Performance of circular high-strength concrete columns under lateral load reversals.

Abstract

In recent years, high-strength concrete (HSC) has gained a more widespread acceptance in the construction industry. In spite of the advantages inherent to HSC, concerns still exist about its relative brittleness, particularly in regions of high seismic risk. An experimental and analytical investigation was conducted to study the behaviour of circular HSC columns subjected to simulated seismic loading. The experimental program included the testing of nine full-scale circular columns under combined axial compression and lateral load reversals. The emphasis was on the strength and deformation characteristics in relation to various confinement parameters. These parameters included the compressive strength of concrete, the yield strength, volumetric ratio and spacing of transverse reinforcement, the level of axial load, the type of circular reinforcement, and the presence of the concrete cover. The effects of test parameters were analysed by comparing the force-displacement relationships among pairs of companion specimens. The results show that ductile behaviour can be obtained from HSC columns subjected to lateral deformation reversals, provided they are suitably confined. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)