Seismic Evaluation of Long Span Bridges in Kentucky

摘要

The Commonwealth of Kentucky is located in a region which is greatly influenced by four seismic zones. Hundreds of bridges in areas influenced by the seismic zones were designed and constructed prior to stringent seismic codes. This paper reports on the development of site specific time histories, response spectra and seismic acceleration maps for the 120 counties in the state of Kentucky. The seismic input is used in the evaluation of bridges within Kentucky, and retrofits are recommended when required. Field testing, one-dimensional to three-dimensional computer modeling and analytical model calibration are also reported. Sample bridges over the Ohio and Tennessee Rivers are selected to illustrate the methodology followed in the evaluation process.