Seismic behavior of connections composed of CFSSTCs and steel–concrete composite beams—experimental study

In order to investigate the seismic behavior of connections composed of concrete-filled square steel tubular columns and steel–concrete composite beams, fourteen cruciform connection specimens were tested. The strength, deformation, and energy dissipation capacity of these composite connections were analyzed. The test results showed that the strength of connections with interior diaphragms is adequate, but their ductility is low. Also, the deformation capacity of connections with anchored studs is good, but their strength is low. In comparison, the connections with exterior diaphragms have adequate strength, good ductility, and high-energy dissipation capacity, and as a result, it can be concluded that they are more suitable for applications in moment resisting frames in seismic regions.