1. History of steel bridges

1.1 Materials evolution

For over two centuries, the metallic materials used in bridge construction have evolved considerably, both in terms of their mechanical performance and their other qualities (ductility, weldability, etc.). . Broadly speaking, the most frequently used materials can be classified into four families.

• Pure or quasi-pure iron

  It has been used occasionally on certain structures. Its main characteristics are as follows:

  • yield...