An intercontinental hybrid simulation experiment for the purpose of seismic assessment of a three-span R/C bridge

This paper presents the challenges encountered in preparing and conducting hybrid experiments between E.U., U.S. and Canada in the framework of an FP7-funded European project focusing on the study of seismic soil-structure interaction effects in bridge structures. The test involved partners located on both sides of the Atlantic; each one assigned a numerical or a physical module of the sub-structured bridge. More precisely, the seismic response of a recently built, 99m long, three-span, reinforced concrete bridge is assessed, after sub-structuring it into five structural components (modules); four of them being numerically analyzed in computers located in the cities of Thessaloniki (Greece), Patras (Greece), Urbana-Champaign. IL (U.S.) and Toronto (Canada) while an elastomeric bearing was physically tested in Patras (Greece). The results of the hybrid experiment, the challenges met during all stages of the campaign, as well as the feasibility, robustness and repetitiveness of the intercontinental hybrid simulation test are presented and critically discussed.