In the realm of structural engineering, a recent study has shed light on how near-fault earthquakes can significantly impact the seismic response of reinforced concrete (RC) hollow-core slab bridges, particularly those with varying column heights. The research, led by Sayed Mahmoud from the Civil and Construction Engineering Department at Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University in Saudi Arabia, was published in the Journal of Engineering Sciences (JES), which translates to ‘Journal of Engineering Sciences’ in English.
The study focused on the unique characteristics of near-fault earthquake motions, which are known for their influential velocity impulses and remarkable permanent displacement. These features can substantially alter the seismic responses of structures, a fact that Mahmoud’s research has brought into sharp focus.
Using the CSI-BRIDGE software, Mahmoud and his team created three-dimensional numerical models of a three-span RC hollow-core slab bridge, each span measuring 30.0 meters long, with a deck width of 11.5 meters and a depth of 2.0 meters. The column heights were designed to meet a span-to-column height ratio ranging from 2.5 to 5. Dynamic time-history analysis was employed to capture the simultaneous influence of near-fault motions and supporting columns of varying heights on the seismic response of the bridge under selected earthquake loads.
The results were striking. “We observed a substantial increase in seismic demands of the bridge, with more susceptibility to near-fault motions with fling-step than the forward directivity ground motions,” Mahmoud explained. This effect was particularly pronounced in bridge models with taller columns compared to those with reduced column heights.
The implications of this research are significant for the construction and energy sectors. Understanding how near-fault earthquakes affect different bridge designs can lead to more resilient and safer infrastructure, particularly in regions prone to such seismic events. For the energy sector, this means more reliable transportation routes for critical energy supplies and improved safety for energy infrastructure located in seismic zones.
As Mahmoud’s research suggests, future developments in bridge design and construction must take into account the unique challenges posed by near-fault earthquakes. By doing so, engineers can ensure that our infrastructure remains robust and resilient in the face of natural disasters, ultimately safeguarding both lives and economic interests.
This study not only advances our scientific understanding but also paves the way for practical applications that can shape the future of structural engineering and construction practices. As the field continues to evolve, such research will be instrumental in building a safer and more sustainable world.