Testing and analytical modeling the lateral behavior of precast columns with a novel column-to-column connection

Abstract

A novel connection system is proposed for the rapid construction of reinforced concrete structures in seismic regions, called precast core steel tube reinforced concrete (PCSTRC) column. The system incorporates a core steel tube connection that utilizes the mortise-tendon mechanism, along with a rebar sleeve connection for longitudinal reinforcement, enabling column-to-column assembly. Six full-scale precast and cast-in-situ columns, with varying axial loads and detailing, were fabricated and subjected to quasi-static tests to investigate their seismic performance. The deformation characteristics and force-transferring mechanism of the precast columns were analyzed. The results indicate that the mechanical properties and hysteretic characteristics of the proposed PCSTRC column resemble those of the cast-in-situ specimen. An analytical model was developed for the PCSTRC column. The results of the analytical model for the PCSTRC column are basically consistent with the experimental results, considering both the load-carrying capacity and displacement composition in the total lateral response of the specimens. The model effectively captures the effect of different design parameters. It has been demonstrated that the proposed analytical model can accurately analyze and estimate the lateral behavior of the PCSTRC column.