Full scale test on reinforced concrete elements of an existing bridge: on-site investigation and laboratory testing design

The evaluation of mechanical characteristics and degradation level of existing bridges is a highly relevant topic today. This paper presents the initial phases of an integrated experimental-numerical research project focused on a pre-scheduled demolition of an existing reinforced concrete bridge. The controlled demolition of existing bridges represents an invaluable opportunity, allowing to deepen our comprehension on their behavior, especially when degradation analysis is concerned. Both on-site tests and subsequent laboratory experiments design are carried out on full-scale elements extracted from the bridge. These tests are complemented by Finite Element analyses conducted at various levels of detail. Specifically, after the description of the knowledge phases of the bridge performed on-site, the paper illustrates the preliminary numerical analyses carried out to support the customized design of the experimental setup, where mean values of all material parameters are assumed to acquire the essential information on the expected test results. Additionally, Monte Carlo analysis has been performed to evaluate the impact of statistical variability of material parameters on structural response. This aspect is particularly relevant for the design of the experimental test setup, due to the large forces involved and large displacements expected in order to reach the full collapse of the beams.