Seismic damage assessment of curved bridges using fragility analysis

Fragility analysis is one of the most powerful methods to evaluate seismic behavior of structures. In this study, an existing multispan curved bridge with continues steel composite girders is investigated for horizontal earthquake excitations. Based on the complex modal behavior of irregular bridge structures, such as curved bridges, their seismic response might be greatly affected by changing analysis assumptions. Applying Latin Hypercube method, 60 different bridge models has been - generated with random structural properties. Probabilistic seismic demand models are developed for various bridge elements and fragility curves for each monitored element are plotted for considered qualitative damage levels. Analysis results are discussed thoroughly, and practical suggestions are made for future damage assessment of similar curved bridge structures.