Seismic performance of fabricated shear wall structures with design defects

Abstract

The sleeve grouting connection stands as a customary method for interlinking precast shear walls within assembly construction. In the realm of on-site construction, achieving complete avoidance of sleeve grouting defects remains a challenge. In an endeavor to scrutinize the seismic performance and the subsequent progression of damage within shear wall structures riddled with sleeve grouting defects, a two-story shear wall model was formulated through the utilization of ABAQUS software. Employing numerical simulation of low cycle reciprocating loading, the study was conducted across three distinct operational contexts: absence of defects, localized defects, and comprehensive defects. The outcomes proffer insight into the exacerbated concrete damage triggered by defects present within shear wall structures. These defects contribute to premature yielding of reinforcement and a consequent amplification in the plastic length of the reinforcement, consequently impeding the harmonized deformation of reinforcement and concrete. The “pinch phenomenon” is particularly conspicuous within fully defective structures during the nascent loading stages. As cyclic loads mount, the hysteretic curves of both defective and defect-free structure tend to converge. While the skeleton curve of structures, whether grouting defects are present or not, demonstrates remarkable parity prior to reaching the pinnacle reaction force, the defective structure displays premature waning in reaction force. This, in turn, curtails the efficacy of early warning concerning structural deformation and jeopardizes safety. In light of the foregoing analysis, it is manifest that the presence of sleeve grouting defects significantly impacts the seismic performance and subsequent damage trajectory of shear wall structures. As a corollary, addressing and mitigating these defects during on-site construction emerge as imperative prerequisites for upholding the comprehensive safety and stability of the structure.