Bridge Engineering: A Global Perspective

Bridge Engineering: A Global Perspective is a comprehensive review of how we create and maintain bridges -- one of the most vital yet vulnerable parts of our infrastructure -- and how we got where we are today. Its 800 illustrated pages provide a unique and authoritative reference for practitioners, researchers and students alike on the state-of-the-art of bridge engineering world-wide, from local community footbridges to vast multi-modal crossings between nations. The book explains the fundamental role of bridges in supporting the flow of people and goods that are vital to sustainable development -- and documents mankindýýýs ever-increasing ingenuity to meet that demand over time. All types and sizes of bridges are covered -- from the earliest stone and timber structures to the principals of modern arch, beam and frame designs in steel and concrete and the spectacular developments in recent years in suspension and cable-stayed crossings. The books starts by discussing the historic, socio-economic and environmental significance of bridges, from the earliest times to the present day. The symbolic importance of bridges to communities is acknowledged, as is the need to preserve them as part of our cultural heritage. A history of bridge design and construction follows, examining in particular the increasing role played by specialist bridge engineers. The materials used in bridge construction are discussed -- ranging from timber, stone and cast iron to steel, concrete and the latest advanced lightweight composites. The core of the book however is the detailed review of each of the main structural forms - how they have evolved, how they work and how they are built and maintained. A chapter on the basic structural considerations for all bridges prefaces individual chapters on arch bridges, beam bridges, frame bridges, cable-supported bridges and moving bridges. Each chapter is comprehensively referenced and illustrated using examples from throughout the world. This practical book is an excellent reference for all involved in bridge engineering. Its comprehensive coverage is an asset, which sets this book apart as a truly unique and indispensable publication. If you only ever buy one book on bridges, make sure itýýýs this one. This book has been researched and written over many years by an internationally acclaimed Spanish bridge engineer -- Leonardo Fernýýndez Troyano -- recognized world-wide for his innovative structural approach. This is the first English edition of the successful Spanish text Tierra Sobre el Agua: Vision Historica Universal de los Puentes.Leonardo Fernyyndez Troyano is the author of 'Bridge Engineering: A Global Perspective', published 2003 under ISBN 9780727732156 and ISBN 0727732153.