Earthquake resistance and cost-effectiveness of multi-span bridges

The design of structural systems depends on a wide range of compliance criteria. More specifically, with respect to earthquake resistant bridges, the issue of economy (cost-effectiveness) is mostly affected by the basic concept of their design, namely the selection of the optimum structural system for specific conditions and requirements. The present study focuses on the cost-effectiveness of four different bridge systems: (a) a fully-integral bridge with an innovative full-height integral abutment, (b) a quasi-integral bridge, which was the “reference” system, (c) a semi-integral bridge, and (d) a “floating deck” bridge, whose deck is supported on piers through bearings. The accommodation of both the in-service and the seismic requirements of bridge systems were studied with the objective of minimizing structural and final costs.