Numerical finite element parametric study to investigate performance of SPSW in RC frame.

Studies conducted on Steel Plate Shear Walls (SPSWs) performances indicate high stiffness, capacity, ductility and significant potential of energy absorption of this lateral seismic system. In this regard, using SPSWs in Reinforced Concrete (RC) constructions has recently been considered by researchers. In this paper, two different connection types have been proposed and numerically investigated to connect SPSW to RC frame (RCF). In the first type connection, SPSW has been embedded in RCF by a few studs through fish plates. However, in the second type it has been connected to RCF by additional stirrups through, which has been welded to the endplate. The behavior of connections has been evaluated using non-linear finite element analysis (NLFEA). Parametric study has been conducted on the thickness of SPSWs and the way of studs and stirrups placement in the length of columns. Results of the specimens with different types of connections demonstrated that using both connection types lead to prominent increase in stiffness and capacity comparing to the reference RCF. Investigating the studs and stirrups placement showed that there is no need to use studs and stirrups in whole column height. Similar results can be obtained by connection in a length of 0.3 or 0.2 of the column free height. Dual system behavior factor of special RC frame with SPSW was estimated to be 8.