Basics and Development of Stochastic Models for a Structural Reliability Assessment of Reinforced Concrete Bridges on the Basis of the Results from Bridge Inspection

Basics and Development of Stochastic Models for a Structural Reliability Assessment of Reinforced Concrete Bridges on the Basis of the Results from Bridge Inspection A probabilistic method based on the reliability theory allows a quick assessment of the load bearing capacity of damaged reinforced concrete bridges. The aim is to support the bridge inspection engineer during the bridge inspection according to DIN 1076 [1] and not to replace a static recalculation. It should allow a quick decision as to whether or not a restriction of the crossing traffic is necessary. With this method it is possible to achieve a better assessment of the influence of damages on reinforced concrete bridges which are seen in a visual bridge inspection. Part 1 of the two papers describes the basics of the methodology and shows the development of the stochastic models for the material and geometry parameters which have changed as a result of damage. In Part 2 the model uncertainty for the bridge inspector and the practical use in accordance with the RI-EBW-PRUF [2] are shown.