A Master’s Thesis at Al-Furat Al-Wsat Technical University Explores the Evaluation and Inspection of Damage in Prestressed Concrete Bridges in Iraq

A master’s thesis at Al-Musayyib Technical College, part of Middle Euphrates Technical University, titled “Evaluation and Inspection of Damage in Prestressed Concrete Bridges in Iraq”, was presented by researcher Huda Hashim Mohammed from the Department of Building and Construction Engineering Technology. The study aimed to use the Finite Element Analysis (FEA) method to examine internal forces within bridge structures under various loading conditions, including dead load, moving load, stressed load, temperature effects, and load combinations. This analysis was performed during both the design and service phases of bridge construction, utilizing the CSI-Bridge software (version 25).

The study also focused on non-destructive testing methods, such as ultrasonic testing and Schmidt hammer testing, to assess the condition of the bridges. These methods were applied to evaluate different types of bridges, including I-girder, box girder, U-girder, and slab bridges.

The findings of the research showed that, after one year of operation, no damage was found to the bridge structures, including the girders, deck, piers, flexible pavements, and abutments, across all the bridges (I-girder, box girder, U-girder, and slab types) located in the Al-Sari’ Doura area in Yusufiyah.

The study recommended further investigations using additional testing techniques and emphasized the importance of applying the methodology used in this research for the evaluation of both old and new bridges before they are opened to traffic.

This research is valuable in providing insights into the assessment of prestressed concrete bridges’ structural integrity and lays the foundation for future bridge maintenance strategies in Iraq.