Shells as bridge decks

A numerical study on the behavior of shell bridge decks under the worst possible effect of dead load, loading vehicles of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO), and earthquake loads was carried out. Three practical aspect ratios covering small to medium span bridge decks each with several flatness ratios and slab thicknesses were considered. The effect of these parameters on the response/maximum deflection of shell bridge decks were discussed. Finally, the responses (deflection) of shell bridge decks were compared to those of corresponding flat bridge decks in order to show their suitability over flat decks in earthquake zones.