Nonlinear Time-History Analysis for Validation of the Displacement-Based Seismic Assessment of the RC Upper Bridge of a Dam

The seismic assessment of a secondary structure of the Chancy-Pougny dam, namely, the upper bridge, is discussed in this paper. A first seismic assessment, performed according to classical force-based methodology, concluded the necessity of an extensive retrofitting for the upper bridge. By contrast, the application of the displacement-based approach showed that the current situation is already satisfactory, and therefore, practically no retrofitting is needed. The paper focuses on the nonlinear time-history analyses which were achieved in order to check the accuracy of the results obtained using the displacement-based method. The structural characteristics of the reinforced concrete upper bridge are similar to those of conventional bridges. However, the piers were built with very little reinforcement and consequently they will exhibit a rocking behavior in case of earthquake loading. Rocking is rather a favorable failure mechanism and is related to a certain amount of displacement capacity. However, this behavior is not linked to plastic energy dissipation which may significantly increase the related displacement demand. In order to determine the real displacement demand, nonlinear time-history analyses were achieved with SDOF systems defined by an “S” shape hysteretic model. Spectrum compatible stationary synthetic accelerograms and slightly modified recorded earthquakes were both used for acceleration time-histories. The results showed that the displacement demand corresponds well with the one determined by usual push-over analysis. The results show a very favorable seismic situation, related to a relatively stiff structure associated to rock soil conditions with an A class soil. The seismic safety of the upper bridge is already satisfactory for the current state (without retrofitting). Consequently, the proposed costly reinforcement for the upper bridge could be significantly reduced.

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