A continuation of the extensive research project undertaken in the University of Canterbury on ductility of bridge piers is reported. The testing described herein covers an experimental investigation into the post-elastic ductile behaviour of reinforced concrete bridge piers, particularly into the influence of aspect ratio on such behaviour. The test units, two octagonal and two square sections, were designed according to the Second Draft of the Concrete Design Code DZ 3101, for different axial load levels. The testing included slow static incremental loading followed by fast dynamic cyclic loadings. The results are presented in the form of load-displacement hysteresis curves, curvature profiles and transverse steel strain distribution. Discussion of results deals with the comparison of ultimate moment capacities, measured ductilities, equivalent plastic hinge lengths, maximum concrete compression strains, the ultimate shear forces, the enhancement of concrete strength by confinement and the idealized stress-strain curves for confined concrete. Some comparisons with previous projects are made and conclusions drawn from the entire analysis.
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