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BEHAVIOR, DESIGN, AND ANALYSIS OF UNBONDED POST-TENSIONED
PRECAST CONCRETE COUPLING BEAMS
VOLUME I
A Dissertation
Submitted to the Graduate School
of the University of Notre Dame
in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements
for the Degree of
Doctor of Philosophy
by
Brad D. Weldon
Yahya C. Kurama, Director
Graduate Program in Civil Engineering and Geological Sciences
Notre Dame, Indiana
April 2010

© Copyright 2010
Brad D. Weldon

BEHAVIOR, DESIGN, AND ANALYSIS OF UNBONDED POST-TENSIONED
PRECAST CONCRETE COUPLING BEAMS
Abstract
by
Brad D. Weldon
This dissertation describes an experimental, analytical, and design investigation
on the nonlinear behavior of precast concrete coupling beams, where coupling of
reinforced concrete shear walls is achieved by post-tensioning the beams and the walls
together at the floor and roof levels. The new coupling system offers important
advantages over conventional systems with monolithic cast-in-place beams, such as
simpler detailing, reduced damage to the structure, and reduced residual lateral
displacements. Steel top and seat angles are used at the beam-to-wall joints to yield and
provide energy dissipation.
The results from eight half-scale experiments of unbonded post-tensioned precast
coupling beams under reversed-cyclic lateral loading are presented. Each test specimen
includes a coupling beam and the adjacent wall pier regions at a floor level. The test
parameters include the post-tensioning tendon area and initial stress, initial beam concrete
axial stress, angle strength, and beam depth. The results demonstrate excellent stiffness,
strength, and ductility of the specimens under cyclic loading, with considerable energy
dissipation concentrated in the angles. Compliance of the beams to established

Brad D. Weldon
acceptance criteria is demonstrated, validating the use of these structures in seismic
regions. The critical components of the structure that can limit the desired performance
include the post-tensioning anchors as well as the top and seat angles and their
connections.
The experimental results are also used to validate the analysis and design of the
new coupling system. Two different analytical models, one using fiber elements and the
other using finite elements, are investigated. In addition, an idealized coupling beam end
moment versus chord rotation relationship is developed as a design tool following basic
principles of equilibrium, compatibility, and constitutive relationships. The comparisons
demonstrate that the analytical and design models are able to capture the nonlinear
behavior of the structure, including global parameters such as the beam lateral force
versus chord rotation behavior as well as local parameters such as the neutral axis depth
at the beam ends. Using these models, the effects of several structural properties (such as
beam length) on the behavior of unbonded post-tensioned precast coupling beams is
analytically investigated to expand the results from the experiments.

ii
CONTENTS
FIGURES ........................................................................................................................ xvii
TABLES .......................................................................................................................... lxii
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS ............................................................................................... lxv
NOTATION ................................................................................................................... lxvii
VOLUME I
CHAPTER 1:
INTRODUCTION ...............................................................................................................1
1.1 Problem Statement ...................................................................................................1
1.2 Research Objectives .................................................................................................7
1.3 Research Scope ........................................................................................................8
1.4 Research Significance ..............................................................................................9
1.5 Overview of Dissertation .......................................................................................10
CHAPTER 2:
BACKGROUND ...............................................................................................................12
2.1 Coupled Wall Structural Systems ..........................................................................12
2.2 Monotonic Cast-in-Place Concrete Coupled Wall Systems ..................................15
2.2.1 Behavior and Design of Cast-in-Place Concrete Coupling Beams ............16
2.2.2 Current Code Requirements for Cast-in-Place Concrete Coupling Beams .........................................................................................17

iii
2.2.3 Analysis and Modeling of Cast-in-Place Concrete Coupled Wall Systems .............................................................................................20
2.2.4 Coupling Beam Database ...........................................................................22
2.3 Unbonded Post-Tensioning ....................................................................................24
2.4 Unbonded Post-Tensioned Hybrid Coupled Wall Systems ...................................26
2.5 Unbonded Post-Tensioned Precast Moment Frames .............................................35
2.5.1 Frames with Supplemental Energy Dissipation .........................................39
2.6 Behavior of Top and Seat Angles ..........................................................................45
2.6.1 Kishi and Chen (1990) and Lorenz et al. (1993) .......................................49
2.6.1.1 Tension angle initial stiffness, Kaixt ......................................................50
2.6.1.2 Tension angle yield force capacity, Tayx...............................................53
2.7 Chapter Summary ..................................................................................................54
CHAPTER 3:
PRECAST COUPLING BEAM SUBASSEMBLY EXPERIMENTS .............................56
3.1 Experiment Setup ...................................................................................................57
3.2 Test Subassembly Components .............................................................................65
3.2.1 Coupling Beam Specimens ........................................................................66
3.2.1.1 Maximum Moment Capacity at Beam-to-Wall Interfaces ...................75
3.2.1.2 Beam Transverse Reinforcement .........................................................78
3.2.1.3 Beam Longitudinal Mild Steel Reinforcement ....................................81
3.2.1.4 Confinement Reinforcement ................................................................86
3.2.1.5 Shear Slip at Beam-to-Wall Interfaces ................................................88
3.2.2 Reaction Block ...........................................................................................90
3.2.3 Load Block ...............................................................................................101
3.3 Testing Procedure ................................................................................................105
3.3.1 Wall Test Region Vertical Forces ............................................................106

iv
3.3.2 Beam Post-Tensioning Force ...................................................................109
3.3.3 Top and Seat Angle Connections .............................................................111
3.3.4 Test Day ...................................................................................................113
3.3.5 Summary of Test Procedure .....................................................................117
3.3.5.1 Virgin Beam Test Procedure ..............................................................117
3.3.5.2 Non-Virgin Beam Test Procedure .....................................................119
3.4 Chapter Summary ................................................................................................120
CHAPTER 4:
DESIGN AND MATERIAL PROPERTIES ...................................................................121
4.1 Design Material Properties ..................................................................................121
4.2 Measured Material Properties ..............................................................................122
4.2.1 Unconfined Concrete Strength .................................................................123
4.2.2 Fiber-Reinforced Grout Properties ..........................................................124
4.2.3 Post-tensioning Strand Properties ............................................................130
4.2.4 Mild Reinforcing Steel Properties ...........................................................136
4.2.5 Angle Steel Properties..............................................................................140
4.3 Chapter Summary ................................................................................................142
CHAPTER 5:
DATA INSTRUMENTATION AND SPECIMEN RESPONSE PARAMETERS ........144
5.1 Data Instrumentation ............................................................................................144
5.1.1 Instrumentation Overview .......................................................................145
5.1.2 Post-Tensioning Strand Load Cells .........................................................158
5.1.3 Wall Test Region Vertical Force Load Cells ...........................................166

v
5.1.4 Load Block Global Displacement Transducers .......................................166
5.1.5 Reaction Block Global Displacement Transducers .................................169
5.1.6 Beam Global Displacement Transducers .................................................171
5.1.7 Gap Opening Displacement Transducers .................................................172
5.1.8 Wall Test Region Local Displacement Transducers ................................174
5.1.9 Beam Rotation Transducers .....................................................................176
5.1.10 Beam Looping Reinforcement Longitudinal Leg Strain Gauges ............177
5.1.11 Beam Transverse Reinforcement Strain Gauges .....................................179
5.1.12 Beam End Confinement Hoop Strain Gauges .........................................181
5.1.13 Beam Confined Concrete Strain Gauges .................................................184
5.1.14 Reaction Block Confinement Hoop Strain Gauges .................................186
5.1.15 Reaction Block Confined Concrete Strain Gauges ..................................189
5.2 Subassembly Response Parameters .....................................................................190
5.2.1 Coupling Beam Shear Force ....................................................................192
5.2.2 Coupling Beam End Moment ..................................................................194
5.2.3 Coupling Beam Post-Tensioning Force ...................................................194
5.2.4 Vertical Force on Wall Test Region ........................................................194
5.2.5 Angle Post-Tensioning Forces .................................................................195
5.2.6 Reaction Block Displacements ................................................................195
5.2.7 Load Block Displacements ......................................................................197
5.2.8 Beam Vertical Displacements ..................................................................201
5.2.9 Beam Chord Rotation ..............................................................................204
5.2.10 Gap Opening and Contact Depth at Beam-to-Wall Interface ..................205
5.3 Chapter Summary ................................................................................................210

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VOLUME II
CHAPTER 6:
VIRGIN BEAM SUBASSEMBLY EXPERIMENTAL RESULTS ...............................211
6.1 Overall Test Specimen Response .........................................................................211
6.2 Test 1 ....................................................................................................................214
6.2.1 Test Photographs ......................................................................................216
6.2.2 Beam Shear Force versus Chord Rotation Behavior ...............................222
6.2.3 Beam End Moment Force versus Chord Rotation Behavior ...................224
6.2.4 Beam Post-Tensioning Forces .................................................................225
6.2.5 Angle-to-Wall Connection Post-Tensioning Forces ................................229
6.2.6 Vertical Forces on Wall Test Region .......................................................232
6.2.7 Beam Vertical Displacements ..................................................................233
6.2.8 Beam Chord Rotation ..............................................................................237
6.2.9 Local Beam Rotations ..............................................................................240
6.2.10 Load Block Displacements and Rotations ...............................................242
6.2.11 Reaction Block Displacements and Rotations .........................................250
6.2.12 Contact Depth and Gap Opening at Beam-to-Wall Interfaces .................256
6.2.13 Wall Test Region Local Concrete Deformations .....................................267
6.2.14 Beam Looping Reinforcement Longitudinal Leg Strains ........................269
6.2.15 Beam Transverse Reinforcement Strains .................................................276
6.2.16 Beam Confined Concrete Strains .............................................................279
6.2.17 Beam End Confinement Hoop Strains .....................................................284
6.2.18 Wall Test Region Confined Concrete Strains ..........................................291
6.2.19 Wall Test Region Confinement Hoop Strains .........................................297
6.2.20 Crack Patterns ..........................................................................................299

vii
6.3 Test 2 ....................................................................................................................301
6.3.1 Test Photographs ......................................................................................302
6.3.2 Beam Shear Force versus Chord Rotation Behavior ...............................307
6.3.3 Beam End Moment Force versus Chord Rotation Behavior ...................310
6.3.4 Beam Post-Tensioning Forces .................................................................311
6.3.5 Angle-to-Wall Connection Post-Tensioning Forces ................................316
6.3.6 Vertical Forces on Wall Test Region .......................................................320
6.3.7 Beam Vertical Displacements ..................................................................321
6.3.8 Beam Chord Rotation ..............................................................................324
6.3.9 Local Beam Rotations ..............................................................................327
6.3.10 Load Block Displacements and Rotations ...............................................328
6.3.11 Reaction Block Displacements and Rotations .........................................336
6.3.12 Contact Depth and Gap Opening at Beam-to-Wall Interfaces .................341
6.3.13 Wall Test Region Local Concrete Deformations .....................................352
6.3.14 Beam Looping Reinforcement Longitudinal Leg Strains ........................354
6.3.15 Beam Transverse Reinforcement Strains .................................................361
6.3.16 Beam Confined Concrete Strains .............................................................364
6.3.17 Beam End Confinement Hoop Strains .....................................................368
6.3.18 Wall Test Region Confined Concrete Strains ..........................................372
6.3.19 Wall Test Region Confinement Hoop Strains .........................................373
6.3.20 Crack Patterns ..........................................................................................373
6.4 Test 3 ....................................................................................................................375
6.4.1 Test Photographs ......................................................................................376
6.4.2 Beam Shear Force versus Chord Rotation Behavior ...............................381
6.4.3 Beam End Moment Force versus Chord Rotation Behavior ...................383

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6.4.4 Beam Post-Tensioning Forces .................................................................383
6.4.5 Angle-to-Wall Connection Post-Tensioning Forces ................................388
6.4.6 Vertical Forces on Wall Test Region .......................................................392
6.4.7 Beam Vertical Displacements ..................................................................393
6.4.8 Beam Chord Rotation ..............................................................................396
6.4.9 Local Beam Rotations ..............................................................................398
6.4.10 Load Block Displacements and Rotations ...............................................400
6.4.11 Reaction Block Displacements and Rotations .........................................408
6.4.12 Contact Depth and Gap Opening at Beam-to-Wall Interfaces .................413
6.4.13 Wall Test Region Local Concrete Deformations .....................................424
6.4.14 Beam Looping Reinforcement Longitudinal Leg Strains ........................426
6.4.15 Beam Transverse Reinforcement Strains .................................................433
6.4.16 Beam Confined Concrete Strains .............................................................436
6.4.17 Beam End Confinement Hoop Strains .....................................................440
6.4.18 Wall Test Region Confined Concrete Strains ..........................................444
6.4.19 Wall Test Region Confinement Hoops Strains ........................................444
6.4.20 Crack Patterns ..........................................................................................445
6.5 Test 4 ....................................................................................................................447
6.5.1 Test Photographs ......................................................................................448
6.5.2 Beam Shear Force versus Chord Rotation Behavior ...............................453
6.5.3 Beam End Moment Force versus Chord Rotation Behavior ...................456
6.5.4 Beam Post-Tensioning Forces .................................................................457
6.5.5 Angle-to-Wall Connection Post-Tensioning Forces ................................461
6.5.6 Vertical Forces on Wall Test Region .......................................................464
6.5.7 Beam Vertical Displacements ..................................................................465

ix
6.5.8 Beam Chord Rotation ..............................................................................469
6.5.9 Local Beam Rotations ..............................................................................471
6.5.10 Load Block Displacements and Rotations ...............................................473
6.5.11 Reaction Block Displacements and Rotations .........................................481
6.5.12 Contact Depth and Gap Opening at Beam-to-Wall Interfaces .................486
6.5.13 Wall Test Region Local Concrete Deformations .....................................497
6.5.14 Beam Looping Reinforcement Longitudinal Leg Strains ........................499
6.5.15 Beam Transverse Reinforcement Strains .................................................505
6.5.16 Beam Confined Concrete Strains .............................................................508
6.5.17 Beam End Confinement Hoop Strains .....................................................512
6.5.18 Wall Test Region Confined Concrete Strains ..........................................516
6.5.19 Wall Test Region Confinement Hoop Strains .........................................517
6.5.20 Crack Patterns ..........................................................................................517
VOLUME III
CHAPTER 7:
POST-VIRGIN BEAM SUBASSEMBLY EXPERIMENTAL RESULTS ....................519
7.1 Test 3A .................................................................................................................519
7.1.1 Test Photographs ......................................................................................522
7.1.2 Beam Shear Force versus Chord Rotation Behavior ...............................526
7.1.3 Beam End Moment Force versus Chord Rotation Behavior ...................529
7.1.4 Beam Post-Tensioning Forces .................................................................530
7.1.5 Angle-to-Wall Connection Post-Tensioning Forces ................................535
7.1.6 Vertical Forces on Wall Test Region .......................................................539
7.1.7 Beam Vertical Displacements ..................................................................540
7.1.8 Beam Chord Rotation ..............................................................................545

x
7.1.9 Local Beam Rotations ..............................................................................547
7.1.10 Load Block Displacements and Rotations ...............................................549
7.1.11 Reaction Block Displacements and Rotations .........................................557
7.1.12 Contact Depth and Gap Opening at Beam-to-Wall Interfaces .................562
7.1.13 Wall Test Region Local Concrete Deformations .....................................573
7.1.14 Beam Looping Reinforcement Longitudinal Leg Strains ........................575
7.1.15 Beam Transverse Reinforcement Strains .................................................581
7.1.16 Beam Confined Concrete Strains .............................................................585
7.1.17 Beam End Confinement Hoop Strains .....................................................589
7.1.18 Wall Test Region Confined Concrete Strains ..........................................593
7.1.19 Wall Test Region Confinement Hoop Strains .........................................594
7.1.20 Crack Patterns ..........................................................................................594
7.2 Test 3B .................................................................................................................595
7.2.1 Test Photographs ......................................................................................596
7.2.2 Beam Shear Force versus Chord Rotation Behavior ...............................601
7.2.3 Beam End Moment Force versus Chord Rotation Behavior ...................604
7.2.4 Beam Post-Tensioning Forces .................................................................605
7.2.5 Angle-to-Wall Connection Post-Tensioning Forces ................................609
7.2.6 Vertical Forces on Wall Test Region .......................................................612
7.2.7 Beam Vertical Displacements ..................................................................613
7.2.8 Beam Chord Rotation ..............................................................................618
7.2.9 Local Beam Rotations ..............................................................................620
7.2.10 Load Block Displacements and Rotations ...............................................622
7.2.11 Reaction Block Displacements and Rotations .........................................630
7.2.12 Contact Depth and Gap Opening at Beam-to-Wall Interfaces .................635

xi
7.2.13 Wall Test Region Local Concrete Deformations .....................................646
7.2.14 Beam Looping Reinforcement Longitudinal Leg Strains ........................648
7.2.15 Beam Transverse Reinforcement Strains .................................................655
7.2.16 Beam Confined Concrete Strains .............................................................658
7.2.17 Beam End Confinement Hoop Strains .....................................................662
7.2.18 Wall Test Region Confined Concrete Strains ..........................................666
7.2.19 Wall Test Region Confinement Hoop Strains .........................................667
7.2.20 Crack Patterns ..........................................................................................667
7.3 Test 4A .................................................................................................................668
7.3.1 Test Photographs ......................................................................................669
7.3.2 Beam Shear Force versus Chord Rotation Behavior ...............................673
7.3.3 Beam End Moment Force versus Chord Rotation Behavior ...................676
7.3.4 Beam Post-Tensioning Forces .................................................................677
7.3.5 Angle-to-Wall Connection Post-Tensioning Forces ................................681
7.3.6 Vertical Forces on Wall Test Region .......................................................681
7.3.7 Beam Vertical Displacements ..................................................................682
7.3.8 Beam Chord Rotation ..............................................................................687
7.3.9 Local Beam Rotations ..............................................................................689
7.3.10 Load Block Displacements and Rotations ...............................................691
7.3.11 Reaction Block Displacements and Rotations .........................................699
7.3.12 Gap Opening and Contact Depth at Beam-to-Wall Interfaces .................704
7.3.13 Wall Test Region Local Concrete Deformations .....................................715
7.3.14 Beam Looping Reinforcement Longitudinal Leg Strains ........................717
7.3.15 Beam Transverse Reinforcement Strains .................................................724
7.3.16 Beam Confined Concrete Strains .............................................................728

xii
7.3.17 Beam End Confinement Hoop Strains .....................................................732
7.3.18 Wall Test Region Confined Concrete Strains ..........................................736
7.3.19 Wall Test Region Confinement Hoops Strains ........................................737
7.3.20 Crack Patterns ..........................................................................................737
7.4 Test 4B .................................................................................................................738
7.4.1 Test Photographs ......................................................................................739
7.4.2 Beam Shear Force versus Chord Rotation Behavior ...............................743
7.4.3 Beam End Moment Force versus Chord Rotation Behavior ...................746
7.4.4 Beam Post-Tensioning Forces .................................................................747
7.4.5 Angle-to-Wall Connection Post-Tensioning Forces ................................752
7.4.6 Vertical Forces on Wall Test Region .......................................................755
7.4.7 Beam Vertical Displacements ..................................................................756
7.4.8 Beam Chord Rotation ..............................................................................760
7.4.9 Local Beam Rotations ..............................................................................762
7.4.10 Load Block Displacements and Rotations ...............................................765
7.4.11 Reaction Block Displacements and Rotations .........................................773
7.4.12 Contact Depth and Gap Opening at Beam-to-Wall Interfaces .................778
7.4.13 Wall Test Region Local Concrete Deformations .....................................789
7.4.14 Beam Looping Reinforcement Longitudinal Leg Strains ........................791
7.4.15 Beam Transverse Reinforcement Strains .................................................798
7.4.16 Beam Confined Concrete Strains .............................................................801
7.4.17 Beam End Confinement Hoop Strains .....................................................806
7.4.18 Wall Test Region Confined Concrete Strains ..........................................811
7.4.19 Wall Test Region Confinement Hoops Strains ........................................812
7.4.20 Crack Patterns ..........................................................................................812

xiii
VOLUME IV
CHAPTER 8:
SUMMARY AND OVERVIEW OF RESULTS FROM COUPLED WALL SUBASSEMBLY EXPERIMENTS ....................................................................813
8.1 Beam Shear Force versus Chord Rotation Behavior and Progression of Damage ........................................................................................814
8.2 Beam Post-Tensioning Tendon Force versus Chord Rotation Behavior .............824
8.3 Effect of Beam Post-Tensioning Tendon Area and Initial Concrete Stress .........827
8.4 Effect of Top and Seat Angles and Angle Strength .............................................829
8.5 Effect of Beam Depth ..........................................................................................831
8.6 Longitudinal Mild Steel Strains ...........................................................................832
8.7 Transverse Mild Steel Strains at Beam Ends .......................................................836
8.8 Transverse Mild Steel Strains at Beam Midspan .................................................839
8.9 Angle Connections ...............................................................................................841
8.10 Beam-to-Wall Connection and Grout Behavior ..................................................842
8.11 Compliance with ACI ITG-5.1 ............................................................................843
8.11.1 Probable Lateral Strength ........................................................................843
8.11.2 Relative Energy Dissipation Ratio ...........................................................844
8.11.3 Stiffness Requirements ............................................................................848
8.12 Comparisons with Monolithic Cast-in-Place Concrete Beams ............................850
8.13 Chapter Summary ................................................................................................853
CHAPTER 9:
ANALYTICAL MODELING OF PRECAST COUPLED WALL SUBASSEMBLIES .................................................................................854
9.1 Analytical Modeling Assumptions ......................................................................854

xiv
9.2 Fiber-Element Subassembly Model .....................................................................855
9.2.1 General Modeling of Concrete Members ................................................856
9.2.2 Modeling of Coupling Beam ...................................................................860
9.2.3 Modeling of Wall Regions .......................................................................865
9.2.4 Modeling of Gap Opening .......................................................................869
9.2.5 Modeling of Beam Post-Tensioning Tendons and Anchorages ..............872
9.2.6 Modeling of Top and Seat Angles ...........................................................876
9.2.6.1 Horizontal Angle Element Force-Deformation Model ......................879
9.2.6.2 Vertical Angle Element Force-Deformation Model ..........................881
9.3 Verification of Test Specimen Models ................................................................882
9.3.1 Beam Shear Force versus Chord Rotation Behavior ...............................886
9.3.2 Beam Post-tensioning Force ....................................................................888
9.3.3 Contact Depth at Beam-to-Reaction-Block Interface ..............................895
9.3.4 Gap Opening at Beam-to-Reaction-Block Interface ................................903
9.3.5 Concrete Compressive Strains at Beam End ...........................................910
9.3.6 Longitudinal Mild Steel Strains at Beam End .........................................911
9.3.7 Longitudinal Mild Steel Strains at Beam Midspan ..................................920
9.3.8 Angle Behavior ........................................................................................924
9.4 ABAQUS Finite-Element Subassembly Model ..................................................926
9.5 Comparison of Fiber-Element and Finite-Element Models .................................929
9.5.1 Wall Pier and Coupling Beam Stresses ...................................................930
9.6 Chapter Summary ................................................................................................935

xv
CHAPTER 10:
PARAMETRIC INVESTIGATION AND CLOSED FORM ESTIMATION OF THE BEHAVIOR OF UNBONDED POST-TENSIONED PRECAST COUPLING BEAMS...........................................................................................936
10.1 Prototype Subassembly ........................................................................................936
10.2 Analytical Modeling ............................................................................................939
10.3 Subassembly Behavior Under Monotonic Loading .............................................941
10.4 Subassembly Behavior Under Cyclic Loading ....................................................944
10.5 Parametric Investigation ......................................................................................945
10.6 Tri-linear Estimation of Subassembly Behavior ..................................................954
10.6.1 Tension Angle Yielding State ..................................................................955
10.6.2 Tension Angle Strength State ..................................................................960
10.6.3 Confined Concrete Crushing State ...........................................................962
10.7 Analytical Verification of Tri-Linear Estimation ................................................965
10.8 Experimental Verification of Tri-linear Estimation .............................................965
10.9 Summary ..............................................................................................................969
CHAPTER 11:
SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS, AND FUTURE WORK ..............................................971
11.1 Summary ..............................................................................................................971
11.2 Conclusions ..........................................................................................................972
11.2.1 Experimental Program .............................................................................972
11.2.2 Analytical Modeling and Parametric Investigation .................................974
11.2.3 Closed-form Estimations .........................................................................975
11.3 Future Work .........................................................................................................976

xvi
REFERENCES ...............................................................................................................978
Appendix A .....................................................................................................................989
Appendix B .....................................................................................................................992
Appendix C .....................................................................................................................996
Appendix D ...................................................................................................................1011
Appendix E ...................................................................................................................1039
Appendix F ...................................................................................................................1064

xvii
FIGURES
VOLUME I
CHAPTER 1:
Figure 1.1: Multi story coupled wall system. ..................................................................... 3
Figure 1.2: Coupled wall system floor-level subassembly. ................................................ 4
Figure 1.3: Coupled wall system floor-level subassembly idealized, exaggerated deformed configuration. .......................................................................................... 5
Figure 1.4: Coupling beam forces. ...................................................................................... 6
CHAPTER 2:
Figure 2.1: Coupled wall structures. ................................................................................. 13
Figure 2.2: Wall systems – (a) uncoupled wall; (b) coupled wall with strong beams; (c) coupled wall with weak beams. ....................................................................... 15
Figure 2.3: Reinforced concrete coupling beams [Paulay and Priestley (1992)] – (a) diagonal tension failure; (b) sliding shear failure; (c) diagonal reinforcement................................................................................................................................ 17
Figure 2.4: Diagonal reinforcement requirements for coupling beams [from ACI 318 (2008)] – (a) confinement of each group of diagonal bars; (b) confinement of entire beam cross-section. ..................................................................................... 19
Figure 2.5: Diagonally reinforced coupling beam (from Magnusson Klemencic Associates). ........................................................................................................... 20
Figure 2.6: Equivalent frame analytical models. .............................................................. 21
Figure 2.7: Measured ultimate sustained rotations for monolithic cast-in-place reinforced concrete coupling beams. ...................................................................................... 23
Figure 2.8: Hybrid coupled wall subassembly [from Shen and Kurama (2002b)]. .......... 27

xviii
Figure 2.9: Hybrid coupled wall subassembly experiments [adapted from Kurama et al. (2006)] – (a) measured coupling beam shear force versus chord rotation behavior; (b) photograph of displaced shape at beam end; (c) measured total beam post-tensioning force. .................................................................................................... 29
Figure 2.10: Low cycle fatigue fracture of top and seat angles. ....................................... 31
Figure 2.11: Hybrid coupled wall subassembly with no angles ....................................... 32
Figure 2.12: Hybrid coupled wall subassembly predicted behavior [from Shen et al. (2006)] – (a) coupling beam shear force versus chord rotation behavior; (b) total beam post-tensioning force. .................................................................................. 34
Figure 2.13: Unbonded post-tensioned precast moment frames – (a) structure; (b) interior beam-column subassembly; (c) idealized, exaggerated subassembly displaced shape. .................................................................................................... 37
Figure 2.14: Analytical investigation of unbonded post-tensioned precast beam-column subassemblies [from El-Sheikh et al. (1999, 2000)] – (a) moment-rotation relationship; (b) analytical model. ........................................................................ 39
Figure 2.15: Measured lateral force-displacement behavior [from Priestley and MacRae (1996)] – (a) interior joint; (b) exterior joint. ....................................................... 40
Figure 2.16: “Hybrid” precast concrete frame beam-column joint [adapted from Kurama (2002)]................................................................................................................... 41
Figure 2.17: Friction-damped post-tensioned precast moment frames [from Morgen and Kurama (2004)] – (a) test set-up schematic; (b) photograph of test set-up. ......... 43
Figure 2.18: Measured beam end moment versus chord rotation behavior [from Morgen and Kurama (2004)] – (a) without dampers; (b) with dampers. ........................... 44
Figure 2.19: Top and seat angle connection [adapted from Shen et al. (2006)] – (a) deformed configuration; (b) angle parameters. ............................................... 45
Figure 2.20: Angle model [adapted from Kishi and Chen (1990) and Lorenz et al. (1993)] – (a) cantilever model of tension angle; (b) assumed yield mechanism; (c) free body of angle horizontal leg. ................................................................................ 52
CHAPTER 3:
Figure 3.1: Simulation of floor level coupled wall subassembly displacements – (a) multi-story structure; (b) idealized displaced subassembly; (c) rotated subassembly. ......................................................................................................... 57

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Figure 3.2: Photograph of subassembly test setup. ........................................................... 60
Figure 3.3: Elevation view of test subassembly. ............................................................... 61
Figure 3.4: Plan view of test subassembly. ....................................................................... 62
Figure 3.5: East side view of loading frame. .................................................................... 63
Figure 3.6: North end view of loading and bracing frames. ............................................. 64
Figure 3.7: East side view of bracing frame and brace plate locations. ............................ 65
Figure 3.8: Photograph of beam formwork and details prior to casting (Beams 1 – 3). ... 67
Figure 3.9: Photograph of beam end prior to casting (Beams 1 – 3). ............................... 67
Figure 3.10: Photograph of beam end prior to casting (Beam 4 – increased depth). ........ 68
Figure 3.11: Duct locations for Beams 1 - 3. .................................................................... 70
Figure 3.12: Duct locations for Beam 4 (increased beam depth). .................................... 71
Figure 3.13: Mild steel reinforcement details for Beams 1 - 3. ........................................ 72
Figure 3.14: Mild steel reinforcement details for Beam 4. ............................................... 73
Figure 3.15: Photographs of mild steel reinforcement for Beams 1 – 3 – (a) No. 6 looping reinforcement; (b) No. 3 full-depth transverse and partial-depth confining hoops................................................................................................................................ 74
Figure 3.16: Maximum moment capacity at beam end. .................................................... 76
Figure 3.17: Beam maximum shear force demand. .......................................................... 78
Figure 3.18: High transverse tensile stresses in the vicinity of the gap tip. ...................... 80
Figure 3.19: Transverse (y-direction) stresses in element row 38 of full scale finite element beam model. ............................................................................................ 81
Figure 3.20: Design of beam longitudinal mild steel reinforcement – (a) critical section; (b) angle forces and beam moment at critical section; (c) beam moment diagram................................................................................................................................ 83
Figure 3.21: Equilibrium at critical section. ..................................................................... 84
Figure 3.22: Stress-strain model for confined concrete (Mander et al. 1988a). ............... 87
Figure 3.23: Reaction block duct details. .......................................................................... 92

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Figure 3.24: Dywidag Multiplane MA anchor components used with the beam post-tensioning strands.................................................................................................. 93
Figure 3.25: Modified Dywidag Multiplane MA anchor details. ..................................... 93
Figure 3.26: Reaction block reinforcement details. .......................................................... 96
Figure 3.27: Reaction and load block reinforcement hoops. ............................................ 97
Figure 3.28: Photograph of reaction and load block reinforcement cage. ........................ 98
Figure 3.29: Photograph of reaction block duct and reinforcement placement. ............... 99
Figure 3.30: Photograph of wall test region duct and reinforcement details. ................. 100
Figure 3.31: Load block duct details. .............................................................................. 103
Figure 3.32: Load block reinforcement details. .............................................................. 104
Figure 3.33: Photograph of load block duct and reinforcement details. ......................... 105
Figure 3.34: Post-tensioning operation – (a) single-strand jack; (b) jack operation; (c) anchor bearing plate. ..................................................................................... 110
Figure 3.35: Single use barrel/wedge type anchors with three-piece wedges and ring. . 111
Figure 3.36: Nominal lateral displacement loading history – (a) Test 1; (b) Tests 2 – 4B.............................................................................................................................. 115
CHAPTER 4:
Figure 4.1: Concrete cylinder specimens. ....................................................................... 123
Figure 4.2: Grout samples – (a) mortar mix; (b) epoxy grout. ....................................... 127
Figure 4.3: Photographs from a grout test. ..................................................................... 127
Figure 4.4: Stress-strain relationships for subassembly grout samples. ......................... 130
Figure 4.5: Post-tensioning strand test set-up. ................................................................ 133
Figure 4.6: Photograph of post-tensioning strand test. ................................................... 134
Figure 4.7: Photograph of post-tensioning strand wire fracture inside anchor. .............. 134
Figure 4.8: Stress-strain relationships for post-tensioning strand specimens. ................ 135

