Structural health monitoring of cable-stayed bridges

Abstract

In this thesis, topics relevant to structural health monitoring of bridges using ambient vibration tests and operational modal analysis are discussed. First, a hybrid structural health monitoring framework that involves various inspection and evaluation methods was proposed for a more thorough analysis of the structure. This framework was then implemented on a case-study cable-stayed bridge in New Brunswick, Canada to evaluate its structural conditions. Using the proposed method, the stiffness of the main girders and orthotropic deck as well as non-structural mass were determined. Areas that have experienced structural changes or potential damage were successfully identified. Lastly, the required monitoring time for ambient vibration testing of civil engineering structures is investigated and an equation was developed to account for different excitation types and total error values.