Title: Seismic Retrofitting of Reinforced Concrete Bridge Piers by Prestressing of Aramid Fiber Rod

Author(s): H. Nakai, N. Wada, N. Suzuki, and Y. Fujiwara

Publication: Symposium Paper

Volume: 193

Issue:

Appears on pages(s): 621-636

Keywords: concrete (fiber-reinforced); ductility; pier; shear strength; test

DOI: 10.14359/9949

Date: 8/1/2000

Abstract:
In the aftermath of the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake of 1995, the seismic retrofitting of existing structures has been implemented on a nation-wide basis throughout Japan, and it is in this context that new methods for seismic retrofitting utilizing aramid fiber reinforced plastic rod have been developed. Aramid fiber rod is not only lightweight and flexible, but has superior strength and corrosion resistance characteristics, which make it an ideal material for use in the seismic retrofitting of reinforced concrete structures. AWS method involves the use of aramid fiber rods to introduce prestress into wall-type piers, again improving the ductility and shear strength of the existing wall. Testing of scale models gave results showing this method to provide sufficient strength. The guidelines available for retrofitting of highway bridge piers in Japan are presented. The design equations for ultimate shear strength and ductility of retrofitted RC structures are introduced. AWS method is now used in the seismic retrofitting wall-type piers of highway bridges.