Title: Earthquake Simulation Testing of Small-Scale Reinforced Concrete Structures

Author(s): V. Caccese and H. G. Harris

Publication: Structural Journal

Volume: 87

Issue: 1

Appears on pages(s): 72-80

Keywords: dynamic tests; earthquake-resistant structures; microconcretes; models; precast concrete; reinforced concrete; scale (ratio); shearwalls; simulation; Structural Research

DOI: 10.14359/2938

Date: 1/1/1990

Abstract:
A brief summary of techniques used in earthquake simulation testing of small-scale concrete structures is presented. Actual prototype concrete structures tend to be very heavy, and even small-scale replicas of these present weight problems for many of the existing earthquake-simulator test facilities. Nonlinear, ultimate strength models need to be employed in this type of shaking table investigation. A discussion of similitude, model materials, distortion of mass density scale, and choice of scale factor is included. A case study of a seven-story, 1:5-scale, concrete wall-frame building tested at the University of California, Berkeley, and a case study of several five-story, 1:32-scale, isolated precast shearwalls tested at Drexel University are discussed. Knowledge gained from studies such as these is important in understanding the behavior of structures under earthquake loading and will facilitate the development of earthquake-resistant design.