Experimental study of precast dry connections constructed away from beam–column junction under progressive collapse scenario

This paper presents experimental studies conducted on precast dry connections under progressive collapse scenario. Reduced one-third-scale precast beam–column assemblies are constructed as test specimen by providing connection away from beam–column junction. Dimensions of test specimens are extracted from 6-story symmetrical building having overall plan dimensions of 16 m × 12 m. Each specimen consists of two span beams and three columns with removed middle column, which represents progressive collapse scenario. Dry connection between precast elements were constructed by adopting two different types of detailing such as welding and bolting of steel plates at connection region. Monotonic vertical load was applied at the location of removed middle column with the help of hydraulic jack. Behavior of test specimens was measured in terms of ultimate load carrying capacity, deflection profile along the length, failure pattern and crack propagation. The performance of precast specimens having dry connection was also compared with that of monolithic connection. From the results of experimental studies, it was observed that precast dry connection with welded plates was having maximum ultimate load carrying capacity, while the same for precast dry connection with bolted plates was lesser than that of monolithic connection. However, performance of precast dry connection with bolted plates can be enhanced by ensuring appropriate quality of concreting around connection region. Based on the study, it was concluded that building having precast elements connected away from the beam–column junction with adequate connection detailing behaves similar to that of monolithic construction and can be a sustainable alternative of cast-in-place construction.