In order to provide assistance to seismic performance investigators in efficiently producing or obtaining consistent and reliable experimental testing results, Federal Highway Administration developed the "Handbook for Seismic Performance Testing of Bridge Piers"(name subject to modification at publication), which contains information on preparation, execution, and documentation of such testing. This document is purported for use in both academic research and engineering validations. It provides elaborate description on an assembly of available testing procedures while alternatives are offered for special test needs. Although most existing testing procedures are for steel or concrete pier columns, restriction on material is not explicitly specified in this document. Elements with advanced material can be tested using the listed methods. Requirements on testing record are given, so to allow many users to access and verify the testing results in a later time. Assistance from experienced experimental experts and bridge engineers were requested during the development of the document. An expert panel including members from academia, state highway agencies, and federal government, was assembled to advise the progress and review the product. At the time of completion of this paper, the FHWA guidance document is at its final stage of technical revision and will be published in a short time.
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