Title: Seismic Performance of Two-Column Bents - Part I: Retrofit with Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Fabrics

Author(s): Claudia Pulido, M. Saiid Saiidi, David Sanders, Ahmad Itani, and Saad El-Azazy

Publication: Structural Journal

Volume: 101

Issue: 4

Appears on pages(s): 558-568

Keywords: bridge; column; fiber-reinforced concrete; seismic

DOI: 10.14359/13342

Date: 7/1/2004

Abstract:
A study on the seismic behavior of two-column bents with drop cap beams built prior to the 1970s was conducted at the University of Nevada, Reno. Identical 1/4-scale models followed typical geometric and reinforcement properties of typical substandard bridges. One specimen tested in the as-built condition, while a second one was retrofitted using carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) fibers before testing. The retrofit was designed using current design recommendations of the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans). The specimens were tested under identical conditions using shaketables. The as-built bent had severe shear damage and low displacement ductilities. The CFRP retrofit efficiently modified the failure mode and enhanced the overall performance, lateral load-carrying capacity, and displacement ductility. A simple model was developed for fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP)-confined concrete stress-strain curves and was implemented in the pushover analysis. A discussion on the experimental and analytical results and the effectiveness of the CFRP retrofit is presented.