A recent trend in bridge construction has been the optimization of the cost-to-performance ratio. The most effective way to optimize the cost-to-performance ratio is to maximize the efficiency of the superstructure. Currently, many bridge engineers and designers favor two- or three- girder plate superstructures, due to their cost advantages. However, research on the performance enhancements of ...

There is an increasing interest in the performance and serviceability of concrete crossties and elastic fastening systems due to the loading demands of increasing freight axle loads and the development of new high-speed passenger rail infrastructure in North America. In the light of these increasing demands, it is essential to examine and improve current design practices of prestressed concrete...

Methods for damage localization, based on modal parameters, are validated by means of numerical examples and experiments. In this paper, different load and damage cases are simulated with a Finite-Element model of a prestressed reinforced concrete bridge. Taking nonlinear material behaviour into account, realistic crack propagations and decrease of stiffness can be detected. The damage is local...

Currently long-term monitoring systems are mandatory in major civil engineering structures like bridges, tunnels and dams. Generally, they monitor a set of physical, chemical and mechanical parameters in critical sections of the structure by incorporating appropriated sensors. The set of collected data demonstrates great potential in the prevention of damage and contributes to a more efficient ...

Belitic calcium sulfoaluminate (BCSA) cement is a sustainable alternative to Portland that offers rapid setting characteristics could accelerate throughput in precast concrete operations. BCSA cements have lower carbon footprint, embodied energy, and natural resource consumption than cement. However, these benefits are not often utilized structural members due lack of specifications perceived l...