Mathematical modeling of bed - Topography changes at bridge abutments

River bridges are very important elements of transportation systems, failures of which may not only lead to loss of several lives and excessive damages but also various deficiencies including socio-economic factors. Several aspects of bridge failures should be investigated jointly to gather information for scour-resistant design practices. This study specifically focuses on the effect of clear water scouring at vertical-wall abutments on bridge stability. Determination of the time-dependent volume and surface area of scour hole around a vertical-wall abutment would yield relevant information to assess the safety level of the bridge foundation. To this end, temporal variation of geometric features of scour holes around vertical abutments under clear water conditions are examined with reference to an experimental study. Findings of this study would yield some information concerning loss of structural resistance, safe design of footing and sizing and placement details of armoring countermeasures against scouring. © 2009 ASCE.