Cyclic response of RC continuous span bridges with irregular configuration in longitudinal direction

Abstract

Cyclic response of a class of reinforced concrete bridges with different degrees of irregularity in longitudinal direction has been investigated. Eighteen bridge configurations have been identified from regular to the so-called highly irregular models. The geometric irregularity in this class of bridges is assumed to vary with the height of the piers. Using non-linear fibre-based analytical models, the cyclic response curves have been generated for theindividual piers of each of these 18 bridge models. Discussions have been made about the imposition of the displacement ductility demand of the piers versus the bridge regularity. Comparison of the cyclic response curves shows that the most vulnerable bridges are the irregular ones, and a high level of damage and ductility demand is expected for the short piers of this class of bridges.