Assessing and monitoring the health of bridges, tunnels, and civil and engineering structures
summary
This project aims to develop a novel integrated model using condition assessment-based information to predict the behaviour of bridges, tunnels and structures under various static and dynamic loading conditions.
About the project
Bridges, tunnels and civil engineering structures are areas of significant importance and major investments, requiring viable and strategic maintenance and management. Any failures in maintenance are likely to lead to increased deterioration with known consequences such as building collapses, road accidents and closures, and ultimately devastation.
To this effect, destructive and non-destructive techniques and methods are often used within the context of structure and bridge repair and maintenance.
In recent years, the applications of non-destructive testing techniques such as 3D laser scanners, ultrasound, vibration and deformation-detecting sensors, as well as ground-penetrating radar (GPR) technologies have developed in this field.
Promising results have been produced based on major research and development projects focusing on structure foundations and buildings, tunnels, as well as bridge substructures, superstructures and decks.
However, further research areas have been identified within the context of tunnel investigations and bridge modelling and characterisation based on thorough dynamic and static monitoring information.
The aim of this project is to develop a novel integrated model using condition assessment-based information for predicting the behaviour of bridges, tunnels and structures. This will be done under different static and dynamic loading conditions.
The main objectives of this research project will be:
- to develop new bridge, tunnel and structure assessment and monitoring protocols
- to develop a more comprehensive and inclusive structure, tunnel and bridge structural defect information system, covering factors such as:
- settlement
- deformation
- cracks
- rebar
- corrosion
- delamination
- moisture ingress
- to develop advanced numerical simulations and dynamic modelling of bridges, tunnels and structures.
Impact
The results of this investigation will contribute towards the development of novel bridge, tunnel and structure monitoring and assessment methodologies, paving the way to the development of new design and assessment software used by the industry.
The research team
- Professor Amir Alani
- Professor Fabio Tosti
- Dr Lilong Zou
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