Research Project:

Bridge Vulnerability Assessment and Mitigation against Explosions

Principal Investigator

Sam Kiger
University of Missouri – Columbia
(573) 882-3285
KigerS@missouri.edu

Project Objectives

Develop risk assessment procedures to identify critical bridges in a bridge network
Develop bridge vulnerability assessment guide
Develop concepts for mitigation and structural protection of bridges

Project Abstract

Soon after the attacks of September 11, 2001, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) assembled a Blue-Ribbon Panel of experts to develop strategies and provide guidance to improve the safety and security of bridge and tunnel infrastructure. This effort led to recognizing that the threat is real and can be devastating, risk assessment is necessary, and engineering guidance are needed based on research. Building on current and past efforts, the goal of this project is develop procedures to assist professionals and bridge owners identify critical bridges and to develop procedures to assess their vulnerability to explosions (terrorist’s bomb attacks).

Task Descriptions

Literature Search
Develop Risk and Vulnerability Assessment Procedures
Develop Deterioration Models for Post-tensioned Reinforced Concrete Girder Bridge Superstructure
Develop Mitigation and Protection Concepts
Technology Transfer

Project Period

March 2007 – February 2008

Potential Benefits of the Project

The procedures and design guides developed in this project will benefit the bridge owners, designers, inspectors, and professionals nationwide.

Budget

$106,108: $49,994 MTC / $56,114 Match ($24,998 California DOT, $31,116 University of Missouri – Columbia)

TRB Keywords

Structures, Bridge, Vulnerability, Assessment, Mitigation