Title:
Four Highway Bridge Failures Analyzed
Author(s):
S. A. Salam
Publication:
Journal Proceedings
Volume:
74
Issue:
3
Appears on pages(s):
128-132
Keywords:
bond (concrete to reinforcement]; bridges (structures) ; concrete construction; cover; cracking (fracturing); failure: highway bridges; reinforced concrete: rein-forcing steels.
DOI:
10.14359/10995
Date:
3/1/1977
Abstract:
An analysis of the probable causes of the structural failure of four major bridges in Bangladesh is presented in this paper. Theoretical studies and field observations were made to find out the causes of failure. The main factor causing the failure of the bridge over the river Mathabhanga was due to a defect in construction and incorrect placement of reinforcement in the slab on top of the caisson without concrete cover. The structural failure of the Nayarhat Bridge was due to the downward displacement of reinforcement in the areas of negative moments. The nature of failure of the Mirpur Bridge indicated a lack of bond between reinforcing steel and concrete. The cause of failure of the Tongi Bridge was apparently due to inadequate provision and incorrect placement of reinforcement.