New Method For Mitigation of Concrete Bridge Piers

To control the residual displacements of concrete structures under severe earthquakes, there are a few efficient methods. All of these methods have been imposed self-centering tendency by post-tensioning technique. There are several examples of damaged bridges that have lost their serviceability and safety due to large residual displacements of their piers (columns) after severe earthquake. Even though seismic codes ensure life safety for bridges, large residual displacement after severe earthquake may make the bridge useless. In this paper, a new method is proposed in order to reduce the residual displacements of concrete columns. The optimized position and percentage of high strength rebar will also be determined to minimize residual displacements. Result of analyses revealed that this method can effectively reduce residual displacements.

Keywords:

Residual Displacement , Self-Centering Tendency , High Strength Rebar