A Study on Effect of Retrofitting Technique on Nodal Displacements and Beam Displacements on RC Bridge Using Finite Element Model

Abstract

Traffic loading can cause various failure modes in bridges, including bending moments, shear forces, stresses, and displacements. The complexity of bridge structures makes it challenging to evaluate their fatigue damage. To study these issues, numerical simulation offers a viable approach. This paper explores methods to enhance bridge stability and safety through retrofitting techniques, particularly for aging structures and those under heavy traffic conditions. The research proposes a novel retrofit method for reinforced concrete (RC) highway bridge columns in demanding construction environments. This approach combines carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) sheets with steel jacketing. The paper introduces this retrofit method, detailing the CFRP-steel bonded connection and explaining how it provides increased stiffness to RC bridge columns