| Abstract: | Large panel precast concrete structures are built in major seismic regions throughout the world. The seismic behaviour of such structures is strongly dependent upon the characteristics of both the horizontal and vertical connections. The limiting behaviour of precast systems, however, is basically dependent upon the horizontal connection. The influence of horizontal connections can be studied in terms of the behaviour of a simple wall—a vertical stack of panels having only horizontal connections. This paper reports on research into the seismic behaviour of simple precast concrete walls. The research was carried out through the development of computer-based modelling techniques capable of including the typical behavioural characteristics associated with horizontal joints. The model assumes that all non-linear, inelastic behaviour is concentrated in the connection regions and that the precast panels remain linear elastic. This assumption allows the precast panels to be modelled as statically condensed ‘super-elements’ and the connection regions as interface elements. The above modelling technique allows for non-linear-inelastic seismic analysis that is capable of handling both rocking type motions throughout the height of the structure and slippage due to shear in the plane of the connection. A series of parametric studies are presented to illustrate the potential influence of rocking and slip on precast walls with both regular reinforcement and post-tensioning. These studies demonstrate the period elongation associated with the nonlinear-elastic rocking phenomenon. Shear slip is found to occur only when friction coefficients are extremely low or when the normal forces across the connections are low. This latter case occurs only in low buildings or in the upper floors of tall buildings. The paper concludes with a brief discussion of the design implications of these results. Particular attention is paid to the problems stemming from the force concentrations associated with rocking and shear slip. |
