Title:
Experimental Evaluation of Disproportionate Collapse Resistance in Reinforced Concrete Frames
Author(s):
Stephen M. Stinger and Sarah L. Orton
Publication:
Structural Journal
Volume:
110
Issue:
3
Appears on pages(s):
521-530
Keywords:
catenary action; compressive arch; disproportionate collapse; progressive collapse; reinforced concrete frame; structural integrity
DOI:
10.14359/51685609
Date:
5/1/2013
Abstract:
Reinforced concrete frame structures may possess an inherent ability to withstand collapse through the use of alternative resistance mechanisms. These mechanisms include Vierendeel action, catenary action, compressive arch action, and contributions from infill walls. This research tested a series of three one-quarter-scale, two-bay-by-two-story frames. The column between the two bays was removed to simulate a collapse scenario. Flexural analysis of the frame with discontinuous reinforcement indicated little load capacity; however, it reached a load of 2.34 kip (10.4 kN) under compressive arch action and 8.19 kip (36.4 kN) under catenary tension before the top bars ripped out of the stirrups. The frame with continuous reinforcement also reached 8.3 kip (36.9 kN) in catenary action before the longitudinal bars fractured under the tensile load. A frame with partial-height infill walls showed only a minor increase in strength in the compressive arch phase. The results show that both compressive arch and catenary action are viable resistance mechanisms in frames under a collapse loading.