Seismic Performance of Precast Shear Wall–Diaphragm Connection: A Comparative Study with Monolithic Connection

Abstract

The primary objective of the present study is to understand the behaviour of innovative precast shear wall–slab connection subjected to reverse cyclic loading. The response of the precast connection is then compared with that of the similar monolithic connection. One-third scaled-down models were used for the investigation. In the monolithic connection, typically used U-shaped bars were employed for the connectivity between shear wall and slab. In the precast connection, the connectivity was established in two steps. In the first step, the precast slab and a lower half portion of the shear wall were connected through dowel bars and tied with the screed reinforcement. In the second step, the bottom and top panel of the shear walls were connected through the dowel bars. The specimens were subjected to reverse cyclic loading at the slab ends on both sides. The seismic performance regarding strength, load–displacement relationship, crack pattern, energy dissipation, moment–rotation curve, stiffness and ductility were obtained and compared with the monolithic connection. The average ultimate load and moment-carrying capacity of the precast specimen are found to be 28.66% and 21.74% greater than the monolithic specimen. The cumulative energy dissipation and ductility factor of the precast specimen are found to be 128.95% and 74.34% higher than the monolithic specimen. It is concluded that the precast specimen showed better performance concerning the ultimate load, moment, energy dissipation and ductility with reference to the monolithic specimen.