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Fluid Structure Interactions due to Scouring at Bridges

School of Natural and Built Environment | PHD

Applications are now CLOSED
Funding
Funded
Reference Number
NBE/2021/GH2
Application Deadline
1 May 2021
Start Date
1 October 2021

Overview

Bed scour at bridges, and in particular scour at short span masonry arch bridges, has recently come to the fore due to an increase in the number of structural failures of, in particular, masonry arch bridges. The incidence of failure in short to medium span bridges within the UK and globally due to scour accounts for 70% of bridge collapses. While the problem of bridge scour is well documented, previous research in this area has concentrated on either the structural behaviour of arch bridges or the hydrodynamic interaction of the flow with the river bed. It is however, the consequential nature of the interaction between the bed scour and the structural response to this that causes collapse and is an area that has not been fully investigated. Additionally, there has been no research study of the FlexiArch bridge under pressurised flow where the lack of mortar could give different behaviour to traditional masonry arch bridges.

This research project aims to investigate the causes of scour in bridges using both numerical modelling and laboratory investigations. A scaled model masonry bridge will be built for the experimental analysis of the pier scour phenomenon as well as for its evaluation of the amount and shape of the differential settlement due to the pier scour by means of hydraulic tests. The monitoring will be coupled with a detailed nonlinear finite element simulation for a better interpretation of experimental results and to better understand the dynamic behaviour of the arch bridges.

RESEARCH PROPOSAL
Applicants should use the ‘Research Proposal’ section to provide a 500-word (maximum) discussion of the project description outlining:

• Understanding of the proposed research question(s) aims and objectives
• The broader context of the research and its relevance to engineering and science
• A methodological approach to the work
• Options for analysis of the data gathered

Funding Information

This research project is one of a number of projects at this institution. It is in competition for funding with one of these projects (SALine INtrusion in coastal Aquifers (SALINA): Hydrodynamic Assessment and Prediction of Dynamic Response). Usually the project which receives the best applicant will be awarded the funding.

The successful candidate will be funded through a DfE 3-year studentship. To be eligible for a full award (stipend and fees), the candidate must have settled status in the UK (with no restrictions on how long they can stay) and been ‘ordinarily resident’ in the UK for 3 years prior to the start of the grant.

Project Summary
Supervisor

Professor Gerard Hamill

More Information

g.a.hamill@qub.ac.uk

Research Profile


Mode of Study

Full-time: 3 years


Funding Body
DfE
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