Realistic Laboratory Rolling Loading of Bridge Superstructure built using Novel Technologies Combined with Environmental Exposure

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Bridges are essential links in our transportation networks. The health of these structures has a significant impact on economy bec’s 12,000 bridges, need retrofitting or replacementThis project aims to establish a rigorous framework of research to study bridge decks & girders under moving (rolling) loads and environmental effects. The concept is highly original and innovative as it closely simulates traffic. Traditional testing is usually through 'pulsating' loading (loading & unloading repeatedly at the same spot), but is shown by some studies to overestimate the number of loading cycles to failure, which is not conservative. This research is enabled by a large scale Moving Load Simulator, 18 m long (the first and only in Canada), recently developed & built using federal & provincial funds awarded to the applicant and colleagues.These unique experiments will be complemented by theoretical analysis using finite element & service life models. The research will provide insight into the fundamental differences between pulsating and rolling loads, in terms of their effects on stiffness degradation, crack development & fatigue life of bridges. Bridge decks with various construction materials & methods will be studied. The combined effect of rolling loads & exposure to freeze-thaw or salt spray will be examined. The effect of rolling load on shear strength and lateral load distribution of girders will be studied. Also, expansion joints & dynamic effects will be studiedThe proposed research seeks to create a paradigm shift in the way bridges are tested to allow for a much more robust understanding of bridge performance. It will help establishing Canada as a world leader in bridge engineering & bridge management policy, by using the wealth of knowledge and data collected from this research to revise design & construction guidelines for bridge authorities, designers & contractors to better reflect actual performance of bridges. Ultimately this will lead to more efficient use of resources & tax dollars, enhanced accuracy of bridge ratings and reduced travel and delay timesDuring the funding period, 5 PhD, 6 MSc & 12 undergrad students will be trained as future engineers capable of transferring knowledge from the lab to the field with confidence and enthusiasm. Training involves critical thinking, problem solving, hands on experience, lab testing, data analysis, computer modeling, technical writing, presenting, team work & networking with industry partners. The applicant’s former HQP have had remarkable careers (7 became professors with one Canada Research Chair & the rest were all hired by top industries, including Arup-New York, Halsall & Trans-Canada)