The course aims to teach the theory bases and the practical tools for analysis and the design of bridges. The student will study bridge typologies, construction techniques, calculation methods and economic factors related to the construction of bridges. Three dimensional structures, movable loads, phased construction and creep analysis, substructures such as piers, abutments and foundations will also be addressed during the course.

Knowledge and understanding: The course will provide the basic knowledge regarding the design of concrete and composite stell-concrete bridges with special regard to the definition of resisting mechanisms, the description of the actions, the calculation methods, the dimensioning criteria and the construction techniques of bridge decks, substructures and details. Applying knowledge and understanding: At the end of the course the student should be able to choose the best bridge typology in function of the design requests, identify the correct structural scheme to describe it, choose a performing and sustainable construction technique to build it and understand the main economical, logistic and structural issues related to the design and maintenance of the bridge. Communication skills: At the end of the course the student should gain the mastery of express and communicate topics related to the design, construction and maintenance of reinforced concrete and prestressed bridges. He should be able to discuss using technical vocabulary and to read graphical design blueprint.

For a proper understanding of the course is necessary a good knowledge of structural analysis and structural design. A good knowledge of design of prestressed concrete structures and composite steel-concrete structures is also useful to follow the course.

Theory lessons: 1. Basis of design 2. Slab bridges 3. Girder bridges 4. Local effects on bridge decks 5. Creep effects on phased construction 6. Box section bridges 7. Composite steel-concrete bridges 8. Construction details: bearings, joints, liquids drainage 9. Piers and Abutments 10. Bridge foundations 11. Seismic design of bridges.

Practice lessons will cover the following subjects: 1. Actions on bridges according to Italian and European Codes 2. Application of Curbon and Engesser methods 3. Finite element analysis of a girder deck. 4. Local effects on bridge decks. 5. Design of reinforced concrete shell elements using sandwich model. 6. Creep effect on a simple continuous beam obtained by means of phased construction. 7. Case studies 8. Design of a box shaped bridge 9. Design of a slender pier

The books that are suggested for a better understanding of the topics of the course are: C. Menn - Prestressed concrete bridges - Springer-Verlag – 1986 J. Schlaich, H. Scheer - Concrete box girder bridges – IABSE AIPC IVBH – 1982 The blueprint of the slides used during both theory and practice lessons are also given to the students.

Modalità di esame: Prova scritta su carta con videosorveglianza dei docenti;

The exam consists in a written test intended to verify the achievement of expected learning outcomes. The written exam consists of exercises and questions on numerical and theoretical issues covering all the program. The duration may be adapted depending on the complexity and difficulties of the questions, spanning between 1.5 and 3 hours.

Modalità di esame: Prova scritta su carta con videosorveglianza dei docenti;

The exam consists in a written test intended to verify the achievement of expected learning outcomes. The written exam consists of exercises and questions on numerical and theoretical issues covering all the program. The duration may be adapted depending on the complexity and difficulties of the questions, spanning between 2 and 3 hours.