Seismic Performance Evaluation Of A Highway Bridge Structure In A Near-fault Region

In order to evaluate the seismic performance of highway bridge structures under near-fault ground motions,a typical four spans highway bridge was taken to be evaluated based on seismic response analysis.The finite element model was developed in SAP2000 taking into account soil structure interaction.The near-fault ground motion records were selected and the chosen earthquake waves were utilized to perform dynamic analysis of the bridge.The moment curvature analysis of pier-pile sections was performed to study the rotational capacity of the plastic hinges of piers.Furthermore,the seismic performance of the highway bridge was studied using nonlinear time history analysis.The major findings of the research,conclusions and suggestions include:1.The fixed pier of the bridge yielded under the first earthquake level,other piers and pile remained in elastic working state.2.All pot-type rubber bearings in fixed directions were highly affected under the action of the second earthquake level and failed to meet the capacity requirements.3.The research highlighted the importance of using anti-seismic devices in limiting the displacement and avoiding failure of the bearings whose reserved relative displacement reached.4.The research suggested that the evaluation of seismic performance of highway bridges crossing near-fault ground motion regions can facilitate on improving their seismic resistance.