Contributions for the Evaluation of Seismic Vulnerability of Typical Bridges in Argentina in proximity of Active Faults

Abstract

The evaluation of the seismic vulnerability of bridges allows identifying those seismically deficient structures and establishing priorities and guidelines related to the need for their rehabilitation, reinforcement or replacement. In this regard, in Argentina there is no established methodology. The objective is to present an advanced method applied to two typical bridges located in a zone of high and very high seismic hazard of the national territory in order to verify its level of structural performance. Nonlinear dynamic analysis is used, method considered as the most rigorous. The 3D models used were built using the OpenSees finite element platform. It was verified the best seismic resistant behavior of the bridge that presents greater rigidity of abutment backfill – pile system and with greater number and robustness of the bents. Both bridges meet the performance levels required according to the remaining service life of each of them.