Effect of connection reinforcement details on performance of full-scale precast concrete beam-column connection designed for gravity

Abstract

This paper presents the test of full scale precast concrete beam-column connection under reversed cyclic load.  Two full scale specimens representing the actual 5-storey precast concrete frame building without shear wall are tested. The structural design and reinforcement details of these two specimens considered gravity load only without taking into account horizontal force caused by earthquake.  The two specimens have different details of connection between beam and column. In the first specimen, the connection is by means of the welded splice of beam longitudinal bars with additional short reinforcement piece. In the second specimen, the connection is achieved through the 90 degree hook of beam bar into the joint core. Experimental result demonstrated that both specimens exhibited different failure modes. The first specimen fails by shear failure at the end of beam, while the second specimen fails by flexural failure. The load-displacement relations show that both specimens are moderately ductile, with the ductility ratio of 3.5. The specimens can resist earthquake of moderate intensity even though they are designed for gravity load only. However, the hysteretic loops are pinched in both specimens, indicating low energy dissipation.