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Figure 4.9: Limit of proportionality determination......................................................... 136
Figure 4.10: Photographs from a No. 3 reinforcing bar test. .......................................... 137
Figure 4.11: Stress-strain relationships for No. 3 bar specimens. .................................. 138
Figure 4.12: Stress-strain relationships for No. 6 bar specimens. .................................. 138
Figure 4.13: Photographs from an angle steel material test. ........................................... 140
Figure 4.14: Stress-strain relationships for angle steel material specimens. .................. 141
CHAPTER 5:
Figure 5.1: Photograph of beam-to-reaction-block interface and instrumentation
for Test 1. ............................................................................................................ 145
Figure 5.2: Load cell placement. ..................................................................................... 155
Figure 5.3: Displacement transducer placement. ............................................................ 156
Figure 5.4: Rotation transducer placement. .................................................................... 157
Figure 5.5: Strain gauge placement – reaction block. ..................................................... 157
Figure 5.6: Strain gauge placement – coupling beam. .................................................... 158
Figure 5.7: Photograph of load cells on beam post-tensioning strands. ......................... 159
Figure 5.8: Photograph of load cells on angle-to-reaction-block connection post-tensioning strands................................................................................................ 159
Figure 5.9: Photograph of post-tensioning strand load cells. .......................................... 160
Figure 5.10: Placement of post-tensioning strand load cells. ......................................... 161
Figure 5.11: Post-tensioning strand load cell calibration setup. ..................................... 163
Figure 5.12: Calibration data for the post-tensioning strand load cells. ......................... 164
Figure 5.13: Loading and unloading calibration data for Load Cells UND2 and UND3.............................................................................................................................. 165
Figure 5.14: Load block ferrule insert locations. ............................................................ 168
Figure 5.15: Reaction block ferrule insert locations. ...................................................... 170
Figure 5.16: Beam vertical displacement ferrule insert locations. .................................. 172

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Figure 5.17: Beam gap opening ferrule insert locations. ................................................ 173
Figure 5.18: Reaction block wall test region ferrule insert locations – (a) inserts for Beams 1-3; (b) inserts for Beam 4. ..................................................................... 175
Figure 5.19: Beam rotation ferrule insert locations. ....................................................... 176
Figure 5.20: Photograph of beam strain gauges. ............................................................. 177
Figure 5.21: Beam looping reinforcement longitudinal leg strain gauge locations. ....... 178
Figure 5.22: Strain gauge designation system – longitudinal reinforcement. ................. 179
Figure 5.23: Beam transverse reinforcement strain gauge locations. ............................. 180
Figure 5.24: Strain gauge designation system – transverse reinforcement. .................... 181
Figure 5.25: Photograph of strain gauged confinement hoop. ........................................ 182
Figure 5.26: Beam end confinement hoop strain gauge locations. ................................. 183
Figure 5.27: Strain gauge designation system – beam end confinement hoops. ............ 184
Figure 5.28: Beam confined concrete strain gauge locations. ........................................ 185
Figure 5.29: Strain gauge designation system – beam confined concrete. ..................... 186
Figure 5.30: Reaction block confinement hoop strain gauge locations. ......................... 187
Figure 5.31: Strain gauge designation system – reaction block. ..................................... 188
Figure 5.32: Reaction block confined concrete strain gauge locations. ......................... 189
Figure 5.33: Subassembly displaced in positive direction. ............................................. 191
Figure 5.34: Subassembly displaced in negative direction. ............................................ 192
Figure 5.35: Reaction block displacements. ................................................................... 196
Figure 5.36: Load block displacements. ......................................................................... 198
Figure 5.37: Idealized exaggerated displaced shape of load block. ................................ 198
Figure 5.38: Idealized exaggerated displaced shape of test beam. ................................. 202
Figure 5.39: Gap opening and contact depth. ................................................................. 206

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VOLUME II
CHAPTER 6:
Figure 6.1: Displaced position of subassembly at θb = 3.33% – (a) Test 2; (b) Test 4. ........................................................................................... 212
Figure 6.2: Vb-θb behavior – (a) Test 2; (b) Test 4. ......................................................... 213
Figure 6.3: Test 1 beam and reaction block patched concrete regions. .......................... 216
Figure 6.4: Test 1 overall photographs – (a) pre-test undisplaced position; (b) θb = 3.0%; (c) θb = –3.0%; (d) θb = 8.0%; (e) θb = –8.0%; (f) final post-test undisplaced position. ............................................................................................................... 219
Figure 6.5: Test 1 beam south end photographs – (a) pre-test undisplaced position; (b) θb = 3.0%; (c) θb = –3.0%; (d) θb = 8.0%; (e) θb = –8.0%; (f) final post-test undisplaced position............................................................................................ 220
Figure 6.6: Test 1 beam south end damage propagation – positive and negative rotations.............................................................................................................................. 221
Figure 6.7: Test 1 gap opening and grout behavior at 8.0% rotation – (a) south end; (b) north end. ....................................................................................................... 221
Figure 6.8: Test 1 coupling beam shear force versus chord rotation behavior – (a) using beam displacements; (b) using load block displacements. ................................. 223
Figure 6.9: Test 1 photograph of north seat angle – (a) angle deformed shape; (b) low cycle fatigue fracture. ............................................................................. 224
Figure 6.10: Test 1 Mb-θb,lb behavior. ............................................................................. 225
Figure 6.11: Test 1 beam post-tensioning strand forces – (a) strand 1; (b) strand 2. ..... 227
Figure 6.12: Test 1 FLC-θb,lb behavior – (a) strand 1; (b) strand 2. .................................. 227
Figure 6.13: Test 1 beam post-tensioning force versus chord rotation behavior – (a) using beam displacements; (b) using load block displacements. ................................. 228
Figure 6.14: Test 1 south end top angle-to-wall connection strand forces – (a) east strand; (b) west strand. .................................................................................................... 230
Figure 6.15: Test 1 south end top angle-to-wall connection strand forces versus load block beam chord rotation – (a) FLC3-θb,lb; (b) FLC4-θb,lb. ................................... 230
Figure 6.16: Test 1 south end seat angle-to-wall connection strand forces – (a) east strand; (b) west strand. ........................................................................................ 231

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Figure 6.17: Test 1 south end seat angle-to-wall connection strand forces versus load block beam chord rotation – (a) FLC5-θb,lb; (b) FLC6-θb,lb. ................................... 231
Figure 6.18: Test 1 south end total angle-to-wall connection strand forces versus load block beam chord rotation – (a) top connection; (b) seat connection. ................ 232
Figure 6.19: Test 1 vertical force on wall test region, Fwt – (a) Fwt-test duration; (b) Fwt-θb,lb. .......................................................................................................... 233
Figure 6.20: Test 1 south end beam vertical displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT9; (b) adjusted, ∆DT9,y; (c) difference, ∆DT9,y-∆DT9. ........................................ 235
Figure 6.21: Test 1 north end beam vertical displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT10; (b) adjusted, ∆DT10,y; (c) difference, ∆DT10,y-∆DT10. .............................................. 236
Figure 6.22: Test 1 percent difference between measured and adjusted displacements – (a) south end, DT9; (b) north end, DT10. ........................................................... 236
Figure 6.23: Test 1 beam vertical displacements versus load block beam chord rotation –(a) ∆DT9-θb,lb; (b) ∆DT10-θb,lb. ................................................................................ 237
Figure 6.24: Test 1 beam chord rotation – (a) θb from ∆DT9 and ∆DT10; (b) θb,lb from ∆LB,y.............................................................................................................................. 238
Figure 6.25: Test 1 percent difference between θb and θb,lb. ........................................... 239
Figure 6.26: Test 1 difference between θb and θb,lb......................................................... 239
Figure 6.27: Test 1 beam inclinometer rotations – (a) near beam south end, θRT1; (b) near beam midspan, θRT2. ............................................................................................ 241
Figure 6.28: Test 1 percent difference between beam inclinometer rotations and beam chord rotations – (a) RT1; (b) RT2; (c) beam deflected shape. .......................... 242
Figure 6.29: Test 1 load block horizontal displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT3; (b) adjusted, ∆DT3,x; (c) percent difference. ......................................................... 245
Figure 6.30: Test 1 load block north end vertical displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT4; (b) adjusted, ∆DT4,y; (c) percent difference. ......................................................... 246
Figure 6.31: Test 1 load block south end vertical displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT5; (b) adjusted, ∆DT5,y; (c) percent difference. ......................................................... 247
Figure 6.32: Test 1 percent difference between measured and adjusted displacements versus load block beam chord rotation – (a) DT4; (b) DT5. .............................. 247
Figure 6.33: Test 1 load block displacements versus load block beam chord rotation – (a) ∆DT4-θb,lb; (b) ∆DT5-θb,lb; (c) ∆DT3,x-θb,lb. ......................................................... 248

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Figure 6.34: Test 1 load block centroid displacements – (a) x-y displacements; (b) rotation; (c) x-displacement; (d) y-displacement. .......................................... 249
Figure 6.35: Test 1 load block centroid displacements versus load block beam chord rotation – (a) x-displacement-θb,lb; (b) y-displacement-θb,lb; (c) rotation-θb,lb..... 250
Figure 6.36: Test 1 reaction block displacements – (a) ∆DT6; (b) ∆DT7; (c) ∆DT8. ........... 252
Figure 6.37: Test 1 reaction block displacements versus load block beam chord rotation – (a) ∆DT7-θb,lb; (b) ∆DT8-θb,lb; (c) ∆DT6-θb,lb. ........................................................... 253
Figure 6.38: Test 1 reaction block centroid displacements – (a) x-y displacements; (b) rotation; (c) x-displacement; (d) y-displacement. .......................................... 254
Figure 6.39: Test 1 reaction block centroid displacements versus load block beam chord rotation – (a) x-displacements; (b) y-displacements; (c) rotation. ...................... 255
Figure 6.40: Test 1 beam-to-reaction-block interface top LVDT displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT11; (b) adjusted, ∆DT11,x; (c) percent difference. ...................... 257
Figure 6.41: Test 1 beam-to-reaction-block interface middle LVDT displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT12; (b) adjusted, ∆DT12,x; (c) percent difference. ...................... 258
Figure 6.42: Test 1 beam-to-reaction-block interface bottom LVDT displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT13; (b) adjusted, ∆DT13,x; (c) percent difference. ...................... 259
Figure 6.43: Test 1 beam-to-reaction-block interface LVDT displacements versus load block beam chord rotation – (a) ∆DT11-θb,lb; (b) ∆DT13-θb,lb; (c) ∆DT12-θb,lb. ......... 260
Figure 6.44: Test 1 contact depth at beam-to-reaction-block interface – (a) method 1 using DT11, DT12, and DT13; (b) method 2 using RT2, DT11, and DT13; (c) method 3 using RT2 and DT12; (d) method 4 using θb,lb and DT12; (e) method 5 using θb,lb, DT11, and DT13. .............................................................................. 264
Figure 6.45: Test 1 gap opening at beam-to-reaction-block interface – (a) method 1 using DT11, DT12, and DT13; (b) method 2 using RT2, DT11, and DT13; (c) method 3 using RT2 and DT12; (d) method 4 using θb,lb and DT12; (e) method 5 using θb,lb, DT11, and DT13. ................................................................................................ 265
Figure 6.46: Test 1 gap opening at beam-to-reaction-block interface using method 4. . 266
Figure 6.47: Test 1 contact depth at beam-to-reaction-block interface using method 4 – (a) entire data; (b) 2.0% beam chord rotation cycle; (c) 5.0% beam chord rotation cycle. ................................................................................................................... 266
Figure 6.48: Test 1 wall test region concrete deformations – (a) ∆DT14; (b) ∆DT15.......... 268

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Figure 6.49: Test 1 wall test region concrete deformations versus load block beam chord rotation – (a) ∆DT14-θb,lb; (b) ∆DT15-θb,lb. .............................................................. 269
Figure 6.50: Test 1 beam looping reinforcement top longitudinal leg strains – (a) ε6(1)T-E; (b) ε6(1)T-W; (c) ε6(2)T-E; (d) ε6(2)T-W; (e) ε6(3)T-E; (f) ε6(3)T-W; (g) ε6MT-E; (h) ε6MT-W. ............................................................................................................ 270
Fig 6.51: Test 1 beam looping reinforcement bottom longitudinal leg strains – (a) ε6(1)B-E; (b) ε6(1)B-W; (c) ε6(2)B-E; (d) ε6(2)B-W; (e) ε6(3)B-E; (f) ε6(3)B-W; (g) ε6MB-E; (h) ε6MB-W. ............................................................................................................ 272
Figure 6.52: Test 1 beam looping reinforcement top longitudinal leg strains versus load block beam chord rotation – (a) ε6(1)T-E-θb,lb; (b) ε6(1)T-W-θb,lb; (c) ε6(2)T-E-θb,lb; (d) ε6(2)T-W-θb,lb; (e) ε6(3)T-E-θb,lb; (f) ε6(3)T-W-θb,lb; (g) ε6MT-E-θb,lb; (h) ε6MT-W-θb,lb. ..................................................................................................... 273
Figure 6.53: Test 1 beam looping reinforcement bottom longitudinal leg strains versus load block beam chord rotation – (a) ε6(1)B-E-θb,lb; (b) ε6(1)B-W-θb,lb; (c) ε6(2)B-E-θb,lb; (d) ε6(2)B-W-θb,lb; (e) ε6(3)B-E-θb,lb; (f) ε6(3)B-W-θb,lb; (g) ε6MB-E-θb,lb; (h) ε6MB-W-θb,lb. ..................................................................................................... 275
Figure 6.54: Test 1 beam looping reinforcement vertical leg strains – (a) ε6SE(E)-E; (b) ε6SE(E)-W; (c) ε6SE(I)-E; (d) ε6SE(I)-W. ................................................................... 277
Figure 6.55: Test 1 beam looping reinforcement vertical leg strains versus load block beam chord rotation – (a) ε6SE(E)-E-θb,lb; (b) ε6SE(E)-W-θb,lb; (c) ε6SE(I)-E-θb,lb; (d) ε6SE(I)-W-θb,lb. ................................................................................................... 278
Figure 6.56: Test 1 beam midspan transverse hoop reinforcement strains – (a) εMH-E; (b) εMH-W. ............................................................................................................. 278
Figure 6.57: Test 1 beam midspan transverse hoop reinforcement strains versus load block beam chord rotation – (a) εMH-E-θb,lb; (b) εMH-W-θb,lb. ................................ 279
Figure 6.58: Test 1 No. 3 top hoop support bar strains – (a) ε3THT-(1); (b) ε3THB-(1); (c) ε3THT-(2); (d) ε3THB-(2). ...................................................................................... 281
Figure 6.59: Test 1 No. 3 bottom hoop support bar strains – (a) ε3BHB-(1); (b) ε3BHT-(1); (c) ε3BHB-(2); (d) ε3BHT-(2). ...................................................................................... 282
Figure 6.60: Test 1 No. 3 top hoop support bar strains versus load block beam chord rotation – (a) ε3THT-(1)-θb,lb; (b) ε3THB-(1)-θb,lb; (c) ε3THT-(2)-θb,lb; (d) ε3THB-(2)-θb,lb. .................................................................................................. 283
Figure 6.61: Test 1 No. 3 bottom hoop support bar strains versus load block beam chord rotation – (a) ε3BHB-(1)-θb,lb; (b) ε3BHT-(1)-θb,lb; (c) ε3BHB-(2)-θb,lb; (d) ε3BHT-(2)-θb,lb. .................................................................................................. 284

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Figure 6.62: Test 1 beam end confinement hoop east leg strains – (a) ε1HB-E; (b) ε2HB-E; (c) ε3HB-E; (d) ε4HB-E. ............................................................................................ 286
Figure 6.63: Test 1 beam end confinement hoop west leg strains – (a) ε1HB-W; (b) ε2HB-W; (c) ε3HB-W; (d) ε4HB-W. ........................................................................................... 287
Figure 6.64: Test 1 beam end confinement hoop east leg strains versus load block beam chord rotation – (a) ε1HB-E-θb,lb; (b) ε2HB-E-θb,lb; (c) ε3HB-E-θb,lb; (d) ε4HB-E-θb,lb. ..................................................................................................... 288
Figure 6.65: Test 1 beam end confinement hoop west leg strains versus load block beam chord rotation – (a) ε1HB-W-θb,lb; (b) ε2HB-W-θb,lb; (c) ε3HB-W-θb,lb; (d) ε4HB-W-θb,lb. ..................................................................................................... 289
Figure 6.66: Photograph of damage on south end of beam – (a) east side; (b) west side.............................................................................................................................. 290
Figure 6.67: Confinement hoop strains – (a) photograph of strain gauged hoop; (b) outward bending of the vertical leg. .............................................................. 291
Figure 6.68: Test 1 reaction block corner bar strains – (a) εCBB1E; (b) εCBB1W; (c) εCBB2E; (d) εCBB2W; (e) εCBB3E; (f) εCBB3W. ......................................................................... 293
Figure 6.69: Test 1 reaction block corner bar strains – (a) εCBM1E; (b) εCBM1W; (c) εCBM3E; (d) εCBM3W. ........................................................................................................... 294
Figure 6.70: Test 1 reaction block corner bar strains versus load block beam chord rotation – (a) εCBB1E-θb,lb; (b) εCBB1W-θb,lb; (c) εCBB2E-θb,lb; (d) εCBB2W-θb,lb; (e) εCBB3E-θb,lb; (f) εCBB3W-θb,lb. .................................................................................. 295
Figure 6.71: Test 1 reaction block corner bar strains versus load block beam chord rotation – (a) εCBM1E-θb,lb; (b) εCBM1W-θb,lb; (c) εCBM3E-θb,lb; (d) εCBM3W-θb,lb. ....... 296
Figure 6.72: Test 1 reaction block corner bar average strains – (a) test duration; (b) versus load block beam chord rotation. .......................................................................... 296
Figure 6.73: Test 1 reaction block hoop strains – (a) ε1THM; (b) ε1MHM; (c) ε1BHE. .......... 298
Figure 6.74: Test 1 reaction block hoop strains versus load block beam chord rotation – (a) ε1THM-θb,lb; (b) ε1MHM-θb,lb; (c) ε1BHE-θb,lb. ....................................................... 299
Figure 6.75: Test 1 crack patterns – (a) θb = 0.35%; (b) θb = 0.5%; (c) θb = 0.75%; (d) θb = 1.0%; (e) θb = 1.5%; (f) θb = 2.0%; (g) θb = 3.0%. ................................ 300
Figure 6.76: Test 2 overall photographs – (a) pre-test undisplaced position; (b) θb = 3.33%; (c) θb = –3.33%; (d) θb = 6.4%; (e) θb = –6.4%; (f) final post-test undisplaced position............................................................................................ 304

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Figure 6.77: Test 2 beam south end photographs – (a) pre-test undisplaced position; (b) θb = 3.33%; (c) θb = –3.33%; (d) θb = 6.4%; (c) θb = –6.4%; (f) final post-test undisplaced position............................................................................................ 305
Figure 6.78: Test 2 beam south end damage propagation – positive and negative rotations............................................................................................................... 306
Figure 6.79: Test 2 grout and gap opening behavior at south end – (a) θb = -0.5%; (b) θb = -5.0%. ..................................................................................................... 306
Figure 6.80: Test 2 coupling beam shear force versus chord rotation behavior – (a) using beam displacements; (b) using load block displacements. ................................. 309
Figure 6.81: Test 2 damage to beam ends (upon angle removal after completion of test) – (a) south end; (b) north end. ................................................................................ 310
Figure 6.82: Test 2 Mb-θb,lb behavior. ............................................................................. 311
Figure 6.83: Test 2 beam post-tensioning strand forces – (a) strand 1; (b) strand 2; (c) strand 3; (d) strand 4. ..................................................................................... 313
Figure 6.84: Test 2 FLC-θb,lb behavior – (a) strand 1; (b) strand 2; (c) strand 3; (d) strand 4. ......................................................................................................... 314
Figure 6.85: Test 2 beam post-tensioning force versus chord rotation behavior – (a) using beam displacements; (b) using load block displacements. ................................. 315
Figure 6.86: Use of additional anchor barrel to prevent strand wire fracture. ................ 316
Figure 6.87: Test 2 south end top angle-to-wall connection strand forces – (a) east strand; (b) west strand. .................................................................................................... 318
Figure 6.88: Test 2 south end top angle-to-wall connection strand forces versus load block beam chord rotation – (a) FLC3-θb,lb; (b) FLC4-θb,lb. ................................... 318
Figure 6.89: Test 2 south end seat angle-to-wall connection strand forces – (a) east strand; (b) west strand. ........................................................................................ 319
Figure 6.90: Test 2 south end seat angle-to-wall connection strand forces versus load block beam chord rotation – (a) FLC5-θb,lb; (b) FLC6-θb,lb. ................................... 319
Figure 6.91: Test 2 south end total angle-to-wall connection strand forces versus load block beam chord rotation – (a) top connection; (b) seat connection. ................ 320
Figure 6.92: Test 2 vertical force on wall test region, Fwt – (a) Fwt-test duration; (b) Fwt-θb,lb. .......................................................................................................... 321
Figure 6.93: Test 2 south end beam vertical displacement. ............................................ 322

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Figure 6.94: Test 2 north end beam vertical displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT10; (b) adjusted, ∆DT10,y; (c) difference, ∆DT10,y-∆DT10. .............................................. 323
Figure 6.95: Test 2 percent difference between measured and adjusted displacements – (a) south end, DT9; (b) north end, DT10. ........................................................... 323
Figure 6.96: Test 2 beam vertical displacements versus load block beam chord rotation –(a) ∆DT9-θb,lb; (b) ∆DT10-θb,lb. ................................................................................ 324
Figure 6.97: Test 2 beam chord rotation – (a) θb from ∆DT10 with ∆DT9 taken as zero; (b) θb,lb from ∆LB,y. ............................................................................................... 325
Figure 6.98: Test 2 percent difference between θb and θb,lb. ........................................... 326
Figure 6.99: Test 2 difference between θb and θb,lb......................................................... 326
Figure 6.100: Test 2 beam inclinometer rotations – (a) near beam south end, θRT1; (b) near beam midspan, θRT2. ............................................................................................ 327
Figure 6.101: Test 2 difference between beam inclinometer rotations and beam chord rotations – (a) RT1; (b) RT2; (c) beam deflected shape. .................................... 328
Figure 6.102: Test 2 load block horizontal displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT3; (b) adjusted, ∆DT3,x; (c) percent difference. ......................................................... 331
Figure 6.103: Test 2 load block north end vertical displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT4; (b) adjusted, ∆DT4,y; (c) percent difference. ......................................................... 332
Figure 6.104: Test 2 load block south end vertical displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT5; (b) adjusted, ∆DT5,y; (c) percent difference. ......................................................... 333
Figure 6.105: Test 2 percent difference between measured and adjusted displacements – (a) DT4; (b) DT5. ................................................................................................ 334
Figure 6.106: Test 2 load block displacements versus load block beam chord rotation – (a) ∆DT4-θb,lb; (b) ∆DT5-θb,lb; (c) ∆DT3,x-θb,lb. ......................................................... 334
Figure 6.107: Test 2 load block centroid displacements – (a) x-y displacements; (b) rotation; (c) x-displacements; (d) y-displacements. ....................................... 335
Figure 6.108: Test 2 load block centroid displacements versus load block beam chord rotation – (a) x-displacement-θb,lb; (b) y-displacement-θb,lb; (c) rotation-θb,lb..... 336
Figure 6.109: Test 2 reaction block displacements – (a) ΔDT6; (b) ΔDT7; (c) ΔDT8. ......... 338
Figure 6.110: Test 2 reaction block displacements versus load block beam chord rotation – (a) ∆DT7-θb,lb; (b) ∆DT8-θb,lb; (c) ∆DT6-θb,lb. ........................................................ 339

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Figure 6.111: Test 2 reaction block centroid displacements – (a) x-y displacements; (b) rotation; (c) x-displacements; (d) y-displacements. ...................................... 340
Figure 6.112: Test 2 reaction block centroid displacements versus load block beam chord rotation – (a) x-displacements; (b) y-displacements; (c) rotation. ...................... 341
Figure 6.113: Test 2 beam-to-reaction-block interface top LVDT displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT11; (b) adjusted, ∆DT11,x; (c) percent difference. ...................... 343
Figure 6.114: Test 2 beam-to-reaction-block interface middle LVDT displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT12; (b) adjusted, ∆DT12,x; (c) percent difference. ...................... 344
Figure 6.115: Test 2 beam-to-reaction-block interface bottom LVDT displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT13; (b) adjusted, ∆DT13,x; (c) percent difference. ...................... 345
Figure 6.116: Test 2 beam-to-reaction-block interface LVDT displacements versus load block beam chord rotation – (a) ∆DT11-θb,lb; (b) ∆DT13-θb,lb; (c) ∆DT12-θb,lb. ......... 346
Figure 6.117: Test 2 contact depth at beam-to-reaction-block interface – (a) method 1 using DT11, DT12, and DT13; (b) method 2 using RT2, DT11, and DT13; (c) method 3 using RT2 and DT12; (d) method 4 using θb,lb and DT12; (e) method 5 using θb,lb, DT11, and DT13. .............................................................................. 349
Figure 6.118: Test 2 gap opening at beam-to-reaction-block interface – (a) method 1 using DT11, DT12, and DT13; (b) method 2 using RT2, DT11, and DT13; (c) method 3 using RT2 and DT12; (d) method 4 using θb,lb and DT12; (e) method 5 using θb,lb, DT11, and DT13. .............................................................................. 350
Figure 6.119: Test 2 gap opening at beam-to-reaction-block interface using method 4. ................................................................................................... 351
Figure 6.120: Test 2 contact depth at beam-to-reaction-block interface using method 4 –(a) entire data; (b) 2.25% beam chord rotation cycle; (c) 5.0% beam chord rotation cycle. ...................................................................................................... 351
Figure 6.121: Test 2 wall test region concrete deformations – (a) DT14; (b) DT15. ..... 353
Figure 6.122: Test 2 wall test region concrete deformations versus load block beam chord rotation – (a) ∆DT14-θb,lb; (b) ∆DT15-θb,lb. .............................................................. 354
Figure 6.123: Test 2 beam looping reinforcement top longitudinal leg strains – (a) ε6(1)T-E; (b) ε6(1)T-W; (c) ε6(2)T-E; (d) ε6(2)T-W; (e) ε6(3)T-E; (f) ε6(3)T-W; (g) ε6MT-E; (h) ε6MT-W. ............................................................................................................ 356
Figure 6.124: Test 2 beam looping reinforcement bottom longitudinal leg strains – (a) ε6(1)B-E; (b) ε6(1)B-W; (c) ε6(2)B-E; (d) ε6(2)B-W; (e) ε6(3)B-E; (f) ε6(3)B-W; (g) ε6MB-E; (h) ε6MB-W. ............................................................................................................ 357

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Figure 6.125: Test 2 beam looping reinforcement top longitudinal leg strains versus load block beam chord rotation – (a) ε6(1)T-E-θb,lb; (b) ε6(1)T-W-θb,lb; (c) ε6(2)T-E-θb,lb; (d) ε6(2)T-W-θb,lb; (e) ε6(3)T-E-θb,lb; (f) ε6(3)T-W-θb,lb; (g) ε6MT-E-θb,lb; (h) ε6MT-W-θb,lb. ............................................................................................................................. 358
Figure 6.126: Test 2 beam looping reinforcement bottom longitudinal leg strains versus load block beam chord rotation – (a) ε6(1)B-E-θb,lb; (b) ε6(1)B-W-θb,lb; (c) ε6(2)B-E-θb,lb; (d) ε6(2)B-W-θb,lb; (e) ε6(3)B-E-θb,lb; (f) ε6(3)B-W-θb,lb; (g) ε6MB-E-θb,lb; (h) ε6MB-W-θb,lb. ............................................................................................................................. 360
Figure 6.127: Test 2 beam looping reinforcement vertical leg strains – (a) ε6SE(E)-E; (b) ε6SE(E)-W; (c) ε6SE(I)-E; (d) ε6SE(I)-W. ................................................................... 362
Figure 6.128: Test 2 beam looping reinforcement vertical leg strains versus load block beam chord rotation – (a) ε6SE(E)-E-θb,lb; (b) ε6SE(E)-W-θb,lb; (c) ε6SE(I)-E-θb,lb; (d) ε6SE(I)-W-θb,lb. ................................................................................................... 363
Figure 6.129: Test 2 beam midspan transverse hoop reinforcement strains – (a) εMH-E; (b) εMH-W. ............................................................................................................. 363
Figure 6.130: Test 2 beam midspan transverse hoop reinforcement strains versus load block beam chord rotation – (a) εMH-E-θb,lb; (b) εMH-W-θb,lb. ................................ 364
Figure 6.131: Test 2 No. 3 top hoop support bar strains– (a) ε3THT-(1); (b) ε3THB-(1); (c) ε3THT-(2); (d) ε3THB-(2). ...................................................................................... 365
Figure 6.132: Test 2 No. 3 bottom hoop support bar strains – (a) ε3BHB-(1); (b) ε3BHT-(1); (c) ε3BHB-(2); (d) ε3BHT-(2). ...................................................................................... 366
Figure 6.133: Test 2 No. 3 top hoop support bar strains versus load block beam chord rotation – (a) ε3THT-(1)-θb,lb; (b) ε3THB-(1)-θb,lb; (c) ε3THT-(2)-θb,lb; (d) ε3THB-(2)-θb,lb. . 367
Figure 6.134: Test 2 No. 3 bottom hoop support bar strains versus load block beam chord rotation – (a) ε3BHB-(1)-θb,lb; (b) ε3BHT-(1)-θb,lb; (c) ε3BHB-(2)-θb,lb; (d) ε3BHT-(2)-θb,lb. . 368
Figure 6.135: Test 2 beam end confinement hoop east leg strains – (a) ε1HB-E; (b) ε2HB-E; (c) ε3HB-E; (d) ε4HB-E. ............................................................................................ 369
Figure 6.136: Test 2 beam end confinement hoop west leg strains – (a) ε1HB-W; (b) ε2HB-W; (c) ε3HB-W; (d) ε4HB-W. ........................................................................................... 370
Figure 6.137: Test 2 beam end confinement hoop east leg strains versus load block beam chord rotation – (a) ε1HBE-θb,lb; (b) ε2HBE-θb,lb; (c) ε3HBE-θb,lb; (d) ε4HBE-θb,lb. ...... 371
Figure 6.138: Test 2 beam end hoop west leg confinement strains versus load block beam chord rotation – (a) ε1HBW-θb,lb; (b) ε2HBW-θb,lb; (c) ε3HBW-θb,lb; (d) ε4HBW-θb,lb. .... 372

