Title:
Seismic Performance Assessment of Intermediate Precast Structural Wall System with Grouted-Duct Connection for Low-Rise Buildings (Prepublished)
Author(s):
Juan F. Correal, Sofía Rodríguez, and David L. Casas
Publication:
Structural Journal
Volume:
Issue:
Appears on pages(s):
Keywords:
grouted-duct connection; intermediate precast concrete walls; low-rise buildings; nonlinear analysis; seismic performance assessment
DOI:
10.14359/51751920
Date:
8/14/2026
Abstract:
This study evaluates the seismic performance of precast concrete shear walls (PCSW) with grouted-duct connections for low-rise buildings located in moderate seismic hazard zones, using the FEMA P-695 methodology. An experimental program was conducted with three full-scale specimens to investigate the system’s behavior and calibrate a nonlinear numerical model for collapse assessment. Nonlinear static pushover and incremental dynamic analyses were performed on six archetype buildings with PCSW as the lateral-force-resisting system. The results show that the PCSW systems provide reliable collapse safety in line with FEMA P-695 acceptance criteria. The adjusted fragility curves revealed similar seismic behavior between PCSW and special concrete shear walls (SSW), suggesting that grouted-duct connections provide emulative performance comparable to cast-in-place wall systems. These findings underscore the potential of PCSW systems as a cost-effective alternative to traditional cast-in-place systems, particularly in regions where construction speed and material efficiency are key considerations.