Calibration of model parameters for the cyclic response of end-plate beam-to-column steel-concrete composite joints

Composite joints, considering the composite action of steel and concrete, exhibit, in general, high strength and high ductility. As a consequence, the use of this type of joint has been increasing in many countries, especially in those that are located in earthquake-prone regions. In this paper, a hysteretic model with pinching is presented that is able to reproduce the cyclic response of steel and composite joints. Secondly, the computer implementation and adaptation of the model in a spring element within the computer code Seismosoft is described. The model is subsequently calibrated using a series of experimental test results for composite joints subjected to cyclic loading. Finally, typical parameters for the various joint configurations are proposed.Financial support from the Portuguese Ministry of Science, Technology and Higher Education (Ministério da Ciência, Tecnologia e Ensino Superior) under contract grants from PRODEP III (5.3), for Pedro Nogueiro, Foundation of Science and Technology through POCI/ECM/55783/2004 and FEDER through INTERREG-III-A (project RTCT-B-Z-/SP2.P18) is gratefully acknowledged. The assistance provided by Seismosoft, is also most (http://www.seismosoft.com). The supply of the data files from experimental tests by D. Dubina and R. Liew is warmly thanked