Dynamic Testing and Analysis of Non-Prismatic Reinforced Concrete Bridge ColumnsRetrofitted with FRP Jackets

摘要

This document presents the development and experimental validation of seismicretrofitting of non-prismatic (flared) reinforced concrete bridge columns. Fiber reinforced plastic (FRP) jacketing was installed on the non-prismatic columns to enhance the shear capacity and improve the seismic response of the columns. Two .03-scale columns, one encased with a glass fiber-epoxy and the other with a carbon fiber-epoxy fabrics were tested. A shake table was used to load the column with a glass fiber-epoxy and the other with a carbon fiber-epoxy fabrics were tested. A shake table was used to load the column with a strong motion accelerogram from the 1994 Northridge earthquake. The measured results were compared to those from testing of an as-built and steel-jacketed specimen to evaluate the effectiveness of the retrofit methods. The FRP jacket design and installation methods, as well as shear capacity calculation are presented. The experimental data indicated that both FRP jackets significantly improved the shear capacity and ductility. The performance of the columns retrofitted with FRP was very similar to that of a steel-jacketed column.