Shaking Table Test Study on the Influence of Construction Procedure for Modular Precast Composite Shear Wall Structures

Abstract

In this study, comparative shaking table tests were conducted on two 1/4-scaled concrete modular models to investigate the influence of construction process on the seismic performance. The test models included a modular precast model and a modular cast-on-site model. A series of shaking table tests were input with incremental intensities until the models failed. The test results showed that the bottom vertical joints were the most critical components in the modular models. The modular cast-on-site model failed with partial pull-out of the screws in the bottom vertical joints. The modular precast model failed with the nut slip and screw fracture in the bottom vertical joints, resulting in a little lower ultimate bearing capacity than the modular cast-on-site model. The small model size and assembly process decreased the fundamental frequency of the Y-directional translation mode for the modular precast model. The modular precast model had comparable displacement and acceleration responses to the modular cast-on-site model when the vertical joints were intact, but showed larger displacements with the vertical joints approaching failure. The test results demonstrate the significance of strengthening joint bolts and protecting bolt threads in the engineering applications.