Integral Bridges

George L. England; Neil C.M. Tsang; David I. Bush0727728458, 9780727728456

Integral bridges have become increasingly popular over recent years. Problems and costs associated with failed expansion joints in conventional bridges not only make integral bridges a cost-effective option but also means they have longer lifespans than their counterparts. The growing importance of integral bridges has highlighted the need for more information and guidance to assist in improving bridge design. This book presents the results of research commissioned by the UK Highways Agency into the thermally induced soil/structure interaction, created by environmental temperature changes, and the associated cyclical displacements imposed on the granular backfill of bridge abutments. This book provides essential information for bridge designers to aid their understanding of the cyclical changes in backfill pressures and settlement due to the diurnal and annual changes in bridge deck temperature — a crucial factor when designing integral bridges.