An innovative design solution for precast prestressed concrete buildings in high seismic zones

The author describes the development of an imaginative new structural system for precast, prestressed concrete buildings in high seismic zones. The key element in the system is the beam-to-column connection that is comprised of high performance ductile rod connectors. Fully tested, the design concept was applied to a four-story parking structure. The design features of the building are described together with the fabrication and erection highlights of the precast components. With the success of this new structural system, the future prospects of precast, prestressed concrete buildings in high seismic zones look particularly bright.