Numerical analysis evaluation on load-carrying capacity for corroded girder end structures

<p>The number of aging bridges in Japan is increased. Especially, corrosion of the girder end structures is serious problem that reduces the load-carrying capacity. Against this background, there is a growing trend in research focused on predicting the load-carrying capacity of bridges using 3D FEM. In these analytical studies, many evaluations on vertical load were carried out, but few evaluations on lateral load, such as earthquakes. In this paper, the finite element model of the girder end structure with corrosion was created and pushover analysis was conducted. The results of the analysis showed that the model with missing stiffeners reduced the maximum load and energy absorptivity and caused effect on the ultimate behavior rather than web plate.</p>