Laboratory investigation of a bridge scour monitoring method using decentralized modal analysis

Scour is a significant issue for bridges worldwide that influences the global stiffness of bridge structures and hence alters dynamic behaviour these systems. For first time, this article presents new approach to detect scour at shallow pad foundations, using decentralized modal analysis through re-deployable accelerometers extract information. A numerical model with four simply supported spans on piers created test approach. modelled as reduction in foundation under given pier. passing half-car vehicle simulated excite phases measurement obtain segments mode shape output-only analysis. Two points are used amplitudes each phase, which combined estimate shape. damage indicator postulated based fitting curves shapes, maximum likelihood, can locate damage. The root mean square difference between healthy scoured exhibits an almost linear increase increasing loss scour. Experimental tests have been carried out scaled validate presented article.