Theoretical analysis of self-centering concrete piers with external dissipators

The self-centering prestressed concrete (SCPC) bridge pier with external dissipators is a novel structure, aiming at reducing residual deformation and facilitating the post-earthquake repair. This paper presents the configuration and mechanical behaviors of the pier. A theoretical model for the lateral force-displacement relationship under cyclic loading is developed. The proposed model comprises an iterative procedure which describes the deformation of dissipators under different conditions. Equations of pier stiffness after gap opening, as well as the equivalent viscous damping ratio, etc., are derived based on the proposed model. Existing cyclic load test results were used to validate the proposed model, and good agreement is observed between the analytical and test results.