Experimental seismic behavior of SCFRT column chevron concentrically braced frames

To promote special-shaped concrete-filled rectangular steel tubular (SCFRT) columns in high-rise buildings, this study proposes the innovative SCFRT column chevron concentrically braced frame. To study the seismic performance of the braced frame, this paper experimentally investigated the behavior of SCFRT column chevron concentrically braced frames subjected to constant axial load and cyclically flexural load. The braced frames exhibited rational failure mechanism, favorable ductility, and high deformation capacity. The hysteretic curves of the specimens were smooth and spindle indicating the good energy dissipation capacity of the braced frames. Stiffness and strength degradation were not obvious. Hence, the SCFRT column braced frame has good anti-seismic performance. The load carrying capacity and the stiffness increased with the increase of axial compression ratio, whereas, the energy dissipation ability and ductility decreased. The lateral stiffness, horizontal bearing capacity, energy dissipation capacity, and ductility could be improved significantly when the columns were strengthened from L-shape to combined T-shape and cross-shape.