Numerical investigation of nonlinear static and dynamic behaviour of self-centring rocking segmental bridge piers

Accelerated Bridge Construction (ABC) philosophy has resulted in extensive developments of precast post-tensioned segmental (PPS) bridge piers in the bridge construction. Currently, there is a significant paucity in the literature on nonlinear mechanics and dynamics of PPS piers. Hence, this wok numerically investigates the nonlinear static and dynamic behaviour of PPS piers using a finite element (FE) framework. Nonlinear static and dynamic analyses are performed, and the results are compared for non-tapered and tapered PPS as well as cast-in-place (CIP) piers. It is found that post-tensioning force, aspect ratio, axial force of the pier, and number of segments highly affect nonlinear behaviour of the PPS piers. High levels of excitation amplitudes exhibit co-existing (high/low) amplitude responses at and around the resonant frequency of the PPS piers, and tapering enhances the probability of dynamic instability in the PPS pier. It is also shown that the fundamental mode of the PPS piers is similar to the first mode of a CIP bridge pier. •A novel FE framework is used for modelling post-tensioned segmental piers.•Nonlinear dynamics of post-tensioned segmental piers are determined.•Cast-in-place pier is compared with its post-tensioned segmental counterpart.•A region of dynamic instability is observed around resonance of segmental piers.•Segmental piers have lower energy dissipation capacity and higher drift.