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Figure 6.139: Test 2 crack patterns – (a) θb = 0.5%; (b) θb = 0.75%; (c) θb = 1.0%; (d) θb = 1.5%; (e) θb = 2.25%; (f) θb = 3.33%; (g) θb = 5.0%; (h) θb = 6.4%. .... 373
Figure 6.140: Test 3 overall photographs – (a) pre-test undisplaced position; (b) θb = 3.33%; (c) θb = 3.33%; (d) θb = 5.0%; (e) θb = –5.0%; (f) final post-test undisplaced position............................................................................................ 378
Figure 6.141: Test 3 beam south end photographs – (a) pre-test undisplaced position; (b) θb = 3.33%; (c) θb = –3.33%; (d) θb = 5.0%; (c) θb = –5.0%; (f) final post-test undisplaced position............................................................................................ 379
Figure 6.142: Test 3 beam south end damage propagation – positive and negative rotations............................................................................................................... 380
Figure 6.143: Test 3 angle strips at south top connection. .............................................. 380
Figure 6.144: Test 3 coupling beam shear force versus chord rotation behavior – (a) using beam displacements; (b) using load block displacements. .................. 382
Figure 6.145: Test 3 Mb-θb behavior. .............................................................................. 383
Figure 6.146: Test 3 beam post-tensioning strand forces – (a) strand 1; (b) strand 2; (c) strand 3. ......................................................................................................... 385
Figure 6.147: Test 3 FLC-θb behavior – (a) strand 1; (b) strand 2; strand 3. ................... 386
Figure 6.148: Test 3 beam post-tensioning force versus chord rotation behavior – (a) using beam displacements; (b) using load block displacements. .................. 387
Figure 6.149: Test 3 south end top angle-to-wall connection strand forces – (a) east strand; (b) west strand. ........................................................................................ 389
Figure 6.150: Test 3 south end top angle-to-wall connection strand forces versus beam chord rotation – (a) FLC3-θb; (b) FLC4-θb.............................................................. 390
Figure 6.151: Test 3 south end seat angle-to-wall connection strand forces – (a) east strand; (b) west strand. ........................................................................................ 390
Figure 6.152: Test 3 south end seat angle-to-wall connection strand forces versus beam chord rotation – (a) FLC5-θb; (b) FLC6-θb.............................................................. 391
Figure 6.153: Test 3 south end total angle-to-wall connection strand forces versus beam chord rotation– (a) top connection; (b) seat connection. .................................... 391
Figure 6.154: Test 3 vertical force on wall test region, Fwt – (a) Fwt-test duration; (b) Fwt-θb ............................................................................................................. 392
Figure 6.155: Test 3 south end beam vertical displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT9; (b) adjusted, ∆DT9,y; (c) difference, ∆DT9,y-∆DT9. .................................................. 394

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Figure 6.156: Test 3 north end beam vertical displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT10; (b) adjusted, ∆DT10,y; (c) difference, ∆DT10,y-∆DT10. .............................................. 395
Figure 6.157: Test 3 percent difference between measured and adjusted displacements versus beam chord rotation – (a) south end, DT9; (b) north end, DT10. ............ 395
Figure 6.158: Test 3 beam vertical displacements versus beam chord rotation – (a) ∆DT9-θb; (b) ∆DT10-θb. ..................................................................................... 396
Figure 6.159: Test 3 beam chord rotation – (a) θb from ∆DT9 and ∆DT10; (b) θb,lb from ∆LB,y.............................................................................................................................. 397
Figure 6.160: Test 3 percent difference between θb and θb,lb. ......................................... 397
Figure 6.161: Test 3 difference between θb and θb,lb....................................................... 398
Figure 6.162: Test 3 beam inclinometer rotations – (a) near beam south end, θRT1; (b) near beam midspan, θRT2. .............................................................................. 399
Figure 6.163: Test 3 difference between beam inclinometer rotations and beam chord rotations – (a) RT1; (b) RT2; (c) beam deflected shape. .................................... 400
Figure 6.164: Test 3 load block horizontal displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT3; (b) adjusted, ∆DT3,x; (c) percent difference. ......................................................... 403
Figure 6.165: Test 3 load block north end vertical displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT4; (b) adjusted, ∆DT4,y; (c) percent difference. ......................................................... 404
Figure 6.166: Test 3 load block south end vertical displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT5; (b) adjusted, ∆DT5,y; (c) percent difference. ......................................................... 405
Figure 6.167: Test 3 percent difference between measured and adjusted displacements – (a) DT4; (b) DT5. ................................................................................................ 405
Figure 6.168: Test 3 load block displacements versus beam chord rotation – (a) ∆DT4-θb; (b) ∆DT5-θb; (c) ∆DT3,x-θb. ..................................................................................... 406
Figure 6.169: Test 3 load block centroid displacements – (a) x-y displacements; (b) rotation; (c) x-displacements; (d) y-displacements. ....................................... 407
Figure 6.170: Test 3 load block centroid displacements versus beam chord rotation – (a) x-displacement-θb; (b) y-displacement-θb; (c) rotation-θb. ............................ 408
Figure 6.171: Test 3 reaction block displacements – (a) ΔDT6; (b) ΔDT7; (c) ΔDT8. ......... 410
Figure 6.172: Test 3 reaction block displacements versus beam chord rotation – (a) ∆DT7-θb; (b) ∆DT8-θb; (c) ∆DT6-θb. ................................................................... 411

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Figure 6.173: Test 3 reaction block centroid displacements – (a) x-y displacements; (b) rotation; (c) x-displacements; (d) y-displacements. ....................................... 412
Figure 6.174: Test 3 reaction block centroid displacements versus beam chord rotation – (a) x-displacements; (b) y-displacements; (c) rotation. ....................................... 413
Figure 6.175: Test 3 beam-to-reaction-block interface top LVDT displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT11; (b) adjusted, ∆DT11,x; (c) percent difference. ...................... 415
Figure 6.176: Test 3 beam-to-reaction-block interface middle LVDT displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT12; (b) adjusted, ∆DT12,x; (c) percent difference. ...................... 416
Figure 6.177: Test 3 beam-to-reaction-block interface bottom LVDT displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT13; (b) adjusted, ∆DT13,x; (c) percent difference. ...................... 417
Figure 6.178: Test 3 beam-to-reaction-block interface LVDT displacements versus beam chord rotation – (a) ∆DT11-θb; (b) ∆DT13-θb; (c) ∆DT12-θb. ..................................... 418
Figure 6.179: Test 3 contact depth at beam-to-reaction-block interface – (a) method 1 using DT11, DT12, and DT13; (b) method 2 using RT1, DT11, and DT13; (c) method 3 using RT1 and DT12; (d) method 4 using θb and DT12; (e) method 5 using θb, DT11, and DT13. ................................................................................. 421
Figure 6.180: Test 3 gap opening at beam-to-reaction-block interface – (a) method 1 using DT11, DT12, and DT13; (b) method 2 using RT1, DT11, and DT13; (c) method 3 using RT1 and DT12; (d) method 4 using θb and DT12; (e) method 5 using θb, DT11, and DT13. ................................................................................. 422
Figure 6.181: Test 3 gap opening at beam-to-reaction-block interface using method 4. ................................................................................................... 423
Figure 6.182: Test 3 contact depth at beam-to-reaction-block interface using method 4 –(a) entire data; (b) 2.25% beam chord rotation cycle; (c) 5.0% beam chord rotation cycle. ...................................................................................................... 423
Figure 6.183: Test 3 wall test region concrete deformations – (a) DT14; (b) DT15. ..... 425
Figure 6.184: Test 3 wall test region concrete deformations versus beam chord rotation – (a) ∆DT14-θb; (b) ∆DT15-θb. .................................................................................... 425
Figure 6.185: Test 3 beam looping reinforcement top longitudinal leg strains – (a) ε6(1)T-E; (b) ε6(1)T-W; (c) ε6(2)T-E; (d) ε6(2)T-W; (e) ε6(3)T-E; (f) ε6(3)T-W; (g) ε6MT-E; (h) ε6MT-W. ............................................................................................................ 427
Figure 6.186: Test 3 beam looping reinforcement bottom longitudinal leg strains – (a) ε6(1)B-E; (b) ε6(1)B-W; (c) ε6(2)B-E; (d) ε6(2)B-W; (e) ε6(3)B-E; (f) ε6(3)B-W; (g) ε6MB-E; (h) ε6MB-W. ............................................................................................................ 428

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Figure 6.187: Test 3 beam looping reinforcement top longitudinal leg strains versus beam chord rotation – (a) ε6(1)T-E-θb; (b) ε6(1)T-W-θb; (c) ε6(2)T-E-θb; (d) ε6(2)T-W-θb; (e) ε6(3)T-E-θb; (f) ε6(3)T-W-θb; (g) ε6MT-E-θb; (h) ε6MT-W-θb. ..................................... 430
Figure 6.188: Test 3 beam looping reinforcement bottom longitudinal leg strains versus beam chord rotation – (a) ε6(1)B-E-θb; (b) ε6(1)B-W-θb; (c) ε6(2)B-E-θb; (d) ε6(2)B-W-θb; (e) ε6(3)B-E-θb; (f) ε6(3)B-W-θb; (g) ε6MB-E-θb; (h) ε6MB-W-θb. ..................................... 432
Figure 6.189: Test 3 beam looping reinforcement vertical leg strains – (a) ε6SE(E)-E; (b) ε6SE(E)-W; (c) ε6SE(I)-E; (d) ε6SE(I)-W. ................................................................... 434
Figure 6.190: Test 3 beam looping reinforcement vertical leg strains versus beam chord rotation – (a) ε6SE(E)-E-θb; (b) ε6SE(E)-W-θb; (c) ε6SE(I)-E-θb; (d) ε6SE(I)-W-θb. ............. 435
Figure 6.191: Test 3 beam midspan transverse hoop reinforcement strains – (a) εMH-E; (b) εMH-W. ............................................................................................................. 435
Figure 6.192: Test 3 beam midspan transverse hoop reinforcement strains versus beam chord rotation – (a) εMH-E-θb; (b) εMH-W-θb. ......................................................... 436
Figure 6.193: Test 3 No. 3 top hoop support bar strains – (a) ε3THT-(1); (b) ε3THB-(1); (c) ε3THT-(2); (d) ε3THB-(2). ...................................................................................... 437
Figure 6.194: Test 3 No. 3 bottom hoop support bar strains – (a) ε3BHB-(1); (b) ε3BHT-(1); (c) ε3BHB-(2); (d) ε3BHT-(2). ...................................................................................... 438
Figure 6.195: Test 3 No. 3 top hoop support bar strains versus beam chord rotation – (a) ε3THT-(1)-θb; (b) ε3THB-(1)-θb; (c) ε3THT-(2)-θb; (d) ε3THB-(2)-θb. ............................. 439
Figure 6.196: Test 3 No. 3 bottom hoop support bar strains versus beam chord rotation – (a) ε3BHB-(1)-θb; (b) ε3BHT-(1)-θb; (c) ε3BHB-(2)-θb; (d) ε3BHT-(2)-θb. ............................ 440
Figure 6.197: Test 3 beam end confinement hoop east leg strains – (a) ε1HBE; (b) ε2HBE; (c) ε3HBE; (d) ε4HBE. .............................................................................................. 441
Figure 6.198: Test 3 beam end confinement hoop west leg strains – (a) ε1HBW; (b) ε2HBW; (c) ε3HBW; (d) ε4HBW. ............................................................................................. 442
Figure 6.199: Test 3 beam end confinement hoop east leg strains versus beam chord rotation – (a) ε1HBE-θb; (b) ε2HBE-θb; (c) ε3HBE-θb; (d) ε4HBE-θb. ........................... 443
Figure 6.200: Test 3 beam end confinement hoop west leg strains versus beam chord rotation – (a) ε1HBW-θb; (b) ε2HBW-θb; (c) ε3HBW-θb; (d) ε4HBW-θb. ......................... 444
Figure 6.201: Test 3 crack patterns – (a) θb = 0.125%; (b) θb = 0.175%; (c) θb = 0.25%; (d) θb = 0.35%; (e) θb = 0.5%; (f) θb = 0.75%; (g) θb = 1.0%; (h) θb = 1.5%; (i) θb = 2.25%; (j) θb = 3.33%; (k) θb = 5.0%. ..................................................... 445

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Figure 6.202: Test 4 overall photographs – (a) pre-test undisplaced position; (b) θb = 3.33%; (c) θb = –3.33%; (d) final post-test undisplaced position. ......... 450
Figure 6.203: Test 4 beam south end photographs – (a) pre-test undisplaced position; (b) θb = 3.33%; (c) θb = –3.33%; (d) final post-test undisplaced position. ......... 451
Figure 6.204: Test 4 beam south end damage propagation – positive and negative rotations............................................................................................................... 452
Figure 6.205: Test 4 angle-to-wall connection plates. .................................................... 452
Figure 6.206: Test 4 wall test region patch. .................................................................... 453
Figure 6.207: Test 4 coupling beam shear force versus chord rotation behavior – (a) using beam displacements; (b) using load block displacements. ................................. 455
Figure 6.208: Test 4 Mb-θb behavior. .............................................................................. 456
Figure 6.209: Test 4 beam post-tensioning strand forces – (a) strand 1; (b) strand 2; (c) strand 3. ......................................................................................................... 458
Figure 6.210: Test 4 FLC-θb behavior – (a) strand 1; (b) strand 2; (c) strand 3. .............. 459
Figure 6.211: Test 4 beam post-tensioning force versus chord rotation behavior – (a) using beam displacements; (b) using load block displacements. .................. 460
Figure 6.212: Test 4 south end top angle-to-wall connection strand forces – (a) east strand; (b) west strand. ........................................................................................ 462
Figure 6.213: Test 4 south end top angle-to-wall connection strand forces versus beam chord rotation – (a) FLC3-θb; (b) FLC4-θb.............................................................. 462
Figure 6.214: Test 4 south end seat angle-to-wall connection strand forces – (a) east strand; (b) west strand. ........................................................................................ 463
Figure 6.215: Test 4 south end seat angle-to-wall connection strand forces versus beam chord rotation – (a) FLC5-θb; (b) FLC6-θb.............................................................. 463
Figure 6.216: Test 4 south end total angle-to-wall connection strand forces versus beam chord rotation – (a) top connection; (b) seat connection. ................................... 464
Figure 6.217: Test 4 vertical force on the wall test region, Fwt – (a) Fwt-test duration; (b) Fwt-θb ............................................................................................................. 465
Figure 6.218: Test 4 south end beam vertical displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT9; (b) adjusted, ∆DT9,y; (c) difference, ∆DT9,y-∆DT9. .................................................. 467
Figure 6.219: Test 4 north end beam vertical displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT10; (b) adjusted, ∆DT10,y; (c) difference, ∆DT10,y-∆DT10. .............................................. 468

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Figure 6.220: Test 4 percent difference between measured and adjusted displacements – (a) south end, DT9; (b) north end, DT10. ........................................................... 468
Figure 6.221: Test 4 beam vertical displacements versus beam chord rotation – (a) ∆DT9-θb; (b) ∆DT10-θb. ..................................................................................... 469
Figure 6.222: Test 4 beam chord rotation – (a) θb from ∆DT9 and ∆DT10; (b) θb,lb from ∆LB,y. ............................................................................................... 470
Figure 6.223: Test 4 percent difference between θb and θb,lb. ......................................... 470
Figure 6.224: Test 4 difference between θb and θb,lb....................................................... 471
Figure 6.225: Test 4 beam inclinometer rotations – (a) near beam south end, θRT1; (b) near beam midspan, θRT2. ............................................................................................ 472
Figure 6.226: Test 4 difference between beam inclinometer rotations and beam chord rotations – (a) RT1; (b) RT2; (c) beam deflected shape. .................................... 473
Figure 6.227: Test 4 load block horizontal displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT3; (b) adjusted, ∆DT3,x; (c) percent difference. ......................................................... 476
Figure 6.228: Test 4 load block north end vertical displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT4; (b) adjusted, ∆DT4,y; (c) percent difference. ......................................................... 477
Figure 6.229: Test 4 load block south end vertical displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT5; (b) adjusted, ∆DT5,y; (c) percent difference. ......................................................... 478
Figure 6.230: Test 4 percent difference between measured and adjusted displacements – (a) DT4; (b) DT5. ................................................................................................ 478
Figure 6.231: Test 4 load block displacements versus beam chord rotation – (a) ∆DT4-θb; (b) ∆DT5-θb; (c) ∆DT3,x-θb. ..................................................................................... 479
Figure 6.232: Test 4 load block centroid displacements – (a) x-y displacements; (b) rotation; (c) x-displacements; (d) y-displacements. ....................................... 480
Figure 6.233: Test 4 load block centroid displacements versus beam chord rotation – (a) x-displacement-θb; (b) y-displacement-θb; (c) rotation-θb. ............................ 481
Figure 6.234: Test 4 reaction block displacements – (a) ΔDT6; (b) ΔDT7; (c) ΔDT8. ......... 483
Figure 6.235: Test 4 reaction block displacements versus beam chord rotation – (a) ∆DT7-θb; (b) ∆DT8-θb; (c) ∆DT6-θb. ................................................................... 484
Figure 6.236: Test 4 reaction block centroid displacements – (a) x-y displacements; (b) rotation; (c) x-displacements; (d) y-displacements. ....................................... 485

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Figure 6.237: Test 4 reaction block centroid displacements versus beam chord rotation – (a) x-displacements; (b) y-displacements; (c) rotation. ....................................... 486
Figure 6.238: Test 4 beam-to-reaction-block interface top LVDT displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT11; (b) adjusted, ∆DT11,x; (c) percent difference. ...................... 488
Figure 6.239: Test 3 beam-to-reaction-block interface middle LVDT displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT12; (b) adjusted, ∆DT12,x; (c) percent difference. ...................... 489
Figure 6.240: Test 4 beam-to-reaction-block interface bottom LVDT displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT13; (b) adjusted, ∆DT13,x; (c) percent difference. ...................... 490
Figure 6.241: Test 4 beam-to-reaction-block interface LVDT displacements versus beam chord rotation – (a) ∆DT11-θb; (b) ∆DT13-θb; (c) ∆DT12-θb. ..................................... 491
Figure 6.242: Test 4 contact depth at beam-to-reaction-block interface – (a) method 1 using ∆DT11, ∆DT12, and ∆DT13; (b) method 2 using RT2, DT11, and DT13; (c) method 3 using RT2 and DT12; (d) method 4 using θb and DT12; (e) method 5 using θb, DT11, and DT13. ................................................................................. 494
Figure 6.243: Test 4 gap opening at beam-to-reaction-block interface – (a) method 1 using ∆DT11, ∆DT12, and ∆DT13; (b) method 2 using RT2, DT11, and DT13; (c) method 3 using RT2 and DT12; (d) method 4 using ∆DT12 and θb; (e) method 5 using θb, DT11, and DT13. ................................................................................. 495
Figure 6.244: Test 4 gap opening at beam-to-reaction-block interface using method 4. ................................................................................................... 496
Figure 6.245: Test 4 contact depth at beam-to-reaction-block interface using method 4 –(a) entire data; (b) 2.25% beam chord rotation cycle; (c) 3.33% beam chord rotation cycle. ...................................................................................................... 496
Figure 6.246: Test 3 wall test region concrete deformations – (a) DT14; (b) DT15. ..... 498
Figure 6.247: Test 4 wall test region concrete deformations versus beam chord rotation –(a) ∆DT14-θb; (b) ∆DT15-θb. .................................................................................... 498
Figure 6.248: Test 4 beam looping reinforcement top longitudinal leg strains – (a) ε6(1)T-E; (b) ε6(1)T-W; (c) ε6(2)T-E; (d) ε6(2)T-W; (e) ε6(3)T-E; (f) ε6(3)T-W; (g) ε6MT-E; (h) ε6MT-W. ............................................................................................................ 500
Figure 6.249: Test 4 beam looping reinforcement bottom longitudinal leg strains – (a) ε6(1)B-E; (b) ε6(1)B-W; (c) ε6(2)B-E; (d) ε6(2)B-W; (e) ε6(3)B-E; (f) ε6(3)B-W; (g) ε6MB-E; (h) ε6MB-W. ............................................................................................................ 501
Figure 6.250: Test 4 beam looping reinforcement top longitudinal leg strains versus beam chord rotation – (a) ε6(1)T-E-θb; (b) ε6(1)T-W-θb; (c) ε6(2)T-E-θb; (d) ε6(2)T-W-θb; (e) ε6(3)T-E-θb; (f) ε6(3)T-W-θb; (g) ε6MT-E-θb; (h) ε6MT-W-θb. ..................................... 502

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Figure 6.251: Test 4 beam looping reinforcement bottom longitudinal leg strains versus beam chord rotation – (a) ε6(1)B-E-θb; (b) ε6(1)B-W-θb; (c) ε6(2)B-E-θb; (d) ε6(2)B-W-θb; (e) ε6(3)B-E-θb; (f) ε6(3)B-W-θb; (g) ε6MB-E-θb; (h) ε6MB-W-θb. ..................................... 504
Figure 6.252: Test 4 beam looping reinforcement vertical leg strains – (a) ε6SE(E)-E; (b) ε6SE(E)-W; (c) ε6SE(I)-E; (d) ε6SE(I)-W. .................................................................. 506
Figure 6.253: Test 4 beam looping reinforcement vertical leg strains versus beam chord rotation – (a) ε6SE(E)-E-θb; (b) ε6SE(E)-W-θb; (c) ε6SE(I)-E-θb; (d) ε6SE(I)-W-θb. ............. 507
Figure 6.254: Test 4 beam midspan transverse hoop reinforcement strains – (a) εMH-E; (b) εMH-W. ............................................................................................................. 507
Figure 6.255: Test 4 beam midspan transverse hoop reinforcement strains versus beam chord rotation – (a) εMH-E-θb; (b) εMH-W-θb. ......................................................... 508
Figure 6.256: Test 4 No. 3 top hoop support bar strains – (a) ε3THT-(1); (b) ε3THB-(1); (c) ε3THT-(2); (d) ε3THB-(2). ...................................................................................... 509
Figure 6.257: Test 4 No. 3 bottom hoop support bar strains – (a) ε3BHB-(1); (b) ε3BHT-(1); (c) ε3BHB-(2); (d) ε3BHT-(2). ...................................................................................... 510
Figure 6.258: Test 4 No. 3 top hoop support bar strains versus beam chord rotation – (a) ε3THT-(1)-θb; (b) ε3THB-(1)-θb; (c) ε3THT-(2)-θb; (d) ε3THB-(2)-θb. ............................. 511
Figure 6.259: Test 4 No. 3 bottom hoop support bar strains versus beam chord rotation –(a) ε3BHB-(1)-θb; (b) ε3BHT-(1)-θb; (c) ε3BHB-(2)-θb; (d) ε3BHT-(2)-θb. ............................ 512
Figure 6.260: Test 4 beam end confinement hoop east leg strains – (a) ε1HB-E; (b) ε2HB-E; (c) ε3HB-E; (d) ε4HB-E. ............................................................................................ 513
Figure 6.261: Test 4 beam end confinement hoop west leg strains – (a) ε1HB-W; (b) ε2HB-W; (c) ε3HB-W; (d) ε4HB-W. ........................................................................................... 514
Figure 6.262: Test 4 beam end confinement hoop east leg strains versus beam chord rotation – (a) ε1HB-E-θb; (b) ε2HB-E-θb; (c) ε3HB-E-θb; (d) ε4HB-E-θb. ........................ 515
Figure 6.263: Test 4 beam end confinement hoop west leg strains versus beam chord rotation – (a) ε1HB-W-θb; (b) ε2HB-W-θb; (c) ε3HB-W-θb; (d) ε4HB-W-θb....................... 516
Figure 6.264: Test 4 crack patterns – (a) θb = 0.125%; (b) θb = 0.175%; (c) θb = 0.25%; (d) θb = 0.35%; (e) θb = 0.5%; (f) θb = 0.75%; (g) θb = 1.0%; (h) θb = 1.5%; (i) θb = 2.25%; (j) θb = 3.33%. ............................................................................ 517

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VOLUME III
CHAPTER 7:
Figure 7.1: Test 3A angle – (a) hole pattern and locations; (b) photograph of angle. .... 521
Figure 7.2: Test 3A overall photographs – (a) pre-test undisplaced position; (b) θb = 3.33%; (c) θb = –3.33%; (d) θb = 5.0%; (e) θb = –5.0%; (f) final post-test undisplaced position............................................................................................ 524
Figure 7.3: Test 3A beam south end photographs – (a) pre-test undisplaced position; (b) θb = 3.33%; (c) θb = –3.33%; (d) θb = 5.0%; (e) θb = –5.0%; (f) final post-test undisplaced position............................................................................................ 525
Figure 7.4: Test 3A south beam end damage propagation – positive and negative rotations............................................................................................................... 526
Figure 7.5: Test 3A coupling beam shear force versus chord rotation behavior – (a) using beam displacements; (b) using load block displacements. ................................. 528
Figure 7.6: Test 3A angle fracture – (a) side view; (b) front view. ................................ 529
Figure 7.7: Test 3A Mb-θb behavior. ............................................................................... 530
Figure 7.8: Test 3A beam post-tensioning strand forces – (a) strand 1; (b) strand 2; (c) strand 3. ......................................................................................................... 532
Figure 7.9: Test 3A FLC-θb behavior – (a) strand 1; (b) strand 2; strand 3. ..................... 533
Figure 7.10: Test 3A beam post-tensioning force versus chord rotation behavior – (a) using beam displacements; (b) using load block displacements. .................. 534
Figure 7.11: Test 3A south end top angle-to-wall connection strand forces – (a) east strand; (b) west strand. ........................................................................................ 536
Figure 7.12: Test 3A south end top angle-to-wall connection strand forces versus beam chord rotation – (a) FLC3-θb; (b) FLC4-θb.............................................................. 537
Figure 7.13: Test 3A south end seat angle-to-wall connection strand forces – (a) east strand; (b) west strand. ........................................................................................ 537
Figure 7.14: Test 3A south end seat angle-to-wall connection strand forces versus beam chord rotation – (a) FLC5-θb; (b) FLC6-θb.............................................................. 538
Figure 7.15: Test 3A south end total angle-to-wall connection strand forces versus beam chord rotation – (a) top connection; (b) seat connection. ................................... 538
Figure 7.16: Test 3A vertical force on wall test region, Fwt – (a) Fwt-test duration; (b) Fwt-θb. ............................................................................................................ 540

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Figure 7.17: Test 3A south end beam vertical displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT9; (b) adjusted, ∆DT9,y; (c) difference, ∆DT9,y-∆DT9. .................................................. 542
Figure 7.18: Test 3A north end beam vertical displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT10; (b) adjusted, ∆DT10,y; (c) difference, ∆DT10,y-∆DT10. .............................................. 543
Figure 7.19: Test 3A percent difference between measured and adjusted displacements versus beam chord rotation – (a) south end, DT9; (b) north end, DT10. ............ 544
Figure 7.20: Test 3A beam vertical displacements versus beam chord rotation – (a) ∆DT9-θb; (b) ∆DT10-θb. ..................................................................................... 544
Figure 7.21: Test 3A beam chord rotation – (a) θb from ∆DT9 and ∆DT10; (b) θb,lb from ∆LB,y. ............................................................................................... 545
Figure 7.22: Test 3A percent difference between θb and θb,lb. ........................................ 546
Figure 7.23: Test 3A difference between θb and θb,lb. ..................................................... 546
Figure 7.24: Test 3A beam inclinometer rotations – (a) near beam south end, θRT1; (b) near beam midspan, θRT2. .............................................................................. 548
Figure 7.25: Test 3A difference between beam inclinometer rotations and beam chord rotations – (a) RT1; (b) RT2; (c) beam deflected shape. .................................... 549
Figure 7.26: Test 3A load block horizontal displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT3; (b) adjusted, ∆DT3,x; (c) percent difference. ......................................................... 552
Figure 7.27: Test 3A load block north end vertical displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT4; (b) adjusted, ∆DT4,y; (c) percent difference. ......................................................... 553
Figure 7.28: Test 3A load block south end vertical displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT5; (b) adjusted, ∆DT5,y; (c) percent difference. ......................................................... 554
Figure 7.29: Test 3A percent difference between measured and adjusted displacements versus beam chord rotation – (a) DT4; (b) DT5. ................................................ 554
Figure 7.30: Test 3A load block displacements versus beam chord rotation – (a) ∆DT4-θb; (b) ∆DT5-θb; (c) ∆DT3,x-θb. ..................................................................................... 555
Figure 7.31: Test 3A load block centroid displacements – (a) x-y displacements; (b) rotation; (c) x-displacements; (d) y-displacements. ....................................... 556
Figure 7.32: Test 3A load block centroid displacements versus beam chord rotation – (a) x-displacement-θb; (b) y-displacement-θb; (c) rotation-θb. ............................ 557
Figure 7.33: Test 3A reaction block displacements – (a) ΔDT6; (b) ΔDT7; (c) ΔDT8. ........ 559

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Figure 7.34: Test 3A reaction block displacements versus beam chord rotation – (a) ∆DT7-θb; (b) ∆DT8-θb; (c) ∆DT6-θb. ................................................................... 560
Figure 7.35: Test 3A reaction block centroid displacements – (a) x-y displacements; (b) rotation; (c) x-displacements; (d) y-displacements. ....................................... 561
Figure 7.36: Test 3A reaction block centroid displacements versus beam chord rotation – (a) x-displacements; (b y-displacements; (c) rotation. ........................................ 562
Figure 7.37: Test 3A beam-to-reaction-block interface top LVDT displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT11; (b) adjusted, ∆DT11,x; (c) percent difference. ...................... 564
Figure 7.38: Test 3A beam-to-reaction-block interface middle LVDT displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT12; (b) adjusted, ∆DT12,x; (c) percent difference. ...................... 565
Figure 7.39: Test 3A beam-to-reaction-block interface bottom LVDT displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT13; (b) adjusted, ∆DT13,x; (c) percent difference. ...................... 566
Figure 7.40: Test 3A beam-to-reaction-block interface LVDT displacements versus beam chord rotation – (a) ∆DT11-θb; (b) ∆DT13-θb; (c) ∆DT12-θb. ..................................... 567
Figure 7.41: Test 3A contact depth at beam-to-reaction-block interface – (a) method 1 using ∆DT11, ∆DT12, and ∆DT13; (b) method 2 using RT1, DT11, and DT13; (c) method 3 using RT1 and DT12; (d) method 4 using ∆DT12 and θb; (e) method 5 using θb, DT11, and DT13. ................................................................................. 570
Figure 7.42: Test 3A gap opening at beam-to-reaction-block interface – (a) method 1 using ∆DT11, ∆DT12, and ∆DT13; (b) method 2 using RT1, DT11, and DT13; (c) method 3 using RT1 and DT12; (d) method 4 using ∆DT12 and θb; (e) method 5 using θb, DT11, and DT13. ................................................................................. 571
Figure 7.43: Test 3A gap opening at beam-to-reaction-block interface using method 4.............................................................................................................................. 572
Figure 7.44: Test 3A contact depth at beam-to-reaction-block interface – (a) method 4 using ∆DT12 and θb; (b) 2.25% beam chord rotation cycle; (c) 5.0% beam chord rotation cycle. ...................................................................................................... 572
Figure 7.45: Test 3A wall test region concrete deformations – (a) DT14; (b) DT15. .... 574
Figure 7.46: Test 3A wall test region concrete deformations versus beam chord rotation –(a) ∆DT14-θb; (b) ∆DT15-θb. .................................................................................... 574
Figure 7.47: Test 3A beam looping reinforcement top longitudinal leg strains – (a) ε6(1)T-E; (b) ε6(1)T-W; (c) ε6(2)T-E; (d) ε6(2)T-W; (e) ε6(3)T-E; (f) ε6(3)T-W; (g) ε6MT-E; (h) ε6MT-W. ............................................................................................................ 576

