Thermal Effects on Prefabricated Box Culverts and Implications for Joint Performance under Elevated Temperatures

Abstract

With the rapid progression of urbanisation and the continual refinement of transportation networks, prefabricated box culverts have increasingly attracted attention as modern structural components. Their rapid construction and environmentally friendly characteristics have rendered them a favoured choice within the engineering community. However, under high-temperature conditions, such as in fires or high-temperature industrial processes, concerns remain about the temperature distribution within these culverts and the subsequent impact on joint performance. Although some studies have addressed the temperature distribution and thermal effects associated with these culverts, most have been grounded in theoretical assumptions or have only engaged in preliminary experiments. In this research, an in-depth analysis of the temperature distribution within prefabricated box culverts under high-temperature conditions and the implications for joint performance is undertaken. Advanced finite element analysis tools are utilised for simulations. The findings provide the engineering community with comprehensive and precise reference data, holding significant implications for the design, construction, and maintenance of future prefabricated box culverts.