VERIFICA SPERIMENTALE DI CONNESSIONI PREFABBRICATE PILASTRO-FONDAZIONE SOGGETTE A CARICHI CICLICI: RISULTATI PRELIMINARI

This paper describes the experimental characterization of column-foundation joints in precast concrete elements, in particular regarding cyclic horizontal loads. This issue gains particular interest in case of seismic actions. The work is part of a wider EU research programme called SAFECAST. The tests carried out compare different connection systems: wet joints with expansive grouted mortar connecting the rebars protruding from the column and other mechanical connections. All the connections have been inserted within similar members (columns with a 40x40 section, 2.50 m high with and 1% of longitudinal reinforcement ratio) and tested with a loading protocol with increasing intensity. The columns have been tested under axial compression of 380 kN. The aim of the tests is to measure the final capacity of each joint when subjected to cyclic horizontal loads, assessing its ductility and behaviour in term of extension of plastic hinge, energy dissipation.