PSI - Issue 62

Ettore De La Grennelais et al. / Procedia Structural Integrity 62 (2024) 48–56 Author name / Structural Integrity Procedia 00 (2019) 000 – 000

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proves crucial for adopting preventive and customized maintenance strategies, ensuring the safety and longevity of road infrastructures. As shown in Fig.3 below, it is an example of an excerpt from historical documentation purchased online during bibliographic research.

Fig. 3. Example of historical documentation.

5. Preparation of diagnostic investigation and structural survey plan For each bridge within the examined road network, BOLINA Engineering has developed detailed investigation plans, focusing on the implementation of non-destructive and micro-invasive on-site tests. These tests aim to experimentally determine the mechanical characteristics of structural materials in their current state of preservation. The criteria of planning in-site investigation are to elevate the knowledge level of the existing structure to the highest possible degree (LC “livello di conoscenza” according to Ministero delle infrastrutture e dei trasporti, 2018 and 2022). This involves comprehensive testing of the principal structural members and components, with the goal of minimizing uncertainties for advanced structural analysis. The meticulous approach ensures a thorough understanding of the structure's condition, enhancing the reliability and accuracy of subsequent higher-level analyses. With advanced techniques such as ultrasonic testing, tomography, coring, and so on as specified by standards (European Commission, 2001, 2013a, 2013b, 2016, 2019 and 2021), the goal is to gain a precise understanding of the physical properties of materials used in bridge construction. This in-depth on-site analysis not only allows for the assessment of the current structural health but also provides essential data for defining targeted maintenance strategies tailored to the specific needs of each work of art. A typical test plan is shown in Fig.4 as an example. The adopted approach translates into a detailed structural survey, representing a fundamental component for proactive safety management and the long-term durability maintenance of road infrastructures.