An experimental assessment on the seismic behaviour of precast hollowcore slab to beam connection with different connection details

Abstract

This study evaluates the cyclic response of the Precast Hollow Core Slab (PHCS) to the beam connection by proposing a novel connection detail. The evaluation involved, three different connection details, namely, (1) Continuity rebar and U-type Core Rebar Discrete with 100 mm ledge width (CUCRD_100); (2) continuity rebar and Core Rebar Combined with 100 mm ledge width (CCRC_100); and (3) continuity rebar and Core Rebar Combined with Ties along with 100 mm ledge width (CCRCT_100) were experimentally validated. These were validated through experimental testing, comparing their performance with a reference specimen that adhered to New Zealand guidelines using Continuity rebar and Core Rebar Discrete with 100 mm ledge width (CCRD_100). Displacement controlled reverse cyclic loading, following the ACI T1.1–0.1 protocol, was applied to the end of a hollow core slab for the experimental testing. The structural performance of all four connections considered failure pattern, strength, hysteretic behaviour, energy dissipation, displacement ductility, stiffness degradation, and equivalent viscous damping. The overall seismic efficiency of the connections was assessed using ACI 374.1–05 approval criteria. The experimental results proved that the peak load-carrying capacity for CCRCT_100 specimen was observed to be greater in both directions of loading (positive and negative) when compared with the other connection detailing. The presence of transverse reinforcement enhanced the confining capacity of the concrete in the joint region which substantially increased the ductility and dissipation of energy in CCRCT_100 specimen. The seismic performance of every connection specimen was favourable, and they all met the ACI 374.1–05 approval standards.