Testing Anchorage of Bridge Barrier Posts

Post and beam safety barriers are common on Canadian highway bridges. The post anchorage refers to the region of bridge deck and curb to which the post is connected. The anchorage must be strong enough to resist crash loads on the barrier, which generate large tension forces within the anchorage. Typical barrier post anchorages have been shown in crash tests to be strong enough but they suffer extensive damage that is difficult to repair. Through a combination of analysis and laboratory testing, we will be looking for ways to better engage reinforcing steel with the goal of making the anchorages both safer and easier to repair. For WSP, a major bridge design consulting engineering firm in Canada with offices across the country, the major benefit is a competitive advantage in offering its clients a higher value product.

Faculty Supervisor:

Scott Alexander

Student:

Partner:

WSP Canada Inc

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Construction and infrastructure; Information and cultural industries; Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

University of Alberta

Program: