Behavior of CFST short column and beam with initial concrete imperfection: Experiments

Gap between steel tube and concrete core could be recognized as a type of initial concrete imperfection in concrete-filled steel tubular (CFST) structure. This paper studies the influence of the gap on the compressive and flexural behavior of CFST members. A total of 21 specimens, including 14 short columns subjected to axial compressive loading and 7 beams subjected to bending, were tested. The main parameters of these tests were the gap type (circumferential and spherical-cap) and gap ratio. The influence of gap on the failure mode, ultimate strength and flexural stiffness of the CFST specimens were investigated.

► Influence of gap on the behavior of CFST short column and beam.
► Tests on 14 short column specimens and 7 beam specimens.
► Effects of gap type.
► Effects gap ratio.
► Influence of the gap on the failure mode and ultimate strength.