [17] used an expectation maximization algorithm method to optimize the initial parameters of EJs and applied the method to the design of EJs for a long-span bridge. Li et al [18] analyzed the local damage effect on the natural frequencies of EJs, including the center beam, support beam, and concrete anchorage zone, and found that the natural frequencies of the center and support beams decreased with the increasing local damage.…”

Optimizing Cement Asphalt Mortar Mixtures for Bridge Expansion Joints in Tropical Climates: Performance and Durability Assessment

“…Bridge expansion joints are critical components in infrastructure, but they are not without their challenges [3]. Current issues in the field of bridge expansion joints include premature wear and deterioration [4], which often result from exposure to harsh environmental conditions such as heavy rainfall, temperature fluctuations, and the presence of corrosive agents [5].…”