Seismic performance and flexural stiffness variation of assembled precast high-strength concrete beam jointed at mid-span using transverse bolts

Assembled precast members and related connections should be economically feasible, bring ease of construction, and provide acceptable static properties as well as adequate dynamic characteristics in high seismic zones. The seismic performance of an assembled precast high-strength concrete beam with a simple and innovative lap splice connection in high-rise buildings is discussed. The flexibility variation along the lap splice connection of the beam, which involves a reduced profile, is also investigated. The lap splice connection, located at beam mid-span, was connected by transverse untensioned bolts. The simplicity of the form and developed mechanism are intended to be suitable for construction sites. The experimental test results confirmed the adequacy of such assemblies to satisfy a safe level under different loadings. The beam under reversed cyclic loading proved to be ductile and failure occurred outside the lap splice connection similarly to monolithic ordinary reinforced concrete beams. The flexural stiffness varied along the lap splice connection of the assembled beam and declined at the transition section of the reduced profile under large loading. Therefore, this reduction, within design limits, would not affect the performance of the assembled beam.