Latent resistance mechanisms of steel truss bridges after critical failures

Juan C. Reyes-Suárez, Manuel Buitrago, Brais Barros, Safae Mammeri, Nirvan Makoond, Carlos Lázaro, Belén Riveiro and Jose M. Adam ()
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Juan C. Reyes-Suárez: Universitat Politècnica de València
Manuel Buitrago: Universitat Politècnica de València
Brais Barros: Universitat Politècnica de València
Safae Mammeri: Universidade de Vigo, Applied Geotechnologies Research Group
Nirvan Makoond: Universitat Politècnica de València
Carlos Lázaro: Universitat Politècnica de València
Belén Riveiro: Universidade de Vigo, Applied Geotechnologies Research Group
Jose M. Adam: Universitat Politècnica de València

Nature, 2025, vol. 645, issue 8079, 101-107

Abstract: Abstract Steel truss bridges are constructed by connecting many different types of bars (components) to form a load-bearing structural system. Several disastrous collapses of this type of bridge have occurred as a result of initial component failure(s) propagating to the rest of the structure1–3. Despite the prevalence and importance of these structures, it is still unclear why initial component failures propagate disproportionately in some bridges but barely affect functionality in others4–7. Here we uncover and characterize the fundamental secondary resistance mechanisms that allow steel truss bridges to withstand the initial failure of any main component. These mechanisms differ substantially from the primary resistance mechanisms considered during the design of (undamaged) bridges. After testing a scaled-down specimen of a real bridge and using validated numerical models to simulate the failure of all main bridge components, we show how secondary resistance mechanisms interact to redistribute the loads supported by failed components to other parts of the structure. By studying the evolution of these mechanisms under increasing loads up to global failure, we are able to describe the conditions that enable their effective development. These findings can be used to enhance present bridge design and maintenance strategies, ultimately leading to safer transport networks.

Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1038/s41586-025-09300-8

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