Seismic energy dissipation with shear connectors for bridges

In this paper, a new seismic energy-dissipating device is proposed. The device consists of steel studs embedded in concrete and attached to the end diaphragms of a bridge. Non-linear dynamic analysis of short to long span slab–girder bridges subjected to various ground motions shows that the device is capable of dissipating the seismic energy through hysteretic behavior and lowering demand on the substructure. The design aspects of the device are explored through solving several examples.