Experimental Study on Dynamic Behavior of Reinforced Concrete Frames with Non-seismic Detailing

Experimental Study on Dynamic Behavior of Reinforced Concrete Frames with Non-seismic Detailing

In order to observe the interaction of structural elements at the onset of collapse, five frame specimens were tested at the National Center for Research on Earthquake Engineering of Taiwan in spring 2009. Each specimen consisted of a 1/2.25 scale model of a two-bay two-story reinforced concrete frame. The specimens were tested under high and low gravity loads to investigate the influence of axial loads on the collapse vulnerability of the structures. The test results will be employed to study the interaction of beams, columns and joints as collapse is initiated. Such studies will lead to a better understanding of the behavior of existing reinforced concrete structures, and more cost-effective retrofit strategies.