Large-scale Experiments of Tsunami Impact Forces on Bridges: The Role of Fluid-Structure Interaction and Air-Venting.

A series of large-scale FSI experiments was conducted in the Large Wave Flume at Oregon State University to study tsunami waves impacting bridges. The 1:5 bridge was tested in different configurations and the role of the flexibility of the connections and the substructure was examined. In addition, holes were drilled through the concrete deck to vent air trapped between the girders and their efficiency in reducing the uplift forces was investigated. Both the dynamic characteristics of the bridge and the air vents reduced significantly the tsunami forces induced in the bridge, for most of the tested waves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]