Title:
A Novel Lap-Spliced Connection for Modular Nuclear Reinforced-Concrete Building Structures (Prepublished)
Author(s):
Mark P. Manning, Brad D. Weldon, Subhash L. Shinde, Craig M. Newtson, and Yahya C. Kurama
Publication:
Structural Journal
Volume:
Issue:
Appears on pages(s):
Keywords:
grouted joint; lapped connection; modular construction; nuclear reinforced concrete building
DOI:
10.14359/51749554
Date:
2/13/2026
Abstract:
This paper describes an integrated experimental and numerical investigation on the behavior of lapped, grouted connections for modularized construction of safety-related nuclear reinforced concrete (RC) shear wall structures. The novel lapped geometry of the proposed connection provides “face-to-face” (rather than “end-to-end” or “butt”) joint interfaces with large grouted construction tolerances and large surfaces to develop the required continuity of the strength and stiffness of the wall. A total of 5 modular beam specimens and one state-of-practice (monolithic) beam specimen were tested under 3-point simply supported monotonic loading conditions. These beam specimens represented horizontal slices taken out of the length of a nuclear shear wall structure. Continuum finite element analyses were conducted to compare with the experimental test results and to develop information regarding the effects of material differences between the specimens. The experimental and numerical results showed that adequate clamping of the connection, as well as additional longitudinal beam reinforcement on both sides of the grout joint, are necessary to achieve the desired “strong” connection behavior with full strength and stiffness continuity between adjacent RC modules.