Georadiolocation survey of bridge structures: field research methodology, processing and interpretation of materials. Part 2 – the piles foundations of bridge supports

Abstract

Introduction: The inspection of bridge structures (bridges, overpasses, aqueducts, viaducts, etc.), which are designed to transfer various communications over obstacles (water barriers, automobile roads and railways, etc.), is aimed at determining their design characteristics and technical condition. Both the possibility of trouble-free operation of facilities and their maintainability depends on this [1]. The elements of bridge structures that are not available for direct study can be examined by geophysical methods, primarily georadiolocation [1−3, 6−8]. It should be noted that the georadiolocation method is recommended for the examination of the foundations of the pillars of bridge structures GOST [1].

In the second part of the article, the results of the survey of pile foundations of bridge supports and their visible parts – transition plates, retaining and cabinet walls are considered.

Methodology: The article is illustrated by the author's materials of the geo-radar inspection of bridge structures, primarily their foundations. The data of the survey of visible parts of bridge structures – pillars, retaining and cabinet walls, etc., are given. The work was aimed at establishing their technical condition and design characteristics.

Results and discussion: The materials presented in the article confirm the high efficiency and versatility of the georadolocation method, which in many cases turns out to be the only possible source of information about the design characteristics and technical condition of the elements of bridge structures. The contactless method of generating and measuring of electromagnetic fields, as well as the presence of shielded antennas reduce the dependence of research on the conditions of their conduct.

Conclusion: The results of the survey of bridge structures indicate the high informativity of the geo-radar method, especially when studying the buried parts of structures. The possibility of choosing research methods, their hardware and approaches to the interpretation of materials allow to optimize their conduct.