Scaled Model of the Messina Bridge: Numerical and experimental model analysis considering soil-structure interaction under seismic excitation

This study investigates the seismic behavior of the Messina suspension bridge, fo- cusing on the influence of soil conditions during seismic events. Three soil profiles were selected, representing soft, medium, and stiff soil conditions, combined with two distinct seismic ground motions, resulting in six scenarios. A finite element model (FEM) was developed to assess the dynamic response of the bridge, including deck displacements and cable tension variations under different conditions. To validate the numerical results, a 1:265 scaled model of the bridge was constructed in the laboratory. Experimental measurements included deck displacements recorded via Linear Variable Differential Transformers (LVDTs) at mid-span, dynamic characteristics captured through accelerometers, and cable tension variations monitored using Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) sensors. The results provide insights into the bridge’s seismic response across different soil conditions, highlighting key structural be- haviors under dynamic loading.