Axial load behavior of ultrahigh strength concrete-filled steel tube columns of various geometric and reinforcement configurations

Abstract

This paper presents the behavior of concrete-filled steel tube (CFST) columns infilled with fiber-reinforced self-consolidating ultrahigh strength concrete (UHSC) subjected to axial concentric monotonic loading to failure. UHSC is expected to improve ease of fabrication, strength, and ductility of CFST columns. Seventeen columns having varying geometric properties such as tube wall thickness, cross-sectional shape (circular, rectangular, and square), and slenderness were constructed and tested by applying load through both steel tube and concrete core. Circular columns were further distinguished by the presence or absence of main and hoop steel reinforcing bars in the core concrete. Axial load-displacement response, axial/transverse strain development, and failure modes were recorded during the loading history to analyze the performance. Experimental confined concrete strength and axial strength of UHSC-filled CFST columns were compared with those obtained from three suggested analytical models and three code-based design procedures including Eurocode 4, Canadian CAN/CSA S16, and American AISC. Analytical models were found to over-predict the confined concrete strength and the axial strength of CFST columns. Canadian and American codes were found to be most applicable for predicting axial strength of UHSC-filled CFST columns while remaining conservative.