Seismic evaluation of post-tensioned precast concrete frames with non-grouted fuse-type dissipaters under successive excitations

Abstract

In recent years, demands for mitigating structural damage and post-earthquake repair costs have spurred considerable research on self-centering seismic force-resisting systems. This study evaluates the Post-tensioned Precast concrete Frame with non-grouted fuse-type Dissipaters (PPFD) through experimental and numerical methods. Quasi-static tests were conducted on a one-bay, single-story PPFD to investigate its seismic response. The tested PPFD was shown to effectively control damage to concrete components and limit residual displacements; imperfections at the beam-column interface joint had a negative effect on the initial stiffness and self-centering performance of the PPFD. Parametric analyses were then performed to discuss the force and deformation responses of the beam-column joint in the PPFD with dissipaters solely beneath the beam. A design method for the PPFD was developed based on the formulas derived and verified from the parametric analyses. Nonlinear dynamic analyses were then employed to evaluate prototype designed multi-story PPFDs subjected to individual earthquakes in addition to mainshock-aftershock sequences. The findings indicated that both configurations of PPFD, with dissipaters either symmetrically arranged on the beam or located exclusively below the beam, exhibited comparable maximum inter-story drifts and significantly smaller residual inter-story drifts than a comparable reinforced concrete frame. Moreover, the PPFD demonstrated only a minor increase in both the maximum and residual inter-story drifts when subjected to aftershocks, compared to a much larger increase for the reinforced concrete frame.