On the use of aluminium alloys in sustainable design, construction and rehabilitation of bridges

Over the last few decades, aluminium alloys have been widely used as primary structural material in building construction. This is due to their advantageous properties such as low density, high strength-To-weight ratio, durability, excellent corrosion resistance and high recyclability. The aim of this review paper is to explore the potential use of aluminium alloys in bridge design and construction. To this end, a thorough discussion of the material properties is presented to identify if aluminium alloys can meet bridge design and construction requirements. Particular emphasis is also given to the total life-cycle cost of aluminium alloys and their potential role towards sustainability and reducing the carbon dioxide emissions related to bridge structures. Moreover, the possibility of using aluminium alloys for bridge rehabilitation and strengthening is investigated. A review of existing research on the static, dynamic and fatigue structural response of aluminium bridge decks is also presented. The main findings are highlighted, research gaps are identified and future research to fill these gaps is recommended.