Cyclic performance of precast segmented bridge pier with inner column socket connection: A parametric study

To enhance the lateral bearing capacity and resilience of precast segmented bridge piers (PSBPs), a novel inner column (IC) socket connection at the bottom of the pier was proposed. The performance of the joint of the precast column and footing block determines the lateral bearing capacity of the pier and the bridge. Therefore, the joint adopts high-performance concrete (HPC) and engineered cementation composite (ECC) ICs. The cyclic performance of IC socket connection under pseudo-static tests with constant vertical loading was investigated. Numerical models against four bridge pier-tested specimens cited in the references were developed utilizing the OpenSees platform and ABAQUS software to verify modeling accuracy. Accordingly, three piers, two PSBPs with varying IC materials, and one standard PSBP without an IC were studied to confirm the effectiveness of IC in the PSBP system. Then, parametric analyses of their impact on PSBPs with IC were conducted, examining variables of the height ratio, cross-section area, concrete strength, reinforcement ratio, and reinforcement yield strength ratios of the IC in addition to vertical loading ratio and post-tension tendon area. The findings indicate that existing the IC improves PSBP performance in terms of hysteretic behavior, ductility, energy dissipation, and stiffness while ensuring self-centering behavior is within the acceptable range. Furthermore, a well-designed IC can effectively regulate the lateral resistance capacity and resilience performance of PSBPs. For PSBP construction, the IC socket connection utilizing modern materials is an effective connector and versatile for future bridge structure applications. © 2024 Institution of Structural Engineers