Nonlinear seismic performance of RC bridges using the ESA, EDA, DDBA, and nonlinear analysis with various viscous damping models

Abstract

Modern bridge seismic design follows a performance-based seismic design (PBSD) philosophy where the structure is designed to achieve a prescribed limit state under a defined hazard. Nevertheless, the demands may substantially diverge depending on the PBSD method applied in the assessment. This article presents a demand sensitivity analysis using the elastic (ESA) and dynamic (EDA) procedures of the AASHTO Seismic Guide Specifications and direct displacement-based assessment (DDBA). The investigation was conducted using 81 reinforced concrete (RC) bridges and ten multi-period spectra from a shallow tectonic regime. Moreover, these demands were compared with nonlinear time history analysis (NLTHA) using five viscous damping models. Seven compatible records were employed to calculate the envelopes of transverse displaced shapes and cumulative distribution functions of the column with the highest displacement ductility. These average inelastic responses were contrasted with the predictions from the ESA, EDA, and DDBA. For regular bridges, this study found that the elastic procedures considerably underestimate the deformations, while DDBA compares well with NLTHA, especially for high ductility levels. Also, a discussion about the impact of the viscous damping models is included. We expect these findings may encourage practitioners to use DDBA as a reliable alternative to evaluate the seismic performance of RC bridges.