Seismic Behavior of Rammed Earth Walls with Precast Concrete Tie Columns

Abstract

Rammed earth (RE) constructions are widespread in underdeveloped rural areas in developing countries. However, these RE constructions are often susceptible to earthquake damage due to their poor seismic performance. Precast concrete tie columns and ring beam (tie bars) were proposed to improve the seismic behavior of RE constructions. Four RE walls, including a traditional RE wall and three RE walls with precast concrete tie columns and ring beam (tie bars), were tested under reversed cyclic loading, and the seismic behavior of these tested specimens was evaluated in terms of failure pattern, energy dissipation, displacement ductility, and stiffness degradation. The results showed that a significant increase of the load-bearing and deformation capacity could be achieved with the application of precast concrete tie columns in combination with RE. The load-bearing capacity and deformation capacity of traditional RE wall were increased by an average of 113% and 417%, respectively. These test results could provide reference to the design and construction of the environmental-friendly structures in rural areas.