Seismic Performance of Pier Columns Reinforced with High-Performance Materials Based on Finite Elements

Abstract

This paper focuses on the challenge of insufficient transverse seismic capacity in urban elevated twin-column pier bridges. By conducting finite element simulations, it studies how externally reinforcing pier columns with Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (FRP), Engineered Cementitious Composite (ECC), and Ultra-High Performance Concrete (UHPC) affects their bearing capacity, stiffness, ductility, and energy dissipation. The results indicate that UHPC significantly enhances the bearing capacity of concrete columns, while both ECC and UHPC effectively improve ductility and energy dissipation. In contrast, FRP reinforcement shows no significant effect on bearing capacity, stiffness, or ultimate deformation. These findings provide reference data for strengthening similar projects.

Keywords

high-performance materials / externally bonded reinforcement / concrete columns / load bearing capacity / energy dissipation capacity

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