Cyclic Loading of Ductile Precast Concrete Beam-Column Connection

In this study, a simple moment-resisting precast concrete beam-column connection is proposed for highly seismic regions. An experimental study was carried out to investigate the connection behavior subjected to cyclic inelastic loading. Four precast beam-column interior connections and one monolithic connection were tested. The variables examined were the connection length of reinforcements and presence of transverse bars at mid-height of connection. The specimens were tested with the column under a constant axial compressive load and reverse cyclic loading in accordance with a prescribed displacement history. Connection performance is evaluated on the basis of ductility, energy dissipation capacity, connection strength, and drift capacity. Based on test results, the precast connection is capable of matching or exceeding the performance of the monolithic connection and thereby provides moment-resisting behavior.