Structural Performance of PC Double Beam-Column Connection Under Gravity and Seismic Loading

Abstract

Recently, as a new precast concrete (PC) construction method for increasing economy and constructability, the PC double-beam system has been developed for factories or logistic centers, where construction duration is particularly important. In this study, half-scaled PC double beam-column connection was tested under gravity loading and cyclic lateral loading. The major test parameters included the use of the spliced PC column and the addition of reinforcement at the beam-column joint. In the gravity loading test, the flexural behavior of the PC double beam was investigated. The test results showed satisfactory flexural capacity at the PC double-beam section, validating the composite action between the PC and RC members. In the cyclic lateral loading test, the seismic performance of the PC double beam-column connection was investigated. Based on the test results, the failure mode, load-carrying capacity, deformation capacity, energy dissipation capacity, secant stiffness, and shear strength of the PC double-beam system were evaluated and compared with those of a conventional RC double beam-column connection. According to the test results, the structural performance of the PC double beam-column connection was comparable to that of the RC double beam-column connection and satisfied the acceptance criteria of moment frame in the ACI 374.1-05 provision.