Mitigation of thermal effects in bridges: A comprehensive review of control methodologies

Abstract

Bridge structures experience complex thermal effects under the influence of environmental factors and internal heat sources, leading to adverse impacts on structural safety and durability. To enhance comprehension of bridge temperature issues and mitigate adverse thermal stress and deformation, the fundamental principles of “resistance”, “release”, “prevention”, and “utilization” are summarized based on the causes of thermal effects, which are resisting thermal stress, releasing thermal deformation, preventing temperature actions, and utilizing thermal effects. Subsequently, typical approaches are summarized based on each principle. Under the “resistance” principle, measures such as rational reinforcement design, increasing early concrete strength, and utilizing new materials with high tensile strength can be employed to reduce the risk of structural cracking. Following the “release” principle, techniques like proper arrangement of expansion joints and bearings, flexible foundation design for jointless bridge and mass concrete layering method can be utilized to release thermal deformations. Based on the “prevention” principle, reducing the hydration heat, applying heat-insulating coatings, shading panels, and phase-change materials can decrease temperature differences in the structure. Improved calculation of thermal effects during construction can also aid in construction control. Based on the “utilization” principle, it is possible to strengthen arch bridges and treat expansion joints with the help of favorable thermal effects. Finally, the advancements are prospected to make the bridge better adapted to the thermal effects.