Seismic Performance of a Full-Scale Precast Concrete L-Shaped Column Frame Structure with a Grouted Connection

Abstract

Precast concrete frame structure with nonrectangular columns are becoming attractive to researchers and engineers owing to advantages such as avoiding column protrusion from walls and saving space. This paper presents the experimental investigation of a full-scale precast concrete frame structure with L-shaped columns (PCFS) subjected to reverse cyclic loading. The precast connection adopted grouted anchor connection. As a comparison and benchmark, one full-scale monolithic sample (RCFS) was also tested. The results indicates that the greater steel ratio in the grouted anchor connection region leads to a high local stiffness of the elements, which contributed to delaying occurrence of the first crack at the grouting holes. The failure mode, lateral load capacity, stiffness degradation, load-carrying capacity degradation, energy-dissipating capacity, ductility and interlayer residual deformation were compared between two specimens. PCFS specimen exhibited comparatively better hysteretic behavior, energy-dissipating capacity, residual deformation-resisting capacity and ductility. For RCFS and PCFS specimens, the peak load difference was within 7%. About 15% increases in ductility were observed for PCFS specimen compared with RCFS specimen. The test results would provide reference for the application of the precast concrete structure with nonrectangular columns in the new residential buildings.