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Figure 7.48: Test 3A beam looping reinforcement bottom longitudinal leg strains – (a) ε6(1)B-E; (b) ε6(1)B-W; (c) ε6(2)B-E; (d) ε6(2)B-W; (e) ε6(3)B-E; (f) ε6(3)B-W; (g) ε6MB-E; (h) ε6MB-W. ............................................................................................................ 577
Figure 7.49: Test 3A beam looping reinforcement top longitudinal leg strains versus beam chord rotation – (a) ε6(1)T-E-θb; (b) ε6(1)T-W-θb; (c) ε6(2)T-E-θb; (d) ε6(2)T-W-θb; (e) ε6(3)T-E-θb; (f) ε6(3)T-W-θb; (g) ε6MT-E-θb; (h) ε6MT-W-θb. ..................................... 579
Figure 7.50: Test 3A beam looping reinforcement bottom longitudinal leg strains versus beam chord rotation – (a) ε6(1)B-E-θb; (b) ε6(1)B-W-θb; (c) ε6(2)B-E-θb; (d) ε6(2)B-W-θb; (e) ε6(3)B-E-θb; (f) ε6(3)B-W-θb; (g) ε6MB-E-θb; (h) ε6MB-W-θb. ..................................... 580
Figure 7.51: Test 3A beam looping reinforcement vertical leg strains – (a) ε6SE(E)-E; (b) ε6SE(E)-W; (c) ε6SE(I)-E; (d) ε6SE(I)-W. .................................................................. 583
Figure 7.52: Test 3A beam looping reinforcement vertical leg strains versus beam chord rotation – (a) ε6SE(E)-E-θb; (b) ε6SE(E)-W-θb; (c) ε6SE(I)-E-θb; (d) ε6SE(I)-W-θb. ............. 584
Figure 7.53: Test 3A beam midspan transverse hoop reinforcement strains – (a) εMH-E; (b) εMH-W. ............................................................................................................. 584
Figure 7.54: Test 3A beam midspan transverse hoop reinforcement strains versus beam chord rotation – (a) εMH-E-θb; (b) εMH-W-θb. ......................................................... 585
Figure 7.55: Test 3A No. 3 top hoop support bar strains – (a) ε3THT-(1); (b) ε3THB-(1); (c) ε3THT-(2); (d) ε3THB-(2). ...................................................................................... 586
Figure 7.56: Test 3A No. 3 bottom hoop support bar strains – (a) ε3BHB-(1); (b) ε3BHT-(1); (c) ε3BHB-(2); (d) ε3BHT-(2). ...................................................................................... 587
Figure 7.57: Test 3A No. 3 top hoop support bar strains versus beam chord rotation – (a) ε3THT-(1)-θb; (b) ε3THB-(1)-θb; (c) ε3THT-(2)-θb; (d) ε3THB-(2)-θb. ............................. 588
Figure 7.58: Test 3A No. 3 bottom hoop support bar strains versus beam chord rotation –(a) ε3BHB-(1)-θb; (b) ε3BHT-(1)-θb; (c) ε3BHB-(2)-θb; (d) ε3BHT-(2)-θb. ............................ 589
Figure 7.59: Test 3A beam end confinement hoop east leg strains – (a) ε1HB-E; (b) ε2HB-E; (c) ε3HB-E; (d) ε4HB-E. ............................................................................................ 590
Figure 7.60: Test 3A beam end confinement hoop west leg strains – (a) ε1HB-W; (b) ε2HB-W; (c) ε3HB-W; (d) ε4HB-W. ........................................................................................... 591
Figure 7.61: Test 3A beam end confinement hoop east leg strains versus beam chord rotation – (a) ε1HBE-θb; (b) ε2HBE-θb; (c) ε3HBE-θb; (d) ε4HBE-θb. ........................... 592
Figure 7.62: Test 3A beam end confinement hoop west leg strains versus beam chord rotation – (a) ε1HBW-θb; (b) ε2HBW-θb; (c) ε3HBW-θb; (d) ε4HBW-θb. ......................... 593

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Figure 7.63: Test 3B overall photographs – (a) pre-test undisplaced position; (b) θb = 3.33%; (c) θb = –3.33%; (d) θb = 8.0%; (e) θb = –8.0%; (f) final post-test undisplaced position............................................................................................ 598
Figure 7.64: Test 3B beam south end photographs – (a) pre-test undisplaced position; (b) θb = 3.33%; (c) θb = –3.33%; (d) θb = 8.0%; (e) θb = –8.0%; (f) final post-test undisplaced position............................................................................................ 599
Figure 7.65: Test 3B beam south end damage propagation – positive and negative rotations............................................................................................................... 600
Figure 7.66: Test 3B angle fracture – (a) side view; (b) isometric view. ....................... 600
Figure 7.67: Test 3B angle-to-wall connection plates. ................................................... 601
Figure 7.68: Test 3B coupling beam shear force versus chord rotation behavior – (a) using beam displacements; (b) using load block displacements. ................................. 603
Figure 7.69: Test 3B Mb-θb behavior. ............................................................................. 604
Figure 7.70: Test 3B beam post-tensioning strand forces – (a) strand 1; (b) strand 2; (c) strand 3. ......................................................................................................... 606
Figure 7.71: Test 3B FLC-θb behavior – (a) strand 1; (b) strand 2; (c) strand 3. ............. 607
Figure 7.72: Test 3B beam post-tensioning force versus chord rotation behavior – (a) using beam displacements; (b) using load block displacements. .................. 608
Figure 7.73: Test 3B south end top angle-to-wall connection strand forces – (a) east strand; (b) west strand. ........................................................................................ 610
Figure 7.74: Test 3B south end top angle-to-wall connection strand forces versus beam chord rotation – (a) FLC3-θb; (b) FLC4-θb.............................................................. 610
Figure 7.75: Test 3B south end seat angle-to-wall connection strand forces – (a) east strand; (b) west strand. ........................................................................................ 611
Figure 7.76: Test 3B south end seat angle-to-wall connection strand forces versus beam chord rotation – (a) FLC5-θb; (b) FLC6-θb.............................................................. 611
Figure 7.77: Test 3B south end total angle-to-wall connection strand forces versus beam chord rotation – (a) top connection; (b) seat connection. ................................... 612
Figure 7.78: Test 3B vertical force on the wall test region, Fwt – (a) Fwt-test duration; (b) Fwt-θb. ............................................................................................................ 613
Figure 7.79: Test 3B south end beam vertical displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT9; (b) adjusted, ∆DT9,y; (c) difference, ∆DT9,y-∆DT9. .................................................. 615

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Figure 7.80: Test 3B north end beam vertical displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT10; (b) adjusted, ∆DT10,y; (c) difference, ∆DT10,y-∆DT10. .............................................. 616
Figure 7.81: Test 3B percent difference between measured and adjusted displacements versus beam chord rotation – (a) south end, DT9; (b) north end, DT10. ............ 617
Figure 7.82: Test 3B beam vertical displacements versus beam chord rotation – (a) ∆DT9-θb; (b) ∆DT10-θb. ..................................................................................... 617
Figure 7.83: Test 3B beam chord rotation – (a) θb from ∆DT9 and ∆DT10; (b) θb,lb from ∆LB,y. ............................................................................................... 618
Figure 7.84: Test 3B percent difference between θb and θb,lb. ........................................ 619
Figure 7.85: Test 3B difference between θb and θb,lb. ..................................................... 619
Figure 7.86: Test 3B beam inclinometer rotations – (a) near beam south end, θRT1; (b) near beam midspan, θRT2. .............................................................................. 621
Figure 7.87: Test 3B difference between beam inclinometer rotations and beam chord rotations – (a) RT1; (b) RT2; (c) beam deflected shape. .................................... 622
Figure 7.88: Test 3B load block horizontal displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT3; (b) adjusted, ∆DT3,x; (c) percent difference. ......................................................... 625
Figure 7.89: Test 3B load block north end vertical displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT4; (b) adjusted, ∆DT4,y; (c) percent difference. ......................................................... 626
Figure 7.90: Test 3B load block south end vertical displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT5; (b) adjusted, ∆DT5,y; (c) percent difference. ......................................................... 627
Figure 7.91: Test 3B percent difference between measured and adjusted displacements versus beam chord rotation – (a) DT4; (b) DT5. ................................................ 627
Figure 7.92: Test 3B load block displacements versus beam chord rotation – (a) ∆DT4-θb; (b) ∆DT5-θb; (c) ∆DT3,x-θb. ..................................................................................... 628
Figure 7.93: Test 3B load block centroid displacements – (a) x-y displacements; (b) rotation; (c) x-displacements; (d) y-displacements. ....................................... 629
Figure 7.94: Test 3B load block centroid displacements versus beam chord rotation – (a) x-displacement-θb; (b) y-displacement-θb; (c) rotation-θb. ............................ 630
Figure 7.95: Test 3B reaction block displacements – (a) ΔDT6; (b) ΔDT7; (c) ΔDT8. ........ 632
Figure 7.96: Test 3B reaction block displacements versus beam chord rotation – (a) ∆DT7-θb; (b) ∆DT8-θb; (c) ∆DT6-θb. ................................................................... 633

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Figure 7.97: Test 3B reaction block centroid displacements – (a) x-y displacements; (b) rotation; (c) x-displacements; (d) y-displacements. ....................................... 634
Figure 7.98: Test 3B reaction block centroid displacements versus beam chord rotation – (a) x-displacements; (b y-displacements; (c) rotation. ........................................ 635
Figure 7.99: Test 3B beam-to-reaction-block interface top LVDT displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT11; (b) adjusted, ∆DT11,x; (c) percent difference. ...................... 637
Figure 7.100: Test 3B beam-to-reaction-block interface middle LVDT displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT12; (b) adjusted, ∆DT12,x; (c) percent difference. ...................... 638
Figure 7.101: Test 3B beam-to-reaction-block interface bottom LVDT displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT13; (b) adjusted, ∆DT13,x; (c) percent difference. ...................... 639
Figure 7.102: Test 3B beam-to-reaction-block interface LVDT displacements versus beam chord rotation – (a) ∆DT11-θb; (b) ∆DT13-θb; (c) ∆DT12-θb. ........................... 640
Figure 7.103: Test 3B contact depth at beam-to-reaction-block interface – (a) method 1 using ∆DT11, ∆DT12, and ∆DT13; (b) method 2 using RT1, DT11, and DT13; (c) method 3 using RT1 and DT12; (d) method 4 using ∆DT12 and θb; (e) method 5 using θb, DT11, and DT13. ................................................................................. 643
Figure 7.104: Test 3B gap opening at beam-to-reaction-block interface – (a) method 1 using ∆DT11, ∆DT12, and ∆DT13; (b) method 2 using RT1, DT11, and DT13; (c) method 3 using RT1 and DT12; (d) method 4 using ∆DT12 and θb; (e) method 5 using θb, DT11, and DT13. ................................................................................. 644
Figure 7.105: Test 3B gap opening at beam-to-reaction-block interface method 4. ...... 645
Figure 7.106: Test 3B contact depth at beam-to-reaction-block interface – (a) method 4 using ∆DT12 and θb; (b) 2.25% beam chord rotation cycle; (c) 5.0% beam chord rotation cycle. ...................................................................................................... 645
Figure 7.107: Test 3B wall test region concrete deformations – (a) DT14; (b) DT15. .. 647
Figure 7.108: Test 3B wall test region concrete deformations versus beam chord rotation – (a) ∆DT14-θb; (b) ∆DT15-θb. ................................................................................. 647
Figure 7.109: Test 3B beam looping reinforcement top longitudinal leg strains – (a) ε6(1)T-E; (b) ε6(1)T-W; (c) ε6(2)T-E; (d) ε6(2)T-W; (e) ε6(3)T-E; (f) ε6(3)T-W; (g) ε6MT-E; (h) ε6MT-W. ............................................................................................................ 649
Figure 7.110: Test 3B beam looping reinforcement bottom longitudinal leg strains – (a) ε6(1)B-E; (b) ε6(1)B-W; (c) ε6(2)B-E; (d) ε6(2)B-W; (e) ε6(3)B-E; (f) ε6(3)B-W; (g) ε6MB-E; (h) ε6MB-W. ............................................................................................................ 650

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Figure 7.111: Test 3B beam looping reinforcement top longitudinal leg strains versus beam chord rotation – (a) ε6(1)T-E-θb; (b) ε6(1)T-W-θb; (c) ε6(2)T-E-θb; (d) ε6(2)T-W-θb; (e) ε6(3)T-E-θb; (f) ε6(3)T-W-θb; (g) ε6MT-E-θb; (h) ε6MT-W-θb. ..................................... 652
Figure 7.112: Test 3B beam looping reinforcement bottom longitudinal leg strains versus beam chord rotation – (a) ε6(1)B-E-θb; (b) ε6(1)B-W-θb; (c) ε6(2)B-E-θb; (d) ε6(2)B-W-θb; (e) ε6(3)B-E-θb; (f) ε6(3)B-W-θb; (g) ε6MB-E-θb; (h) ε6MB-W-θb. ..................................... 653
Figure 7.113: Test 3B beam looping reinforcement vertical leg strains – (a) ε6SE(E)-E; (b) ε6SE(E)-W; (c) ε6SE(I)-E; (d) ε6SE(I)-W. ................................................................... 656
Figure 7.114: Test 3B beam looping reinforcement vertical leg strains versus beam chord rotation – (a) ε6SE(E)-E-θb; (b) ε6SE(E)-W-θb; (c) ε6SE(I)-E-θb; (d) ε6SE(I)-W-θb. ............. 657
Figure 7.115: Test 3B beam midspan transverse hoop reinforcement strains – (a) εMH-E; (b) εMH-W. ............................................................................................................. 657
Figure 7.116: Test 3B beam midspan transverse hoop reinforcement strains versus beam chord rotation – (a) εMH-E-θb; (b) εMH-W-θb. ......................................................... 658
Figure 7.117: Test 3B No. 3 top hoop support bar strains – (a) ε3THT-(1); (b) ε3THB-(1); (c) ε3THT-(2); (d) ε3THB-(2). ...................................................................................... 659
Figure 7.118: Test 3B No. 3 bottom hoop support bar strains – (a) ε3BHB-(1); (b) ε3BHT-(1); (c) ε3BHB-(2); (d) ε3BHT-(2). ...................................................................................... 660
Figure 7.119: Test 3B No. 3 top hoop support bar strains versus beam chord rotation – (a) ε3THT-(1)-θb; (b) ε3THB-(1)-θb; (c) ε3THT-(2)-θb; (d) ε3THB-(2)-θb. ............................. 661
Figure 7.120: Test 3B No. 3 bottom hoop support bar strains versus beam chord rotation – (a) ε3BHB-(1)-θb; (b) ε3BHT-(1)-θb; (c) ε3BHB-(2)-θb; (d) ε3BHT-(2)-θb. ......................... 662
Figure 7.121: Test 3B beam end confinement hoop east leg strains – (a) ε1HB-E; (b) ε2HB-E; (c) ε3HB-E; (d) ε4HB-E. ............................................................................................ 663
Figure 7.122: Test 3B beam end confinement hoop west leg strains – (a) ε1HB-W; (b) ε2HB-W; (c) ε3HB-W; (d) ε4HB-W........................................................................... 664
Figure 7.123: Test 3B beam end confinement hoop east leg strains versus beam chord rotation – (a) ε1HBE-θb; (b) ε2HBE-θb; (c) ε3HBE-θb; (d) ε4HBE-θb. ........................... 665
Figure 7.124: Test 3B beam end confinement hoop west leg strains versus beam chord rotation – (a) ε1HBW-θb; (b) ε2HBW-θb; (c) ε3HBW-θb; (d) ε4HBW-θb. ......................... 666
Figure 7.125: Test 4A angle with short tapered horizontal leg. ...................................... 669
Figure 7.126: Test 4A overall photographs – (a) pre-test undisplaced position; (b) θb = 3.33%; (c) θb = –3.33%; (d) final post-test undisplaced position. ......... 671

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Figure 7.127: Test 4A beam south end photographs – (a) pre-test undisplaced position; (b) θb = 3.33%; (c) θb = –3.33%; (d) final post-test un-displaced position. ........ 672
Figure 7.128: Test 4A beam south end damage propagation – positive and negative rotations............................................................................................................... 673
Figure 7.129: Test 4A coupling beam shear force versus chord rotation behavior – (a) using beam displacements; (b) using load block displacements. .................. 675
Figure 7.130: Test 4A Mb-θb behavior. ........................................................................... 676
Figure 7.131: Test 4A beam post-tensioning strand forces – (a) strand 1; (b) strand 2; (c) strand 3. ......................................................................................................... 678
Figure 7.132: Test 4A FLC-θb behavior – (a) strand 1; (b) strand 2; (c) strand 3. ........... 679
Figure 7.133: Test 4A beam post-tensioning force versus chord rotation behavior – (a) using beam displacements; (b) using load block displacements. .................. 680
Figure 7.134: Test 4A vertical force on the wall test region, Fwt – (a) Fwt-test duration; (b) Fwt-θb. ............................................................................................................ 682
Figure 7.135: Test 4A south end beam vertical displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT9; (b) adjusted, ∆DT9,y; (c) difference, ∆DT9,y-∆DT9. .................................................. 684
Figure 7.136: Test 4A north end beam vertical displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT10; (b) adjusted, ∆DT10,y; (c) difference, ∆DT10,y-∆DT10. .............................................. 685
Figure 7.137: Test 4A percent difference between measured and adjusted displacements – (a) south end, DT9; (b) north end, DT10. ........................................................... 686
Figure 7.138: Test 4A beam vertical displacement versus beam chord rotation – (a) ∆DT9-θb; (b) ∆DT10-θb. ..................................................................................... 686
Figure 7.139: Beam chord rotation – (a) θb from ∆DT9 and ∆DT10; (b) θb,lb from ∆LB,y. ... 688
Figure 7.140: Test 4A percent difference between θb and θb,lb. ...................................... 688
Figure 7.141: Test 4A difference between θb and θb,lb. ................................................... 689
Figure 7.142: Test 4A beam inclinometer rotations – (a) near beam south end, θRT1; (b) near beam midspan, θRT2. .............................................................................. 690
Figure 7.143: Test 4A difference between beam inclinometer rotations and beam chord rotations – (a) RT1; (b) RT2; (c) beam deflected shape. .................................... 691
Figure 7.144: Test 4A load block horizontal displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT3; (b) adjusted, ∆DT3,x; (c) percent difference. ......................................................... 694

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Figure 7.145: Test 4A load block north end vertical displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT4; (b) adjusted, ∆DT4,y; (c) percent difference. ......................................................... 695
Figure 7.146: Test 4A load block south end vertical displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT5; (b) adjusted, ∆DT5,y; (c) percent difference. ......................................................... 696
Figure 7.147: Test 4A percent difference between measured and adjusted displacements versus beam chord rotation – (a) DT4; (b) DT5. ................................................ 696
Figure 7.148: Test 4A load block displacements versus beam chord rotation – (a) ∆DT4-θb; (b) ∆DT5-θb; (c) ∆DT3,x-θb. ..................................................................................... 697
Figure 7.149: Test 4A load block centroid displacements – (a) x-y displacements; (b) rotation; (c) x-displacements; (d) y-displacements. ....................................... 698
Figure 7.150: Test 4A load block centroid displacements versus beam chord rotation – (a) x-displacement-θb; (b) y-displacement-θb; (c) rotation-θb. ............................ 699
Figure 7.151: Test 4A reaction block displacements – (a) ΔDT6; (b) ΔDT7; (c) ΔDT8. ...... 701
Figure 7.152: Test 4A reaction block displacements versus beam chord rotation – (a) ∆DT7-θb; (b) ∆DT8-θb; (c) ∆DT6-θb. ................................................................... 702
Figure 7.153: Test 4A reaction block centroid displacements – (a) x-y displacements; (b) rotation; (c) x-displacements; (d) y-displacements. ....................................... 703
Figure 7.154: Test 4A reaction block centroid displacements versus beam chord rotation – (a) x-displacements; (b y-displacements; (c) rotation. ..................................... 704
Figure 7.155: Test 4A beam-to-reaction-block interface top LVDT displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT11; (b) adjusted, ∆DT11,x; (c) percent difference. ...................... 706
Figure 7.156: Test 4A beam-to-reaction-block interface middle LVDT displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT12; (b) adjusted, ∆DT12,x; (c) percent difference. ...................... 707
Figure 7.157: Test 4A beam-to-reaction-block interface bottom LVDT displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT13; (b) adjusted, ∆DT13,x; (c) percent difference ....................... 708
Figure 7.158: Test 4A beam-to-reaction-block interface LVDT displacements versus beam chord rotation – (a) ∆DT11-θb; (b) ∆DT13-θb; (c) ∆DT12-θb. ........................... 709
Figure 7.159: Test 4A contact depth at beam-to-reaction-block interface – (a) method 1 using ∆DT11, ∆DT12, and ∆DT13; (b) method 2 using RT2, DT11, and DT13; (c) method 3 using RT2 and DT12; (d) method 4 using ∆DT12 and θb; (e) method 5 using θb, DT11, and DT13. ................................................................................. 712

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Figure 7.160: Test 4A gap opening at beam-to-reaction-block interface – (a) method 1 using ∆DT11, ∆DT12, and ∆DT13; (b) method 2 using RT2, DT11, and DT13; (c) method 3 using RT2 and DT12; (d) method 4 using ∆DT12 and θb; (e) method 5 using θb, DT11, and DT13. ................................................................................. 713
Figure 7.161: Test 4A gap opening at beam-to-reaction-block interface using method 4.............................................................................................................................. 714
Figure 7.162: Test 4A contact depth at beam-to-reaction-block interface – (a) method 4 using ∆DT12 and θb; (b) 0.75% beam chord rotation cycle; (c) 3.33% beam chord rotation cycle. ...................................................................................................... 714
Figure 7.163: Test 4A wall test region concrete deformations – (a) DT14; (b) DT15. .. 716
Figure 7.164: Test 4A wall test region concrete deformations – (a) ∆DT14-θb; (b) ∆DT15-θb.............................................................................................................................. 716
Figure 7.165: Test 4A beam looping reinforcement top longitudinal leg strains – (a) ε6(1)T-E; (b) ε6(1)T-W; (c) ε6(2)T-E; (d) ε6(2)T-W; (e) ε6(3)T-E; (f) ε6(3)T-W; (g) ε6MT-E; (h) ε6MT-W. ............................................................................................................ 719
Figure 7.166: Test 4A beam looping reinforcement bottom longitudinal leg strains – (a) ε6(1)B-E; (b) ε6(1)B-W; (c) ε6(2)B-E; (d) ε6(2)B-W; (e) ε6(3)B-E; (f) ε6(3)B-W; (g) ε6MB-E; (h) ε6MB-W. ............................................................................................................ 720
Figure 7.167: Test 4A beam looping reinforcement top longitudinal leg strains versus beam chord rotation – (a) ε6(1)T-E-θb; (b) ε6(1)T-W-θb; (c) ε6(2)T-E-θb; (d) ε6(2)T-W-θb; (e) ε6(3)T-E-θb; (f) ε6(3)T-W-θb; (g) ε6MT-E-θb; (h) ε6MT-W-θb. ..................................... 721
Figure 7.168: Test 4A beam looping reinforcement bottom longitudinal leg strains versus beam chord rotation – (a) ε6(1)B-E-θb; (b) ε6(1)B-W-θb; (c) ε6(2)B-E-θb; (d) ε6(2)B-W-θb; (e) ε6(3)B-E-θb; (f) ε6(3)B-W-θb; (g) ε6MB-E-θb; (h) ε6MB-W-θb. ..................................... 723
Figure 7.169: Test 4A beam looping reinforcement vertical leg strains – (a) ε6SE(E)-E; (b) ε6SE(E)-W; (c) ε6SE(I)-E; (d) ε6SE(I)-W. ................................................................... 726
Figure 7.170: Test 4A beam looping reinforcement vertical leg strains versus beam chord rotation – (a) ε6SE(E)-E-θb; (b) ε6SE(E)-W-θb; (c) ε6SE(I)-E-θb; (d) ε6SE(I)-W-θb. ............. 727
Figure 7.171: Test 4A beam midspan transverse hoop reinforcement strains – (a) εMH-E; (b) εMH-W. ............................................................................................................. 727
Figure 7.172: Test 4A beam midspan transverse hoop reinforcement strains versus beam chord rotation – (a) εMH-E-θb; (b) εMH-W-θb. ......................................................... 728
Figure 7.173: Test 4A No. 3 top hoop support bar strains – (a) ε3THT-(1); (b) ε3THB-(1); (c) ε3THT-(2); (d) ε3THB-(2). ...................................................................................... 729

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Figure 7.174: Test 4A No. 3 bottom hoop support bar strains – (a) ε3BHB-(1); (b) ε3BHT-(1); (c) ε3BHB-(2); (d) ε3BHT-(2). ...................................................................................... 730
Figure 7.175: Test 4A No. 3 top hoop support bar strains versus beam chord rotation – (a) ε3THT-(1)-θb; (b) ε3THB-(1)-θb; (c) ε3THT-(2)-θb; (d) ε3THB-(2)-θb. ............................. 731
Figure 7.176: Test 4A No. 3 bottom hoop support bar strains versus beam chord rotation – (a) ε3BHB-(1)-θb; (b) ε3BHT-(1)-θb; (c) ε3BHB-(2)-θb; (d) ε3BHT-(2)-θb. ......................... 732
Figure 7.177: Test 4A beam end confinement hoop east leg strains – (a) ε1HB-E; (b) ε2HB-E; (c) ε3HB-E; (d) ε4HB-E. ............................................................................................ 733
Figure 7.178: Test 4 beam end confinement hoop west leg strains – (a) ε1HB-W; (b) ε2HB-W; (c) ε3HB-W; (d) ε4HB-W. ........................................................................................... 734
Figure 7.179: Test 4A beam end hoop confinement hoop east leg strains versus beam chord rotation – (a) ε1HB-E-θb; (b) ε2HB-E-θb; (c) ε3HB-E-θb; (d) ε4HB-E-θb. .............. 735
Figure 7.180: Test 4A beam end confinement hoop west leg strains versus beam chord rotation – (a) ε1HB-W-θb; (b) ε2HB-W-θb; (c) ε3HB-W-θb; (d) ε4HB-W-θb....................... 736
Figure 7.181: Test 4B overall photographs – (a) pre-test undisplaced position; (b) θb = 3.33%; (c) θb = –3.33%; (d) θb = 6.4%; (e) θb = –6.4%; (f) final post-test undisplaced position............................................................................................ 741
Figure 7.182: Test 4B beam south end photographs – (a) pre-test undisplaced position; (b) θb = 3.33%; (c) θb = –3.33%; (d) θb = 6.4%; (e) θb = –6.4%; (f) final post-test undisplaced position............................................................................................ 742
Figure 7.183: Test 4B beam south end damage propagation – positive and negative rotations............................................................................................................... 743
Figure 7.184: Test 4B coupling beam shear force versus chord rotation behavior – (a) using beam displacements; (b) using load block displacements. .................. 745
Figure 7.185: Test 4B failure. ......................................................................................... 746
Figure 7.186: Test 4B Mb-θb behavior. ........................................................................... 747
Figure 7.187: Test 4B beam post-tensioning strand forces – (a) strand 1; (b) strand 2; (c) strand 3; (d) strand 4. ..................................................................................... 749
Figure 7.188: Test 4B FLC-θb behavior – (a) strand 1; (b) strand 2; (c) strand 3; (d) strand 4. ......................................................................................................... 750
Figure 7.189: Test 4B beam post-tensioning force versus chord rotation behavior – (a) using beam displacements; (b) using load block displacements. .................. 751

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Figure 7.190: Test 4B south end top angle-to-wall connection strand forces – (a) east strand; (b) west strand. ........................................................................................ 753
Figure 7.191: Test 4B south end angle-to-wall connection strand forces versus beam chord rotation – (a) FLC3-θb; (b) FLC4-θb.............................................................. 753
Figure 7.192: Test 4B south end seat angle-to-wall connection strand forces – (a) east strand; (b) west strand. ........................................................................................ 754
Figure 7.193: Test 4B south end angle-to-wall connection strand forces versus beam chord rotation – (a) FLC5-θb; (b) FLC6-θb.............................................................. 754
Figure 6.194: Test 4B south end total angle-to-wall connection strand forces versus beam chord rotation – (a) top connection; (b) seat connection. ................................... 755
Figure 7.195: Test 4B vertical force on the wall test region, Fwt – (a) Fwt-test duration; (b) Fwt-θb. ............................................................................................................ 756
Figure 7.196: Test 4B south end beam vertical displacement – (a) measured, ∆DT9; (b) adjusted, ∆DT9,y; (c) difference, ∆DT9,y-∆DT9. .................................................. 758
Figure 7.197: Test 4B north end beam vertical displacement – (a) measured, ∆DT10; (b) adjusted, ∆DT10,y; (c) difference, ∆DT10,y-∆DT10. .............................................. 759
Figure 7.198: Test 4B percent difference between measured and adjusted displacements – (a) south end, DT9; (b) north end, DT10. ........................................................... 759
Figure 7.199: Test 4B beam vertical displacements versus beam chord rotation – (a) ∆DT9-θb; (b) ∆DT10-θb. ..................................................................................... 760
Figure 7.200: Test 4B beam chord rotation – (a) θb from ∆DT9 and ∆DT10; (b) θb,lb from ∆LB,y. ............................................................................................... 761
Figure 7.201: Test 4B percent difference between θb and θb,lb. ...................................... 762
Figure 7.202: Test 4B difference between θb and θb,lb. ................................................... 762
Figure 7.203: Test 4B beam inclinometer rotations – (a) near beam south end, θRT1; (b) near beam midspan, θRT2. .............................................................................. 764
Figure 7.204: Test 4B difference between beam inclinometer rotations and beam chord rotations – (a) RT1; (b) RT2; (c) beam deflected shape. .................................... 765
Figure 7.205: Test 4B load block horizontal displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT3; (b) adjusted, ∆DT3,x; (c) percent difference. ......................................................... 768
Figure 7.206: Test 4B load block north end vertical displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT4; (b) adjusted, ∆DT4,y; (c) percent difference. ......................................................... 769

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Figure 7.207: Test 4B load block south end vertical displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT5; (b) adjusted, ∆DT5,y; (c) percent difference. ......................................................... 770
Figure 7.208: Test 4B percent difference between measured and adjusted displacements versus beam chord rotation – (a) DT4; (b) DT5. ................................................ 770
Figure 7.209: Test 4B load block displacements versus beam chord rotation – (a) ∆DT4-θb; (b) ∆DT5-θb; (c) ∆DT3,x-θb. ..................................................................................... 771
Figure 7.210: Test 4B load block centroid displacements – (a) x-y displacements; (b) rotation; (c) x-displacements; (d) y-displacements. ....................................... 772
Figure 7.211: Test 4B load block centroid displacements versus beam chord rotation – (a) x-displacement-θb; (b) y-displacement-θb; (c) rotation-θb. ............................ 773
Figure 7.212: Test 4B reaction block displacements – (a) ΔDT6; (b) ΔDT7; (c) ΔDT8. ...... 775
Figure 7.213: Test 4B reaction block displacements versus beam chord rotation – (a) ∆DT7-θb; (b) ∆DT8-θb; (c) ∆DT6-θb. ................................................................... 776
Figure 7.214: Test 4B reaction block centroid displacements – (a) x-y displacements; (b) rotation; (c) x-displacements; (d) y-displacements. ....................................... 777
Figure 7.215: Test 4B reaction block centroid displacements versus beam chord rotation – (a) x-displacement-θb; (b) y-displacement-θb; (c) rotation-θb. ......................... 778
Figure 7.216: Test 4B beam-to-reaction-block interface top LVDT displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT11; (b) adjusted, ∆DT11,x; (c) percent difference. ...................... 780
Figure 7.217: Test 4B beam-to-reaction-block interface middle LVDT displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT12; (b) adjusted, ∆DT12,x; (c) percent difference. ...................... 781
Figure 7.218: Test 4B beam-to-reaction-block interface bottom LVDT displacements – (a) measured, ∆DT13; (b) adjusted, ∆DT13,x; (c) percent difference. ...................... 782
Figure 7.219: Test 4B beam-to-reaction-block interface LVDT displacements versus beam chord rotation – (a) ∆DT11-θb; (b) ∆DT13-θb; (c) ∆DT12-θb. ........................... 783
Figure 7.220: Test 4B contact depth at beam-to-reaction-block interface – (a) method 1 using DT11, DT12, and DT13; (b) method 2 using RT2, DT11, and DT13; (c) method 3 using RT2 and DT12; (d) method 4 using DT12 and θb; (e) method 5 using θb, DT11, and DT13. ................................................................................. 786
Figure 7.221: Test 4B gap opening at beam-to-reaction-block interface – (a) method 1 using ∆DT11, ∆DT12, and ∆DT13; (b) method 2 using RT2, DT11, and DT13; (c) method 3 using RT2 and DT12; (d) method 4 using ∆DT12 and θb; (e) method 5 using θb, DT11, and DT13. ................................................................................. 787

