Simplified Analytical Pushover Method for Precast Segmental Concrete Bridge Columns

Precast construction is an increasing trend of concrete bridge technology to fulfill the demand of innovative technique that yields accelerated, durable and safe bridge construction. Although precast bridge superstructures are widely used in bridge construction projects from the U.S. to Asia, precast substructures are seldom used. The lack of in-depth understanding of seismic behavior of precast substructures causes concern about their performance in high seismicity area. A simplified analytical method for pushover analysis of precast segmental concrete bridge columns is proposed in this study. The method is validated through comparison with test and fiber model analysis results. A parametric study is conducted to investigate the seismic behavior of precast segmental concrete bridge columns using the proposed simplified analytical method. The influences of the aspect ratio, axial load ratio and energy dissipation (ED) bar ratio on the force-displacement response characteristics, i.e., displacement ductility, joint opening drift, failure drift, maximum ED bar strain and concrete strain at the extreme compression fiber are investigated. The simplified analytical method shows superior ease for use with acceptable precision in comparison with the fiber model or three-dimensional finite element model.