Ductility and Deformability of Coupling Beams in Reinforced Concrete Coupled Walls

Abstract

The seismic response of coupled wall structures is discussed. It is demonstrated through a review of large-scale experimental investigations of coupling beam behavior and analytic studies of coupled wall behavior that often the coupling beam ductility demand exceeds the expected available ductility. As a result, it is possible that coupled wall structures will not behave as desired in the course of a significant seismic event. Limits to the allowable degree of coupling are proposed as a remedy to this apparent deficiency. Additional design and analysis issues are discussed including reduced section properties and wall overstrength requirements.