Parametric Investigation for the Optimization of a Longitudinal Seismic Restraining System Consisting of Struts-Ties for Concrete Bridges

Abstract

Abstract. Seismic response of R/C bridges is an issue that has been investigated thoroughly the last decades. Many efforts have been conducted towards the enhancement of bridges

Experimental and Analytical Study on Hollow Precast Piers With Unbonded Conventional Reinforcement to Control Seismic and in-Service Response of Rocking Bridges

“…It is noteworthy that seismic displacements can be further reduced through the use of a steel restrainer mechanism in the deck of the bridge that has been proposed by the authors in previous studies. [18], [19].…”

Analytical and Experimental Study on the Response of a Seismic Restrainer System for Bridges

“…In this manner, the abutments that are usually designed not to contribute to the seismic response participate in the seismic resistance, while the piers continue to have the major role in the seismic response as the main structural members. It shall be noted that balance between the contribution of the piers and the abutments is necessary for ensuring an effective bridge seismic behavior with the creation of plastic hinges at the piers and the capacity of the abutments , [22]. Furthermore, the proposed mechanism is activated by in service loading, as well.…”

“…The steel bundles are in tension during deck contraction and are compressed during deck expansion. Regarding the design of the system the elastic response of the steel rebars under in-service loading is considered as a prerequisite, [22].…”

“…In the frame of developing alternative methods for anti-seismic design, which are effective and with minor cost, the authors have presented in previous research work, [20] [21] [22], a restraining system with bundles of steel rebars, which are installed on R/C bridges between deck and the abutments and can increase the contribution of the abutments to the bridge seismic resistance and limit the longitudinal bridge seismic movements aiming at the decrease of the seismic forces on the main structural members, the piers. Although, the proposed mechanism has some common characteristics with the steel restrainers, it has distinguishing differences regarding the actual response of the system and the goal of the application of this method which is the alteration and improved response of the whole bridge system and not the local limitation of bridge movements.…”