Maintenance Challenges in Maritime Environments and the Impact on Urban Mobility: Machico Stayed Bridge

Round 1

Reviewer 1 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

    This paper analyzes the deterioration of the bridge, its impact on traffic and tourism, and the importance of sustainable urban planning and infrastructure management. The topic of the study is interesting, but there are many issues in this article that need further revision:

1.   In the "Discussion" section (line 606), the relationship between the future outlook and the previous discussion can be more clearly stated, so as to enhance the integrity of the paper.

2.   for the technical measures of bridge maintenance, such as anti-corrosion monitoring and mitigation plans, the specific implementation of the structural health monitoring system, etc., can provide more detailed information, including the technology used, equipment and monitoring frequency.

3.    some sentences are long and complex, can be properly split or simplified to improve the readability of the article. For example: “The combination of intense winds, constant sea spray, and temperature fluctuations accelerates the corrosion process,  necessitating specific maintenance measures for the Machico Stayed Bridge,  primarily focused on corrosion affecting metal components such as steel cables and support bearings (Figure 13).”  You can break it down into short sentences to make it easier to understand.

4.   In 4.1, when comparing 2019 and 2024 reports, the specific data and findings in the report can be analyzed in more detail to highlight the extent and speed of bridge deterioration. At the same time, when analyzing the reasons for deterioration, more actual situations and data can be combined to demonstrate.

5.    In Chapter 6, the future vision is more clearly linked to the previous discussion, for example, how to develop specific sustainable development planning and infrastructure management strategies based on the issues analyzed and recommendations made earlier.

6.    When referring to a graph in your text, describe in detail the data and information presented in the graph and how it supports the thesis. See Table 2 for example.

7.   The content of the "Discussion" is relatively broad, and specific case analysis on sustainable urban planning and infrastructure management is lacking, making it difficult to have a deep understanding of relevant concepts and strategies.

Author Response

Dear Reviewer,

 

Thank you for your observations and for the opportunity to improve our manuscript!

We are very grateful for taking the time to analyze the paper and make very useful, encouraging, and thoughtful comments and recommendations.

We have read the evaluation carefully and, based on the review report, we performed revisions of our manuscript, as requested, the modifications being highlighted with green into the manuscript and in the answers bellow.

 

Comments and Suggestions for Authors:

This paper analyzes the deterioration of the bridge, its impact on traffic and tourism, and the importance of sustainable urban planning and infrastructure management. The topic of the study is interesting, but there are many issues in this article that need further revision:

 

1. In the "Discussion" section (line 606), the relationship between the future outlook and the previous discussion can be more clearly stated, so as to enhance the integrity of the paper.
2. for the technical measures of bridge maintenance, such as anti-corrosion monitoring and mitigation plans, the specific implementation of the structural health monitoring system, etc., can provide more detailed information, including the technology used, equipment and monitoring frequency.
3. some sentences are long and complex, can be properly split or simplified to improve the readability of the article. For example: “The combination of intense winds, constant sea spray, and temperature fluctuations accelerates the corrosion process,  necessitating specific maintenance measures for the Machico Stayed Bridge,  primarily focused on corrosion affecting metal components such as steel cables and support bearings (Figure 13).”  You can break it down into short sentences to make it easier to understand.
4. In 4.1, when comparing 2019 and 2024 reports, the specific data and findings in the report can be analyzed in more detail to highlight the extent and speed of bridge deterioration. At the same time, when analyzing the reasons for deterioration, more actual situations and data can be combined to demonstrate.
5. In Chapter 6, the future vision is more clearly linked to the previous discussion, for example, how to develop specific sustainable development planning and infrastructure management strategies based on the issues analyzed and recommendations made earlier.
6. When referring to a graph in your text, describe in detail the data and information presented in the graph and how it supports the thesis. See Table 2 for example.
7. The content of the "Discussion" is relatively broad, and specific case analysis on sustainable urban planning and infrastructure management is lacking, making it difficult to have a deep understanding of relevant concepts and strategies.

Comment 1)

1. In the "Discussion" section (line 606), the relationship between the future outlook and the previous discussion can be more clearly stated, so as to enhance the integrity of the paper.

