Seismic performance of novel RC shear wall with replaceable self-centering energy-dissipation components

Abstract

A novel reinforced concrete (RC) shear wall with replaceable self-centering energy-dissipation components (RSECs) symmetrically installed at the bottom corner of the wall panel is proposed in this study. The RSEC consists of self-centering part and energy-dissipation part, which not only dissipates most of the seismic energy but also provides the restoring force for the wall to return initial position after yielding of the component. The RC wall with RSECs is designed to reduce the damage to the main part of structural wall and the residual deformation of the structure. The structural details and design considerations of the RC shear wall with RSECs are introduced. To verify the seismic performance of RC shear walls with the new replaceable corner components, the numerical mode is developed for the new type of shear wall and validated by experimental results. Parametric studies of RC wall with RSECs are then conducted to investigate the effects of the stiffness and pre-pressure force of disc spring group, the bearing capacity ratio of RSEC, and the thickness of embedded steel plate. The results indicate that the RC wall with RSECs has moderate bearing capacity and lateral stiffness, good energy-dissipation capacity, excellent self-centering capability and the characteristics of low damage. The function of the RC wall with RSECs can be quickly restored by replacing RSECs after the strong earthquake.