Inspection and Assessment of Masonry Arch Bridges: Ivanjica Case Study

Abstract

The importance of masonry arch bridges as a traffic network element calls for a thorough analysis focused on both structural stability and loading capacity of these historical structures, considering the usage of these bridges in contemporary traffic conditions. This paper focuses on the analysis of longitudinal cracks in a single span masonry arch bridge to evaluate its influence on structural behaviour of the system. As longitudinal cracks do not necessarily present an inevitable collapse mechanism, analysis of the causes is crucial for evaluating the serviceability and functionality of the bridge investigated. The methodology is based on the following: literature review, observation of the stone bridge in Ivanjica, geological testing of the site, geophysical testing of the bridge, laboratory testing of mechanical characteristics of stone used for the bridge construction and biological analysis of the samples of implemented materials on the bridge. Finite element analysis of the bridge was conducted to define the causes of the longitudinal cracks. The 3D simulation model was based on the data collected through observation and experimental analysis. This paper provides extensive research on a single span masonry bridge, examining how different deterioration mechanisms, in conjunction, can lead to the appearance of cracks in masonry arch bridges and provide remedial measures accordingly.

Implications of Arch Warp Altitudes on an Ancient Masonry Bridge under Ground Movements

“…At the end of this study, Hamad [27] presented that amid all the proposed models, the most appropriate method is the maximum principal stress model, whose consequences provide the most accurate indication of the state of the construction. The other study was performed by Sokolović [28]. In this study, Sokolović [28] examined the longitudinal fractures in a one-span MAB to estimate its effect on the structure.…”

“…The other study was performed by Sokolović [28]. In this study, Sokolović [28] examined the longitudinal fractures in a one-span MAB to estimate its effect on the structure. For this purpose, Sokolović [28] performed FEM examinations of the bridge to determine the reasons of the longitudinal fractures.…”

“…In this study, Sokolović [28] examined the longitudinal fractures in a one-span MAB to estimate its effect on the structure. For this purpose, Sokolović [28] performed FEM examinations of the bridge to determine the reasons of the longitudinal fractures. This study was a general investigation on a one-span MAB, observing how altered deterioration mechanisms, in combination, may cause the formation of fractures in MAB and consequently offers helpful procedures.…”

The development of a digitally enhanced visual inspection framework for masonry bridges in the UK

“…Some researchers have demonstrated the application of optical methods to tackle the challenges that inspectors currently encounter. Evidence in the literature acknowledges that those methods should be considered as the alternative to conventional methods (Raja et al , 2020; Sokolović et al , 2021; Artus and Koch, 2020; Dabous and Feroz, 2020). However, the available research studies on the topic often have not gone beyond carrying out tests in a laboratory environment, only focus on a specific optical method rather than the complementary application of those methods and/or focus on the technical aspect of such methods rather than practical recommendations to facilitate their implementation by railway agencies.…”