Answer 1 for Comment 1 of Reviewer)

Thank you for your feedback. To establish a stronger link, we decided to start Section 6.2 by explicitly summarizing the key challenges and opportunities identified in the discussion. This revised transition explicitly connects the future outlook to the previous discussion, creating a more cohesive and logical flow for the reader. It also sets the stage for the exploration of alternative futures by acknowledging the challenges and opportunities identified earlier in the paper.

 

Comment 2)

2. for the technical measures of bridge maintenance, such as anti-corrosion monitoring and mitigation plans, the specific implementation of the structural health monitoring system, etc., can provide more detailed information, including the technology used, equipment and monitoring frequency.

Answer 2 for Comment 2 of Reviewer)

Thank you for your feedback. In response to your comment, we added a new chapter 3.5, with some information providing specific details about the anti-corrosion measures and structural health monitoring (SHM) system. These enhancements provide concrete details about the anti-corrosion measures and the current state of the SHM system, emphasizing the need for a more comprehensive and proactive approach to bridge maintenance. They align with the recommendations in the inspection reports and demonstrate a commitment to ensuring the long-term structural integrity of the Machico Stayed Bridge.

 

Comment 3)

3. some sentences are long and complex, can be properly split or simplified to improve the readability of the article. For example: “The combination of intense winds, constant sea spray, and temperature fluctuations accelerates the corrosion process,  necessitating specific maintenance measures for the Machico Stayed Bridge,  primarily focused on corrosion affecting metal components such as steel cables and support bearings (Figure 13).”  You can break it down into short sentences to make it easier to understand.

Answer 3 for Comment 3 of Reviewer)

In response to your comment about some sentences being long and complex we made a few changes in the article, making the writing clear and accessible to a wider audience, simplifying complex sentences so we can enhance the overall readability and impact of our article

 

Comment 4)

4. In 4.1, when comparing 2019 and 2024 reports, the specific data and findings in the report can be analyzed in more detail to highlight the extent and speed of bridge deterioration. At the same time, when analyzing the reasons for deterioration, more actual situations and data can be combined to demonstrate.

Answer 4 for Comment 4 of Reviewer)

Thank you for your feedback. In response to your comment, we added a new chapter 3.6. Incorporating the technical details in this new chapter will provide a logical flow and context for the reader to understand the specific measures taken to address these challenges. It will also demonstrate a proactive and well-informed approach to bridge preservation, aligning with the recommendations in the inspection reports.

 

Comment 5)

5. In Chapter 6, the future vision is more clearly linked to the previous discussion, for example, how to develop specific sustainable development planning and infrastructure management strategies based on the issues analyzed and recommendations made earlier.

Answer 5 for Comment 5 of Reviewer)

I appreciate your observation. In response to your comment, we decided to create a small introduction on chapter 6 emphasizing how the issues analyzed earlier (such as environmental degradation, urban mobility challenges, and material fatigue) directly inform specific sustainable planning and infrastructure management strategies. By linking each strategy to the issues analyzed earlier, we can demonstrate how future sustainable development planning and infrastructure management respond directly to identified challenges.

 

Comment 6)

6. When referring to a graph in your text, describe in detail the data and information presented in the graph and how it supports the thesis. See Table 2 for example.

Answer 6 for Comment 6 of Reviewer)

I appreciate your keen observation and feedback regarding this issue. For Table 1, 3, 4 and Figure 21 in our article, we enhance the clarity and connect them more explicitly to our thesis by ensuring that the data is thoroughly described, and its relevance to your arguments is well articulated.

 

Comment 7)

7. The content of the "Discussion" is relatively broad, and specific case analysis on sustainable urban planning and infrastructure management is lacking, making it difficult to have a deep understanding of relevant concepts and strategies.

Answer 7 for Comment 7 of Reviewer)

Thank you for your observation. In response to your comment in the "Discussion" section on sustainable urban planning and infrastructure management, we added a new subsection focused on "Case-Specific Analysis of Sustainable Urban Planning and Infrastructure Management. We decided to incorporate some detailed strategies and real-world examples based on the issues discussed earlier in the paper.

