Abstract Given their close proximity to traffic and, often, improper employment of protective systems, bridges and bridge piers are vulnerable to multi-hazard events triggered by vehicle collisions coupled with correlated and cascading events such as explosions and fires. Recent catastrophic incidents in the United States highlighted the significance of examining the performance of bridge systems under these multi-hazard scenarios. While the combined effects of these extreme demands may cause profound consequences, including significant structural damage, adverse economic impact, and loss of life, there has been a notable lack of research investigating the performance of bridges and bridge structural components under the aforementioned multi-hazards. As a result, performance of bridges under these coupled demands remains largely unknown. Consequently, LS-DYNA was utilized in this study to simulate the behavior of single RC columns and multi-column piers, and existing bridge in Sidney, NE, under a coupled vehicle collision and air blast before or after fire. A unique and advanced multi-step modeling approach that incorporates uncoupled implicit heat transfer analyses and explicit structural analyses was developed and validated. The study also examined the feasibility of various in-situ retrofitting and protection techniques, including fiber-reinforced polymers and soil infills, to improve bridge resiliency under combinations of vehicle collision, air blast, and fire. An empirically based, simplified, equivalent static force predictive equation that can be used to represent substructure impact forces, and a companion assessment framework were proposed. The outcomes of this study significantly contributed to the existing knowledge base, providing valuable insights and improving bridge analysis and design methods that can be adopted by relevant codes and specifications.

About the Candidate: Qusai Alomari is a dedicated Ph.D. candidate in Civil/Structural Engineering at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, under the guidance of Dr. Linzell. His research expertise lies in examining the resiliency of bridges and their structural components under multi-hazard scenarios, including fires, vehicle collisions, and air blasts. Qusai is passionate about developing innovative protection techniques and predictive models to enhance the safety and durability of critical infrastructure. Apart from his Ph.D. pursuits, Qusai brings a wealth of research experience to the table. He has participated in extensive studies in structural health monitoring, involving field investigations, and has also implemented cutting-edge artificial intelligence techniques in structural control to mitigate seismic effects. His multidisciplinary approach underscores his commitment to advancing the field of civil engineering. Qusai’s research interests extend beyond conventional boundaries, and he continues to explore innovative topics that have a lasting impact on the field of civil engineering. Prior to his Ph.D., Qusai served as a full-time lecturer for more than three years at the prestigious Jordan University of Science and Technology, where he imparted his knowledge and expertise in civil engineering to eager students. His commitment to education extended to UNL, where he actively engaged in teaching, research, and various professional development programs. Qusai’s contributions to the academic community are evident not only in his teaching prowess but also in his research endeavors, where he delves into the complexities of civil engineering challenges.