Implications of Spatial Variation of Ground Motion on the Collapse of Sr14/I5 Southbound Separation and Overhead Bridge in the Northridge Earthquake

Synopsis: Linear and non-linear analytical studies were conducted for evaluating the performance of the southbound separation and overhead bridge at the SR14/I5 interchange during the Northridge earthquake of January 17, 1994. The analyses are focused on potential implications of the spatial variability of ground motion on the collapse of the structure. The influences of vertical ground motion, soil-structure interaction, non-linear contact effects at the expansion joints and abutments, are also examined. The parameter studies help to determine some of the causes of collapse and offer insight in the complex seismic behavior of long multi-span concrete bridges.