Earth-anchored bridges can now span further with less material consumption.
The article discusses how to optimize the weight distribution in earth-anchored cable-stayed bridges. By using a practical method based on beam and zone analysis, the researchers designed three bridge models with different anchoring systems. They found that bridges with partial earth anchoring or suspension systems require less material and have lower compressive forces compared to fully self-anchored bridges. This means that partially earth-anchored bridges can be built longer spans, saving on materials and costs.