Title:
Seismic Performance of Damage-Protected Beam-Column Joints
Author(s):
Kevin Solberg, Rajesh P. Dhakal, Brendon Bradley, John B. Mander, and Luoman Li
Publication:
Structural Journal
Volume:
105
Issue:
2
Appears on pages(s):
205-214
Keywords:
damage avoidance design; multi-level seismic performance assessment; quasi-earthquake displacement.
DOI:
10.14359/19736
Date:
3/1/2008
Abstract:
An experimental and computational study of an 80%-scale precast concrete three-dimensional (3D) beam-column joint subassembly designed with damage-protected rocking connections is presented. A prestress system is implemented whereby high-alloy, highstrength, unbonded threaded bars running through the beams are coupled to rods within the columns. The threaded bars are posttensioned and supplemental energy dissipation devices are also installed. Both wet and dry joint solutions are considered. A multilevel seismic performance assessment (MSPA) is conducted considering three performance objectives related to immediate occupancy and collapse prevention. First, bidirectional quasistatic cyclic tests were conducted and the specimen’s performance was characterized. This data was then used in a 3D nonlinear incremental dynamic analysis (IDA). Results from the IDA were used to select three critical earthquakes for further experimental bidirectional testing. Thus, quasi-earthquake displacement (QED) tests were performed. Results indicate the system satisfied all performance objectives related to serviceability and life safety. Further design improvements are discussed.