Experimental and numerical study of precast concrete columns with hybrid bolted splice connections

• DOI: 10.1016/j.istruc.2020.08.042
• Publication Date: 2020-08-25T16:38:51Z
• Authors: Guojue Wang; Yingmin Li; Zhe Li; Jason M. Ingham
• Keywords: Precast concrete; Grout; Ductility (Earth science); Base (topology)

Abstract The seismic performance of precast concrete (PC) columns using bolted splice connections was investigated, where the connection was composed of column shoes, bolts and grout. In order to ensure satisfactory seismic performance the PC columns were joined in the middle part of the columns where the bending moment is reduced. A total of six specimens were constructed and tested with varying axial load ratios. One specimen was cast-in-place (CIP), one specimen was assembled with the hybrid connection positioned at the column base where the moment is greatest, and the remainder were assembled with the hybrid connection positioned in the central portion of the storey height. Damage states, load-carrying capacity, ductility and energy dissipation of the specimens was studied and compared. In addition, fiber element modelling was validated and implemented in order to investigate the effect of connection location. Findings from the experimental and numerical simulations indicated that the PC columns that contained the hybrid connection located in the central portion of the storey height with corresponding reduced bending moments exhibited simulated seismic performance that was comparable to the response of CIP columns.