Abstract
The research aims to improve seismic ductility design by introducing self-centering tension-only braces (SC-TOBs) as a replacement for traditional components prone to elastoplastic damage. These innovative braces are engineered to withstand tension without undergoing compression buckling, thereby enhancing energy dissipation, and minimizing residual deformation post-earthquake. To validate this concept experimentally, a three-story common steel frame (CF) structure was modified to incorporate SC-TOBs, creating self-centering brace-frame (SCF) structures. Two variations of the SCF structures were tested: SCF-A, with prestressed SC-TOBs, and SCF-B, with unprestressed SC-TOBs. Shaking table tests were conducted on these models under three seismic intensity levels: frequently occurring earthquake (FOE), moderately occurring earthquake (MOE), and rarely occurring earthquake (ROE). The results indicated that the SCF-A structure exhibited almost no cumulative residual deformation, whereas SCF-B showed a significant reduction in deformation compared to the CF structure. The prestressed SCF-A demonstrated smaller displacement responses than both CF and SCF-B structures. Additionally, peak base moments in SCF-A and SCF-B structures were reduced by 32.5 % and 45.6 %, respectively, compared to the CF structure. Under ROE seismic intensity, the SCF structures achieved a maximum floor acceleration amplification ratio of approximately 0.71, significantly better than the CF structure. These findings suggest that SC-TOBs, with their distinctive deformation mode and elastoplastic stiffness, are a viable solution for enhancing the seismic resilience of frame structures. By carefully designing the hysteresis behavior of SC-TOBs, the study demonstrates the potential to effectively control structural responses during seismic events, thereby offering a promising approach to improving earthquake resilience in building design.
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