Numerical Evaluation of an Elastomer-Equipped Buckling-Restrained Brace

In this study, an innovative buckling-restrained brace (BRB) equipped with an elastomer was numerically analyzed. The analyses were performed using Abaqus software. The components of the BRB, including the casing, core, and elastomer, as well as their connections, were described in detail. The elastomer's connection method to other components was also detailed. Subsequently, the numerical modeling process was thoroughly explained. The force-displacement hysteresis of a BRB equipped with elastomer was compared to that of a BRB without elastomer and of the same dimensions. Additionally, stress distribution in critical areas of the core and casing was examined. The failure mode of this BRB was identified as buckling of the yielding portion of the core. It was observed that incorporating an elastomer into the BRB increased the post-yield stiffness and reduced residual displacements. A model with an elastomer stiffness twice that of the experimental specimen was also studied, demonstrating a 20% increase in post-yield stiffness. The BRB equipped with elastomer has a greater energy dissipation capacity compared to the BRB without elastomer. Compared to conventional BRBs, BRBs equipped with elastomers maintained structural stability even after core fractures, owing to the elastomers' role in critical regions. This characteristic highlights the high efficiency of this system in improving the seismic performance of structures.