Title:
Nonlinear Hysteretic Truss Model for Diagonally Reinforced Concrete Coupling Beams (Prepublished)
Author(s):
Sergio E. Godínez, José I. Restrepo, Rodolfo Álvarez, and Nelson M. Ángel
Publication:
Structural Journal
Volume:
Issue:
Appears on pages(s):
Keywords:
coupled walls; diagonally reinforced coupling beams; nonlinear response history analysis; performance-based seismic design; seismic performance; truss model
DOI:
10.14359/51751791
Date:
6/9/2026
Abstract:
Coupled walls are widely used as the lateral force-resisting system in tall buildings in seismic regions. Nonlinear response history analyses of such systems rely on first-generation shear- or moment-spring models for the diagonally reinforced coupling beams; these have significant limitations and are inconsistent with the uncracked stiffness assigned to the framing walls. This paper presents a nonlinear hysteretic truss model for diagonally reinforced concrete coupling beams that resolves this inconsistency and validates it against experimental data reported in the literature. The model explicitly couples flexural, shear, and axial deformations through truss action within a unified nonlinear hysteretic framework, a clear improvement over purely phenomenological shear- or moment-spring models. Unlike these, the proposed model develops axial compression when restrained against lengthening and accounts for its effects, allowing shear redistribution between the framing walls. Its applicability is demonstrated through the nonlinear response history analysis of a 15-story coupled-wall building.