Sustainability of bridge networks under flood-induced scour and earthquake

Sustainability is becoming an important performance indicator in the design and assessment of structural systems. In order to evaluate the sustainability of bridge networks under various hazards, it is necessary to develop a methodology that integrates the probabilities of occurrence of hazard events in the region, the vulnerability of networks, and the consequences of hazards to society, environment, and economy. In this paper, the uncertainties associated with these aspects are included in the sustainability assessment of bridge networks. The sustainability of bridge networks depends on the outcome of the damage states of the bridges and links within the network associated with hazard scenarios. This paper focuses on probabilistic sustainability assessment of bridge networks under flood-induced scour and earthquake. The time effects due to deterioration are considered in a life-cycle context. The approach is illustrated on an existing bridge network.