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Full-Text Articles in Engineering
Historic Bridge Evaluation Using Finite Element Techniques, Helena M. Charron
Historic Bridge Evaluation Using Finite Element Techniques, Helena M. Charron
Masters Theses 1911 - February 2014
The present study examined the application of modern, computer-based analysis methods to two existing historic bridges in Massachusetts. The first bridge featured in this study is the Woronoco Bridge, a reinforced concrete open spandrel arch bridge that was constructed in 1923. It was hoped that a computer-based, parametric study of this bridge would prove it to be deck-stiffened, similar to select bridges of Swiss engineer Robert Maillart. However, the results do not support that there was any intent to reduce bending in the arch as a result of increasing the stiffness of the bridge deck. Instead, the Woronoco Bridge appears …
Enhancing Concrete Barrier Reflectivity With A Focus On Recycled Glass Aggregate Replacement, Regina Shklyan
Enhancing Concrete Barrier Reflectivity With A Focus On Recycled Glass Aggregate Replacement, Regina Shklyan
Masters Theses 1911 - February 2014
Increased accident rates during the nighttime and wet weather conditions on the United States highways necessitate the enhancement of highway concrete barrier visibility. The visibility of these delineators is dependent on their reflectivity. Several methods are proposed that stand to increase the reflectivity of these concrete barriers, such as the use of white cement versus gray cement and the attachment of raised pavement markers to the side of the barriers. The incorporation of recycled glass into the concrete mixture is one of the proposed methods that was put through further laboratory study. The aim of the laboratory testing was to …
Seismic Energy Dissipation Of Steel Buildings Using Engineered Cladding Systems, Quan Viet Nguyen
Seismic Energy Dissipation Of Steel Buildings Using Engineered Cladding Systems, Quan Viet Nguyen
Masters Theses 1911 - February 2014
This research examines the seismic energy dissipation potential of steel structures by focusing on new types of specially engineered cladding-to-frame connections. Traditional connection details consist of rigid restraints of cladding panels, resulting in seismic design that only considers the panel self-weight with connection design left up to the precast fabricators and typical details. It is postulated that by considering these elements to actively participate in building response a more efficient and resilient structure could be designed which accurately captures the effects of non-structural cladding elements on building behavior. In this preliminary research, two mechanisms to dissipate seismic energy using engineered …