Seismic reliability‐driven decision‐making for existing reinforced concrete bridges

Abstract [Abstract: 1300 characters maximum] Seismic reliability of aging infrastructure, especially bridges, is crucial in earthquake‐prone regions. Environmental factors like CO2 and chlorides can significantly worsen deterioration, requiring to schedule over time combined rehabilitation/retrofitting interventions, e.g. with composite materials. In this context, bridge owners need reliability‐based metrics to schedule timely interventions. The present study examines the use of fabric reinforced cementitious matrix (FRCM) systems for seismic retrofitting of a common existing bridge type in Italian infrastructure. The research involves deriving fragility curves for the “as built” configuration, and for a series of deterioration scenarios and FRCM retrofitting schemes. Time‐variant seismic reliability profiles are then assessed, quantifying reliability gains from FRCM retrofitting at different time instants.The results provide valuable information to support infrastructure owners in decision‐making regarding seismic retrofitting strategies and scheduling of interventions, ensuring optimal bridge management and enhanced seismic resilience.