Date of Award

2004

Publication Type

Doctoral Thesis

Degree Name

Ph.D.

Department

Civil and Environmental Engineering

Keywords

Engineering, Civil.

Supervisor

Kennedy, J.

Rights

info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess

Abstract

The focus of this work was to investigate the effectiveness of using advanced composite materials to enhance double tee to double tee connections in regions of significant seismic and lateral load. This work stems partly from the unfortunate losses experienced during the 1994 Northridge California earthquake. Moreover, this work was also developed from discussions with a local precasting company, which is concerned about premature failure of the connection due to stress concentrations. The author contends that the current connection method, intermittent welded plates, does result in stress concentrations, which can effect the system's overall performance. The proposed connection was formed by using a grouting material in conjunction with CFRP (Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer) fabrics, placed at +/- 45° from the axis of the joint under consideration. It is believed that this connection will not only enhance the system's diaphragm action and reduce stress concentrations in the connectors currently used, but it will also enhance the system's load distribution mechanisms. At the University of Windsor a special set of experiments were conducted in the Civil Engineering Structures laboratory. These experiments were conducted at a 1:4 scale based on reviewed, full scale plans from a local precasting company. These experiments involved testing of two connected double tees with various connection designs. The tests conducted included dynamic analysis and ultimate loading. The experimental work was verified using a Finite Element Model. Overall, the proposed composite connection performed well and has proven itself suitable for repair and new construction works. It should be noted that this connection's performance is only known for the short term, thus long term effects are not yet know. This dissertation includes a discussion of design considerations and recommendations for future work. Also provided is a new connection design that enhances double tee to double tee connections in terms of both gravity and seismic loading.Dept. of Civil and Environmental Engineering. Paper copy at Leddy Library: Theses & Major Papers - Basement, West Bldg. / Call Number: Thesis2004 .T37. Source: Dissertation Abstracts International, Volume: 66-02, Section: B, page: 1057. Advisers: J. B. Kennedy; M. K. S. Madugula. Thesis (Ph.D.)--University of Windsor (Canada), 2004.

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