Detection of bridge damage through analysis of dynamic response to vehicular loads utilizing long-gauge sensors

Abstract

Purpose

This paper presents a novel method for identifying damage in reinforced concrete (RC) bridges, utilizing macro-strain data from distributed long-gauge sensors installed on the concrete surface.

Design/methodology/approach

The method relies on the principle that heavy vehicles induce larger dynamic vibrations, leading to increased strain and crack formation compared to lighter vehicles. By comparing the absolute macro-strain ratio (AMSR) of a reference sensor with a network of distributed sensors, damage locations can be effectively pinpointed from a single data collection session. Finite-element modeling was employed to validate the method's efficacy, demonstrating that the AMSR ratio increases significantly in the presence of cracks. Experimental validation was conducted on a real-world bridge in Japan, confirming the method's reliability under normal traffic conditions.

Findings

This approach offers a practical and efficient means of detecting bridge damage, potentially enhancing the safety and longevity of infrastructure systems.

Originality/value

Original research paper.

Citation

Saifeldeen, M., Monier, A. and Fouad, N. (2024), "Detection of bridge damage through analysis of dynamic response to vehicular loads utilizing long-gauge sensors", International Journal of Structural Integrity, Vol. 15 No. 4, pp. 811-831. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJSI-04-2024-0059