MASUKU UNIVERSITY OF MASUKU POLYTECHNIC
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY SCHOOL
DEPARTEMENT
CIVIL
ENGINEERING
ENGLISH PRESENTATION
BRIDGE DESIGN CONSTRUCTION : STUDY OF THE
DIFFERENT TYPES OF BRIDGES AND MATERIALS
USED
Presented by : Under the direction of :
ABOGHE BIVEGHE Yann
Mr. COLLY T.L
HOUNKPATIN Hector Modiano
MBOUMBA Glaine Darlain
Academic year :2024-2025
Plan
INTRODUCTION
I. Function and contraint of a bridge
II. The main types of bridges
III. Materials used in bridge construction
IV. Design stage of bridge
V. Innovation in the field of bridges
CONCLUSION
Introduction
History of bridges begins with a tree log accidentally fallen across water courses,
natural rock arches formed due to erosion beneath. ). Climbers suspended above a
deep gorge.,hanging creepers from one tree (Banyan trees) to other, by tying a bunch
of long creepers with the trees situated on either side of water course.Bridges are
essential structures in civil engineering. They allow people and vehicles to cross
natural obstacles (rivers, valleys) or man-made ones (roads, railways), thus facilitating
movement and trade. From ancient times to the present day, bridge design has evolved
significantly thanks to scientific, technical, and material advancements. It is built to be
strong enough to safely support its own weight as well as the weight of anything that
should pass over it.
I. Functions and Constraints of a Bridge
A bridge must :
- Support its own weight (dead load).
- Withstand live loads (vehicles, pedestrians, trains).
- Resist weather conditions (wind, rain, frost, heat).
- Ensure long-term durability (50 to 100 years or more).
- Meet aesthetic and environmental requirements.
II. Main Types of Bridges
1. Beam Bridge
A simple structure with one or more horizontal beams with a Limited span that can be
go up to 50 m.
Example : small road or highway bridges.
2. Arch Bridge
Transfers loads through an arch that pushes against the supports,it is very strong and
used in deep valleys.
Example : Pont du Gard (France), Sydney Harbour Bridge.
3. Cable-Stayed Bridge
The deck is supported by cables (stays) attached to one or more towers and it can
span long distances that can be up to 1000 m.
Example : Normandy Bridge (France).
4. Suspension Bridge
The deck hangs from main cables supported by towers and it can very long span that
can be go up to 2000 m.
Example : Golden Gate Bridge (USA).
5. Slab or Box Girder Bridge
Used for short spans,the deck is made of a concrete slab, often prestressed.
III. Materials Used in Bridge Construction
1. Wood
Historically used, still present in small pedestrian bridges,it is lightweight but vulnerable
to moisture and fire.
2. Stone
Used in ancient arch bridges,it is very durable, but heavy and costly.
3. Concrete
- Reinforced concrete : strengthened with steel bars for tensile resistance.
- Prestressed concrete : steel cables are tensioned inside to increase strength.
Advantages : cost-effective, durable, strong in compression.
4. Steel
Highly resistant to tension.It is lightweight and flexible, ideal for long spans.
Drawback : susceptible to corrosion, needs maintenance.
5. Composite Materials
Carbon fiber, glass fiber, or reinforced polymers.Lightweight and strong but still
expensive.
IV. Bridge Design Steps
1. Feasibility study : site analysis, needs, and constraints.
2. Choosing the bridge type : based on span, budget, and environment.
3. Structural calculations : load modeling, strength, and stability.
4. Material selection : based on loads and durability.
5. Construction process :
- Foundations (piles, footings, caissons)
- Building piers and abutments
- Deck installation
- Finishing (pavement, safety systems, lighting)
V. Innovations in Bridge Engineering
- 3D printing of concrete components.
- Smart sensors for real-time structural monitoring (cracks, corrosion).
- Modular bridges : built in factories and assembled on site.
- AI-based design optimization and risk prevention.
Conclusion
Bridge construction is a precise engineering task that combines science, technology,
and sometimes art. The type of bridge and materials used depend on many factors :
span, cost, environment, and purpose. Thanks to technological progress, engineers
today design bridges that are increasingly strong, durable, and visually appealing,
meeting the challenges of modern infrastructure.
