Abstract
In the buckling-restrained braced reinforced concrete frames (BRB-RCFs), the RC columns in braced bays will undergo variable axial loads induced by the BRB axial forces, during strong seismic excitations. However, the actual axial force demands of columns have not been considered comprehensively in the existing loading protocols for seismic assessment of BRB-RCF subassemblage tests. This study aims to develop a new loading protocol considering variable axial loads to improve the accuracy of experimental investigations on the seismic performance of BRB-RCFs. To achieve these objectives, a total of 45 BRB-RCFs varying in the number of stories, story shears resisted by BRBs, and BRB configurations were first designed. Then, the matching relationship between the inter-story drift ratios (IDRs) and column axial forces was quantified. Further, the seismic responses of BRB-RCFs were systematically investigated, and the control parameters of loading histories were determined. Finally, the dual-parameter (IDRs and axial forces) loading protocols were proposed and validated by employing the cumulative distribution function of IDRs. Analytical results indicated that the proposed IDR loading protocol successfully reappeared and captured the seismic demands of the BRB-RCF subjected to the maximum considered earthquake level hazard.
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