ABSTRACT
Novel aluminium bridge decks have recently been proposed as an alternative to traditional steel bridge decks. Aluminium structures can meet all design criteria for bridges and have the advantages of low density and high corrosion resistance compared with steel structures. Some initial studies have been conducted for ship deckhouse and forecastle impacts with steel bridge girders. Considering the lower elastic modulus and ductility of aluminium material compared with steel, aluminium bridge girders may be more vulnerable to collision loads. This study aims to numerically investigate the local structural response of aluminium bridge girders under shipping container impacts. The strain rate effect of aluminium girder under containter impact is first discussed. The impact force, structural damage and energy dissipation during the collision are compared between aluminium and steel bridge girders. The effects of impact angle and vertical location are also discussed.
