The test results of a bridge will be used to calibrate standards for strength evaluation of existing bridges. Nondestructive test procedures for bridge condition evaluation being researched by the University of Cincinnati will also be calibrated. It is proposed to further exploit this test for the advancement of analytical modeling and nonlinear analysis of reinforced concrete structures. Collaborating researchers from the University of Cincinnati and Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates will design, conduct and document the test as a benchmark experiment for validating and calibrating RC bridge analytical finite-element modeling and analysis. Instrumentation will be designed and installed to measure local and global responses to serve this purpose. Information will be documented, archived and disseminated to permit analytical model generation and response simulation by analytical researchers.
