Introducing Efficiency for Damage Detection and Condition Assessment of Cable-Supported Bridges as a Basis for Life Cycle Analysis

This paper delves into the latest advancements in the evaluation and health monitoring of stay cables and external post-tensioning (PT) tendons in bridges, addressing expected defects, damages, and the array of available non-destructive testing (NDT) methods. Over the past few decades, bridge engineers and highway administrators have increasingly embraced cable-stayed and post-tensioned bridges, leading to a substantial rise in their construction globally. Stay cables and PT tendons are undeniably the most critical components of these bridges. This chapter synthesizes information gathered from evaluating the strength and reliability of stay cable and PT tendon systems in numerous bridges worldwide, along with extensive instrumentation, health monitoring, and inspection efforts in the US and abroad. These efforts have contributed to the development of a unified approach for the non-destructive, in-service evaluation, and resolution of issues concerning PT elements in these aesthetically pleasing structures. Additionally, the chapter discusses the common damages and defects observed in PT elements and presents a series of methods that have been developed or adapted specifically for evaluating these unique structural components and the bridges they support. By providing a comprehensive overview of both theoretical and practical aspects, this chapter aims to enhance the understanding and implementation of effective health monitoring and maintenance strategies for cable-stayed and post-tensioned bridges, ensuring their longevity and safety.