Pushover analyses of existing bridges subjected to scouring effect

Degradation phenomena and flood-induced scouring effects greatly affect the seismic performance of existing bridges. Furthermore, the time-dependency of such phenomena is crucial to adequately assess their seismic capacity and plan maintenance and intervention strategies. In the context of evaluating such effects, numerical approaches are useful and viable tools. In this work, the effects induced by scouring on the pushover response of existing bridges are evaluated through nonlinear finite elements analyses. First, a case study of an existing bridge is selected, and its main features are described. Then, pushover analyses are carried out by varying the erosion depth at the base of bridge piers. Finally, the main findings are highlighted and discussed.