Seismic response of precast bridge columns with composite non-proprietary UHPC filled ducts ABC connections

Accelerated bridge construction (ABC) utilizes advanced planning, new techniques and innovative detailing to expedite of bridges or rehabilitation replacement old deteriorated bridges. ABC has been widely used in low seismic regions mostly implemented the superstructure elements but much less considered for substructure such as column-base connections, especially moderate high regions. While robust connections have developed using ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC), sole sourcing commercial UHPC mixes is causing bidding issues limiting wide adoption connections. Thus, validating alternative solutions that use non-proprietary materials could help overcome challenges. This paper presents experimental analytical investigation structural behavior precast columns with UHPC-filled ducts column-to-footing For this study, a recently mix at University Nevada, Reno (UNR) used. Two large-scale column models, varied only reinforcement debonding, were tested UNR under combined axial cyclic lateral loading evaluate their performance. The models compared reference cast-in-place another model incorporating proprietary duct connection from previous studies. test results showed emulative conventional Analytical modeling two was also conducted shown successfully reproduce local global behaviors acceptable accuracy when bond-slip bar debonding effects are properly considered.