Current state of development of permanent pontoon bridges and prospects for their construction in Ukraine

The history of the development of the most famous pontoon bridges, from ancient times to modern structures, is considered. The technical requirements for permanent pontoon bridges are systematized in accordance with the world experience in their design, construction, and operation. The most rational area of their application is outlined. The classification of permanent pontoon bridges according to the continuous and separate pontoon construction is presented. The variants of layout schemes depending on the peculiarities of their design, as well as variants of pontoon shape with a description of the peculiarities of their application are systematized. For reference, the table systematizes the main technical characteristics of modern permanent pontoon bridges located around the world. Modern projects of permanent pontoon bridges are considered in detail on the example of the coastal route E39, which is planned to be built in Norway using various bridge schemes, including cable-stayed and suspension bridges, as well as a floating tunnel. Conclusions are drawn regarding the further development of pontoon bridge structures in the future and the prospects for their construction in Ukraine.