Behavior of RCS Beam-Column-Slab Subassemblies Under Earthquake-Type Loading

This paper presents results of tests conducted on 4 composite RCS beam-column-slab subassemblies under cyclic loading. Specimens were designed for beam plastic hinging and controlled joint deformations through the use of a deformation-based design model for RCS connections. Two types of simple connection details were used in the specimens, one with overlapping U-shaped stirrups passing through the steel beam web, and the other with steel band plates wrapping around the column just above and below the steel beam flanges. Performance of the test specimens was evaluated in terms of load-displacement response, beam rotations, joint deformations, and energy dissipation capacity. The accuracy of the deformation-based joint model was also evaluated. Excellent response was observed for all specimens, with large beam rotations, minor to moderate joint damage, and significant energy dissipation capacity, indicating that RCS frame construction is adequate for use in zones of high seismicity. Good agreement was also found between predicted and experimental shear force vs. shear deformation response in RCS connections.