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Article summary:
1. The article discusses the performance assessment of multi-column RC bridge bents seismically retrofitted with buckling-restrained braces.
2. The article proposes a two-level performance approach for design of new bridges as well as retrofit of existing bridges, which includes a “Life Safety” criteria under an earthquake with 7% probability of exceedance in 75 years and an “Operational” criteria under an event with 14% probability of exceedance in 75 years.
3. The article describes the prototype bridge bent and the retrofit technique used to achieve specific performance levels, which includes introducing structural fuses such as buckling-restrained braces to limit displacement demands on the bent by increasing stiffness and dissipating energy through nonlinear hysteretic behavior.
Article analysis:
The article provides a comprehensive overview of the performance assessment of multi-column RC bridge bents seismically retrofitted with buckling-restrained braces. It is clear that the authors have conducted extensive research into this topic, providing detailed descriptions of both the prototype bridge bent and the retrofit technique used to achieve specific performance levels. The proposed two-level performance approach for design of new bridges as well as retrofit of existing bridges is also clearly outlined in the article, making it easy to understand for readers who may not be familiar with seismic design principles.
However, there are some potential biases and unsupported claims in the article that should be noted. For example, while it is stated that BRBs can exhibit stable plastic behavior both in tension and compression by preventing global buckling of the steel core, no evidence is provided to support this claim. Additionally, while it is suggested that target BRB ductilities ranging from 6 to 10 are suggested for the system to dissipate enough energy during a major seismic event, no explanation is given as to why these particular values were chosen or how they were determined. Furthermore, while it is mentioned that lap splices within expected plastic hinge zones can cause significant damage during seismic events, no counterarguments or alternative solutions are explored in order to mitigate this risk.
In conclusion, while this article provides a thorough overview of its subject matter and offers useful insights into seismic design principles for bridge bents seismically retrofitted with buckling-restrained braces, there are some potential biases and unsupported claims that should be taken into consideration when assessing its trustworthiness and reliability.