Modeling and seismic assessment of dowel‐based beam‐to‐column connections in precast concrete structures

Abstract The beam‐to‐column connection is a critical structural component of precast concrete structures. Failures of these connections, which can be categorized as semi‐rigid or hinged, frequently lead to loss of beam support and roof collapse. Despite this relevance, the seismic response of these connections remains surrounded by uncertainties. Although design codes offer guidelines for the estimation of the ultimate shear strength of common beam‐to‐column connections, accurately predicting their performance is still challenging. The paper focuses on dowel‐based connections, which encompass mechanical devices and thus represent an enhancement of the traditional frictional version. The goal herein is to model and analyze the seismic behavior of three different types of such dowel‐based connections, featuring a flat or a fork‐like column top, without and with the presence of transverse reinforcement in the fork. The role played by the investigated connection types on the pushover curve of a single‐storey case study building, modeled in OpenSees, is discussed.