Abstract
To assess seismic vulnerability of existing reinforced concrete buildings in Iran, cyclic and monotonic load tests on seven columns have been carried out. Four specimens represent existing buildings with deficient seismic details. Three others represent well proportioned constructions in accordance with provisions of intermediate ductility, ACI318–99, which is a common reference in Iran. Both types of columns are in similar positions in the reference building and are subject to similar seismic demand. Based on test results, hysteresis curves, backbone curves, and idealized curves are established. The deficient specimens show 35% reduction in both strength and initial stiffness and 37% loss of energy dissipation capacity in comparison to the well proportioned specimens. The length of plastic hinge of most tested columns is almost equal to full depth of the section. The maximum measured shear force is at least 20% greater than the shear force derived from expected nominal flexural strength.
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