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Abstract

An innovative idea of using Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) blocks as a seismic energy dissipation device for bridge structures is explored in this paper. These blocks are installed at each side of the abutments at the deck level. They are inexpensive and lightweight with excellent cushioning capability. Nonlinear time history analysis on short, medium and long span slab-beam bridges is used to assess the beneficial damping effects of EPS in reducing the seismic demands on bridge components. To model the nonlinear behavior of the EPS correctly, two monotonic and two cyclic tests were performed on EPS specimens. The results show that EPS blocks can effectively reduce the forces transmitted to the substructure.

Keywords

Bridges EPS passive energy dissipation seismic effects

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Using expanded polystyrene as a seismic energy dissipation device

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