Experimental study and finite element analysis of seismic behaviour of novel precast prestressed concrete frames

Abstract

In this study, a novel precast prestressed concrete frame structure connected using post-tensioned steel strands, cast-in-place filler, and post-tensioned or nonprestressed grouted steel bars was developed. A quasi-static test was performed to obtain the seismic-resistant behaviour of the precast prestressed concrete frame structure. The failure process, lateral load-displacement responses, stiffness degradation, ductility, and energy dissipation ability of the precast prestressed concrete frame were analysed and discussed. The structural drift and displacement ductility ratio were up to 5.6% and 4.97, respectively, indicating that the novel precast prestressed concrete frame provides a satisfactory seismic resistance. Moreover, its failure satisfies the seismic design requirements of the ‘strong column-weak beam’ failure mechanism. Nonlinear finite element models were established, simplified, and verified based on the experimental results. A comparison between the experimental and simulated results showed that the ABAQUS-based method can be used to explain the overall failure and seismic behaviour of the precast prestressed concrete frame structure. Suggestions for the seismic design optimisation of the precast prestressed concrete frame structure were provided with regards to potential factors such as axial load ratio, length of the grouted steel bars embedded in the precast beam, and partial prestressing ratio.