Seismic bridge design practice started in the United States in the mid-1970s. Bridges designed according to pre-1970 design codes may be... Show moreSeismic bridge design practice started in the United States in the mid-1970s. Bridges designed according to pre-1970 design codes may be seismically vulnerable. This vulnerability is generally because of inadequate reinforcement detailing, which may compromise the strength and ductility of bridge piers, columns and bents. The lack of adequate strength and ductility may lead to bridge failure under seismic loads. Several rehabilitation methods have been used to retrofit the deficient columns and piers so that their performance under potential seismic loads can be improved. Among these methods includes using: (1) concrete jackets; (2) steel jackets; and (3) fiber reinforced polymer composites. The latter method has attracted bridge engineers in recent years because of its easy application and it versatility to be used in bents and columns with non-circular cross sections. The objective of this thesis is to provide a summary of the current practice in using this type of material in bridge retrofit applications. The thesis presents an overview of fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) composite materials behavior and properties, and their composition. Furthermore, the behavior of reinforced concrete columns, when confined with FRP jackets, is reviewed. Available design methods used for determining the FRP jacket thickness and other design properties needed for application in seismic retrofitting of reinforced concrete columns are also reviewed, presented and discussed. M.S. in Civil Engineering, May 2014 Show less
