Panda, Debora2024-05-282024-05-282024-05-28http://hdl.handle.net/10393/46282https://doi.org/10.20381/ruor-30374The current study delves into the structural response of cable-stayed bridges, focusing on the Stonecutters Bridge, under various scenarios of deck deterioration. For one deck module, a dual-phase approach was adopted, using ANSYS v22.2, beginning with four parametric studies that investigated the impact of single and multiple rib suppression, as well as general and localized corrosion. The findings from these parametric studies yielded distinct deformation patterns and structural response of the Damaged Deck Module (DDM). Damage investigation was performed by suppressing one single rib and groups of symmetric ribs on the upper and lower surface of the inside DDM section, and three damage levels were assigned in respect to the most pronounced deformations recorded. Several general corrosion cases were also performed for the DDM, as uniform thickness reduction of the upper and lower decks steel plates, which displayed various deformation responses, underscoring the uneven impact of corrosion on different bridge components. The study of local corrosion highlighted the bridge's irregular structural reactions to varying corrosion patterns, with the severity and nature of the damage critically influencing the DDM's moment of inertia. Furthermore, the overall behaviour of the Stonecutters Bridge Deck model was examined by implementing into its main deck several DDMs affected by different levels of damage and investigated the change in vibration modes of the bridge. Symmetric mode shapes suggested more predictable and stable behavior, while asymmetry introduced complex challenges necessitating further analysis. Three cases of static wind loadings corresponding to high wind speeds were applied to the deck and it was noticed that despite the consistent deformation in all directions pointing to structural stability in the damaged bridge, a notable insensitivity to the inflicted damage was observed. This lack of responsiveness under various damage conditions raises concerns about potential unpredicted structural behaviors. Finally, this study provides significant insights into the structural response of a cable-stayed bridges subjected to different types and levels of deck damage. These findings are crucial for developing effective maintenance strategies and for enhancing design considerations for such structures. The research underlines the need for comprehensive understanding and proactive measures to ensure the long-term integrity and safety of cable-stayed bridges.enAttribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 Internationalhttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/Cable-stayed bridge behaviorDeck damage analysisStructural deformation patternsVibration mode symmetryThesis