Seismic performance of concrete-encased hexagonal CFST column base: Experimental and numerical analysis

Abstract

This paper presents the seismic behaviour of concrete-encased hexagonal concrete-filled steel tubular (CFST) column base under combined compression and biaxial bending. A total of 12 column base specimens are tested in terms of failure modes, load-displacement relationship, strain distribution, strength and stiffness degradation and energy dissipation capacity. The main parameters include the height of the outer reinforced concrete component, the loading angle of lateral load, the axial load ratio, the cross section of the CFST column and the base type. A finite element model is established, validated, and used to study the distribution of internal force. The effects of some key parameters on the internal force distribution of column base are studied, including the second-order torsion, the loading angle, the loading path of the lateral load and the sustained load. Three types of flexural failure modes are identified in both experimental and numerical investigations. The outer RC component as well as the axial load ratio have a significant influence on the failure mode of the column base. The concrete-encased column base tends to fail at the top section of the base plate with a higher axial load level. The outer reinforced concrete not only resists external load with the CFST column and plate-anchor component together, but also improves the strength and ductility of the CFST column.