An Experimental Study on the Seismic Behavior of Solid RC Piers Using High Strength Concrete and High Strength Rebars

The purpose of this study is to investigate the structural behavior of RC Piers using high strength concrete and high strength rebars. The high strength concrete offers many advantages such as enhanced mechanical performance and durability, in addition to member size reduction. The high strength rebars are used here to reduce the amount of rebars, which facilitates the placement of concrete and labor works. Five RC piers were tested under a constant axial load and a cyclically reversed horizontal load. The seismic design of piers were implemented, according to the current Korean Bridge Design Code. The test variables include concrete compressive strength, steel strength, and steel ratio. The test results indicate that RC piers using the high strength concrete and high strength rebars exhibit ductile behavior and appropriate seismic performance, in compliance with the design code. The present study allows more realistic application of high strength rebars and concrete to RC piers, which will provide enhanced durability as well as more economy.