Experimental Testing and Numerical Simulation of Precast Segmental Bridge Piers Constructed with a Modular Methodology

Abstract

A new precast segmental bridge pier system using modular construction methodology is proposed in this study. The proposed system contains multiple segmental layers with several small precast modular RC segments for each layer. The connections between the precast segments in the upper and lower segmental layers are hybrid connections containing shear keys, unbounded prestressing tendons, and bonded bar reinforcements. The bonded bar reinforcements running continuously between segments can provide strength and energy dissipation capability, and prestress force in the unbounded tendons can provide recentering force as the joints between the segments are open. In particular, each precast segment of each segmental layer is connected with at least two neighboring precast segments of the neighboring segmental layer by mortise-and-tenon joints to provide interlocking bonds between segments in the horizontal direction. To investigate the seismic performance of this proposed system, two large-scale column specimens with different connection details were constructed and tested. From the experimental results and construction practices of the developed system, the seismic resistance and constructability of the proposed column were confirmed to be satisfactory. Furthermore, to establish a proper analysis procedure for such a bridge column system, two finite-element models using two different commercial software packages were also developed for each specimen, and both were shown to be appropriate and effective in capturing the seismic behavior of the proposed system.