Robust design of bridges : robustness analysis of Sjölundaviadukt bridge

Abstract: Robustness of structural systems is as yet not explicitly defined nor is there a clearly defined method for incorporating robustness in design/construction. Robustness can be simply defined as the ability of a structural system to survive unforeseen/extraordinary exposures or circumstances that would otherwise cause it to fail. The structure must have enough residual capacity during and after the event to maintain at least some of its intended function intact. The level of robustness of a structure has to be analyzed in terms of the causes and consequences of failure; i.e. the consequences of structural damages should not be disproportional to the original cause (see 2.1 (3) of EN 1990:2002). This master thesis deals with the robustness of bridge structures. It examines common circumstances of failure and investigates methods and strategies towards incorporating structural robustness into the design of bridges. A robustness analysis is conducted for the Sjölundaviadukten Bridge; a 5-span post-tensioned frame bridge in Malmö.