Bridges in danger: Experts warn of the wave of renovation in Germany!

Bridges in danger: Experts warn of the wave of renovation in Germany!

The stability of the bridges in Germany is currently a hot topic, especially after the tragic fall of the Carolabrücke in Dresden , which caused great excitement in September 2024. Experts and authorities are prompted to act urgently, because the safety of numerous bridge structures, especially from clamping concrete, is on the brink. Tagesschau reports that this could result in a large wave of renovation-a scenario that we have already experienced in Berlin.

The bridge examiner Rico Thumeyer is in the middle of the investigation of the Märkische-Alle-Brücke in Berlin to assess their condition. While he hits the building with a knocking unit, it shows that no cavities are found, only the smallest cracks in the concrete (0.1 mm) were discovered. However, according to the current status, this is not a reason for concern.

The problem of the clamping concrete carrier

Almost 70 % of the bridges on the German long -distance streets are made of clamping concrete, the use of which was particularly popular in the 1960s to 1980s. Christian Müller, CEO of the AIV, draws attention to the considerable maintenance deficit, which is now noticeable. After all: the regular control of these buildings is essential, and special caution must be used for the clamping concrete bridges, especially when checking for small cracks.

Helmut Schmeititzner, head of specialist at the Berlin University of Applied Sciences and Law, predicts that the past few years will be shaped by extensive renovation work. Truck loads exceed cars and therefore lead to increased wear. For a healthy transport infrastructure, it is essential that bridges are subjected to a main exam every six years and every three years of a simple examination.

• Elsenbrücke (built in 1968 in the GDR)
• Ringbahnbrücke (built in 1963)
• Wuhlheide Bridge (built in 1989, torn down)

These bridges are impressive symbols of that time, which have now been partially torn down or have been shut down, while others are waiting for new buildings. According to Übenur.de , modern methodics in civil engineering are necessary to ensure sustainable and safe bridge infrastructure. This includes current studies, among other things, the digital calculation of railway bridges and the implementation of innovative surveillance technologies.

Overview of the future of bridge construction

Under the strategies for bridging existing challenges, new approaches in bridge construction are crucial. The Technical University of Dresden offers a variety of topics that deal with the future of bridge building. This not only includes the preservation of historical bridges, but also the use of digital methods to improve planning processes. Another area is the developments related to digital twins that can be modified for monitoring and analyzing construction sites and bridges.

The clear direction is that the bridges in Germany need comprehensive refresher. The focus is on sustainability, security and the use of new technologies in order to optimize the lifespan and functionality of these indispensable buildings. While the challenges are storming, experts and the responsible bodies agree that now to act to make the transport infrastructure in Germany.