Evaluation of nonlinear static analysis methods and software tools for seismic analysis of highway bridges

The response of bridges when subjected to seismic excitation can be evaluated by a number of analysis methods. The traditional approach is to employ linear static or dynamic analyses coupled with appropriate modifiers to account for inelastic response while current design practice is moving towards an increased emphasis on nonlinear static analysis methods. In this study, a preliminary seismic response analysis of a two-span highway bridge was performed using linear dynamic analysis procedures to identify the potential for inelastic response. The bridge was subsequently analyzed in accordance with two nonlinear static analysis methods (capacity spectrum and inelastic demand spectrum methods) in an effort to evaluate the difference in global response predicted by the two methods and the effectiveness of various software programs for performing nonlinear static analysis. The results demonstrated that, for the two nonlinear static analysis methods used in this study, different predictions of nonlinear response occurred with neither method being regarded as producing correct results due to a number of simplifications inherent in the methods. Furthermore, the analysis revealed that some software programs are well suited to performing nonlinear static analysis, both from the point-of-view of performing comprehensive analyses and providing a graphical depiction of the evolution of damage (i.e. the behaviour of plastic hinges).