State-of-the-Art of Posttensioned Rocking Bridge Substructure Systems

Abstract

Posttensioned bridge rocking systems have emerged as an alternative to traditional ductility design where substructure elements, such as columns and piles, are designed to dissipate energy through the formation of localized plastic hinges. Posttensioned rocking bridge systems have evolved from pure rocking structures to hybrid solutions that combine self-centering and dissipating capabilities, often in the form of central posttensioning and dissipation devices, respectively. Posttensioned rocking bridges provided a resilient solution with little to no damage or disruptions after a seismic event. For this reason, there has been increased interest amongst bridge asset managers and researchers in the development and application of these “low-damage” systems. This paper presents a state-of-the-art review of the evolution of posttensioned rocking bridge substructure systems, with an emphasis on column and joint details to reduce or eliminate local damage in bridge piers. This review also includes energy dissipation solutions and examples of operational bridges that have adopted posttensioned rocking column systems. This paper concludes with a comprehensive discussion that covers knowledge gaps and suggestions for future research.