A state-of-the-art review of bridges subjected to earthquake fault ruptures

Abstract

With ongoing seismic activity worldwide and the rapid development of transportation infrastructure, an increasing number of bridge projects face the significant risk of crossing earthquake fault-rupture zones. Earthquake fault ruptures may lead to catastrophic damage to bridge structures that cross them. In particular, fault-crossing bridges can experience more complex responses, increased seismic demands, and greater damage potential compared to those exposed to conventional seismic actions, leading to significant casualties and economic losses. Therefore, it is imperative for engineers, researchers, and policymakers to understand the performance of bridges subjected to earthquake fault ruptures to ensure the design of reliable seismic-resistant bridges. This paper presents a comprehensive review of bridges subjected to fault ruptures. It begins with an overview of seismic damage to fault-crossing bridges in past earthquakes, followed by a discussion of the fundamental characteristics of near-fault and across-fault ground motions, including relevant simulation methods. Subsequently, the paper reviews theoretical analyses, experimental studies, and numerical simulations on fault-crossing bridges, and summarizes mitigation strategies against fault-crossing effects. Finally, the current state of research is assessed, and future research directions are outlined. This paper provides valuable insights into the impact of across-fault ground motions on bridge structures.