Abstract
The seismic performance of a bridge pier structure depends greatly on the properties of the plastic hinge region at the base of the RC pier. This means that the seismic performance of the RC pier can be enhanced by improving the properties of the plastic hinge region. Means to improve the properties of plastic hinge structures include the rational use of high-performance materials, such as high-performance concrete and high-strength reinforcing bars. This study proposes the use of ultra-high-strength fiber-reinforced concrete and unbonded bars to create plastic hinge structures that have large deformation capacity and are capable of behaving stably under earthquake loading. Cyclic loading tests and analyses concerning a RC pier incorporating the newly developed high-performance plastic hinge structure were conducted to elucidate its basic structural characteristics.
