Numerical simulation of beam-to-column connections in precast reinforced concrete buildings using fibre-based frame models

Recent earthquakes exposed the poor performance of precast RC structures, imposing damage on both structural and non-structural elements. The concentration of damage at the beam-to-column connections highlights the vulnerability of these systems and the need to understand and improve its seismic performance. The numerical simulation of connection systems in efficient software packages has been addressed in the past by several authors. However, these models fail in describing the different mechanisms independently and, therefore, are difficult to apply to generic connection solutions. Once identified the main lateral load resisting mechanisms involved, a new numerical model is proposed accounting for friction, dowel behaviour and the contribution of the neoprene components. The proposed model was validated against different experimental tests and a parametric study was performed to understand the contribution of the different components, especially in what concerns to the maximum horizontal strength and hysteretic energy dissipation.