May 09, 2025
First damaging load tests on the 𝗼𝗽𝗲𝗻𝗟𝗔𝗕 research bridge in Bautzen
Group photo of all those involved in the trials
How can damage to bridges be detected at an early stage - and which sensors deliver the best results?
We investigated these questions in the 𝗜𝗗𝗔-𝗞𝗜 project this week at 𝗼𝗽𝗲𝗻𝗟𝗔𝗕 in Bautzen: The first damaging load tests on the research bridge took place there as part of a three-day test program.
After comprehensive reference measurements in the undamaged condition, we introduced high loads in a targeted manner in order to analyze the load-bearing behavior in the limit state. In addition, tendons were severed at defined points - with the aim of testing the detection capability of various sensor types in the event of real damage.
Around 50 experts from industry and research as well as from different disciplines and European countries took part - a great interdisciplinary exchange for which we would like to express our sincere thanks!
What's special: All measurement data is to be made publicly accessible so that it can also be used by third parties - e.g. for the development and validation of methods for automated damage detection.
We are now looking forward to evaluating the data and gaining exciting insights for the bridge monitoring of the future.