The effect of inelastic behavior of beam-to-column connection regions on the seismic performance of RC frame structures

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2024-3-06
Akın, Umut
The seismic behavior of reinforced concrete frame structures substantially depends on the response of beam-column connection regions as revealed by prior experimental research studies. Accurate evaluation of the nonlinear behavior of reinforced concrete frame structures under reversed cyclic loading requires an adequate definition of the beam-column joint response. In this research study, a joint shear strength prediction equation considering various material, geometrical properties and loading conditions is proposed, utilizing a comprehensive database composed of 251 experimentally investigated beam-column connection subassemblies. Moreover, a nonlinear inelastic joint shear behavior model is developed and verified by comparison with available experimental data. Finally, nonlinear analyses are performed utilizing the proposed joint model defined with the “panel zone” element of SAP 2000 software and the structural response is compared with experimental results of numerous subassemblies and a 3-story 3-bay reinforced concrete frame tested in the Middle East Technical University Structural Mechanics Laboratory. The utilization of the proposed joint model provides more accurate overall structural response and beam moment-rotation response estimations, which is crucial for evaluating the structural performance, when compared to rigid or semi rigid joint assumptions. The comparison of the joint strength prediction equation with the contemporary code requirements indicates the improved accuracy of the proposed equation and the feasibility of integrating it into the structural design codes for obtaining the shear strength of both code conforming and nonconforming beam-column joints.
Citation Formats
U. Akın, “The effect of inelastic behavior of beam-to-column connection regions on the seismic performance of RC frame structures,” Ph.D. - Doctoral Program, Middle East Technical University, 2024.