Seismic performance of prefabricated bridge piers with grouted sleeve connections: a comparative study of pier configurations

Prefabricated bridge structures have gained increasing attention in modern civil engineering due to their advantages in construction efficiency and quality control. However, their application in seismic regions remains limited, primarily due to insufficient understanding of their seismic performance and damage mechanisms. This study investigates the seismic behavior of prefabricated double-column piers with grouted sleeve connections using a high-fidelity finite element model developed in ABAQUS. A quasi-static loading protocol is employed to evaluate key performance indicators, including hysteretic response, ductility, energy dissipation capacity, and damage evolution. The seismic performance of prefabricated piers is systematically compared with that of cast-in-place counterparts. Furthermore, the influence of pier configuration (single-, double-, and three-column systems) on seismic performance is examined. The results indicate that, although prefabricated double-column piers exhibit slightly reduced ductility, they demonstrate superior peak load capacity and enhanced energy dissipation capacity compared to cast-in-place piers. Among different configurations, double-column piers show the most balanced force distribution and minimal damage concentration. In contrast, single- and three-column systems exhibit significantly lower load capacity and energy dissipation, with reductions of 66.4 % and 23.3 %, respectively. These findings provide valuable insights into the seismic design of prefabricated bridge piers and support their application in seismic regions.