| One possible alternative to conventional transverse reinforcement is to use scrap tires for column confinement. However, there is currently no experimental data available on the effectiveness of scrap tires as confinement reinforcement. It is the objective of the current research program to conduct experimental and analytical investigation to explore the possibilities of using scrap steel-belted tires as transverse column reinforcement for bridge columns.;The experimental investigation included testing six large-scale circular columns, confined with scrap tires, under simulated seismic loading. Three different arrangements of tires were used as confinement reinforcement which allowed the investigation of different parameters of confinement on column behavior. The columns were tested under two different levels of axial load, consisting of 11% or 21% of their concentric capacities.;Analyses of columns were also conducted using the computer program COLA, which had been developed for inelastic static analysis of conventionally reinforced concrete columns.;It was shown both experimentally and analytically that steel-belted tires can be used effectively to confine concrete in reinforced concrete columns. This new approach eliminates many of the construction difficulties involved in building seismic resistant concrete columns, while protecting steel against corrosion. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)... |
