Seismic reliability-driven decision-making for existing reinforced concrete bridges

Abstract

[Abstract: 1300 characters maximum] Seismic reliability of aging infrastructure, especially bridges, is crucial in earthquake-prone regions. Environmental factors like CO2 and chlorides can significantly worsen deterioration, requiring to schedule over time combined rehabilitation/retrofitting interventions, e.g. with composite materials. In this context, bridge owners need reliability-based metrics to schedule timely interventions. The present study examines the use of fabric reinforced cementitious matrix (FRCM) systems for seismic retrofitting of a common existing bridge type in Italian infrastructure. The research involves deriving fragility curves for the “as built” configuration, and for a series of deterioration scenarios and FRCM retrofitting schemes. Time-variant seismic reliability profiles are then assessed, quantifying reliability gains from FRCM retrofitting at different time instants.The results provide valuable information to support infrastructure owners in decision-making regarding seismic retrofitting strategies and scheduling of interventions, ensuring optimal bridge management and enhanced seismic resilience.