Pseudodynamic Test of a Deficient RC Frame Strengthened with Buckling Restrained Braces

Abstract

Three story–three bay reinforced concrete (RC) frames with and without chevron braces were tested using the continuous pseudodynamic test method. New steel–concrete composite lateral load–carrying members called Buckling Restrained Braces (BRBs) were used as chevron brace members while retrofitting the RC frame. The BRBs were fitted to the interior span of the RC frame by using anchorage rods. The chevron braced frame was observed to be effective in controlling interstory drift. The test results indicated that retrofitting with BRBs was beneficial in resisting deformation without significant damage under simulated ground motions. Furthermore, significant yielding that occurred on the core plate of the BRBs enabled the braced frame to dissipate energy induced by dynamic loading. The test results were compared with the results of the nonlinear time-history analysis. The analysis results were capable of estimating the base shear capacity and displacement demands with reasonable accuracy.