A Precast Concrete Roof Bracing System for Industrial Buildings

Abstract

The seismic behavior of a precast concrete roof bracing-system for industrial buildings composed by prestressed elements, known as Dalla-beams, and wet connections, is experimentally and analytically studied. Tests results show that the response of this wet connection is suitable for earthquake regions in terms of strength, ductility, energy dissipation capacity, and stiffness. The analytical phase of this investigation aimed to simulate the observed experimental behavior through bond-slip models for reinforcement bars embedded in concrete and degrading stiffness hysteretic models, obtaining satisfactory results. Recommendations to model the connection are given. Finally, earthquake performance of the tested brace system was adequate, showing small number of moderate damage, which provided information to improve the detailing of the connection.