Application of response surface method (RSM) on sensitivity analysis of reinforced concrete bridge pier wall

Abstract

In this paper, the nonlinear behaviour of a reinforced concrete (RC) bridge pier wall was evaluated by nonlinear finite element analyses (NLFEA) method. The NLFEA results were compared to the simulated seismic test results conducted on full-scale RC columns. Sensitivity of some of the design variables and their effects on the seismic behaviour of RC bridge pier wall has been investigated using response surface method (RSM). RSM prediction is based on results of finite element analysis. The variables include longitudinal rebar diameter (݀), concrete compressive strength (݂௖ ) and yield strength of rebars (݂௬).