|
Keywords |
seismic behavior; reinforced concrete bridge columns; material nonlinearity; low-cycle fatigue |
|
Abstract |
The objectives of this study are to investigate the seismic behavior of reinforced concrete bridge columns and to provide the data for developing improved seismic design criteria. The accuracy and objectivity of the assessment process can be enhanced by the use of sophisticated nonlinear finite element analysis program. A computer program, named RCAHEST (Reinforced Concrete Analysis in Higher Evaluation System Technology), for the analysis of reinforced concrete structures was used. Material nonlinearity is taken into account by comprising tensile, compressive and shear models of cracked concrete and a model of reinforcing steel. The low-cycle fatigue damage of both concrete and reinforcing bars has been also considered in order to predict a reliable seismic behavior. The proposed numerical method for the prediction of seismic behavior of reinforced concrete bridge columns is verified by comparison with the reliable experimental results.
|