 

We hope to have helped with our responses to clarify the reviewer comments, making us available for any additional clarifications.

 

Thanks for your kindness,

 

 

 

Reviewer 2 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

The manuscript addresses the challenges of maintaining the Machico Cable-Stayed Bridge in a marine environment and the impacts of urban Mobility.The research is interesting and has some unique aspects. Overall, this reads more like a technical report than a scientific paper, It should be revise for improvement. Before considering publication, the following aspects should be considered:

1. Abstract:

-The problem to be researched has not been stated.

- Should be revised to highlight the main points in the research.

- Specify the problem

2. Introduction:

Needs further improvement

- Should review related studies, find research gaps, and then propose the problem to be solved in the paper

- The introduction of Machico Bridge seems unnecessary as it is detailed in the following section

- Should delve into similar studies with structures built in marine environments

- Please consider these publications:

DOI: 10.1201/9781315210469-56

doi: 10.15302/J-SSCAE-2019.03.013

 doi: 10.15302/J-SSCAE-2019.03.016

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.engstruct.2019.110078

https://doi.org/10.3390/app13137985

3. Machico Stayed Bridge

- Improve the quality of figures

4. Challenges in Maintenance and Monitoring of the Machico Bridge

- Challenges not yet clearly shown?

- Add a summary of the challenges

5. Inspection Reports Analysis

- The analysis really does not reflect the main objective of the study. Should be improved.

- What does it mean to present the aspects performed on the bridge? What is the benefit of this analysis? What is novelty here?

6. Conclusion

 

- Should be written clearly and concisely

Comments on the Quality of English Language

Minor editing of English language required.

Author Response

Dear Reviewer,

 

Thank you for your observations and for the opportunity to improve our manuscript!

We are very grateful for taking the time to analyze the paper and make very useful, encouraging, and thoughtful comments and recommendations.

We have read the evaluation carefully and, based on the review report, we performed revisions of our manuscript, as requested, the modifications being highlighted with blue into the manuscript and in the answers bellow.

 

Comments and Suggestions for Authors:

The manuscript addresses the challenges of maintaining the Machico Cable-Stayed Bridge in a marine environment and the impacts of urban Mobility.The research is interesting and has some unique aspects. Overall, this reads more like a technical report than a scientific paper, It should be revise for improvement. Before considering publication, the following aspects should be considered:

1. Abstract:

-The problem to be researched has not been stated.

- Should be revised to highlight the main points in the research.

- Specify the problem

2. Introduction:

Needs further improvement

- Should review related studies, find research gaps, and then propose the problem to be solved in the paper

- The introduction of Machico Bridge seems unnecessary as it is detailed in the following section

- Should delve into similar studies with structures built in marine environments

- Please consider these publications:

DOI: 10.1201/9781315210469-56

doi: 10.15302/J-SSCAE-2019.03.013

 doi: 10.15302/J-SSCAE-2019.03.016

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.engstruct.2019.110078

https://doi.org/10.3390/app13137985

3. Machico Stayed Bridge

- Improve the quality of figures

4. Challenges in Maintenance and Monitoring of the Machico Bridge

- Challenges not yet clearly shown?

- Add a summary of the challenges

5. Inspection Reports Analysis

- The analysis really does not reflect the main objective of the study. Should be improved.

- What does it mean to present the aspects performed on the bridge? What is the benefit of this analysis? What is novelty here?

6. Conclusion

 

- Should be written clearly and concisely

 

Comments on the Quality of English Language:

Minor editing of English language required.

 

Comment 1)

1. Abstract:

-The problem to be researched has not been stated.

- Should be revised to highlight the main points in the research.

- Specify the problem

Answer 1 for Comment 1 of Reviewer)

Thank you for your feedback. In response to your comments, the abstract was revised to succinctly summarize the primary findings and contributions of the research. Highlight the unique aspects of the study and its relevance to the field and ensure that the problem and its significance are clearly stated.

I believe these changes will help readers quickly grasp the purpose of the research and its implications.