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Figure 7.222: Test 4B gap opening at beam-to-reaction-block interface using method 4.............................................................................................................................. 788
Figure 7.223: Test 4B contact depth at beam-to-reaction-block interface – (a) method 4 using ∆DT12 and θb,lb; (b) 2.25% beam chord rotation cycle; (c) 5.0% beam chord rotation cycle. ...................................................................................................... 788
Figure 7.224: Test 4B wall test region concrete deformations – (a) DT14; (b) DT15. .. 790
Figure 7.225: Test 4B wall test region concrete deformations versus beam chord rotation – (a) ∆DT14-θb; (b) ∆DT15-θb. ................................................................................. 790
Figure 7.226: Test 4B beam looping reinforcement top longitudinal leg strains – (a) ε6(1)T-E; (b) ε6(1)T-W; (c) ε6(2)T-E; (d) ε6(2)T-W; (e) ε6(3)T-E; (f) ε6(3)T-W; (g) ε6MT-E; (h) ε6MT-W. ............................................................................................................ 792
Figure 7.227: Test 4B beam looping reinforcement bottom longitudinal leg strains – (a) ε6(1)B-E; (b) ε6(1)B-W; (c) ε6(2)B-E; (d) ε6(2)B-W; (e) ε6(3)B-E; (f) ε6(3)B-W; (g) ε6MB-E; (h) ε6MB-W. ............................................................................................................ 794
Figure 7.228: Test 4B beam looping reinforcement top longitudinal leg strains versus beam chord rotation – (a) ε6(1)T-E-θb; (b) ε6(1)T-W-θb; (c) ε6(2)T-E-θb; (d) ε6(2)T-W-θb; (e) ε6(3)T-E-θb; (f) ε6(3)T-W-θb; (g) ε6MT-E-θb; (h) ε6MT-W-θb. ..................................... 795
Figure 7.229: Test 4B beam looping reinforcement bottom longitudinal leg strains versus beam chord rotation – (a) ε6(1)B-E-θb; (b) ε6(1)B-W-θb; (c) ε6(2)B-E-θb; (d) ε6(2)B-W-θb; (e) ε6(3)B-E-θb; (f) ε6(3)B-W-θb; (g) ε6MB-E-θb; (h) ε6MB-W-θb. ..................................... 796
Figure 7.230: Test 4B beam looping reinforcement vertical leg strains – (a) ε6SE(E)-E; (b) ε6SE(E)-W; (c) ε6SE(I)-E; (d) ε6SE(I)-W. .................................................................. 799
Figure 7.231: Test 4B beam looping reinforcement vertical leg strains versus beam chord rotation behavior – (a) ε6SE(E)-E-θb; (b) ε6SE(E)-W-θb; (c) ε6SE(I)-E-θb; (d) ε6SE(I)-W-θb.............................................................................................................................. 800
Figure 7.232: Test 4B beam midspan transverse hoop reinforcement strains – (a) εMH-E; (b) εMH-W. ............................................................................................................. 801
Figure 7.233: Test 4B beam midspan transverse hoop reinforcement strains versus beam chord rotation behavior – (a) εMH-E-θb; (b) εMH-W-θb. .......................................... 801
Figure 7.234: Test 4B No. 3 top hoop support bar strains – (a) ε3THT-(1); (b) ε3THB-(1); (c) ε3THT-(2); (d) ε3THB-(2). ...................................................................................... 803
Figure 7.235: Test 4B No. 3 bottom hoop support bar strains – (a) ε3BHB-(1); (b) ε3BHT-(1); (c) ε3BHB-(2); (d) ε3BHT-(2). ...................................................................................... 804

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Figure 7.236: Test 4B No. 3 top hoop support bar strains versus beam chord rotation – (a) ε3THT-(1)-θb; (b) ε3THB-(1)-θb; (c) ε3THT-(2)-θb; (d) ε3THB-(2)-θb. ............................. 805
Figure 7.237: Test 4B No. 3 bottom hoop support bar strains versus beam chord rotation – (a) ε3BHB-(1)-θb; (b) ε3BHT-(1)-θb; (c) ε3BHB-(2)-θb; (d) ε3BHT-(2)-θb. ......................... 806
Figure 7.238: Test 4B beam end hoop confinement strains (east legs) – (a) ε1HB-E; (b) ε2HB-E; (c) ε3HB-E; (d) ε4HB-E. ........................................................................... 808
Figure 7.239: Test 4B beam end hoop confinement strains (west legs) – (a) ε1HB-W; (b) ε2HB-W; (c) ε3HB-W; (d) ε4HB-W........................................................................... 809
Figure 7.240: Test 4B beam end hoop confinement strains (east legs) versus beam chord rotation – (a) ε1HB-E-θb; (b) ε2HB-E-θb; (c) ε3HB-E-θb; (d) ε4HB-E-θb. ........................ 810
Figure 7.241: Test 4B beam end hoop confinement strains (west legs) versus beam chord rotation – (a) ε1HB-W-θb; (b) ε2HB-W-θb; (c) ε3HB-W-θb; (d) ε4HB-W-θb....................... 811
VOLUME IV
CHAPTER 8:
Figure 8.1: Beam shear force versus chord rotation – (a) Test 1; (b) Test 2; (c) Test 3; (d) Test 3A; (e) Test 3B; (f) Test 4; (g) Test 4A; (h) Test 4B. ........................... 818
Figure 8.2: Beam south end damage propagation – (a) Test 1; (b) Test 2; (c) Test 3; (d) Test 3A; (e) Test 3B; (f) Test 4; (g) Test 4A; (h) Test 4B. ........................... 820
Figure 8.3: Beam north end damage propagation – (a) Test 1; (b) Test 2; (c) Test 3; (d) Test 3A; (e) Test 3B; (f) Test 4; (g) Test 4A; (h) Test 4B. ........................... 822
Figure 8.4: Beam post-tensioning tendon force versus chord rotation – (a) Test 1; (b) Test 2; (c) Test 3; (d) Test 3A; (e) Test 3B; (f) Test 4; (g) Test 4A; (h) Test 4B. ......................................................................................................... 824
Figure 8.5: Damage at north beam end at θb = 6.4% – (a) Test 1; (b) Test 2. ................ 829
Figure 8.6: Damage at south beam end at θb = -3.33% – (a) Test 4; (b) Test 4B; (c) Test 2; (d) Test 3. ........................................................................................... 831
Figure 8.7: Damage at south beam end at θb = -3.33% – (a) Test 3; (b) Test 4. ............. 832
Figure 8.8: Maximum longitudinal reinforcement strains – (a) versus θb; (b) at θb = 3.33%; (c) at ultimate sustained rotation. .......................................... 835
Figure 8.9: Maximum beam end transverse reinforcement strains – (a) versus θb; (b) at θb = 3.33%; (c) at ultimate sustained rotation. .......................................... 838

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Figure 8.10: Maximum beam midspan transverse reinforcement strains – (a) versus θb; (b) at θb = 3.33%; (c) at ultimate sustained rotation. .......................................... 840
Figure 8.11: Test 4 relative energy dissipation ratio calculations.. ................................ 846
Figure 8.12: Relative energy dissipation ratio versus beam chord rotation. ................... 847
Figure 8.13: Test 4 secant stiffness calculations. ............................................................ 849
Figure 8.14: Sustained coupling beam rotations. ............................................................ 851
CHAPTER 9:
Figure 9.1: DRAIN-2DX fiber-element subassembly model. ........................................ 856
Figure 9.2: Fiber element, segments, and fibers. ............................................................ 858
Figure 9.3: Compressive stress-strain relationships of unconfined and confined concrete (Mander et al. 1988a). ......................................................................................... 860
Figure 9.4: Modeling of beam cross-sections near the ends – (a) cross-section; (b) concrete types; (c) fiber discretization .......................................................... 861
Figure 9.5: Modeling of beam specimens. ...................................................................... 862
Figure 9.6: Length of first beam fiber segment, lcr – (a) model schematic; (b) influence on Vb-θb behavior. .................................................................................................... 864
Figure 9.7: Concrete compressive stress-strain relationships for virgin beam specimens –(a) unconfined concrete; (b) confined concrete. ................................................. 865
Figure 9.8: Modeling of wall contact regions – (a) wall cross-section in vertical plane; (b) slice 1; (c) slice 2; (d) slice 3. ........................................................................ 868
Figure 9.9: Compression-only concrete fiber (i.e., Types C1 and C2) stress-strain behavior – (a) unconfined concrete; (b) confined concrete. ............................... 870
Figure 9.10: Modeling of gap opening. .......................................................................... 872
Figure 9.11: Gap/contact “post-tensioning kink” elements – (a) idealized exaggerated displaced shape of tendon inside ducts; (b) gap/contact kink element. .............. 875
Figure 9.12: Post-tensioning tendon stress-strain behavior. ........................................... 876
Figure 9.13: Assumed force versus deformation behaviors of the angle elements (adapted from Shen et al. 2006) – (a) horizontal angle element; (b) vertical angle element.............................................................................................................................. 877

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Figure 9.14: Modeling of top and seat angles (from Shen et al. 2006). ......................... 878
Figure 9.15: Assumed concrete compressive stress-strain relationship for the patched region of the reaction block. ............................................................................... 884
Figure 9.16: Assumed concrete compressive stress-strain relationships for Test 3B – (a) unconfined concrete; (b) confined concrete. ................................................. 885
Figure 9.17: Assumed concrete compressive stress-strain relationships for Tests 4A and 4B – (a) unconfined concrete; (b) confined concrete. ......................................... 885
Figure 9.18: Experimental versus analytical Vb-θb behavior for Test 2. ......................... 886
Figure 9.19: Experimental versus analytical Vb-θb behavior for Test 3. ......................... 887
Figure 9.20: Experimental versus analytical Vb-θb behavior for Test 3B. ...................... 887
Figure 9.21: Experimental versus analytical Vb-θb behavior for Test 4. ......................... 887
Figure 9.22: Experimental versus analytical Vb-θb behavior for Test 4A. ...................... 888
Figure 9.23: Experimental versus analytical Vb-θb behavior for Test 4B. ...................... 888
Figure 9.24: Experimental versus analytical beam post-tensioning behavior for Test 2 – (a) Pbp-θb behavior; (b) load block horizontal displacement. .............................. 890
Figure 9.25: Experimental versus analytical beam post-tensioning behavior for Test 3 – (a) Pbp-θb behavior; (b) load block horizontal displacement. .............................. 891
Figure 9.26: Experimental versus analytical beam post-tensioning behavior for Test 3B – (a) Pbp-θb behavior; (b) load block horizontal displacement. .............................. 892
Figure 9.27: Experimental versus analytical beam post-tensioning behavior for Test 4 – (a) Pbp-θb behavior; (b) load block horizontal displacement. .............................. 893
Figure 9.28: Experimental versus analytical beam post-tensioning behavior for Test 4A – (a) Pbp-θb behavior; (b) load block horizontal displacement. .............................. 894
Figure 9.29: Experimental versus analytical beam post-tensioning behavior for Test 4B – (a) Pbp-θb behavior; (b) load block horizontal displacement. .............................. 895
Figure 9.30: Experimental versus analytical contact depth at beam-to-reaction-block interface for Test 2 – (a) method 1 using DT11, DT12, and DT13; (b) method 2 using RT2, DT11, and DT13; (c) method 3 using RT2 and DT12; (d) method 4 using θb and DT12; (e) method 5 using θb, DT11, and DT13. ............................ 897
Figure 9.31: Experimental versus analytical contact depth at beam-to-reaction-block interface for Test 3 – (a) method 1 using DT11, DT12, and DT13; (b) method 2

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using RT1, DT11, and DT13; (c) method 3 using RT1 and DT12; (d) method 4 using θb and DT12; (e) method 5 using θb, DT11, and DT13. ............................ 898
Figure 9.32: Experimental versus analytical contact depth at beam-to-reaction-block interface for Test 3B – (a) method 1 using DT11, DT12, and DT13; (b) method 2 using RT1, DT11, and DT13; (c) method 3 using RT1 and DT12; (d) method 4 using θb and DT12; (e) method 5 using θb, DT11, and DT13. ............................ 899
Figure 9.33: Experimental versus analytical contact depth at beam-to-reaction-block interface for Test 4 – (a) method 1 using DT11, DT12, and DT13; (b) method 2 using RT2, DT11, and DT13; (c) method 3 using RT2 and DT12; (d) method 4 using θb and DT12; (e) method 5 using θb, DT11, and DT13. ............................ 900
Figure 9.34: Experimental versus analytical contact depth at beam-to-reaction-block interface for Test 4A – (a) method 1 using DT11, DT12, and DT13; (b) method 2 using RT2, DT11, and DT13; (c) method 3 using RT2 and DT12; (d) method 4 using θb and DT12; (e) method 5 using θb, DT11, and DT13. ............................ 901
Figure 9.35: Experimental versus analytical contact depth at beam-to-reaction-block interface for Test 4B – (a) method 1 using DT11, DT12, and DT13; (b) method 2 using RT2, DT11, and DT13; (c) method 3 using RT2 and DT12; (d) method 4 using θb and DT12; (e) method 5 using θb, DT11, and DT13. ............................ 902
Figure 9.36: Experimental versus analytical gap opening at beam-to-reaction-block interface for Test 2 – (a) method 1 using DT11, DT12, and DT13; (b) method 2 using RT2, DT11, and DT13; (c) method 3 using RT2 and DT12; (d) method 4 using θb and DT12; (e) method 5 using θb, DT11, and DT13. ............................ 904
Figure 9.37: Experimental versus analytical gap opening at beam-to-reaction-block interface for Test 3 – (a) method 1 using DT11, DT12, and DT13; (b) method 2 using RT1, DT11, and DT13; (c) method 3 using RT1 and DT12; (d) method 4 using θb and DT12; (e) method 5 using θb, DT11, and DT13. ............................ 905
Figure 9.38: Experimental versus analytical gap opening at beam-to-reaction-block interface for Test 3B – (a) method 1 using DT11, DT12, and DT13; (b) method 2 using RT1, DT11, and DT13; (c) method 3 using RT1 and DT12; (d) method 4 using θb and DT12; (e) method 5 using θb, DT11, and DT13. ............................ 906
Figure 9.39: Experimental versus analytical gap opening at beam-to-reaction-block interface for Test 4 – (a) method 1 using DT11, DT12, and DT13; (b) method 2 using RT2, DT11, and DT13; (c) method 3 using RT2 and DT12; (d) method 4 using θb and DT12; (e) method 5 using θb, DT11, and DT13. ............................ 907
Figure 9.40: Experimental versus analytical gap opening at beam-to-reaction-block interface for Test 4A – (a) method 1 using DT11, DT12, and DT13; (b) method 2 using RT2, DT11, and DT13; (c) method 3 using RT2 and DT12; (d) method 4 using θb and DT12; (e) method 5 using θb, DT11, and DT13. ............................ 908

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Figure 9.41: Experimental versus analytical gap opening at beam-to-reaction-block interface for Test 4B – (a) method 1 using DT11, DT12, and DT13; (b) method 2 using RT2, DT11, and DT13; (c) method 3 using RT2 and DT12; (d) method 4 using θb and DT12; (e) method 5 using θb, DT11, and DT13. ............................ 909
Figure 9.42: Concrete compressive strains at beam end – (a) Test 2; (b) Test 3; (c) Test 4.............................................................................................................................. 911
Figure 9.43: Measured average strain calculations. ........................................................ 912
Figure 9.44: Fiber element slice locations used in strain predictions. ............................ 913
Figure 9.45: Experimental versus analytical beam end longitudinal reinforcement strains for Test 2 at 5.75 in. (146 mm) – (a) top leg; (b) bottom leg. ............................. 914
Figure 9.46: Experimental versus analytical beam end longitudinal reinforcement strains at 11.50 in. (292 mm) for Test 2 – bottom leg. ................................................... 914
Figure 9.47: Experimental versus analytical beam end longitudinal reinforcement strains at 5.75 in. (146 mm) for Test 3 – (a) top leg; (b) bottom leg. ............................. 915
Figure 9.48: Experimental versus analytical beam end longitudinal reinforcement strains at 11.50 in. (292 mm) for Test 3 – top leg. ......................................................... 915
Figure 9.49: Experimental versus analytical beam end longitudinal reinforcement strains at 5.75 in. (146 mm) for Test 3B – (a) top leg; (b) bottom leg. .......................... 916
Figure 9.50: Experimental versus analytical beam end longitudinal reinforcement strains at 5.75 in. (146 mm) for Test 4 – (a) top leg; (b) bottom leg. ............................. 917
Figure 9.51: Experimental versus analytical beam end longitudinal reinforcement strains at 11.50 in. (292 mm) for Test 4 – top leg. ......................................................... 917
Figure 9.52: Experimental versus analytical beam end longitudinal reinforcement strains at 5.75 in. (146 mm) for Test 4A – (a) top leg; (b) bottom leg. .......................... 918
Figure 9.53: Experimental versus analytical beam end longitudinal reinforcement strains at 11.50 in. (292 mm) for Test 4A – top leg. ...................................................... 918
Figure 9.54: Experimental versus analytical beam end longitudinal reinforcement strains at 5.75 in. (146 mm) for Test 4B – (a) top leg; (b) bottom leg. .......................... 919
Figure 9.55: Experimental versus analytical beam end longitudinal reinforcement strains at 11.50 in. (292 mm) for Test 4B – top leg. ...................................................... 919
Figure 9.56: Experimental versus analytical longitudinal reinforcement strains at beam midspan for Test 2 – bottom leg. ........................................................................ 921

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Figure 9.57: Experimental versus analytical longitudinal reinforcement strains at beam midspan for Test 3 – top leg. .............................................................................. 921
Figure 9.58: Experimental versus analytical longitudinal reinforcement strains at beam midspan for Test 3B – top leg. ............................................................................ 921
Figure 9.59: Experimental versus analytical longitudinal reinforcement strains at beam midspan for Test 4 – (a) top leg; (b) bottom leg. ................................................ 922
Figure 9.60: Experimental versus analytical longitudinal reinforcement strains at beam midspan for Test 4A – (a) top leg; (b) bottom leg. ............................................. 923
Figure 9.61: Experimental versus analytical longitudinal reinforcement strains at beam midspan for Test 4B – (a) top leg; (b) bottom leg. ............................................. 924
Figure 9.62: Comparison of last Vb-θb cycles from Tests 4 and 4A. .............................. 925
Figure 9.63: Difference between last Vb-θb cycles from Tests 4 and 4A. ....................... 926
Figure 9.64: ABAQUS finite-element model. ................................................................ 927
Figure 9.65: Confined concrete compressive stress-strain model. ................................. 929
Figure 9.66: Comparisons between fiber-element and finite-element model results – (a) coupling shear force versus chord rotation; (b) beam-to-wall contact depth. ............................................................................................................................. 930
Figure 9.67: Principal compression stresses – (a) wall pier and coupling beam; (b) close up view of coupling beam. .................................................................................. 931
Figure 9.68: Principal tension stresses – (a) wall pier and coupling beam; (b) close up view of coupling beam. ....................................................................................... 933
Figure 9.69: Regions where principal tension stresses are greater than assumed concrete cracking stress – (a) wall pier and coupling beam; (b) close up view of coupling beam. ................................................................................................................... 934
CHAPTER 10:
Figure 10.1: Full-scale prototype subassembly. ............................................................. 939
Figure 10.2: Subassembly analytical model used in the parametric investigation. ........ 940
Figure 10.3: Assumed force versus deformation behaviors of the angle elements in the parametric investigation (from Shen et al. 2006) – (a) horizontal angle element; (b) vertical angle element.................................................................................... 941

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Figure 10.4: Behavior of prototype subassembly under monotonic loading. ................. 942
Figure 10.5: Behavior under cyclic loading – (a) prototype subassembly; (b) normalized beam post-tensioning force; (c) thicker angles; (d) no angles. ........................... 945
Figure 10.6: Behavior of parametric subassemblies – (a) ta; (b) fbpi; (c) Abp; (d) fbpi and Abp; (e) lw; (f) bb; (g) hb; (h) lb; (i) lb and hb; (j) εccu. ........................................... 949
Figure 10.7: Behavior of parametric subassemblies – (a) ta; (b) fbpi; (c) Abp; (d) fbpi and Abp; (e) lw; (f) bb; (g) hb; (h) lb; (i) lb and hb; (j) εccu. ........................................... 951
Figure 10.8: Tri-linear estimation of subassembly behavior. ......................................... 955
Figure 10.9: Concrete stress distributions at beam end – (a) tension angle yielding state; (b) tension angle strength state; (c) confined concrete crushing state. ............... 956
Figure 10.10: Linear-elastic subassembly model – (a) model with wall-contact elements; (b) model without wall-contact elements. ........................................................... 959
Figure 10.11: Beam end displacements at the tension angle strength state. ................... 962
Figure 10.12: Estimation of plastic hinge length. ........................................................... 963
Figure 10.13: Tri-linear estimation of test subassembly behavior – (a) Test 1; (b) Test 2; (c) Test 3; (d) Test 3A; (e) Test 3B; (f) Test 4; (g) Test 4A; and (h) Test 4B. ... 968

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TABLES
VOLUME I
CHAPTER 3:
Table 3.1 Beam Mild Steel Reinforcement Details .........................................................75
Table 3.2 Subassembly Test Matrix ...............................................................................108
Table 3.3 Nominal Applied Displacement History ........................................................116
CHAPTER 4:
Table 4.1 Unconfined Concrete Strength .......................................................................124
Table 4.2 Preliminary Grout Mix Tests .........................................................................128
Table 4.3 Properties of Grout Used in Coupling Beam Test Subassemblies .................129
Table 4.4 Post-Tensioning Strand Material Properties ..................................................135
Table 4.5 No. 3 Reinforcing Bar Material Properties ....................................................139
Table 4.6 No. 6 Reinforcing Bar Material Properties ....................................................139
Table 4.7 Angle Steel Material Properties .....................................................................142
Table 4.8 Material Properties Summary ........................................................................143
CHAPTER 5:
Table 5.1 Summary of Load Cells .................................................................................148
Table 5.2 Summary of Displacement and Rotation Transducers ...................................149

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Table 5.3 Summary of Beam Looping Reinforcement Longitudinal Leg Strain Gauges .......................................................................................................150
Table 5.4 Summary of Beam Transverse Reinforcement Strain Gauges ......................151
Table 5.5 Summary of Beam End Confinement Hoop Strain Gauges...........................151
Table 5.6 Summary of Beam Confined Concrete Strain Gauges ..................................152
Table 5.7 Summary of Reactio nBlock Strain Gauges ..................................................153
Table 5.8 Transducer Details .........................................................................................154
Table 5.9 Load Cell Calibrations ...................................................................................165
VOLUME II
CHAPTER 6:
Table 6.1 Ruler Measurements of Gap Opening at North Beam End ............................267
Table 6.2 Ruler Measurements of Gap Opening at South Beam End ............................352
Table 6.3 Ruler Measurements of Gap Opening at South Beam End ............................424
Table 6.4 Ruler Measurements of Gap Opening at South Beam End ............................497
VOLUME III CHAPTER 7:
Table 7.1 Ruler Measurements of Gap Opening at South Beam End ............................573
Table 7.2 Ruler Measurements of Gap Opening at South Beam End ............................646
Table 7.3 Ruler Measurements of Gap Opening at South Beam End ............................715
Table 7.4 Ruler Measurements of Gap Opening at South Beam End ............................789

lxiv
VOLUME IV CHAPTER 8:
Table 8.1 Probable Lateral Strength ..............................................................................844
Table 8.2 Relative Energy Dissipation Ratio .................................................................847
Table 8.3 Secan Stiffness ...............................................................................................849
CHAPTER 9:
Table 9.1 Typical Fiber Discretization Along Beam Length .........................................863
Table 9.2 Typical Fiber Discretization of Wall Contact Regions ..................................869

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ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
My deepest appreciation goes out to all the people that have provided support,
both professional and personal, that made the writing of this dissertation possible. My
family and friends have helped me through it all, and with out them, this would not have
been possible. Mom and Dad – thanks for the support through everything, I would have
never made it without you. Becky, LeAnne, and Tinnie – thanks for keeping me sane
(somewhat). Melanie – thanks for the friendship and motivation (i.e., coffee and heaters).
Shawn, PJ, Sascha, Timo, Suzie, Cameron, HJ, Kelly, Andrea – thanks for a break from
all the madness.
The author would also like to acknowledge all those at the University of Notre
Dame who assisted with the investigations in this dissertation: the faculty and staff of the
Department of Civil Engineering and Geological Sciences; laboratory technician Brent
Bach; fellow graduate students Brian G. Morgen, Qiang Shen, Michael May;
undergraduate students Luke Nisley and Beth Ferris; and all other graduate students in
the Department of Civil Engineering and Geological Sciences who lent a helping hand
when asked.
A special thanks to my advisor and friend, Dr. Yahya C. Kurama, for your
guidance and patience through it all. I truly appreciate all that you have shared and taught
me and the support that you provided.

lxvi
Thanks to my committee members Drs. Ahsan Kareem, David Kirkner, and Kapil
Khandelwal for their time and help in my research endeavors.
In addition, the author also acknowledges the technical support provided by Cary
Kopczynski of Cary Kopczynski and Company, Inc.; contributions to the project through
material donation and assistance of the following companies: StresCore Inc., Precision
SURE-LOCK®, Dywidag-Systems International – this support is gratefully
acknowledged. Special thanks to John Reihl and Aaron Johnson of StresCore Inc. for
their assistance.
This research was funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) under Grant
No. NSF/CMS 04-09114 and by a Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute (PCI) Daniel P.
Jenny Fellowship. The support of the NSF Program Director Dr. P.N. Balaguru and
members of the PCI Research and Development Committee is gratefully acknowledged.
The findings and conclusions in the dissertation are those of the author and do not
necessarily reflect the views of the organizations and individuals acknowledged above.

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NOTATION
abp beam post-tensioning strand area
ab,max concrete compressive stress block depth at beam end when Mb,max is
reached
ap post-tensioning strand area
A reinforcing bar area
Aa cross-sectional area of angle leg
Abar cross-sectional area of tie down bar
Abp total beam post-tensioning tendon area
Ac cross-sectional area of beam concrete
Agross gross cross-sectional area of beam
Agt cross-sectional area of beam-to-wall interface grout
Ah area enclosed by hysteresis loop
Al longitudinal reinforcement area
ACI American Concrete Institute
ASTM American Society for Testing and Materials
bb beam width
bh center-to-center width/length of confinement hoop
c contact depth, neutral axis depth
c’ neutral axis depth perpendicular to beam axis

lxviii
cb neutral axis depth in vertical direction at bottom of beam
cb,ay neutral axis depth at tension angle yield state
cb,ccc neutral axis depth at confined concrete crushing state
cb’ neutral axis depth perpendicular to beam axis at bottom of beam
cb,max neutral axis depth when Mb,max is reached
ct neutral axis depth in vertical direction at top of beam
ct’ neutral axis depth perpendicular to beam axis at top of beam
Ca compression angle force
Casi initial slip critical force of angle-to-beam connection bolts
Cayx angle yield strength in compression
Cb compression force in beam
Cb,ay compression force in beam at tension angle strength state
Cb,ccc compression force in beam at confined concrete crushing state
Cb,max compression stress resultant in beam when Mb,max is reached
Cc compression force in concrete
C1 compression-only unconfined concrete type
C2 compression-only confined concrete type
C3 linear-elastic tension unconfined concrete type
C4 linear-elastic tension confined concrete type
CD coupling degree (or level)
CIP cast-in-place
dab angle connector bolt type and diameter

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db distance from extreme compression edge of beam to centerline of
longitudinal mild steel reinforcement on tension side
dh center-to-center depth of confinement hoop
DT displacement transducer
Ea Young’s modulus for angle steel
E1 peak lateral strength in positive direction of loading
E2 peak lateral strength in negative direction of loading
Ebar Young’s modulus of tie down bar steel
Ebp Young’s modulus of beam post-tensioning strand
Ec Young’s modulus of concrete
El Young’s modulus of longitudinal mild steel reinforcement
Emax peak measured lateral strength
Ent nominal lateral strength
Epr probable strength of specimen at peak load
fa angle steel stress
fam maximum strength of angle steel
fapu ultimate strength of angle-to-wall connection post-tensioning strand
fau ultimate strength of angle steel (0.85fam)
fay angle steel yield strength
fbci initial beam concrete nominal axial stress
fbp beam post-tensioning steel stress
fbpi initial beam post-tensioning steel stress
fbpl limit of proportionality stress of beam post-tensioning strand

lxx
fbpu ultimate strength of beam post-tensioning strand
fbpy design yield strength of beam post-tensioning strand
fc stress of concrete at extreme compression face
f’c compressive strength of unconfined concrete
f’cc compressive strength of confined concrete
f’gt test day strength of beam-to-wall interface grout
fgti initial nominal stress in beam-to-wall interface grout
fhm maximum strength of beam hoop reinforcing steel
fhy yield strength of No. 3 mild steel reinforcement
fl stress in beam longitudinal mild steel reinforcement
flm maximum strength of beam longitudinal mild steel reinforcement
flu ultimate strength of beam longitudinal mild steel reinforcement
fly yield strength of beam longitudinal mild steel reinforcement
fpu maximum strength of post-tensioning strand
fpy design yield strength of post-tensioning strand
Faxis1 measured force in actuator axis 1
Faxis1,y vertical measured force in actuator axis 1
Faxis2 measured force in actuator axis 2
Faxis2,y vertical measured force in actuator axis 2
Fi,LC# initial measured force in load cell
FLCi force in Bar i
FLC# measured force in load cell
Fwt vertical force on wall test region

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Fwt,i initial vertical force on wall test region
FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency
hb beam depth
hLB load block height
hRB reaction block height
hw wall pier height
HPFRCC high performance fiber reinforced cementious composite
Ia moment of inertia for angle leg cross-section
ka distance from heel to toe of fillet of angle
K initial stiffness in positive direction of loading
K’ initial stiffness in negative direction of loading
Kaixc initial stiffness of angle in compression
Kaixt initial stiffness of angle in tension
Kaiy initial stiffness of vertical angle element
Kbi initial stiffness
lA-DT# distance between point A and ferrule insert for displacement transducer
lDT10-DT9 horizontal distance between ferrule inserts for displacement transducers
DT9 and DT10
la angle length
laxis# length of actuator between top pin and bottom pin
lb beam length
lb,cr distance to critical section along beam length
lbp length of beam post-tensioning tendon

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lb,tg beam length including grout thickness at endes
lcr length of first beam fiber element segment
lgh gage length of angle-to-beam connectors
lgl length of vertical angle leg assumed to act as a cantilever
lgv gage length of angle-to-wall connectors
lg2 effective gage length
lLB load block length
lpl plastic deformation length
lRB reaction block length
lw wall pier length
Lc distance between centroids of tension and compression side walls
LC load cell
LVDT Linear Variable Displacement Transducer
Ma angle moment
Map plastic hinge moment
Mas moment at angle strength state
May beam end moment at tension angle yielding state
Ma0 plastic moment in vertical angle vertical leg without considering shear-
flexure interaction
Mb coupling beam end moment
Mb,a contribution of top and seat angles to beam end moment
Mb,b beam end moment without angles
Mb,cr beam moment demand at critical section

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Mb,max maximum beam end moment strength
Mccc moment at confined concrete crushing state
Mcw base moment in compression side wall
Mdec decompression moment
Mtw base moment in tension side wall
Mw total base moment of coupled wall structure
Mw,unc base moment strength of uncoupled walls
nab number of bolts
Nap axial force in horizontal angle leg
Nb compressive axial force in beam
Ntwb tensile axial force in wall pier
Ncwb compressive axial force in wall pier
Pabu total design ultimate strength of angle-to-wall connection post-tensioning
strands
Papi,comp total initial force in compression angle-to-wall connection post-tensioning
strands
Pap,top total force in top angle-to-wall connection post-tensioning strands
Pap,seat total force in seat angle-to-wall connection post-tensioning strands
Pb post-tensioning force
Pb,as total force in beam post-tensioning tendon at angle strength state
Pb,ccc total force in beam post-tensioning tendon confined concrete crushing
state
Pbp beam post-tensioning tendon force

