This report contains the findings of a scanning review conducted to capture a broad overview of bridge technology in Europe with the goal of identifying technologies and practices that merit further consideration. The report includes observations made by the scanning review members and lists recommendations that merit consideration by public and private agencies. The contents of the report will be of interest to those involved in planning, designing, and constructing bridge projects. The report, prepared collectively by members of the review team, documents the observations made in five European countries - Denmark, Germany, Switzerland, France, and the United Kingdom. It reviews European bridge practices in the areas of policy, administration, and management; design philosophies and methods; materials; production and fabrication; bridge management systems; and maintenance. In addition, the report discusses the potential technical, economic, and environmental advantages of European practices. Finally the report provides 18 recommendations that merit consideration by public and private agencies to increase service life, reduce maintenance, and improve the aesthetics of bridge structures. (A)
Abstract