ABSTRACT
The paper presents selected methods of strengthening dedicated to masonry arch bridges. Within the introduction to the topic an overview of different strengthening methods influencing the structures in various ways is described. The study concentrates on the longitudinal behaviour of the arch of single-span bridges. The applied methods are related to addition of some structural components on the both sides of the arch – extrados and intrados. Two basic solutions are studied based on a rigid or a slender layer corresponding to the most common techniques being applied to these bridges around the world. Comparison of the proposed techniques is given considering their impact on the direct structural behaviour of the structure as well as long term consequences including its durability. Structural details of the solutions are given as well as their efficiency is evaluated by means of numerical analyses. Advanced nonlinear Finite Element models utilizing a meso-modelling technique is presented and selected results showing mechanical performance of the structure before and after strengthening are provided. Interpretation of the results is given and final conclusion are formulated.
