Principal Investigator(s) and
Institution(s)
George C. Lee, University at Buffalo
Objective
This task will review and summarize the performance of highway bridge seismic isolation
systems and bridge bearings designed to reduce earthquake forces that are transmitted
between bridge sub- and superstructures. Included in this will be a review of the seismic
performance of structures with isolation bearings during the Northridge and Kobe
earthquakes.
Approach
Seismic isolation is currently regarded as a relatively well-developed technology for
reducing the seismic demands on highway bridge substructures and foundations. However,
field experience during moderate-to-large earthquakes is limited, and there has been
little definitive reporting on performance to date. There is conflicting evidence about
inadequate designs, but the reasons for this confusion may relate to the nature of ground
motion rather than the isolators themselves. These issues need to be resolved.
This task will therefore focus on bridge performance during recent earthquakes. Relevant
information on isolated buildings will also be reviewed. This will include not only a
review of published papers and reports, but also discussions with authors, designers, and
bridge owners who may have relevant information on the design and performance of
seismically-isolated structures (e.g. Mayes, Sheppard, Nagarajiah, Watanabe, Sugiura,
PWRI, etc.).
Anticipated Start Date and Duration
January 1, 1999 - 12 months
9/23/99 |