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Pbi total initial force in beam post-tensioning tendon
Pbpy yield force of beam post-tensioning tendon
Pbpu total design ultimate strength of beam post-tensioning tendon
Pby yield force of beam post-tensioning tendon
P- second order effects
PT post-tensioning
RT rotation transducer
R2 coefficient of determination
sh hoop spacing
ta angle leg thickness
tg thickness of interface grout at beam ends
tw wall pier thickness
Ta tension angle force
Tasx maximum strength of horizontal angle element in tension
Tax force in tension angle parallel to coupling beam
Tayx horizontal force in horizontal leg of tension angle at angle yielding state
Tayy vertical force in horizontal leg of tension angle at angle yielding state
Tl tensile force in beam longitudinal mild steel reinforcement
ubp,as elongation of beam post-tensioning tendon at angle strength state
ubp,ccc elongation of beam post-tensioning tendon at confined concrete crushing
state
vmax Vmax/Agross
V vertical force

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Vap plastic shear force in vertical leg of tension angle including shear-flexure
interaction
Va0 plastic shear force without shear-flexure interaction considered
Vb beam shear force
Vb,max maximum measured beam shear strength
Vmax maximum shear force demand
Vbn nominal shear strength for beam
Vout sensor output voltage
Vns total shear slip capacity
Vsa shear slip capacity provided by angles
Vsbp shear friction capacity due to beam post-tensioning force
Vss shear slip capacity
Vmax maximum measured beam shear strength
wabw bolt head/nut width measured across flat-sides
xDT# horizontal distance to ferrule insert anchor
RBx horizontal distance to centroid of reaction block
yDT# vertical distance to ferrule insert anchor
RBy vertical distance to centroid of reaction block
za lever arm for top and seat angle force couple
zc lever arm for coupling beam compression force couple
α equivalent rectangular compressive stress block factor
α diagonal reinforcement inclination

lxxvi
αDT# angle change for displacement transducer string during displacement of
subassembly
αg gap opening rotation at beam end
β equivalent rectangular compressive stress block factor
βb relative energy dissipation ratio
asx tension deformation of horizontal angle element at angle strength state
ax tension deformation of horizontal angle element
ay deformation of vertical angle element
ayx tension deformation of horizontal angle element at angle yielding state
ayy yield deformation of vertical angle element
i,DT# initial extended length of displacement transducer
f,DT# final extended length of displacement transducer
Δaxis1 measured displacement of actuator axis 1
Δaxis2 measured displacement of actuator axis 2
Δaxis1,x measured horizontal displacement of actuator axis 1
Δaxis2,x measured horizontal displacement of actuator axis 2
Δaxis1,y measured vertical displacement of actuator axis 1
Δaxis2,y measured vertical displacement of actuator axis 2
ΔDT# measured displacement of displacement transducer
ΔDT#,x horizontal displacement of displacement transducer
ΔDT#,y vertical displacement of displacement transducer
Δg horizontal size of gap opening at beam end
Δgb gap opening at bottom of beam

lxxvii
Δgn gap opening at north beam end
Δgs gap opening at south beam end
Δgt gap opening top of beam
ΔLB,x horizontal displacement at load block centroid
ΔLB,y vertical displacement at load block centroid
ΔRB,x horizontal displacement at reaction block centroid
ΔRB,y vertical displacement at reaction block centroid
Δi,DT# initial extended length of displacement transducer string from transducer
body to ferrule insert location (including lead wire)
Δf,DT# final extended length of displacement transducer string from transducer
body to ferrule insert location (including lead wire)
a angle steel strain
am strain at fam
au strain at 0.85fam
ay angle steel yield strain
bp strain in beam post-tensioning steel
bpl strain at fbpl
bpu strain at fbpu
bpy fbpy divided by measured Young’s modulus
c concrete strain at extreme compression edge of beam
’c unconfined concrete crushing strain at f’c
cc strain at f’cc
cc,max maximum confined concrete strain

lxxviii
ccu ultimate crushing strain of confined concrete
’cu assumed unconfined concrete crushing strain
gtm strain at f’gt
gtu strain at 0.85f’gt
hu strain at 0.85fhm
hm strain at fhm
hy strain at fhy
l strain in beam longitudinal reinforcing steel in tension
LCi strain measurement in vertical tie down bar
lm strain at flm
lu strain at 0.85flm
ly strain at fly
py design yield strain of post-tensioning strand
# measured strain in strain gauge transducer
s strain in mild steel reinforcement
unl tension unloading stiffness factor for horizontal angle element
plastic hinge rotation
λ modification factor related to unit weight of concrete
μcc coefficient of friction for concrete-against-concrete surfaces
φ strength reduction factor
φh nominal diameter of hoop bars
φp nominal post-tensioning strand diameter

lxxix
φpi plastic curvature
as tension angle strength state beam chord rotation
ay tension angle yield state beam chord rotation
axis1 rotation of actuator axis 1
axis2 rotation of actuator axis 2
b beam chord rotation
b,lb beam chord rotation calculated from load block displacements
ccc confined concrete crushing state beam chord rotation
el elastic beam chord rotation
LB rotation at centroid of load block
pl plastic beam chord rotation
RB rotation at centroid of reaction block
RT# measured rotation in rotation transducer

1
CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
This chapter provides an introduction for the dissertation as follows: (1) problem
statement; (2) research objectives; (3) research scope; (4) research significance; and (5)
overview of dissertation.
1.1 Problem Statement
Historically, concrete structural walls have performed extremely well as primary
lateral load resisting systems under earthquake loading. When coupled together,
structural walls demonstrate an increase in lateral strength and stiffness, allowing a
smaller length and/or number of walls to be used to achieve the required design lateral
strength and stiffness of a building. Coupling beams are used at the floor and roof levels
to transfer shear forces between the wall piers and to dissipate energy over the height of
the structure.
Previous research on coupled wall structural systems has focused on cast-in-place
reinforced concrete coupling beams monolithic with the wall piers and hybrid systems
using steel coupling beams embedded into the wall piers (e.g., Harries et al. 2000;
Harries 2001). More recent research at the University of Notre Dame (Shen and Kurama

2
2000, 2002a,b; Kurama and Shen 2004; Kurama et al. 2004, 2006; Shen et al. 2006) has
introduced a new type of hybrid coupled wall system using steel coupling beams that are
not embedded into the walls. In this system, coupling is achieved by post-tensioning the
beams and the wall piers together at the floor and roof levels using unbonded post-
tensioning strands. The application of similar methods has also been studied in precast
concrete moment frames (e.g., Cheok and Lew 1993; El-Sheikh et al. 1999; Priestley et
al. 1999; Ertas et al. 2006) and steel moment frames (e.g., Ricles et al. 2002;
Christopoulos et al. 2002; Rojas et al. 2005; Garlock et al. 2008; Kim and Christopoulos
2009).
Unbonded post-tensioned coupling beams offer important advantages over
conventional systems with monolithic cast-in-place reinforced concrete beams and
embedded steel beams, such as simpler detailing for the beams and the wall piers,
reduced damage to the structure, and an ability to self-center, thus reducing the residual
lateral displacements of the structure after a large earthquake. The research described in
this dissertation extends the use of post-tensioning to precast concrete coupling beams.
The use of precast beams provides the following advantages over unbonded post-
tensioned steel beams: (1) central location for the post-tensioning strands, resulting in
reduced post-tensioning hardware and operations; (2) better fire and environmental
protection for the post-tensioning strands, provided by the surrounding concrete; (3)
higher concrete-against-concrete friction resistance to resist sliding shear at the beam
ends; (4) simpler construction due to the use of high performance grout instead of steel
shim plates at the beam-to-wall interfaces for construction tolerances and beam
alignment; and (5) single trade construction.

3
As an example, Figure 1.1 shows an eight-story coupled wall system and Figure
1.2 shows a post-tensioned coupling beam subassembly consisting of a precast concrete
coupling beam and the adjacent concrete wall regions at a floor level (the highlighted
region in Figure 1.1). High-strength multi-strand tendons run through the wall piers and
the beams providing the post-tensioning force to the system. The post-tensioning tendons
are unbonded over their entire length (by placing the tendons inside ungrouted ducts) and
are anchored to the structure only at the outer ends of the wall piers. The beam-to-wall
connection regions include steel top and seat angles. High-performance fiber-reinforced
grout is used at the beam-to-wall interfaces for construction tolerances and for alignment
purposes.
lw lw lb
2nd floor
3rd floor
4th floor
5th floor
6th floor
7th floor
8th floor
roof
hw
wallpier
wallpier
Figure 1.1: Multi story coupled wall system.

4
A
coupling
post-tensioning tendon
wall
connection region
post-tensioningtendon anchorage
angle
lw
concrete confinement
beam
region
A
lw lb
fiber-reinforcedgrout
section at A-A
hbabp
bb confined concrete
Figure 1.2: Coupled wall system floor-level subassembly.
If the coupled wall structure is displaced with lateral forces acting from left to
right, the expected exaggerated idealized deformed configuration of the subassembly is
shown in Figure 1.3. The non-linear deformations of the beam occur primarily due to the
opening of gaps at the beam-to-wall interfaces. The application of the post-tensioning
force develops a friction force at the beam-to-wall interfaces, supporting the beam. Under
large displacements, a properly designed subassembly is expected to experience yielding
in the top and seat angles. The angles provide redundancy in support of the beam as well
as energy dissipation during an earthquake. The angles, which are designed to be
sacrificial and can be replaced after the earthquake, also provide a part of the moment
resistance at the beam ends and prevent sliding of the beam against the wall piers
(together with friction induced by post-tensioning). Bonded longitudinal mild steel
reinforcement is used in the beam to transfer the angle forces into the beam. The bonded

5
mild steel reinforcement is not continuous across the beam-to-wall interfaces, and thus,
does not contribute to the coupling forces.
contact
gap opening
region
reference line
beam-to-wall
Figure 1.3: Coupled wall system floor-level subassembly idealized exaggerated deformed configuration.
As gaps open at the beam-to-wall interfaces, large compressive stresses due to the
post-tensioning force are pushed toward the corners of the beam forming a diagonal
compression strut. As shown in Figure 1.4, it is through the formation of this large
compression strut that the coupling shear force Vb is developed. The amount of coupling
between the wall piers and the energy dissipation of the subassembly can be controlled by
varying the total post-tensioning force Pb (which controls the compression force in the
beam Cb), the tension and compression angle forces Ta and Ca, the beam depth hb, and the
beam length lb. To resist the compression stresses that develop in the coupling beam and
the wall piers due to the post-tensioning force, concrete confinement is provided in the
contact regions at the beam-to-wall interfaces.

6
coupling beamTa
=lb
Cb zc + (Ta + Ca) za
Ta
Ca
Ca
za
Cb
lb
Vb
Vb
Vb
zc hb
diagonal compressionstrut
Cb
Figure 1.4: Coupling beam forces.
As compared with monolithic cast-in-place reinforced concrete coupling beams,
unbonded post-tensioned precast concrete beams provide: (1) better quality control due to
factory casting; (2) simpler detailing due to lack of mild steel reinforcement crossing the
beam-to-wall joints and significantly reduced shear reinforcement in the beams; and (3)
self-centering capability due to the restoring effect of the post-tensioning force.
Before the initiation of gap opening, the post-tensioning force creates an initial
lateral stiffness in the precast concrete coupling beam similar to the initial uncracked
stiffness of a comparable monolithic cast-in-place reinforced concrete beam. Gap
opening at the ends of the precast beam results in a reduction in the lateral stiffness,
allowing the system to soften and undergo large nonlinear rotations. The post-tensioning
force controls the size of the gaps and the contact depth between the wall piers and the
coupling beam. As the wall is displaced laterally, the tensile forces in the post-tensioning
strands increase, thus, resisting gap opening. Upon removal of the lateral loads, the post-
tensioning strands provide a restoring force that tends to close the gaps, thus returning the

7
beam and the wall piers towards their undeformed configuration, leaving little or no
residual displacements (i.e., self-centering capability). Unbonding of the post-tensioning
strands has two important advantages: (1) it results in a uniform strain distribution in the
strands, thus, delaying the nonlinear straining (i.e., yielding) of the steel; and (2) it
significantly reduces the amount of tensile stresses transferred to the concrete as the
strands elongate under lateral loading, thus reducing cracking in the wall piers and the
coupling beam.
1.2 Research Objectives
No previous research exists on unbonded post-tensioned precast concrete
coupling beams. In accordance with the research need in this area, the broad objective of
this dissertation is to investigate the behavior, design, and analysis of these structures
under lateral loading. This can be further broken into five specific objectives:
(1) To conduct a large-scale experimental evaluation on the nonlinear lateral load
behavior of floor-level coupled wall subassemblies with unbonded post-tensioned
precast concrete coupling beams;
(2) To validate the use of unbonded post-tensioned precast concrete coupling beams
in seismic regions based on the test results;
(3) To develop and validate nonlinear analytical models for floor-level coupled wall
subassemblies with unbonded post-tensioned precast concrete coupling beams;

8
(4) To conduct a parametric analytical investigation on the behavior of these
structures under lateral loads, thus expanding the results from the experiments;
and
(5) To develop seismic design guidelines, design tools and procedures, and practical
application recommendations based on the experimental and analytical tasks
conducted.
1.3 Research Scope
To achieve the objectives above, the lateral load behavior and design of
reinforced concrete coupled wall subassemblies that use unbonded post-tensioned precast
concrete coupling beams are investigated in this dissertation. The research is limited to
the coupling of two identical walls with rectangular cross-section. The coupling of more
than two walls or of non-rectangular walls is not within the scope of the dissertation.
Furthermore, the study is limited to floor-level coupled wall subassemblies. The behavior
and design of multi-story coupled wall structures is not investigated.
Four half-scale coupled wall subassemblies are constructed to conduct eight tests
with varied design parameters, such as: (1) beam depth; (2) amount of post-tensioning
steel; and (3) angle thickness. The experimental results are used to evaluate the nonlinear
behavior of the coupling system as well as to investigate practical design and
construction applications.
A two-dimensional (in the plane of the walls) analytical model for the coupling
system is developed using the DRAIN-2DX program (Prakash et al. 1993). The model is

9
verified by comparing the analytical results with results obtained from the experimental
program as well as with results from a finite element model developed using the
ABAQUS program (Hibbitt et al. 2002). It is assumed that the structure undergoes in-
plane deformations only (i.e., torsional and out-of-plane deformations are not
considered). Interactions between the coupled wall system and the rest of the building
(e.g., the floor system/diaphragm) are not included.
To expand the results from the experiments, the analytical models are used to
conduct parametric nonlinear static monotonic and reversed cyclic lateral load analyses
of isolated coupled wall subassemblies. The effects of selected structural design
parameters on the lateral load behavior of the system are investigated, including: (1)
beam dimensions; (2) wall dimensions; (3) post-tensioning properties; (4) angle
properties; and (5) concrete properties. The findings from the parametric investigation are
used to develop simplified procedures and tools for the seismic design and nonlinear
response evaluation of coupled wall structures that use precast concrete coupling beams.
1.4 Research Significance
The research described in this dissertation provides fundamental information on
the lateral load analysis, behavior, design, and construction of a new type of precast
concrete coupling system. Ultimately, this information is needed as background for the
development of codified seismic analysis, design, and construction specifications for the
structure, comparable to those available for conventional coupling systems.

10
1.5 Overview of Dissertation
The remainder of the dissertation is organized into the following 10 chapters
(Chapters 2 – 11):
Chapter 2 presents a review of the previous analytical and experimental research
on the seismic behavior and design of coupled wall structures as well as structures with
unbonded post-tensioning.
Chapter 3 provides an overview of the half-scale experimental program that was
conducted on floor-level unbonded post-tensioned coupled wall subassemblies. The test
set-up, specimen design, and test procedure are presented.
Chapter 4 describes the material testing procedures and measured properties of
the materials used in the coupled wall subassembly experiments.
Chapter 5 describes the data instrumentation and response parameters for the
subassembly experiments.
Chapter 6 presents the results from the four “virgin” beam subassembly
experiments.
Chapter 7 presents the results from the four “non-virgin” beam (i.e., previously
tested beam) subassembly experiments.
Chapter 8 summarizes and compares the results from all eight subassembly
experiments conducted as part of this dissertation (i.e., both “virgin” and “non-virgin”
beam tests).
Chapter 9 describes the analytical modeling of floor-level unbonded post-
tensioned coupled wall subassemblies. The verification of the analytical models based on
comparisons with the results from the experimental program is presented.

11
Chapter 10 presents a parametric analytical investigation on the design and
behavior of unbonded post-tensioned coupled wall subassemblies under lateral loading. A
simplified closed-form procedure to estimate the monotonic lateral load behavior of the
subassemblies is developed based on fundamental principles of equilibrium, kinematics,
and constitutive relationships.
Finally, Chapter 11 summarizes the findings from the research program, presents
the conclusions, and describes the future work needed.

12
CHAPTER 2
BACKGROUND
This chapter provides an overview of background information on the following
topics related to the research described in this dissertation: (1) coupled wall structural
systems; (2) monolithic cast-in-place concrete coupled wall systems; (3) unbonded post-
tensioning; (4) unbonded post-tensioned hybrid coupled wall systems; (5) unbonded post-
tensioned precast concrete moment frames; and (6) behavior of top and seat angles.
2.1 Coupled Wall Structural Systems
Concrete structural walls can be designed as efficient primary lateral load
resisting systems particularly suited for ductile response with very good energy
dissipation characteristics when regular patterns of openings (e.g., windows, doors,
and/or mechanical penetrations) are arranged in a rational pattern (Park and Paulay 1975;
Paulay and Priestley 1992). Examples are shown in Figure 2.1 where wall piers are
interconnected or coupled to each other by beams at the floor and roof levels.

13
wallwall pier
couplingbeam
pier
Figure 2.1: Coupled wall structures.
The desired failure mechanism for a coupled wall structural system involves the
formation of plastic hinges in most or all of the coupling beams and also at the base of
each wall pier. In this manner, the dissipation of seismic input energy is distributed over
the height of the structure (rather than being concentrated in a few stories), similar to the
strong column-weak girder design philosophy for ductile moment resisting frames. The
behavior and mechanisms of lateral resistance of a single (i.e., uncoupled) wall and two
coupled wall systems are compared in Figure 2.2. The gravity loads acting on the walls
are ignored for this example and it is assumed that a lateral force in the plane of the walls
is applied at the top. The base moment resistance, Mw,unc of the uncoupled wall [Figure
2.2(a)] is developed in the traditional form by flexural stresses, while axial forces as well
as moments are resisted in the coupled wall systems [Figures 2.2(b) and 2.2(c)]. When a
coupled wall system is pushed from left to right under lateral loads, tensile axial forces
(Ntwb) develop in the left wall pier and compressive axial forces (Ncwb) develop in the
right wall pier due to the coupling effect. The magnitude of these wall axial forces is

14
equal to the sum of the shear forces of all the coupling beams at the upper floor and roof
levels; and thus, depends on the stiffness and strength of those beams.
As a result of the axial forces that develop in the walls, the lateral stiffness and
strength of a coupled wall system is significantly larger than the combined stiffness and
strength of the individual constituent walls (i.e., wall piers) with no coupling. The total
base moment, Mw of the coupled wall structures in Figures 2.2(b) and 2.2(c) can be
written as:
ccwbcwtww LNMMM (2.1)
where, Mtw and Mcw are the base moments in the tension and compression side walls,
respectively, Ncwb = Ntwb, and Lc is the distance between the centroids of the tension and
compression side walls. Then, the contribution of the wall axial forces from coupling to
the total lateral resistance of the system can be expressed by the coupling degree, CD as:
ccwbcwtw
ccwb
w
ccwb
LNMM
LN
M
LNCD
(2.2)
The coupling degree, which can be controlled by changing the strength and
stiffness of the beams relative to the wall piers as shown in Figures 2.2(b) and 2.2(c), is
an important parameter for the seismic behavior and design of coupled wall structures.
Too little coupling (i.e., too small a coupling degree) yields a system with behavior
similar to uncoupled walls and the benefits due to coupling are minimal. Too much
coupling (i.e., too large a coupling degree) will add excessive stiffness to the system,
causing the coupled walls to perform as a single pierced wall with little or no energy
dissipation provided by the beams, and will result in large axial forces in the foundation.

15
The desirable “range” for the amount of coupling lies in between these two extremes and
should be selected properly in seismic design as investigated by El-Tawil et al. (2002).
Mw,unc
(a) (b) (c)
Lc Lc
Mtw Mcw
strong beam
Mtw Mcw
weakbeam
Vb Vb
N =Ncwb twbNtwb N =Ncwb twbNtwb
Figure 2.2: Wall systems – (a) uncoupled wall; (b) coupled wall with strong beams; (c) coupled wall with weak beams.
2.2 Monotonic Cast-in-Place Concrete Coupled Wall Systems
During the last few decades, an extensive amount of experimental and analytical
research has been conducted on monolithic cast-in-place reinforced concrete coupled wall
systems for seismic regions (e.g., Paulay 1971, 1977; Paulay and Binney 1974;
Srichatrapimuk 1976; Paulay and Santhakumar 1976; Fintel and Ghosh 1980, 1982;
Aktan and Bertero 1981, 1984, 1987; Aktan et al. 1982; Aristizabal-Ochoa 1987;
Saatcioglu et al. 1987; Pekau and Cistra 1989; Subedi 1991a, 1991b; Chaallal 1992;

16
Chaallal and Gauthier 2000; Chaallal et al. 1996a, 1996b; Tassios et al. 1996; Harries et
al. 1998; Teshigawara 2000; Sugaya et al. 2000; Harries et al. 2000; Munshi and Ghosh
2000; Harries 2001; Cosenza and Pecce 2001; Paulay 2002; Lee and Watanabe 2003;
Canbolat et al. 2005; Wallace 2007; Baczkowski and Kuang 2008). The behavior and
design of the monolithic cast-in-place reinforced concrete coupling beams in these
systems are significantly different than the behavior and design of the unbonded post-
tensioned precast concrete coupling beams investigated in this research; and thus, a
complete review of the previous research listed above is beyond the scope of this
dissertation. However, some of the important findings and conclusions are summarized
below.
2.2.1 Behavior and Design of Cast-in-Place Concrete Coupling Beams
The primary role of coupling beams during an earthquake is the transfer of forces
from one wall pier to the other. In considering the seismic behavior and design of coupled
wall structures, it should be noted that significantly larger nonlinear deformations occur
in the coupling beams than in the wall piers that are coupled. The previous research has
shown that short monolithic cast-in-place reinforced concrete coupling beams with
conventional longitudinal and transverse steel reinforcement inevitably fail in diagonal
tension or sliding shear [Figures 2.3(a) and 2.3(b)], and have limited or no ductility

17
capacity (Paulay and Priestley 1992). The displacement capacity of these systems is
often exceeded by the demand (Harries 2001). The consideration of large ductility demands
under many load reversalshas led to the development of a bracing mechanism that
utilizes diagonal steel reinforcement in concrete coupling beams as shown in Figure 2.3(c).
This allows for the transfer of diagonal tension and compression forces to the
reinforcement during the lateral displacements of the beam, resulting in a considerably ductile
behavior with good energy dissipation characteristics.
(a) (b) (c)
Figure 2.3: Reinforced concrete coupling beams [Paulay and Priestley (1992)] – (a) diagonal tension failure; (b) sliding shear failure; (c) diagonal
reinforcement.
2.2.2 Current Code Requirements for Cast-in-Place Concrete Coupling Beams
For seismic design of cast-in-place concrete coupling beams, ACI 318-08 Section
21.9.7 specifies the required reinforcement to achieve adequate resistance and ductility.
Coupling beams with length to depth aspect ratios greater than 4 or less than 2 are outside
the typical range of coupling beams used in the U.S., and thus, are not discussed here.
Coupling beams with aspect ratios between 2 and 4 are provided with two design options.
In the first option, transverse and longitudinal reinforcement may be used according to

18
Sections 21.5.2 through 21.5.4. However, these sections are specific to flexural members
of special moment frames and it is stated in Section 21.5.1 of ACI 318-08 that:
Design rules derived from experience with relatively slender
members do not apply directly to members with length-to-depth ratios less than 4, especially with respect to shear strength.
The second option allows the coupling beam to be reinforced with two interesting
groups of diagonal bars placed symmetrically about the midspan. Test results have shown
that diagonal reinforcement is effective only if the bars are placed at a large inclination
(indicated by α in Figure 2.4); and thus, the use of diagonally reinforced coupling beams
is limited to beams with length-to-depth aspect ratios smaller than 4. Due to the presence
of high shear demands under large nonlinear reversed-cyclic rotations, the most common
practice for cast-in-place coupling beams with length-to-depth aspect ratios similar to the
beams investigated in this dissertation (i.e., aspect ratio < 4) is the diagonally-reinforced
system. Thus, the diagonal reinforcement requirements in ACI 318-08 are discussed
further below.
To provide the required lateral strength and ductility in seismic regions, diagonal
bars in coupling beams are typically placed symmetrically in two or more layers. Each
group of bars must have a minimum of four bars in two layers. The bars are then confined
with one of two different options. The first option provides transverse reinforcement on
each group of diagonal bars. The second option confines the entire beam cross-section
instead of confining each group of bars. These two different design options are shown in
Figure 2.4.
The use of diagonal reinforcement creates coupling beam designs that are very
difficult to construct due to the difficulty in placing the diagonal bars, especially at the

19
beam midspan regions where the two groups of bars intersect. The diagonal bars must
also extend into the wall piers, interfering with the construction of the walls and creating
a challenge for the placement of the reinforcement at the beam-to-wall interfaces. A
photograph of a typical diagonally reinforced coupling beam is shown in Figure 2.5.
(a)
(b)
Figure 2.4: Diagonal reinforcement requirements for coupling beams [from ACI 318 (2008)] – (a) confinement of each group of diagonal bars;
(b) confinement of entire beam cross-section.

20
Figure 2.5: Diagonally reinforced coupling beam (from Magnusson Klemencic Associates).
2.2.3 Analysis and Modeling of Cast-in-Place Concrete Coupled Wall Systems
As shown in Figure 2.6, previous research has often adopted an “equivalent
frame” analogy for the nonlinear inelastic hysteretic modeling and analysis of coupled
wall structural systems. The properties of the wall piers and the beams are concentrated at
the cetroid of each member. In the analytical model, rigid end zones (or kinematic
constraints) are typically necessary to model where the coupling beams frame into the
walls. Rigid end zones may also be needed in the wall piers depending on the stiffness of
the coupling beams. Nonlinear shear deformations in wall piers with aspect ratios, hw/lw
larger than 4 are often neglected (Paulay and Priestley 1992).

21
outline of structure
analyticalmodel
rigidend zones
hw
lw lw lw lwlb lb
Figure 2.6: Equivalent frame analytical models.
It is emphasized that the validity of the frame analogy used to model the behavior
of coupled wall structures can vary considerably depending on the stiffnesses assumed
for the members and the lengths of the rigid end zones. Furthermore, nonlinear shear
deformations in deep coupling beams and the axial “elongation” and “shortening” of the
tension and compression side wall piers due to axial-flexural interaction cannot be
represented using frame analogy. Nonlinear truss models have been used to predict the
nonlinear shear behavior of reinforced concrete members, including coupling beams
(Park and Eom 2007).
As described later in this dissertation, the nonlinear lateral load behavior of
unbonded post-tensioned coupling beams is governed by axial-flexural effects and gap
opening at the beam-to-wall interfaces rather than shear effects. Thus, the modeling of

22
the coupled wall structures in this research is done using fiber beam-column elements. A
significant advantage of using fiber elements instead of frame elements is that a
reasonably accurate model can be constructed accounting for axial-flexural interaction
(including axial elongation and shortening) in the beam and wall members, inelastic
behavior of concrete and steel, and gap opening at the beam-to-wall interfaces based only
on the dimensions of the model structure and uniaxial stress-strain properties for the
materials.
2.2.4 Coupling Beam Database
ACI ITG-5.1 (ACI 2008) defines minimum seismic acceptance criteria for
unbonded post-tensioned precast structural walls, including coupled walls, based on
experimental evidence and analysis. For use in comparisons with the unbonded post-
tensioned coupling beam specimens tested in this dissertation, Figure 2.7 shows the
measured ultimate sustained rotations of monolithic cast-in-place reinforced concrete
coupling beam test specimens that the author was able to find in the literature. The
database in Figure 2.7 [adapted from Dr. Kent Harries of the University of Pittsburgh
(personal communication)] includes research conducted by Barney et al. 1978; Bristowe
2000; Canbolat et al. 2005; Galano and Vignoli 2000; and Tassios et al. 1996. Based on
ACI ITG-5.1 (ACI 2008), the ultimate “sustained” rotation is defined as the largest
rotation that a beam is able to reach with no more than 20% drop in shear resistance
during three fully reversed cycles. The ultimate sustained rotation in Figure 2.7 is plotted
against the beam length-to-depth aspect ratio. The vertical highlighted region in the
figure denotes the most typical range of beam length-to-depth aspect ratios (between 2.5

23
and 4) used in the U.S., while the horizontal highlighted region depicts the FEMA 356
(2000) collapse prevention rotation level for monolithic cast-in-place coupling beams
with diagonal reinforcement. Note that, based on the ACI ITG-5.1 (ACI 2008) definition,
previous coupling beam tests under monotonic loading or under cyclic loading with fewer
than three repeated cycles at each displacement increment are not included in Figure 2.7.
00 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
2
4
8
10
beam length/depth (lb/hb) aspect ratio
ult
ima
te s
ust
ain
ed r
ota
tion
(%
)
typical US range
6
w/ diagonal reinforcement
diag. reinf. w/ HPFRCC
w/ rhombic reinforcement
w/o diagonal reinforcement
FEMA 356 level for CIPbeams with diagonal reinf.
Figure 2.7: Measured ultimate sustained rotations for monolithic cast-in-place reinforced concrete coupling beams.

24
2.3 Unbonded Post-Tensioning
An unbonded post-tensioned concrete structure is different than a bonded post-
tensioned structure in that the bond between the post-tensioning steel and the concrete is
intentionally prevented. This allows independent movement of the post-tensioning tendon
relative to the concrete member (except for anchorage locations at the ends); and thus, an
assumption of strain compatibility between the tendon and the adjacent concrete cannot
be made. Instead, the tendon’s change in strain is constant (ignoring friction forces) over
the unbonded length of the tendon. The change in strain at any point in an unbonded post-
tensioning tendon is the average change in strain due to member deformations in the
concrete adjacent to the tendon over the total unbonded length of the tendon. Therefore,
the tendon strain (and thus, stress) depends on the total change in the length of the
concrete adjacent to the tendon over the unbonded length rather than section
deformations. As a result of the uniform distribution of strains, unbonded tendons reach
the nonlinear strain range at larger overall member deformations than bonded tendons,
which is the main reason why they are preferred for seismic applications.
Unlike the axial-flexural behavior of structural members constructed using
unbonded post-tensioning, for a bonded post-tensioned member, it is reasonable and
customary to assume that the change in the tendon strain is the same as the change in the
concrete strain adjacent to the tendon. In other words, after grouting, an assumption of
strain compatibility between the tendon and the adjacent concrete can be made. Thus, the
strain at any point of the tendon can be calculated from the deformation of the
corresponding section (i.e., curvature and average axial strain) by assuming that plane

25
sections remain plane during axial-flexural deformations. Therefore, the change in strain
at any point in a bonded tendon depends only on the deformations at that section.
To achieve an unbonded post-tensioned system, tendons can be placed either
internal or external to the structural members (e.g., beams). Internal tendons are placed
inside ducts that, unlike the ducts in bonded construction, are not filled with grout.
Greased tendons and plastic sheathing may be used to reduce the friction forces that may
develop between the ducts and the tendons. Ducts may be oversized to ease the
placement of the tendons during construction and to prevent the tendons from coming
into contact with the ducts as the structure displaces. The elimination of the grouting
operation offers considerable advantages (i.e., reduced number of operations during
construction) in the application of post-tensioning. However, additional measures may be
needed for the corrosion protection of the tendons (e.g., the use of encapsulated anchors
and tendons).
Internal and external unbonded post-tensioned construction types differ in the
displaced shape of the tendon. The displaced shape of internal tendons follows the
displaced shape of the structural member, unless the ducts are sufficiently oversized. The
displaced shape of external tendons is generally different from that of the member except
at deviator or saddle point locations anchored to the concrete. The use of deviator points
in seismic applications is not common in order to achieve symmetric behavior under
reversed cyclic loading.
The application of unbonded post-tensioning in steel structural members is similar
to the application of external post-tensioning in concrete members. The post-tensioning

26
tendons can be placed outside or inside (as in the case of hollow cross-sections) the steel
member.
2.4 Unbonded Post-Tensioned Hybrid Coupled Wall Systems
Recent research at the University of Notre Dame (Shen and Kurama 2000,
2002a,b; Kurama and Shen 2004; Kurama et al. 2004, 2006; Shen et al. 2006)
investigated the use of unbonded post-tensioning to couple reinforced concrete walls with
steel coupling beams that are not embedded into the walls. As shown in Figure 2.8 for a
floor-level subassembly, coupling is achieved by post-tensioning the beams and the wall
piers together at the floor and roof levels, similar to the development of coupling in the
precast concrete system investigated in this dissertation. The beam-to-wall joint regions
include concrete confinement reinforcement, embedded steel plates, shim plates, and top
and seat angles. The embedded steel plates are used to transfer the large compression
stresses in the beam flanges into the wall concrete. The shim plates at the beam-to-wall
interfaces serve two purposes: (1) to ensure contact between the beam flanges and the
wall piers during the nonlinear cyclic lateral displacements of the structure; and (2) to
accommodate construction tolerances and facilitate alignment of the beam. If necessary,
reinforcing cover plates may be used to strengthen and stiffen the flanges in the large
compression stress regions at the beam ends.

