Strength of connections in precast concrete structures
The available experimental and numerical results of many studies of behavior of reinforced concrete connections for different stages of loading, up to fracture loading, are presented and analyzed in this paper. The problem of beam-column connection (or plate-wall connection) in prefabricated monolithic structures is emphasized. Fracture mechanisms of RC structures, the theoretical basis for their analysis, and the use of fracture mechanics in RC structures were also considered, as well as the mathematical models of prefabricated connections. In order to formulate an adequate mathematical model for calculating the connections, the dominant parameters influencing the behaviour of these connections were analyzed. A failure model for the prefabricated wall - monolithic RC plate connection was formulated. In building the model, the results of implemented experimental and numerical research of prefabricated connection in the MMS system from 2007 were used. Experiences with the implementation of the aforementioned construction system in structures in Tuzla, in the 1980's last century, were additionally used. The proposed mathematical models provide a sufficiently accurate failure assessment of prefabricated reinforced concrete connections.