Robust Bridge Design Framework to Blast, Fire, and other Extreme Threats

Recent bridge projects have incorporated multiple hazards (i.e., blast, fire, manual sabotage, RPG/mortar) as independent threats on the system. Traditional design methods to handle each threat separately are expensive and can lead to conflicting requirements. This paper will introduce the framework for a robustness-based design process. The outcomes are articulated through a series of generalized variables; topology (i.e., structural configuration relative to the site or location), geometry (i.e., layout of the structural load bearing elements), damage, and hazard intensity measures. A probabilistic framework permits consistent characterization of the inherent uncertainties through the process. This definition of resilience allows engineers to quantify resilience and robustness in more certain terms and provides a basis to better assess post-event structural behaviour.