Abstract
The behavior of steel structures subjected to seismic load depends on the mass, material and dimensions of the structures, and the applied seismic movement. The quantitative evalution of the ultimate strength and ductility of the structures against earthquake is, therefore, very difficult. For this purpose, a simple experimental method is proposed in this study. Then, the ultimate strength and ductility of steel piers and composite piers partially filled with concrete in bottom part of them are investigated by using the experimental method.