A new ductile moment-resisting connection for precast concrete frames in seismic regions: An experimental investigation

• A new ductile moment-resisting precast connection is developed for seismic regions.
• New connection enables rapid construction by eliminating formworks and welding.
• Cyclic loading tests conducted on eight full-scale precast and monolithic specimens.
• Precast connections exhibited considerably higher ductility and energy dissipation.
• Connection ductility improved by using closed stirrups and smaller stirrup spacing.

A new ductile moment-resisting beam–column connection is developed for precast reinforced concrete (RC) frames in high seismic zones. The proposed connection provides good structural integrity in the connections and can reduce construction time by eliminating the need for formworks and welding, and minimizing cast-in-place concrete volume. A series of cyclic loading tests were carried out on six full-scale interior and exterior precast connections and two monolithic connections, all designed for use in high seismic zones. Test variables included the type of stirrups (open and closed) and the stirrup spacing in the beam connection zone. Test specimens were subjected to a constant axial load and a reverse cyclic loading based on a given displacement history. Flexural strength, ductility, strength degradation and energy dissipation capacity of the precast and monolithic connections are compared. The proposed interior and exterior moment-resisting connections proved to be efficient at improving the seismic performance of precast concrete frames in high seismic zones. While the precast connections provided adequate flexural strength, strength degradation and drift capacity, they exhibited considerably higher ductility and energy dissipation compared to similar monolithic specimens.