Seismic performance of precast columns with polymer concrete filled ducts accelerated bridge construction connections: An experimental study

The accelerated bridge construction (ABC) technique has been implemented in low seismic areas, especially for substructures and superstructure sections. The uncertain seismic performance of the ABC connections in areas prone to seismic activity with moderate-to-high severity levels limits its adaptability in substructure elements. The previous work focused on developing grout-duct connections filled with ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC). However, the enhanced cost associated with proprietary UHPC confines the global application of this kind of connection. This study aims to identify an affordable and practical substitute for grouting material, such as polymer concrete (PC), which can be adapted to connections. In addition, the assessment of polymer concrete as a grouting material was performed to simulate the seismic behavior of cast-in-place (CIP) connections. Polymethyl methacrylate (PMM) polymer was used to prepare polymer-based concrete. In this study, the mechanical properties of PC were examined first. In the second phase, the polymer concrete mixture was used in a grout-filed connection for connecting the precast column to the footing. The combined axial and loadings were applied to the column to examine its seismic behavior. The results of the experimental campaign confirmed the satisfactory seismic performance of polymer concrete filled-duct connections. Such polymer concrete-filled connections are advised to be appropriate for precast column-to-footing connections in areas prone to seismic activity with moderate-to-high severity.