A review of the seismic performance behaviour of hybrid precast beam-to-column connections

In order to withstand challenges such as earthquakes, it is important to appropriately design the beam-to-column connection of precast structures. Numerous precast connections were designed to be used worldwide to attain satisfactory seismic performance. The failures observed for many beam–column connections were primarily due to the brittle behaviour of poor connection details between the precast concrete members. This review article examines past experimental studies which used hybrid precast connections comprised of three types: (1) dry and wet connections with steel sections (Type I), (2) composite concrete (Type II), and (3) composite concrete and steel sections (Type III). The seismic performance behaviour of these connection types was evaluated and compared with that of the monolithic connections. The analysis showed that both the dry semi-rigid and rigid connections Type I can be implemented in the seismic zones. In addition, most of the wet connections Type I, Type II, and Type III can simulate the behaviour of monolithic rigid connections. Therefore, the wet connections Type I, Type II, and Type III can withstand high seismic excitations. Overall, the performance of hybrid dry connection Type I can be improved by using strengthening technique methods in the connection to maintain the continuity of the PC beam. Moreover, the use of composite materials with and without the steel sections as connector elements in the connection (Type II and Type III) can be a feasible method to simulate the seismic performance of monolithic connections.