27
section at A-A
A
coupling
PT tendon
joint
anchorage
embedded
angle
cover
plate
spiralbeam
plate
wall region
region
A
shimplate post-tensioning
tendons
Figure 2.8: Hybrid coupled wall subassembly [from Shen and Kurama (2002b)].
Figure 2.9(a) shows the measured coupling beam shear force versus beam chord
rotation behavior of a half-scale steel coupling beam subassembly similar to the one in
Figure 2.8 (Shen et al. 2006). The hysteresis loops indicate desirable seismic
characteristics with stable behavior up to 8.0% rotation and significant energy
dissipation. Figure 2.9(b) shows a close-up view of the beam end at 7.0% rotation,
demonstrating that most of the nonlinear rotations of the beam occur through the opening
of gaps at the ends. The rotations of the beam with respect to the wall piers result in the
yielding of the top and seat angles in tension and compression.
As a result of post-tensioning, the initial stiffness of an unbonded post-tensioned
steel coupling beam before the initiation of gap opening is similar to the initial stiffness
of an embedded steel coupling beam with the same dimensions. The hysteresis loops in
Figure 2.9(a) indicate that the post-tensioning strands provide a restoring force such that
the gaps are closed upon unloading, thus pulling the beam towards its undeformed

28
position with little residual displacements (i.e., upon unloading, the hysteresis loops go
towards the origin indicating a large self-centering capability). The initial stiffness of the
subassembly is preserved even after unloading from very large nonlinear rotations.
The sum of the coupling beam post-tensioning strand forces, Pb measured during
the test is plotted in Figure 2.9(c). The post-tensioning force is normalized with respect to
the total design strength of the post-tensioning strands, Σabpfbpu, where abp is the beam
post-tensioning strand area and fbpu is the ultimate design strength of the post-tensioning
strand. Before the initiation of gap opening, the forces in the post-tensioning strands are
similar to the initial post-tensioning forces. As the specimen is displaced further, the
strand forces increase, thus resisting gap opening. Due to the use of unbonded post-
tensioning strands, the strains in the strands remain small and the nonlinear straining (i.e.,
yielding) of the tendons is significantly delayed. Thus, most of the initial post-tensioning
force is maintained throughout the cyclic displacement history of the structure as long as
the anchorage regions for the tendons do not deteriorate.

29
0
beam chord rotation, θb (%)
bea
m s
hea
r fo
rce,
Vb [
kip
s (k
N)]
0-10 10
60(267)
-60(-267)
anglefracture
(a)
(b)
Figure 2.9: Hybrid coupled wall subassembly experiments [adapted from Kurama et al. (2006)] – (a) measured coupling beam shear force versus chord
rotation behavior; (b) photograph of displaced shape at beam end; (c) measured total beam post-tensioning force.

30
0
beam chord rotation, θb (%)
0-10 10
1
Pb
/ Σ
ab
p f
bp
u
prestress loss
initial force
final force
(c)
Figure 2.9 continued.
The most typical failure mode for the unbonded post-tensioned coupling system
in Figure 2.8 is the low-cycle fatigue fracture of the top and seat angles. For the test
specimen in Figure 2.9, the initiation of low cycle fatigue cracks was observed in the
vertical legs of the tension angles at a coupling beam chord rotation of about 7.0%. The
cracks occurred at the critical section adjacent to the fillet. The specimen was able to
sustain three cycles at 8.0% rotation with a steady, but not excessively large, reduction in
strength [see Figure 2.9(a)]. This reduction in strength occurred due to increased cracking
and necking of the vertical legs of the tension angles. Failure of the specimen eventually
occurred as a result of the complete fracture of the vertical leg of the seat angle at the
right end of the beam when 9.0% rotation was reached for the first time. The resistance of

31
the specimen at angle fracture was, approximately, 90% of the peak resistance. Figure
2.10 shows the fractured angle at 9.0% rotation. All four angles had sustained significant
damage at this stage resulting in a considerable amount of energy dissipation as shown in
Figure 2.9(a). The subassembly was unloaded and the test was terminated upon the
fracture of the first angle.
Figure 2.10: Low cycle fatigue fracture of top and seat angles.
To demonstrate the contribution of the top and seat angles to the coupling beam
behavior, Figure 2.11 shows the measured coupling beam shear force versus chord
rotation behavior of a subassembly similar to the one in Figure 2.9, but with no top and
seat angles. The behavior of the subassembly without angles is essentially bilinear-
elastic, caused mainly by gap opening at the beam ends. Comparing Figures 2.9(a) and
2.11, the significant increase in strength and energy dissipation occurs as a result of the
angles.

32
0
beam chord rotation, θb (%)
bea
m s
hea
r fo
rce,
Vb [
kip
s (k
N)]
0-10 10
60(267)
-60(-267)
Figure 2.11: Hybrid coupled wall subassembly with no angles [from Kurama et al. (2006)].
The experimental research summarized above has shown that unbonded post-
tensioned hybrid coupled wall subassemblies can be designed to go through large
nonlinear reversed cyclic displacements without receiving significant damage in the wall
piers or the beams, and with most of the damage occurring in the top and seat angles at
the beam-to-wall connections. The beams do not need to be replaced after a large
earthquake as long as the damaged, yielded, or fractured angles and post-tensioning
strands are replaced. Damage in the coupling regions of the wall piers can also be
prevented, including cracking and/or spalling of the cover concrete [see Figure 2.9(b)].
The post-tensioning anchors and the angle-to-wall and angle-to-beam connections are
critical components that can affect the performance of the structure (Kurama et al. 2006).

33
Analytical investigations of floor level unbonded post-tensioned hybrid coupling
beam subassemblies as well as of multi-story coupled wall systems were also conducted
by this previous research project. As an example, Figure 2.12(a) shows the predicted
coupling beam shear force versus chord rotation behavior and Figure 2.12(b) shows the
predicted coupling beam total post-tensioning force of the subassembly in Figures 2.9(a)
and 2.9(c), respectively, demonstrating the effectiveness of the analytical model in
capturing the measured response. A performance-based seismic design approach and
simplified design/analysis tools for the structure were also developed through the
investigation.

34
0
beam chord rotation, θb (%)
bea
m s
hea
r fo
rce,
Vb [
kip
s (k
N)]
0-10 10
60(267)
-60(-267)
(a)
0
beam chord rotation, θb (%)
0-10 10
1
Pb/Σ
ab
pf b
pu
(b)
Figure 2.12: Hybrid coupled wall subassembly predicted behavior [from Shen et al. (2006)] – (a) coupling beam shear force versus chord rotation behavior; (b) total beam post-
tensioning force.

35
2.5 Unbonded Post-Tensioned Precast Moment Frames
Precast concrete construction results in cost-effective structures that provide high
quality production and rapid erection. However, the use of precast concrete buildings in
seismic regions of the United States has been limited due to uncertainty about their
performance during earthquakes. Since the 1990s, a significant amount of research has
been conducted on the seismic behavior and design of these structures. One of the precast
concrete frame systems that has successfully emerged from these research efforts uses
unbonded post-tensioning between the precast beam and column members to achieve the
lateral load resistance needed in seismic regions (e.g., Cheok and Lew 1991, 1993; Cheok
et al. 1993; Priestley and Tao 1993; MacRae and Priestley 1994; Priestley and MacRae
1996; El-Sheikh et al. 1997, 1999, 2000).
As an example, Figure 2.13(a) shows a multi-story precast concrete frame
structure and Figure 2.13(b) shows an interior unbonded post-tensioned precast beam-
column subassembly. The lateral load behavior of these structures is governed by the
opening of gaps at the beam-to-column joints [Figure 2.13(c)], similar to the opening of
gaps at the beam-to-wall joints of unbonded post-tensioned coupling beams. Thus, the
previous research on unbonded post-tensioned precast concrete moment frames is
important for this dissertation. The major findings and conclusions from this previous
research, some of which are similar to the findings from the previous research on
unbonded post-tensioned steel coupling beams described above, are:
(1) As a result of post-tensioning, the initial linear-elastic lateral stiffness of an
unbonded post-tensioned precast concrete frame structure is similar to the initial stiffness
of a monolithic cast-in-place reinforced concrete frame structure.

36
(2) Unbonded post-tensioned precast concrete frames can soften (indicating a
significant reduction in the lateral stiffness) and go through large nonlinear cyclic lateral
displacements without significant damage, and thus, without significant strength
degradation (as compared to precast concrete frames with bonded tendons or monolithic
cast-in-place reinforced concrete frames).
(3) Unbonding of the post-tensioning tendons significantly reduces the amount of
tensile stresses transferred to the concrete, thus reducing damage due to concrete
cracking.
(4) Large compression strains develop at the corners of the beams at the beam-to-
column interfaces due to the post-tensioning force. Therefore, transverse reinforcement
(e.g., spiral or closed hoop reinforcement) is necessary to confine the concrete at the
beam ends.
(5) Upon unloading from a large nonlinear lateral displacement, the post-
tensioning force provides a restoring effect (i.e., self-centering capability) that tends to
close the gaps and pull the frame back towards its original undeformed (i.e., plumb)
position without significant residual lateral displacements.
(6) The friction resistance that develops due to post-tensioning is sufficient to
transfer the shear forces from gravity and lateral loads without the need for corbels or
shear keys at the beam-to-column interfaces. As long as the post-tensioning force is
maintained, the shear slip resistance at the beam-to-column interfaces is maintained
during large cyclic lateral displacements of the structure.
(7) Unbonded post-tensioning alters the shear resistance mechanism in the beams
and in the beam-to-column joint panel regions (as compared with bonded post-tensioned

37
and monolithic cast-in-place reinforced concrete structures), in which the shear force is
transferred by a large diagonal compression strut, greatly simplifying the design of the
beam and joint shear reinforcement, and reducing damage.
precast column
precast beam
column
beam
unbonded post-tensioning
(a)
(b)
gap opening atbeam-to-columninterface
(c)
Figure 2.13: Unbonded post-tensioned precast moment frames – (a) structure; (b) interior beam-column subassembly; (c) idealized,
exaggerated subassembly displaced shape.
The previous research summarized above has shown that provided that the
unbonded length of the post-tensioning steel is sufficient to prevent the yielding of the
tendons, and the compression zones in the contact regions and anchor details for the
tendons are satisfactory, then unbonded post-tensioned structures can reach design level

38
lateral displacements and beyond with little damage under cyclic loads. According to El-
Sheikh et al. (1999), the nonlinear moment versus rotation behavior of a typical
unbonded post-tensioned precast concrete beam-column joint subassembly can be
idealized using a trilinear relationship as shown in Figure 2.14(a). The five limit states
marked on the smooth moment-rotation relationship, which form the basis for the
idealized relationship, are as follows: Point (1) represents the initiation of gap opening
(i.e., decompression) at the beam-to-column interfaces; Point (2) represents a significant
reduction in the stiffness of the subassembly (i.e., softening), which occurs primarily due
to increased gap opening at the beam-to-column interfaces; Point (3) represents the
initiation of cover concrete spalling at the beam ends; Point (4) represents the initiation of
yielding (i.e., nonlinear straining) of the unbonded post-tensioning steel; and Point (5)
represents the axial-flexural failure of the subassembly due to the crushing of the
confined concrete at the beam ends.
Figure 2.14(b) shows the analytical model of an interior unbonded post-tensioned
precast concrete beam-column joint subassembly developed by El-Sheikh et al. (1999,
2000). This model was used to generate the smooth subassembly moment-rotation
relationship in Figure 2.14(a) and includes the following elements in the DRAIN-2DX
structural analysis program (Prakash et al. 1993): (1) fiber beam-column elements to
model the lengths of the beams with unbonded post-tensioning steel; (2) linear-elastic
frame beam-column elements to model the column as well as the lengths of the beams
with bonded post-tensioning steel (if any), where only linear-elastic deformations are
expected to occur; (3) truss elements to model the unbonded length of the post-tensioning
tendons; (4) a zero-length rotational spring element to model the joint panel zone shear

39
deformations of the column member; (5) kinematic constraints (rigid links) for the beam
elements and rigid end zones for the column elements to model the axial and flexural
stiffnesses (assumed to be infinitely large) within the panel zone; and (6) kinematic
constraints to model the ends of the unbonded length of the post-tensioning tendons. The
gap opening behavior at the beam-to-column interfaces is modeled using compression-
only concrete stress-strain relationships for the fiber elements at the beam ends. The
results obtained from the analytical model were found to compare well with experimental
results reported by Cheok and Lew (1993).
2.5.1 Frames with Supplemental Energy Dissipation
Figures 2.15(a) and 2.15(b) show the typical measured lateral force versus
displacement behavior of interior and exterior unbonded post-tensioned precast beam-
column subassemblies under reversed cyclic lateral loading. Since the structure
(a) (b)
Figure 2.14: Analytical investigation of unbonded post-tensioned precast beam-column subassemblies [from El-Sheikh et al. (1999, 2000)] – (a) moment-rotation relationship;
(b) analytical model.

40
experiences little damage, the behavior is essentially elastic through nonlinear
displacements (i.e., nonlinear-elastic) dominated by gap opening, with very little energy
dissipation. As a result of the small amount of energy dissipation, the peak lateral
displacements of unbonded post-tensioned precast frame structures under earthquakes
can be, on average, 1.40 times the peak displacements of comparable monolithic cast-in-
place reinforced concrete frames (Priestley and Tao 1993; Seo and Sause 2005). Thus,
the greatest setback to the use of these structures in seismic regions has been that their
lateral displacement demands during a severe earthquake may be larger than acceptable.
(a) (b)
Figure 2.15: Measured lateral force-displacement behavior [from Priestley and MacRae (1996)] – (a) interior joint; (b) exterior joint.
In order to reduce the lateral displacement demands during a seismic event, the
use of bonded mild steel reinforcement (e.g., Grade 60 reinforcement) through the precast
beam-column joints, in addition to the unbonded post-tensioning steel, has been
investigated (Cheok and Stone 1994; Stone et al. 1995; Cheok et al. 1996, 1998; Stanton
et al. 1997; Nakaki et al. 1999; Priestley et al. 1999; Stanton and Nakaki 2002; Hawileh
et al. 2006; Rahman and Sritharan 2007). These partially prestressed systems are often

41
referred to as “hybrid” precast concrete frame structures in the literature due to the mixed
use of mild steel and post-tensioning steel reinforcement across the beam-column joints
as shown in Figure 2.16. Properly designed and detailed mild steel reinforcement yields
in tension and compression during the cyclic gap opening rotations that occur at the
beam-to-column interfaces, thus dissipating energy. The bond between the mild steel bars
and the concrete is typically prevented over a short predetermined length at the ends of
the beams (by wrapping the bars) to ensure that the design lateral displacement can be
achieved without low-cycle fatigue fracture of the mild steel reinforcement and to reduce
the cracking of the concrete during the deformations of the bars in tension.
beam
wrapped length
PT tendon
mild steel bar
unbonded length
fiber reinforced grout
trough
beam
beam-to-column interface
A
A
B
B
column
section A-A
central ductfor post-tensioningtendon
section B-B
mild steel bars (tranreinforcement not sh
Figure 2.16: “Hybrid” precast concrete frame beam-column joint [adapted from Kurama (2002)].

42
More recently, Morgen and Kurama (2005, 2007, 2008, 2009) developed a new
type of friction damper that can be used at the beam ends of unbonded post-tensioned
precast concrete frames. Figure 2.17(a) shows the test set-up schematic and Figure
2.17(b) shows a photograph of the test set-up, where the beam is oriented in the vertical
configuration due to space limitations in the laboratory. Figure 2.18 compares the beam
end moment versus chord rotation behavior of a test subassembly without friction
dampers and a test subassembly with friction dampers. The results from this 80% scale
experimental investigation and accompanying analytical investigations have shown that
the unique gap opening behavior between the beam and column members of these
structures allows for the development of innovative energy dissipation systems that can
be used to reduce the lateral displacements while maintaining the desirable self-centering
capability and the ability to undergo large nonlinear displacements with little damage.

43
hb = 24" or 32"
126 3/4"
80"
58" 58"100"
198"
support
fixture
106 3/4"
H
test beam
friction damper
column fixture
80% scale
strong
floor
loading and
bracing frame
not shown
support
fixture
beam-to-column
interface with fiber
reinforced grout
(3/4" thick)
Two Dywidag Spiro
ducts and unbonded
post-tensioning tendons
TM
Two Dywidag
Multiplane AnchorsTM
8 3/4"
(a)
(b)
Figure 2.17: Friction-damped post-tensioned precast moment frames [from Morgen and Kurama (2004)] – (a) test set-up schematic; (b) photograph of test set-up.

44
Test 43
beam chord rotation, θb (%)
-5.0 5.02.50-2.5
0
bea
m e
nd
mo
men
t, M
b
[kip
-ft
(kN
-m)]
(-1016)-750
-500
-250
250
500
750(1016) without dampers
(a)
Test 44
with dampers
beam chord rotation, θb (%)
-5.0 5.02.50-2.5
0
bea
m e
nd
mo
men
t, M
b
[kip
-ft
(kN
-m)]
(-1016)-750
-500
-250
250
500
750(1016)
(b)
Figure 2.18: Measured beam end moment versus chord rotation behavior [from Morgen and Kurama (2004)] –
(a) without dampers; (b) with dampers.

45
2.6 Behavior of Top and Seat Angles
Unbonded post-tensioned frame and wall structures can use supplemental passive
energy dissipation where gap opening occurs to reduce the lateral displacement demands
while maintaining their unique and desirable characteristics under seismic loads. Steel
top and seat angles offer an economical and readily available method for providing
energy dissipation and increasing structural redundancy at the beam-to-column or beam-
to-wall joints as shown in Figure 2.19.
(a) (b)
ax
vertical leg
horizontal legtension angle
column
loading
beam
bolts
vertical leg
bolt head
innermost bolt
fillethorizontal leg
heel
compression angle
wabw
lgv
ka
ta
lgh
hb
lg2
Figure 2.19: Top and seat angle connection [adapted from Shen et al. (2006)] – (a) deformed configuration; (b) angle parameters.
The behavior of steel beam-to-column connections with top and seat angles has
been extensively studied (e.g., Azizinamini 1985; Aktan et al. 1989; Youssef-Agha et al.

46
1989; Kishi and Chen 1990; Lorenz et al. 1993; Bernuzzi et al. 1994, 1997; Leon and
Shin 1994; Mander et al. 1994; Sarraf and Bruneau 1996; Bernuzzi 1998; Kasai et al.
1998; Kukreti and Abolmaali 1999; Swanson and Leon 1999; Shen and Astaneh-Asl
1999a, 1999b, 2000; Sims 2000; Ricles et al. 2001, 2002; Garlock 2002; Garlock et al.
2003, 2005). Figure 2.19(a) shows the idealized exaggerated deformed configuration of a
top-and-seat-angle steel frame connection, which is a semi-rigid connection comprised of
a pair of steel angles bolted to the flanges of the beam and the column. Figure 2.19(b)
shows some of the design parameters for an angle.
The flexural stiffness, strength, and ductility of a top-and-seat-angle beam-to-
column connection are influenced by many design parameters, including: (1) beam depth,
hb; (2) angle length, la; (3) angle leg thickness, ta; (4) angle steel yield strength, fay; (5)
angle-to-column connection gage length, lgv, measured from the heel of the angle to the
center of the innermost angle-to-column connectors; (6) angle-to-beam connection gage
length, lgh, measured from the heel of the angle to the centroid of the angle-to-beam
connector bolt group; (7) angle fillet length, ka, measured from the angle heel to the toe of
the angle fillet; (8) angle connector bolt type and diameter, dab; (9) bolt head/nut width
measured across flat sides, wabw; and (10) number of bolts, nab.
The behavior of the top and seat angles in the precast concrete coupled wall
system investigated in this dissertation is similar to the behavior of the angles in the
hybrid coupled wall system investigated by Shen et al. (2006) and the angles in the post-
tensioned steel frame connections investigated by Kishi and Chen (1990), Lorenz et al.
(1993), Sims (2000), Garlock et al. (2003), and Ricles et al. (2001). Important findings
from Sims (2000), Ricles et al. (2001), Garlock et al. (2003), and Shen et al. (2006) are

47
described below. The research conducted by Kishi and Chen (1990) and Lorenz et al.
(1993) is used in the modeling of the angles in this dissertation, and thus, is discussed in
more detail in Section 2.6.1.
(1) Sims (2000) identified five potential failure modes for the angles as follows:
(i) bolt thread failure; (ii) bolt/angle flexural mechanism; (iii) shear mechanism; (iv)
vertical-leg/horizontal-leg combination mechanism; and (v) vertical-leg mechanism.
According to Sims, the vertical leg mechanism represents an ideal mode with the lowest
maximum strain in the angle.
(2) After the formation of a plastic hinge mechanism, the angle stiffness in tension
greatly decreases but does not become zero. This post-yield stiffness is nearly linear and
is comprised of both geometric hardening and material hardening. The geometric
hardening accounts for slightly less than half of the total post-yield strength (Garlock et
al. 2003).
(3) The boundary conditions assumed for the horizontal leg (i.e., leg parallel to
the beam) are important in understanding the behavior of top and seat angles. Sims
(2000) found that for angle configurations with vertical leg mechanism failure modes, the
model developed by Kishi and Chen (1990) and Lorenz et al. (1993) can be used to
estimate the angle yield force, Tayx. However, the plastic deformations in the horizontal
leg and the effects of bolt response are neglected in this model, resulting in an
overestimation of the angle yield force for other failure modes, especially for angle
configurations with non-negligible bolt response (e.g., bolt elongation, slip, yielding,
fracture).

48
(4) Sims (2000) also concluded that bolt response reduces the strength, stiffness,
and ductility of the angle system. Due to the smaller ductility of high strength bolts as
compared to angle sections, configurations with bolt fracture are less ductile than those
with angle fracture. Thus, bolt failure in top-and-seat angle connections should be
avoided. Furthermore, bolt slip in the angle horizontal leg is a cause of significant
stiffness reduction for the connection.
(5) Catenary effects at large angle deformations in tension play a very significant
role on the angle behavior. Inclusion of large deflections (i.e., second order geometric
effects) in the analytical modeling of top-and-seat angle connections is needed to
accurately capture these effects (Sims 2000).
(6) Both Sims (2000) and Garlock et al. (2003) found that an important
consideration in the behavior of top and seat angles is the angle vertical leg connection
gage length, lgv, measured from the heel of the angle to the center of the innermost
connectors for the vertical leg. Sims (2000) found that for short “effective” gage length
lg2 values, the maximum strain in the angle occurs along the innermost edge of the
vertical leg connection bolt heads/nuts. For long lg2 values, the maximum strain occurs
along the toe of the fillet in the vertical leg. For intermediate lg2 values, the maximum
strain in the angle occurs along the toe of the fillet in the horizontal leg. Garlock et al.
(2003) noted that angles with smaller gage length to angle thickness ratio (lg2/ta) dissipate
more energy for a given value of angle displacement and are stronger and stiffer than
angles with larger lg2/ta ratios. However, angles with smaller lg2/ta ratios have less
resistance to low-cycle fatigue. Thus, the angle gage length and thickness must be

49
selected carefully considering the stiffness, strength, energy dissipation, and ductility
requirements of the connection.
(7) Ricles et al. (2001) successfully modeled the top and seat angles in a post-
tensioned steel beam-to-column connection using two parallel bilinear truss element
springs in the DRAIN-2DX program (Prakash et al. 1993). The truss element springs
represent the behavior of the angle when gap opening occurs at the beam-to-column
interface.
(8) The top and seat angles used in Shen et al. (2006) were shown to provide
adequate energy dissipation to unbonded post-tensioned hybrid coupled wall structures.
These angles typically failed due to low cycle fatigue fracture of the vertical legs.
2.6.1 Kishi and Chen (1990) and Lorenz et al. (1993)
A model developed by Kishi and Chen (1990) and Lorenz et al. (1993) is used to
describe the behavior of the top and seat angles at the beam-to-wall connections of the
coupled wall system investigated in this dissertation. The model, developed for the
analysis and design of steel top-and-seat-angle beam-to-column connections, is based on
equilibrium considerations with assumed internal force distributions and boundary
conditions for the angles. Other researchers (e.g., Goto et al. 1991; Matsuoka et al. 1993)
have also used this model to investigate the behavior of semi-rigid steel frame
connections. Several other similar top-and-seat-angle connection models exist (e.g.,
Sarraf and Bruneau 1996; Aktan et al. 1989); however, these are not used in this
dissertation.

50
Note that the model developed by Kishi and Chen (1990) and Lorenz et al. (1993)
can only be used to estimate the initial stiffness and yield force capacity of the tension
angle in a top-and-seat-angle connection under monotonic loading. The post-yield
behavior of the tension angle, the behavior of the compression angle, or the behavior of
the connection under cyclic loading is not addressed in their investigation.
2.6.1.1 Tension Angle Initial Stiffness, Kaixt
The initial linear-elastic stiffness of the tension angle is determined by making the
following assumptions (see Figure 2.20):
(1) The vertical leg of the angle is fixed along the innermost (i.e., closest to the beam)
edge of the angle-to-column connection bolt head; and
(2) The horizontal leg of the angle moves horizontally when pulled by the beam
flange (i.e., the rotation of the horizontal leg with respect to the vertical leg, which
occurs due to the rotation of the beam with respect to the column, is ignored).
Based on these assumptions and considering the shear deformations of the vertical
leg, it can be shown that the initial linear-elastic stiffness of the angle, Kaixt is given as:
)0.78t(ll
I3E
δ
TK
2a
2g1g1
aa
ax
axaixt
(2.3)
where, Tax is the force in the tension angle parallel to the beam, δax is the horizontal
displacement of the heel of the angle, EaIa is the flexural stiffness of the angle vertical leg
cross section, ta is the thickness of the angle leg, and lg1 is the length of the vertical leg
that is assumed to act as a cantilever. Using centerline dimensions for the angle legs and
referring to Figure 2.20(a),

51
2
t
2
wll aabwgvg1 (2.4)
where, wabw is the width (across flats) of the angle-to-column connector bolt head/nut and
lgv is the angle vertical leg connection gage length measured from the heel of the angle to
the center of the innermost angle-to-column connectors.

52
(a)
(b)
(c)
vertical leg
bolt head
innermost bolt
fixed support
wabw
lgv lg1
ka
ta
ka
ka
lgv l g2
δayx δayx
plastichinges
Nap
MapVap
Ma
Tayy
Tayx
Figure 2.20: Angle model [adapted from Kishi and Chen (1990) and Lorenz et al. (1993)] – (a) cantilever model of tension angle; (b) assumed yield mechanism; (c) free body of
angle horizontal leg.

53
2.6.1.2 Tension Angle Yield Force Capacity, Tayx
Based on the assumption of the formation of two plastic hinges in the vertical leg
of the angle as shown in Figure 2.20(b), the yield force capacity, Tayx of the tension angle
can be determined. One of the plastic hinges is located along the innermost edge of the
angle-to-column connection bolt heads/nuts and the second plastic hinge is located along
the toe of the fillet. The work equation for the tension angle at this plastic mechanism
state is:
κκ2 2gapap lVM (2.5)
where, Map is the plastic moment, Vap is the plastic shear force in the vertical leg, and κ is
the plastic hinge rotation. By using the free body diagram of the angle horizontal leg in
Figure 2.20(c), the tension angle yield force, Tayx is equal to the plastic shear force Vap in
the vertical leg.
The distance lg2 in Equation (2.5) is the “effective” gage length for the assumed
plastic hinge mechanism, and is equal to the distance between the two plastic hinges as:
aabw
gvg kw
ll 22 (2.6)
where, ka is the distance from the angle heel to the toe of the fillet. This effective gage
length is usually a short distance; and thus, the effect of the shear force on the plastic
moment capacity is considered through a shear-flexure interaction equation as follows:
1
4
00
a
ap
a
ap
V
V
M
M (2.7)
where, Ma0 and Va0 are the plastic moment and plastic shear force, respectively, in the
vertical leg without considering shear-flexure interaction as:

54
4
2
0aaay
a
tlfM (2.8)
20
aaaya
tlfV (2.9)
in which fay is the yield strength of the angle steel and la is the length of the angle.
Substituting Equations (2.5), (2.8), and (2.9) into Equation (2.7), the angle yield force
Tayx = Vap can be determined from:
14
00
2
a
ap
a
ap
a
g
V
V
V
V
t
l (2.10)
Note that in Figure 2.20(c), the horizontal leg of the angle is cut along the
innermost edge of the angle-to-beam connectors. The shear force, Tayy in the horizontal
leg and the corresponding axial force, Nap in the vertical leg are ignored in the above
formulation. The moment Ma is also small, and thus, is ignored.
2.7 Chapter Summary
This chapter presents a summary of the previous research on coupled wall
structures and on unbonded post-tensioned systems for use in seismic regions. Important
findings from the literature are summarized below.
(1) Coupled wall structural systems are effective primary lateral load resisting
systems for seismic regions.
(2) Monolithic cast-in-place reinforced concrete coupling beams often require the
use of diagonal reinforcement to prevent premature failure modes due to diagonal tension
and sliding shear. However, this diagonal reinforcement is very difficult to construct and
place.

55
(3) Unbonded post-tensioning has been successfully applied to different types of
building systems in seismic regions. In an unbonded post-tensioned structure, the
nonlinear behavior occurs primarily as a result of the opening of gaps along the joints
between the structural members, and not as a result of material nonlinearity. The gap
opening behavior enables these structures to undergo large lateral displacements with
little damage. The post-tensioning steel provides a significant restoring force resulting in
a large self-centering effect. Limited energy dissipation in unbonded post-tensioned
structures may result in larger than acceptable lateral displacement demands during a
severe earthquake.
(4) Post-tensioned steel coupling beams can provide stable levels of coupling
between concrete walls over large nonlinear reversed-cyclic deformations.
(5) Fiber beam-column elements have been successfully used to model the
nonlinear hysteretic behavior of different types of unbonded post-tensioned structures,
including the opening of gaps at the joints between the structural members.
(6) Steel top and seat angles are effective structural components that can be used
at the gap opening connections to provide energy dissipation and structural redundancy
during an earthquake. In a properly-designed post-tensioned top-and-seat-angle
connection, the only components to receive significant damage are the angles, which can
be replaced after the earthquake.

