Cyclic behavior of prefabricated circular composite columns with low steel ratio

Improved economy and speed of construction can be achieved through the use of prefabricated structural members. As a step toward the advancement of prefabricated substructures, a precast composite column for seismic regions is proposed in this paper. Concrete-encased composite columns with core structural steel can be utilized for a fast construction method using steel connections. Six concrete-encased composite specimens with low steel ratio were fabricated. Quasi-static tests were conducted to investigate the cyclic response of the prefabricated composite columns. For composite columns with bolt connections, the cyclic behavior in terms of ultimate load and post-cracking behavior was enhanced significantly as the transverse reinforcement ratio increases. Higher prestressing gave greater flexural strength to the composite columns with prestressing and better energy absorption capacity, while displacement ductility of the prestressed composite column was decreased as the prestressing increased.

► Six prefabricated concrete-encased composite columns with low steel ratio were tested.
► The cyclic behavior is enhanced significantly as the transverse reinforcement ratio increases.
► Higher prestressing gave greater flexural strength to the composite columns with prestressing and better energy absorption capacity.