Comparative Assessment of Variable Loads and Seismic Actions on Bridges: A Case Study in Italy Using a Multimodal Approach

The structural safety of the infrastructure stock is an important issue in modern seismic performance assessments. Following recent events, reports have highlighted increased vulnerability physical infrastructural assets, particularly for many bridges across Italian road and motorway network. Italy possesses one most complex intricate systems Europe which was constructed irregular territories terms plan elevation varying dimensions. As such, a comparative case study presented herein. This aims to characterise Vizzana-Zampogna viaduct part A15 Parma-La Spezia motorway, near locality Selva Bocchetto. considered representative 1970s construction period. It approximately 342 m length characterized by flat curvilinear prestressed concrete deck consisting 15 spans simply supported on reinforced piers. To better understand response individual piers viaduct, “multi-modal” nonlinear static analysis developed, allows effects sectional stresses relative variable load profiles single modes be combined through quadratic modal combination, compared with relevant limit state. research qualitatively identify vulnerable action that are induced introducing loads intensity scenarios different earthquakes.