Fragility analysis of existing prestressed concrete bridges under traffic loads according to new Italian guidelines

Abstract After the 2018 collapse of Morandi highway bridge in Genova, new Italian guidelines (GL) were issued for prioritization safety evaluations and retrofit interventions on existing bridges. Among several novelties, GL introduced traffic load models (TLMs) which can be adopted bridges case noncompliant checks according to building code (NTC) provisions. In this study, a class simply supported, beam‐type, prestressed concrete decks built between 1970 1980 Italy is considered. Assuming geometric, material, random variables together with consideration capacity model uncertainty, Monte Carlo sampling technique was implemented MATLAB order randomly generate deck evaluate their traffic‐load fragility. Fragility analysis carried out compare vulnerability levels under different patterns provided by NTC. addition prescribed TLM, sensitivity fragility usage limitations, such as reduced distance external lane from kerb or number lanes, also quantified support decision‐making road management companies. final part annual failure probability selected estimated using European weigh‐in‐motion database convolution hazard. Analysis results show that structural significantly depends pattern, indicating more realistic vehicle should developed achieve target level conforming modern codes constructions.