ABSTRACT
ABSTRACT: Typical bridges in the state of Alaska are characterized by columns with excessive reinforcement ratios encased in a steel shell that is partially embedded in the bent cap; the bent caps are inadequately designed for flexure, shear, and joint shear for the feasible moments that can be imposed upon them during a seismic event. A research program was undertaken to develop a method to improve the seismic response of such typical bridges using conventional retrofit techniques.