 

Comment 2)

2. Introduction:

Needs further improvement

- Should review related studies, find research gaps, and then propose the problem to be solved in the paper

- The introduction of Machico Bridge seems unnecessary as it is detailed in the following section

- Should delve into similar studies with structures built in marine environments

- Please consider these publications:

DOI: 10.1201/9781315210469-56

doi: 10.15302/J-SSCAE-2019.03.013

 doi: 10.15302/J-SSCAE-2019.03.016

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.engstruct.2019.110078

https://doi.org/10.3390/app13137985

Answer 2 for Comment 2 of Reviewer)

Thank you for your valuable feedback on the Introduction. In response, I have revised the Introduction to include a comprehensive review of relevant studies, clearly highlight the research gap, and explicitly state the problem addressed by the paper. The revised Introduction now focuses on the broader context of challenges faced by marine infrastructure, omitting the detailed description of the Machico Stayed Bridge, which was deemed unnecessary at that stage.

Additionally, this revision has led to changes in Chapter 2. The content previously found in the original Introduction has been seamlessly integrated into Chapter 2 – Machico Stayed Bridge, where it is more appropriate. The restructured chapter follows a logical flow, beginning with the significance of bridges in transportation, moving through the specific challenges faced by the Machico Stayed Bridge, and culminating with the study’s objectives and proposed solutions.

Thank you also for the references provided.

 

Comment 3)

3. Machico Stayed Bridge

- Improve the quality of figures

Answer 3 for Comment 3 of Reviewer)

Thank you for your feedback regarding the figures. I have improved the quality of all figures to ensure they are clearer and more informative. Enhanced resolution and better labeling have been implemented to support the visual presentation of data and findings effectively. Please let me know if there are any additional adjustments or specific concerns you have regarding the figures.

 

Comment 4)

4. Challenges in Maintenance and Monitoring of the Machico Bridge

- Challenges not yet clearly shown?

- Add a summary of the challenges

Answer 4 for Comment 4 of Reviewer)

Thank you for highlighting the need for a clearer presentation of the challenges in the maintenance and monitoring of the Machico Stayed Bridge. I have revised the section to explicitly outline the challenges faced. A summary of these challenges has been added to provide a clearer overview of the issues discussed. The updated section now more effectively communicates the specific difficulties encountered and their implications for the maintenance and monitoring of the bridge.

 

Comment 5)

5. Inspection Reports Analysis

- The analysis really does not reflect the main objective of the study. Should be improved.

- What does it mean to present the aspects performed on the bridge? What is the benefit of this analysis? What is novelty here?

Answer 5 for Comment 5 of Reviewer)

Thank you for your feedback on the Inspection Reports Analysis. I recognize that the initial analysis did not adequately reflect the main objective of the study. I have revised section 6.1. A Critical Analysis to align more closely with the study's objectives, providing a more relevant and focused analysis of the inspection reports.

To address your concerns about the presentation of aspects performed on the bridge, I have clarified the benefits of this analysis. The revised section now highlights how the insights gained from the inspection reports contribute to a better understanding of the bridge’s condition and the effectiveness of current maintenance practices. Additionally, I have emphasized the novelty of this analysis by detailing how it provides new perspectives or insights that have not been previously explored.

Thank you for guiding this improvement.

 

Comment 6)

6. Conclusion

- Should be written clearly and concisely

Answer 6 for Comment 6 of Reviewer)

Thank you for your feedback on the Conclusion section. I have revised it to ensure that it is written clearly and concisely. The updated Conclusion now succinctly summarizes the key findings, implications, and contributions of the study, without unnecessary detail. I hope this revision meets the clarity and brevity requirements you were looking for.

 

Comment 7) - Quality of English Language:

Minor editing of English language required.

Answer 7 for Comment 7 of Reviewer)

Thank you for noting the need for minor editing of the English language. I have carefully reviewed and edited the manuscript to improve clarity and address any language issues. These revisions should enhance the overall readability and professionalism of the text.

 

 

We hope to have helped with our responses to clarify the reviewer comments, making us available for any additional clarifications.

 

Thanks for your kindness,

 

Author Response File: Author Response.pdf

Round 2

Reviewer 2 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

The update has been improved

Author Response

Dear Editor:

Thank you so much for your comment.

Yours faithfully.

Kind regards,