Abstract: Prestressed precast segmental piers have the advantages of fast construction and good mechanical performance. The joint types between segments and between segments and foundation have great influence on the seismic performance of the structure. This paper presents an experimental study on a new type of joints that we have designed for prestressed precast segment piers, focusing on the structure’s seismic performance and the influence of design parameters. The results show that the connecting steel plates installed at the segment joints are very effective in preventing the joint from cracking under lateral load and ensuring the integrity of the pier column, while the energy dissipators with a negative Poisson's ratio installed at the segment-foundation joints are effective in enhancing energy consumption and the structure’s bearing capacity. These findings are useful for engineering design of pier structures.

Key words: prestress, precast pier, joint form, seismic performance, connecting steel plate, negative Poisson's ratio energy dissipator