Current ICT Project
Investigators:
  Bassem Andrawes (Primary)
Project Title:
  Strength of Bridge Wood Pilings Retrofits for Moment Resistance
Start Date: 8/16/2009
End Date: 2/15/2012
Summary of Project:
  The recent collapse of bridge No. SN019-5010 in DeKalb County, Illinois on August 19th 2008 illustrated with no doubt the vulnerability of bridge structures supported by wood pilings. Despite their cost-effectiveness, unfortunately, wood pilings are subjected to excessive decay and deterioration throughout their service life. This research will study and compare the effectiveness of several retrofitting methods in restoring the compression-flexural capacity of deteriorated wood pilings. Analytical and experimental tools will be used to predict the load-carrying capacity of as-built and deteriorated bridges with wood pilings and how this capacity would improve with the use of several retrofitting techniques.
Objective of Project:
  This project has two main objectives: 1) Evaluate the load carrying capacity of Illinois bridges with as-built and deteriorated wood pilings under unsymmetrical loading conditions. 2) Develop and/or recommend an efficient and cost-effect retrofitting method for restoring the compression-flexural capacity of deteriorated wood pilings.
Expected Outcome:
  The outcomes of this project will be in the form of: (1) Recommended methodology for evaluating the capacity of bridges with wood piles under unsymmetrical loading (bridge rating). (2) Recommended retrofitting method and design for bridge wood pilings. The recommended method will provide balance between the cost and the effectiveness in restoring the compression-flexural capacity of damaged wood pilings.
Click here to check the status of this project.
Last Updated: 10/21/2009