PSI - Issue 72

Vera Vujović / Procedia Structural Integrity 72 (2025) 5 – 12

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1. Introduction Environmental conditions, natural surroundings, geographical location, rich and diverse flora, significantly affect the formation of colonies of algae, mosses and lichens on concrete surfaces, joints of stone blocks, cobblestones, wo oden piles. etc. wooden details of the foundations on the historic Mehmed Paša Sokolović Bridge that spans the Drina River. The bridge was reconstructed and conservation works were carried out in 2016. The Bridge Management Plan does not contain a detailed analysis and measures on the impact of biodeterioration on the stone bridge, nor does it provide detailed instructions for controlling its development. In cooperation with the Ecological Association for Environmental Protection DRIN-Tim more than 10 years ago (project leader), a research project was launched on the historic Mehmed Paša Sokolović Bridge and the development of a Case Study - Mehmed Paša Sokolović Bridge (2016 -2018) which represents a platform for decision-making and planning. The Case study concept is based on the Bridge Management Plan (2003-2005). The aim of the Case study is to assist in identifying strategic guidelines for improving bridge management and monitoring with the application of new technologies, especially from the aspect of Durability and Service Life extension. Although due to lack of financial resources, the Project based on the Case Study proposals was not implemented, the research continued and is related to the effects of biodeterioration (algae, moss, lichen, fungi, etc.) on the joints of stone blocks, stone material and concrete parts of the bridge, as well as the impact of the HPP Višegrad and HPP Bajina Bašta, the impact of seismicity, vibrations, moisture, air pollution, rotting of wooden piles, constant changes in water levels, etc. In addition, the Case Study can be used to develop a business plan and apply for possible donations and grants. The Case Study dedicated to the character and work of Professor Milan Gojković (1926 -2002), who made an invaluable contribution to the improvement of stone bridge maintenance methodology. The main chapters of the book Old stone bridges: anatomy, pathology, protection, rehabilitation and conservation. The implementation of the proposals given in the Case Study, especially those related to monitoring and specific measurements and tests, requires the engagement of numerous experts of various profiles and the continuous provision of financial resources

Fig. 1. View of Mehmed Pasha Sokolović Bridge in Visegrad.

2. Masonry arches

Fig.2 ( a) Basic parts of massive arch bridge; (b) Basic arch parts and (c) Forces in masonry arches