| Summary: | When performing numerical evaluations on concrete bridges, the Fracture Energy (GF) plays a very important role, and this Fracture Energy value is calculated using empirical formulas derived from compressive strength tests. In order to perform such experiments, methods for obtaining the fracture energy have been carried out on concrete belonging to a 55-year-old bridge located in the city of Kalix, northern Sweden. For this purpose, cylindrical concrete samples were taken from the bridge and other bridges and tested in uniaxial tensile tests. In this Thesis, different methods for determining the Fracture Energy of concrete will be discussed, and recommendations for evaluative procedures will be given. Firstly, a literature review will be carried out, in which the different methods for obtaining the Fracture Energy experimentally will be studied in depth. In addition, these methods will be compared with each other to check for possible discrepancies, and the different factors that affect the Fracture Energy results will be discussed. Secondly, the methodology of the experiments will be explained in more detail. Thirdly, all the experimental work that has been carried out in the laboratory will be discussed, i.e., all the work performed, both the preparation prior to the tests and the tests themselves, will be described. Fourthly, the results obtained from the experiments will be put on paper and analyzed in order to check how reliable they are and whether they meet the established expectations. Finally, a conclusion will be made about all the work done, both outside and inside the laboratory, and the study carried out on the Fracture Energy in concrete bridges will be evaluated.
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