Effect of bridge foundation stiffness on dynamic behavior of bridge structure

Abstract

Problems affecting the foundation of a bridge are always difficult to see because the structure is on the ground or covered by water flow. Scouring around piers and abutments can lead to unpredictable consequences that can result in sudden collapse of the structure. In this paper, the effect of foundation stiffness (before and after the bridge repair works) on the dynamic response of the bridge structure is investigated. The results will help to diagnose the bridge foundation in the future. Based on the results of span monitoring before and after repair works combined with numerical model analysis on a bridge in Vietnam, the effects of scouring at the bridge piers are determined. The research results reveal that the dynamic responses of the structure make it possible to detect damage to the foundation and determine whether scour is likely to occur in the vicinity of the bridge foundations.