Smart integration of non-destructive damage detection and life-cycle assessment for sustainable maintenance of coastal bridges

Abstract

[EN] Purpose This paper proposes a sustainability-oriented method for detecting corrosion-induced damage in long-span reinforced concrete bridges using the power spectral density (PSD) approach. The paper aims to enhance the long-term performance and maintenance planning of bridge structures exposed to chloride environments by integrating structural health monitoring (SHM) with life-cycle sustainability assessment.

Design/methodology/approach A finite element model is developed for SHM of a coastal reinforced concrete bridge over a 100-year service life. The model captures the changing dynamic properties resulting from reinforcement corrosion. PSD analysis, adapted for damage caused by chloride corrosion, is used to extract frequency shifts and amplitude variations associated with the progression of internal damage. The results are assessed within a holistic sustainability framework that includes economic, environmental and social factors. Additionally, multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) techniques, including Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) and analytic hierarchy process (AHP), are utilized to rank and prioritize rehabilitation strategies.

Findings The results reveal that developed frequency-based analysis can effectively identify corrosion-induced deterioration at early stages, offering a non-destructive and reliable approach to SHM. Integrating this technique with sustainability assessment provides valuable insights into the cost-effectiveness, environmental performance and social implications of bridge maintenance interventions.

Research limitations/implications The study is based on a simulation-driven methodology and applied to a single base study of a coastal bridge. Sensitivity analysis is used to address major uncertainties; however, the lack of validation using field monitoring data may limit the applicability of the results. Future research should focus on experimental validation and on extending the framework to diverse bridge typologies and environmental conditions.

Practical implications The suggested framework serves as a decision-support tool for infrastructure asset managers, transportation authorities and policymakers by facilitating early damage identification and assessing life-cycle sustainability impacts. That, in turn, enables more informed, proactive and resource-efficient maintenance planning.

Social implications Implementing this approach promotes safer, longer-lasting bridge infrastructure, minimizing disruptions and risks for users and nearby communities. The sustainability assessment ensures that environmental and social dimensions ¿ such as material efficiency, worker safety and societal well-being ¿ are considered in maintenance decisions. By improving cost-effectiveness and reducing carbon emissions associated with premature repair, the method supports responsible resource use and aligns with global sustainable development goals. This integrative framework encourages social equity and community resilience through proactive and environmentally conscious infrastructure management.

Originality/value This study contributes to the advancement of sustainable infrastructure management by linking vibration-based damage detection methods with life-cycle sustainability and decision-making frameworks. It highlights the developed PSD as a practical tool for predicting and identifying chloride corrosion, thereby supporting proactive, sustainable maintenance planning and optimizing resource allocation for long-term durability.