Responses of anchorage zones in cable-stayed bridges under blast loads

Abstract

Based on detailed finite element analysis, responses of the cable anchorage zones in cable-stayed bridges subjected to close-in detonations have been investigated in this paper, by evaluating the influences of charge locations, standoff distances and the intensity of axial force in the cable. Blast pressure generated directly above the anchorage zone will induce the most critical damages. Local failures, which consist of cratering and spalling of concrete, have been observed at the regions located at close proximity to the blast source. Although the presence of initial tensile force in the cable has benefited the global responses of the girder, significant improvement in the local responses ..