Life-Cycle System Reliability-Based Approach for Bridge Pile Foundations under Scour Conditions

Due to the soil spatial variability, it is still challenging to quantify the long-term reliability of bridge pile foundations under scour conditions. In this paper, a life-cycle system reliability-based approach that can explicitly address the scour-hole geometry and stress history is presented. The finite difference models implemented with the modified load transfer curves are developed to predict the pile performance. Two serviceability failure modes, settlement failure and lateral deflection failure, are investigated in the reliability analysis. This developed approach provides a new tool for the long-term performance assessment and rehabilitation of bridge pile foundations.