Justification for the necessity of amendments to the regulatory framework in the calculation of bridge span structures under thermal climate impact

This paper aims to justify the necessity of amending the existing regulatory framework for calculating the span structures of road bridges concerning thermal climate impacts. The methodology for calculating span structures has been improved to account for the actual effects of solar radiation. Within the framework of this study, refined finite element models have been developed, which consider the changes in strength characteristics of pavement layers and the shear rigidity between them. Numerical investigations have been conducted based on measurements of temperature fields in the elements of the span structure, along with their verification through instrumental measurements. The results obtained have been compared with those derived from regulatory document recommendations. The comparative numerical calculations, utilizing the enhanced methodology, revealed a significant increase in internal forces within span structures compared to the outcomes based on regulatory recommendations, as well as identified a spatial character of deformation. The validity of the obtained results was confirmed through extensive field experimental measurements at an existing structure, underscoring the need for a review and update of current regulatory provisions when calculating road bridge span structures under thermal climate impact to enhance the reliability, safety, and durability of bridge constructions.