56
CHAPTER 3
PRECAST COUPLING BEAM SUBASSEMBLY EXPERIMENTS
This chapter provides a description of the half-scale experimental program that
was conducted in the Structural Systems Laboratory at the University of Notre Dame to
investigate the nonlinear lateral load versus deformation behavior of unbonded post-
tensioned coupled wall subassemblies using precast concrete coupling beams. Please
refer to Chapter 10 for the description and details for the full-scale prototype.
Eight coupled wall subassemblies (Tests 1 – 4B) are tested using four coupling
beam specimens. Each subassembly includes a coupling beam and the adjacent concrete
wall regions at a floor level. The effects of the following parameters are investigated: (1)
beam post-tensioning tendon area and initial stress; (2) initial beam concrete stress; (3)
angle strength; and (4) beam depth. Tests 1, 2, 3B, and 4B are conducted using a
predetermined displacement loading history until failure of the specimen is achieved.
Tests 3, 3A, 4, and 4A are conducted under a similar displacement history but are stopped
prior to failure so that the beam specimen may be reused.
The experimental program has the following objectives: (1) to investigate the
nonlinear lateral load-deformation behavior of unbonded post-tensioned precast concrete
coupling beam subassemblies; (2) to verify the analytical models; (3) to verify the design
of the subassemblies; and (4) to develop practical application recommendations. The

57
remainder of this chapter is divided into the following sections: (1) experiment setup; (2)
test subassembly components; and (3) testing procedure.
3.1 Experiment Setup
Figure 3.1(a) shows an eight-story coupled wall system under lateral loads and
Figure 3.1(b) shows the idealized exaggerated displaced shape of a floor level
subassembly. With respect to the “reference line” in Figure 3.1(b), it can be seen that the
same subassembly displaced shape can be achieved through the vertical displacements of
the right wall pier region as shown in Figure 3.1(c). This concept is used for the design of
the test setup for the experimental program. It is assumed that the left and right wall pier
regions in Figure 3.1(b) rotate by the same amount.
lw lw lb
2nd floor
3rd floor
4th floor
5th floor
6th floor
7th floor
8th floor
roof
hw
wallpier
wallpier
reference line
reference line
(b)
(c)
left wall regionright wall region
left wall region
right wall region
(a)
Figure 3.1: Simulation of floor level coupled wall subassembly displacements – (a) multi-story structure; (b) idealized displaced subassembly; (c) rotated subassembly.

58
Note that the subassembly test setup does not model the wall pier shear forces that
develop in a multi-story structure; and thus, does not capture the effect of the wall piers
on the coupling beam axial forces during the application of lateral loads on the system.
The effect of the wall piers on the coupling beam axial forces may be significant in the
lower floor level beams; however, they are negligible for the coupling beams in the upper
floor and roof levels (Kurama and Shen 2004). Therefore, the subassembly configuration
used in the experimental program is more representative of mid to upper floor and roof
levels in a multi-story coupled wall structure.
As shown in Figures 3.2 – 3.4, each test subassembly consists of two concrete
wall pier regions, referred to as the reaction block and load block, that are connected, or
coupled using a precast concrete coupling beam in between. More details on the coupling
beam, reaction block, and load block components of the test subassembly can be found in
the next section. The subassembly components are connected together using an unbonded
post-tensioning tendon comprised of two, three, or four ASTM A416 low-relaxation
strands with a nominal strand diameter of φp = 0.6 in. (15.2 mm), cross-sectional area of
ab = 0.217 in2 (140 mm2), and design maximum strength of fpu = 270 ksi (1862 MPa). The
post-tensioning strands are placed inside a 1 in. by 3 in. (25 mm by 76 mm) nominal size
Dywidag® Spiro duct located at the beam centerline, and run the length of the test
subassembly through matching ducts inside the reaction block and load block. Bond is
prevented between the strands and the concrete by not placing grout in the post-
tensioning ducts over the entire length of the strands between the anchors. This is done to
delay or prevent the “yielding” of the post-tensioning steel [at an assumed design yield

59
strain of εpy = 0.0086 and yield strength of fpy = 245 ksi (1689MPa), (PCI 2004)] during
the experiments.
High-strength [with 28-day compressive strength ranging from 8.0 to 12 ksi (55 –
83 MPa)] fiber-reinforced grout is used at the beam-to-wall interfaces to provide
alignment and good matching surfaces between the coupling beam and the wall fixtures.
A non-flowing grout mixture with a low water-to-cement ratio is designed for this
purpose as described in more detail in Chapter 4. Cresset® Crete-Lease 880-VOC or 20-
VOC release agent (bond breaker) is used between the fiber-reinforced grout and the wall
surfaces to help force the gap opening to occur between the grout and the wall face. Note
that despite the use of a bond breaker agent on the wall surfaces, during large rotations of
the beam in many of the tests, gaps occurred at both sides of the grout as described in
more detail in Chapter 6.

60
Figure 3.2: Photograph of subassembly test setup.
llooaadd bblloocckk
llooaaddiinngg ffrraammee
ssttrroonngg fflloooorr
rreeaaccttiioonn bblloocckk
bbrraacciinngg ffrraammee
tteesstt bbeeaamm
wwaallll tteesstt rreeggiioonn
NN

61
60" (1.52m) 46" (1.17m) 60" (1.52m)
COUPLING BEAM
strong floor
anchor plate
actuatoraxis 2
actuatoraxis 1
steel loading frame
40 " (1.0m)
steel connection beam
tie-down bar
wall testregion
spreader beam
beam PT tendon/duct
REACTION BLOCK
N
LOAD BLOCK
angle-to-wall connection post-tensioning duct/strand
fiber-reinforced grout[0.5 in. (13mm) thick]
loading and bracingframes not shown(see Figures 3.4 and 3.5)
angle
Figure 3.3: Elevation view of test subassembly.

62
60" (1.52m)
58"(1.47m)
35"(0.89m)
60" (1.52m)
46" (1.17m)
Nreaction block
coupling beam
load block
wall testregion
Figure 3.4: Plan view of test subassembly.
More details on the subassembly test setup, including the loading and bracing
frames, are shown in Figures 3.5 – 3.7. The reaction block is fixed to a 60 in. (1524 mm)
thick strong floor while the load block is connected to two hydraulic actuators [220 kip
(979 kN) Shore Western Model No. 924D-73.4/95.0-20-4-1348 (Serial Nos. 90711 and
90712) actuators] hanging from a stiff steel loading frame. The desired displaced shape in
Figure 3.1 is achieved by moving the load block vertically using the hydraulic actuators.
The load block is free to move in the horizontal (north-south) direction. In the vertical
direction, the actuators are moved to the same displacements (resulting in actuator forces
in opposite directions), thus restraining the load block from rotating in the vertical plane.
During each test, the subassembly is subjected to a quasi-static reversed cyclic
loading history based on the beam chord rotation. The actuators are operated in
displacement control at a rate of approximately 0.05 – 0.6 inches (1.2 - 15.2 mm) per
minute (more details on the applied displacement history can be found in Section 3.3). A
two-channel (axis) Instron 8800 controller (Serial No. 8800RK1566) is used to send the

63
displacement command signal to the actuators near-simultaneously to prevent significant
lag between them.
An inner bracing frame is used to prevent out-of-plane displacements of the load
block at three brace points and of the coupling beam near midspan as shown in Figures
3.6 and 3.7. Grease is applied between matching bracing plates on the bracing frame, load
block, and beam to allow in-plane movements of the subassembly, while the out-of-plane
movements are prevented.
reaction block
coupling beam
strong floor
actuator beamW30x326
side beamW33x118
columnW12x87
actuatoraxis 1
actuatoraxis 2
end beamW33x118
angleL5x5x3/4
angleL7x4x3/4
braceC12x25
N
157" (3.99 m)
66" (1.68m)
104" (2.64m)
70" (1.78m)
inner bracing frame not shown
connection beamW14x283
load block
Figure 3.5: East side view of loading frame.

64
strong floor
actuator beamW30x326
columnW12x87
end beamW33x118
braceC12x25
W10X100 W12X87
load block
columnW12x87
actuator
stiffener
118" (3.00m)
39" (998mm)
79" (2.00m)
connectionbeam
couplingbeam
W
42" (1.1m)
24
" (
61
0m
m)
48
" (
12
19
mm
)
Figure 3.6: North end view of loading and bracing frames.

65
columnW12x87
loadblock
load block out-of-plane support plate
reaction block
coupling beam
66" (1.68m)
connection beamW14x283
W12x87
W12x87
columnW12x87
load block out-of-plane support plates
coupling beamout-of-plane support plate
N
24"(610mm)
48"(1219mm)
118" (3.00m)strong floor
Figure 3.7: East side view of bracing frame and brace plate locations.
3.2 Test Subassembly Components
This section provides the design and construction details of the beam test
specimens and the wall pier regions (i.e., the load block and the reaction block) from the
subassembly experimental program. A 1/16 in. (1.5875 mm) tolerance was specified for
precast concrete production; however, this tolerance limit was not possible to hold for the
placement of the mild steel reinforcement due to dimensional variations in the bending of
the steel.
The test components were cast using concrete with a design strength of 6.0 ksi (41
MPa, see Appendix A for the mix design). Several different concrete mixes were tested
prior to the casting of the subassembly components to ensure that the 28-day strength was
as close to the design strength of 6.0 ksi (41 MPa) as possible.
Note that both the load block and the reaction block were designed to be re-used
in all of the experiments conducted as part of this dissertation. However, due to
unforeseen circumstances as described in Chapter 5, the reaction block was replaced after

66
Test 1 and the replacement reaction block, which had identical design details as the
original block, was repaired a number of times throughout the remainder of the test
program. The load block did not receive any damage and was re-used in all eight tests.
3.2.1 Coupling Beam Specimens
Four precast concrete coupling beam specimens (Beams 1 – 4) were cast. Beams
1 through 3 have a depth of hb = 14 in. (356 mm). These beams, with typical details
shown in Figures 3.8 through 3.10, are half-scale models. The last specimen (Beam 4)
has an increased depth of hb = 18 in. (457 mm) for parameter variation. The beam length-
to-depth aspect ratio for Beams 1 – 3 is 3.21 and 2.5 for Beam 4. These aspect ratios are
within the range of typical beam aspect ratios for coupling beams used in U.S. practice
(ranging between 2.5 and 4.0).

67
Figure 3.8: Photograph of beam formwork and details prior to casting (Beams 1 – 3).
Figure 3.9: Photograph of beam end prior to casting (Beams 1 – 3).

68
Figure 3.10: Photograph of beam end prior to casting (Beam 4 – increased depth).
Figures 3.11 and 3.12 show the duct details for Test Beams 1 through 4. Note that
Beam 4 with the greater depth has the same duct placement as the shallower Beams 1 – 3.
In addition to the central 1 in. by 3 in. (25 mm by 76 mm) duct for the main post-
tensioning strands used for coupling, there are four 1.0 in. (25 mm) diameter vertical
ducts for the angle-to-beam connections at each beam end. Due to space constraints with
the half-scale modeling and the amount of reinforcement at the beam ends, the PVC pipes
used for the ducts were removed after casting to allow for 7/8 in. (22 mm) diameter
threaded angle-to-beam connection bolts to be placed through the openings.
Each test beam includes bonded ASTM A615 Gr. 60 mild steel reinforcement as
follows: (1) two rectangular No. 6 reinforcement looping around the beam perimeter
along its length; (2) “full-depth” No. 3 rectangular hoop transverse reinforcement at

69
nominal spacing in the beam midspan region; and (3) “partial-depth” No. 3 rectangular
hoop concrete confining reinforcement closely spaced at the beam ends. The beam
reinforcement details are shown in Figures 3.13 through 3.15 and are tabulated in Table
3.1.
Further beam design details are presented in the subsequent sections as follows:
(1) maximum moment capacity at beam-to-wall interfaces; (2) transverse reinforcement;
(3) longitudinal mild steel reinforcement; (4) confinement reinforcement; and (5) shear
slip at beam-to-wall interfaces. CAD drawings for the beam specimens can be found in
Appendix C.

70
3.551"(90mm)
1.554"(40mm)
14"(356mm)
3.75"(95mm)
7.5"(191mm)
7.0"(178mm)
7.5"(191mm)
7.0"(178mm)
3.75"(95mm)
14"(356mm)
7.0"(178mm)
7.0"(178mm)
2.25"(57mm)
2.47" (63mm)
2.55" (65mm)
3.5"(89mm)33.5" (851mm)
45" (1143mm)
45" (1143mm)
2.47" (63mm)
2.25"(57mm)
3.5"(89mm)
1" [(25mm) nominal] angle-to-beam connection duct
1" x 3" [(90mm x 40mm)nominal] central post-tensioning duct
beam end view
central post-tensioning duct
side view
top view
Figure 3.11: Duct locations for Beams 1 - 3.

71
7.5"(191 mm)
9.0"(229mm)
9.0"(229mm)
18"(457mm)
9.0"(229mm)
18"(457mm)
9.0"(229mm)
3.75"(95mm)
7.5"(191mm)
3.75"(95mm)
2.25"(57mm)
2.47" (63mm)
2.55" (65mm)
3.5"(89mm)33.5" (851mm)
45" (1143mm)
45" (1143mm)
2.47" (63mm)
2.25"(57mm)
3.5"(89mm)
1" [(25mm) nominal] angle-to-beam connection duct
1" x 3" [(90mm x 40mm)nominal] central post-tensioning duct
beam end view
central post-tensioning duct
side view
top view
3.551"(90mm)
1.554"(40mm)
Figure 3.12: Duct locations for Beam 4 (increased beam depth).

72
12.675"(322mm)
0.66" (17mm)
0.66" (17mm)
0.6875"(17mm)
6.125"(156mm)
4.375"(111mm)
0.19
" (5m
m)
6.81"(173mm)
7.00"(178mm)2.
25" (5
7mm
)
2.50
" (64m
m)
1.5"
(38m
m)
4.43"(113mm)
0.69" (18mm)
0.69" (18mm)0.85" (22mm)
0.85" (22mm)
45" (1143mm)
4.375"(111mm)
0.6875"(17mm)
7.00"(178mm)
6.81"(173mm)2.
25" (5
7mm
)
2.25
" (57m
m)
2.25
" (57m
m)
0.19
" (5m
m)
2.50
" (64m
m)
1.5"
(38m
m)
0.66" (17mm)
0.66" (17mm)
3.625"(92mm)
beam end view
side view
top view
45" (1143mm)
14"(356mm)
7.5"(191mm)
7.5"(191mm)
14"(356mm)
Figure 3.13: Mild steel reinforcement details for Beams 1 - 3.

73
16.675"(424mm)
0.6875"(17mm)
6.125"(156mm)
0.19
" (5m
m)
6.81"(173mm)
7.00"(178mm)2.
25" (5
7mm
)
2.50
" (64m
m)
1.5"
(38m
m)
4.43"(113mm)
0.69" (18mm)
0.69" (18mm)0.85" (22mm)
0.85" (22mm)
45" (1143mm)
0.6875"(17mm)
7.00"(178mm)
6.81"(173mm)2.
25" (5
7mm
)
2.25
" (57m
m)
2.25
" (57m
m)
0.19
" (5m
m)
2.50
" (64m
m)
1.5"
(38m
m)
beam end view
side view
top view
7.5"(191mm)
7.5"(191mm)
45" (1143mm)
18"(457mm)
18"(457mm)
0.66" (17mm)
0.66" (17mm)
4.375"(111mm)
4.375"(111mm)
0.66" (17mm)
0.66" (17mm)
7.925"(202mm)
Figure 3.14: Mild steel reinforcement details for Beam 4.

74
(a)
(b)
Figure 3.15: Photographs of mild steel reinforcement for Beams 1 – 3 – (a) No. 6 looping reinforcement; (b) No. 3 full-depth transverse and partial-depth confining hoops.

75
TABLE 3.1
BEAM MILD STEEL REINFORCEMENT DETAILS
Looping
ReinforcementHoop Reinforcement
Full-depth Partial-depth U.S. Grade 60 60 60
U.S. bar size No. 6 No. 3 No. 3 1A
[in.2 (mm2)] 0.44 (284) 0.11 (71) 0.11 (71)
2dh (shallow and deep beams)
[in. (mm)]
12.275 (312) 12.675 (322)4.375 (111)
16.275 (413) 16.675 (424)
3bh
[in. (mm)] 43.5 (1105) 6.125 (156) 6.125 (156)
1A = reinforcing bar area. 2dh = center-to-center depth. 3bh = center-to-center width/length
3.2.1.1 Maximum Moment Capacity at Beam-to-Wall Interfaces
For the subassembly test setup, the maximum expected moment capacity, Mb,max
at the beam-to-wall interfaces can be estimated from equilibrium of the beam end as
shown in Figure 3.16. It is assumed that the maximum moment capacity occurs when the
confined concrete crushes at the beam ends. To obtain an upper-bound estimate of Mb,max
for capacity design purposes, it is assumed that the entire beam is confined (i.e., there is
no cover concrete). In addition, the following assumptions are made for the state when
the confined concrete crushes: (1) the bending moment and shear force in the horizontal
legs of the angles are ignored, with only the axial force in the horizontal legs considered
(more details on angle modeling can be found in Chapter 9); (2) the force in the tension

76
angles is equal to Tasx (see Figure 9.13), (3) the force in the compression angles is equal
to the angle-to-beam connection slip force, Cayx (see Figure 9.13); (4) the compressive
stresses in the beam at the beam-to-wall interfaces have a uniform (i.e., rectangular)
distribution; and (5) the post-tensioning tendon is at the yield stress.
PT-tendon
wall region
cb,max
tensionangle
couplingbeam
0.5hb
ta
compressionangle
lw
X
Yab,max = βcb,max
hb
αfcc
Cayx
Tasx
Mb,max
Nb
Cb,max
CL
hb
grout
Figure 3.16: Maximum moment capacity at beam end.
The parameters used in the design formulation are defined as: Nb = axial force in
the beam from the post-tensioning force; Pbpy = post-tensioning tendon yield force; Abp =
post-tensioning tendon area; fbpy = post-tensioning tendon yield stress; hb = beam height;
bb = beam width; ta = angle thickness; Cb,max = compression stress resultant when Mb,max
is reached; cb,max = neutral axis depth when Mb,max is reached; ab,max = concrete
compressive stress block depth; α and β = equivalent rectangular compressive stress
block factors for confined concrete (from Paulay and Priestley 1992); and f’cc =
maximum compressive strength of the confined concrete.

77
By definition, the confined concrete crushing state is reached when the extreme
confined concrete strain reaches the crushing strain, εccu. The assumed uniform stress
distribution is expected to provide a reasonable representation of the confined concrete
stress resultant at this state.
The compressive axial force at the beam-to-wall interface is assumed to be equal to:
Nb =Pbpy = Abp fbpy (3.1)
Using the above assumptions, the maximum compression stress resultant, Cb,max at the
beam end can be determined as:
asyasxbpymaxb CTPC , (3.2)
where:
bmaxbccmaxb bafC ,, α (3.3)
The depth of the compression (i.e., contact) region at the beam end is given as:
β,
,maxb
maxb
ac (3.4)
where, the equivalent rectangular stress block depth, ab,max, can be solved by substituting
Equation 3.2 into Equation 3.3 to get:
bcc
asyasxbpymaxb bf
CTPa
α, (3.5)
Then, the maximum moment capacity, Mb,max can be estimated by taking moments
about the beam centerline:
abasxasymaxbb
maxbmaxb thTCah
CM
2
1
2,
,, (3.6)

78
The equivalent rectangular stress block parameters for the confined concrete used in the
experimental program are close to 1.0 (ranging between approximately 0.95 – 1.0); and
thus, the above equations can be simplified by assuming α = β = 1.0.
3.2.1.2 Beam Transverse Reinforcement
To ensure that the beam test specimens do not fail in shear, it is required that:
maxbbn VV , (3.7)
where, Vb,max is the maximum shear force demand and Vbn is the nominal shear strength
for the beam. The beam maximum shear force demand, Vb,max is determined based on
capacity design principles (see Figure 3.17) using the maximum expected moment
capacity, Mb,max at the beam-to-wall interface as:
b
bmaxb l
MV max,
,
2 (3.8)
Mb,maxVb,max
Mb,maxVb,max
lb
Figure 3.17: Beam maximum shear force demand.
Due to gap opening at the beam ends and the formation of a large diagonal
compression strut as discussed in Chapter 2, the diagonal tension reinforcement

79
requirements for unbonded post-tensioned precast coupling beams are significantly
reduced as compared with conventional reinforced concrete coupling beams where the
beam is cast monolithically with the wall piers. This assertion is validated later in the
dissertation based on the experimental results provided in Chapters 6 and 7, and the
analytical results using an ABAQUS finite element model in Chapter 9. The experimental
and analytical results show that concrete cracking does not occur in the midspan regions
of unbonded post-tensioned precast coupling beams even though the shear force is
constant over the beam length. As a result, ACI 318 (ACI 2005) minimum shear
reinforcement requirements are used to design the transverse reinforcement along the
length of the test beams, which is provided by a total of five full-depth No. 3 hoops
nominally-spaced at approximately 7.0 in. (178 mm) in between the partial-depth
confinement hoops at the beam ends.
The most critical locations for the design of the transverse reinforcement in
unbonded post-tensioned precast concrete coupling beams occur adjacent to the beam end
surfaces. In the vicinity of the gap tip at each beam end as shown in Figure 3.18, high
transverse tensile stresses significantly greater than the concrete cracking strength are
expected to develop as a result of the opening of a gap immediately adjacent to a contact
region. The design of the transverse reinforcement in these end regions of the test
specimens utilizes the ABAQUS finite element analysis results in Chapter 9. For this
purpose, the transverse tensile stresses in each row of finite elements at the beam ends are
integrated to determine the resultant tensile forces. These forces are then used to
determine the amount of transverse steel reinforcement needed at the beam ends, which is
provided by the vertical legs of the two No. 6 looping reinforcement in each beam.

80
As described in Chapter 9, the beam is modeled at full-scale using 72 rows of
plane stress elements. In Figure 3.19, the transverse (i.e., y-direction) stresses (at a beam
chord rotation of 9.0%) are plotted over the beam length for element row 38, which has
the highest transverse stresses in the beam. Integrating the tensile stresses at each beam
end gives 114 kips as the maximum tension force and a required steel area [assuming 75
ksi (517 MPa) yield strength for the steel] of 1.5 in.2 (968 mm2) for a full-scale beam.
Scaling this to half-scale for the design of the precast beam specimen gives a required
steel area of 0.38 in.2 (323 mm2), much less than the area of the vertical legs of the two
No. 6 looping reinforcing bars [0.88 in.2 (568 mm2)]. Note that the design of the two No.
6 bars was governed by the beam longitudinal bonded mild steel reinforcement
requirements described in the next section. Note also that the 9.0% beam chord rotation
used in Figure 3.19 is larger than what would be used in typical design practice.
couplingbeam
high transversetensile stresses
Figure 3.18: High transverse tensile stresses in the vicinity of the gap tip.

81
beam length, lb [in. (mm)]
0 90(2286)
1.0(6.9)
tra
nsv
erse
str
ess
[ksi
(k
N)]
Figure 3.19: Transverse (y-direction) stresses in element row 38 of full scale finite element beam model.
3.2.1.3 Beam Longitudinal Mild Steel Reinforcement
Longitudinal bonded mild steel reinforcement is needed to transfer the tension
angle forces into the beam test specimens along the top and bottom surfaces. This
reinforcement is designed to remain linear elastic under the maximum angle forces
developed during the loading history. Due to the half-scale modeling of the test
specimens, there is not enough space to fully develop the longitudinal reinforcement
within the length and depth of the beam, including the use of hooks. Therefore, full hoops
that loop around the beam perimeter in the vertical direction are designed for the
longitudinal reinforcement. In full-scale design, each looping reinforcing bar could be
replaced with two U-shaped bars, making the placement of the reinforcement simpler.
The vertical legs of the looping reinforcement are used as transverse reinforcement at the
beam ends as described in the previous section.

82
The critical section for the design of the longitudinal mild steel reinforcement is
assumed to be at the centroid of the angle-to-beam connection bolts. It must be ensured
that the mild steel reinforcement does not yield at the critical section, since this would
result in a large crack at the critical section and prevent the opening of a gap at the beam-
to-wall interface. The critical section is shown in Figure 3.20(a), and the effect of the
angle forces on the beam moment diagram can be seen in Figures 3.20(b) and 3.20(c).
There is a drop in the beam moment diagram at the location of the angles, where Mb,a is
the moment contribution from the angle forces. The slopes of the beam moment diagram
to the left and right of the critical section are assumed to be the same since the vertical
(shear) force from the angles is ignored. Note that the end moment for a beam without
angles and Mb,b in Figure 3.18(c) are not the same because of the effect of the angle
forces on the axial force at the beam end.
It can be seen from Figure 3.18 that the beam moment demand at the critical
section is given as:
2,
max,,crb
bcrb
lVM (3.9)

83
(a)
Mb,cr
Mb,a
Mb,cr
Cayx
Tasx
Mb,max
Mb,b
lb,cr /2
CL
Vb,max
Nb
criticalsection
grout
beam-to-wallinterface
looping reinforcement
coupling beam
(b)
(c)
coupling beam
Figure 3.20: Design of beam longitudinal mild steel reinforcement – (a) critical section; (b) angle forces and beam moment at critical section; (c) beam moment diagram.

84
For the design of the longitudinal reinforcement at the critical section, the following
assumptions are made: (1) the concrete in tension is cracked (i.e., concrete has no tensile
strength); and (2) the concrete at the critical section is linear elastic in compression.
hb
Mb,cr
Nb
Cc
CLdb
c
db-c
n.a.
c/3
Tl
criticalsection
straindistribution
stressresultants
fcεc
εlAl
Al = Al
Figure 3.21: Equilibrium at critical section.
Looking immediately to the right side of the critical section in Figure 3.21 and summing
the forces in the longitudinal direction while the compression reinforcement is ignored:
lbc TNC (3.10)
with:
bcc cbfC2
1 (3.11)
lll fAT (3.12)
and,
bpbpbpb fAPN (3.13)
where, Tl = tensile force in the beam longitudinal mild steel reinforcement; fc = stress of
the concrete at the extreme compression face; Al = area of the longitudinal mild steel
reinforcement in tension; db = distance from the extreme concrete compression fiber to

85
the centroid of the longitudinal mild steel reinforcement in tension; Al = longitudinal
reinforcement area; and fl = stress in the longitudinal mild steel reinforcement in tension.
Using strain compatibility, the strain, εc and stress, fc at the extreme compression
face of the concrete can be calculated as:
cd
c
blc εε (3.14)
and
l
c
blc E
E
cd
cff
(3.15)
where, εl = strain in the longitudinal mild steel reinforcement in tension; and Ec and El =
Young’s moduli for concrete and longitudinal mild steel reinforcement, respectively.
Substituting Equations 3.11 – 3.15 into Equation 3.10 yields:
llbpbpl
cb
bl fAfA
E
Eb
cd
cf
2
2
1 (3.16)
The moments can also be summed about the location of Cc to give:
332,
cdfA
chfAM bll
bbpbpcrb (3.17)
where, Mb,cr is the beam moment at the critical section as determined from Equation 3.9.
The required area of the longitudinal mild steel reinforcement, Al at the critical
section is determined by setting the stress in the reinforcement, fl equal to the design yield
strength, fly. Rearranging Equation 3.17 for Al and substituting into Equation 3.16 gives:

86
3
32
2
1 ,2
cd
chfAM
fAE
Eb
cd
cf
b
bbpbpcrb
bpbpl
cb
bly (3.18)
Then, Equation 3.18 is solved for c based on the following two limiting conditions for the
stress in the post-tensioning steel: (1) fbp = fbpi (i.e., the post-tensioning steel stress is
equal to the initial stress); and (2) fbp = fbpy (i.e., the post-tensioning steel stress is equal to
the design yield strength). Finally, the calculated c values are used in Equation 3.17 (with
fl = fly) to determine the required longitudinal steel area, Al, selecting the conservative
(i.e., larger) design.
3.2.1.4 Confinement Reinforcement
In addition to the transverse and longitudinal mild steel reinforcement,
confinement hoops are provided at the ends of the beam specimens in areas where large
concrete compressive stresses are expected to develop.
The compressive stress-strain relationship of the confined concrete was
determined using a model developed by Mander et al. (1988a) as shown in Figure 3.20.
The confined concrete compressive stress-strain parameters, which include the maximum
strength, f’cc, strain at maximum strength, εcc, and ultimate strain, εccu, depend on the
properties of the confining reinforcement hoops, the longitudinal mild steel reinforcement
placed within the hoops (which was ignored for the confined concrete properties of the
test specimens), and the unconfined concrete. The diameter of the hoop bars, φh, the
geometry of the hoops (i.e., width, bh, and depth, dh), the hoop spacing, sh, the yield
strength of the hoop steel, fhy, the strain, εhm, at the maximum strength of the hoop steel,

87
and the maximum compressive strength of the unconfined concrete, f’c (assumed to be
reached at a strain of 0.002) are specified to determine the confined concrete model. The
ultimate confined concrete strain, εccu, is assumed to be reached when the fracture of the
reinforcing hoops occurs, resulting in a loss of confinement and crushing of the confined
concrete.
confined concrete
confinement fracture
0.002 εcc εccu
compressive strain, εc
fcc
fc
com
pre
ssiv
e st
ress
, f
c
unconf ined concrete
Figure 3.22: Stress-strain model for confined concrete (Mander et al. 1988a).
The hoop reinforcement in the test specimens is designed to confine the maximum
amount of concrete at the beam corners by minimizing the amount of cover concrete
outside the hoop bar bend locations. Due to the half-scale modeling of the test specimens,
the hoop bends require a smaller radius of curvature to fit in the small area and maximize
the amount of concrete that is confined (minimizing the cover concrete). To achieve this,
the confining hoops were manufactured in the Structural Systems Laboratory at the
University of Notre Dame and had bends that did not abide by the ACI 318 Section 7.2

88
(ACI 2005) minimum bend criteria, which state that the diameter of bend measured on
the inside of the bar shall not be less than 6db for No. 3 through No. 8 bars; where, db is
the bar diameter. For No. 3 bars, this requires a bend diameter of 2.25 in. (57 mm);
whereas, the bend diameter for the No. 3 hoops manufactured at the University of Notre
Dame range between 1.0 – 1.25 in. (25 – 32 mm).
The amount of hoop reinforcement in the beam specimens is designed based on
the maximum confined concrete strain, εcc,max, reached at a beam chord rotation of 9.0%
using an analytical model in DRAIN-2DX (Prakash et al. 1993). This analytical model is
described in detail in Chapter 9. Using the analytical results, the maximum confined
concrete strain demand is estimated as εcc,max = 0.030. Then, an adequate amount of hoop
reinforcement is provided to result in a confined concrete ultimate strain, εccu greater than
εcc,max in the beam-to-wall contact regions. The confinement reinforcement is terminated
after the compressive strain in the contact regions decreases to the design unconfined
concrete crushing strain of εcu = 0.003.
Using the model by Mander et al. (1988a) as discussed above, the No. 3 steel
closed rectangular hoops confining the concrete above and below the post-tensioning
duct at each end of the test beam result in an estimated confined concrete compressive
strength of 12.5 ksi (86 MPa) with an ultimate strain at crushing of 0.035 (assumed to be
reached when the hoop steel fractures causing ultimate failure of the confined concrete).
3.2.1.5 Shear Slip at Beam-to-Wall Interfaces
An undesirable mode of failure for the test subassembly is shear slip of the beam
at the beam-to-wall interfaces. To prevent this failure mode, the nominal shear slip

89
capacity provided by shear friction at each beam-to-wall interface must be greater than
the maximum shear force demand at the interface:
maxbss VV , (3.19)
The maximum shear force demand, Vb,max is determined from Equation 3.8. To determine
the shear slip capacity, Vss, the shear friction capacity due to the beam post-tensioning
force, Vsbp and the shear slip capacity provided by the angles, Vsa must be determined as:
sasbpss VVV (3.20)
The shear slip capacity due to the beam post-tensioning force can be calculated
as:
biccsbp PV μ (3.21)
where, Pbi = initial post-tensioning force in the beam post-tensioning tendon; and μcc =
coefficient of friction for concrete-against-concrete surfaces. The increase in the beam
post-tensioning force due to the elongation of the strands under lateral loading is
conservatively ignored.
As a conservative estimate of the nominal shear slip capacity at the beam-to-wall
interfaces, only the contribution of the compression angle, Vsa is considered. As described
in Section 3.3.3, each angle-to-wall connection in the test specimens consists of two
unbonded post-tensioned strands [ASTM 416 low-relaxation strands with 0.6 in. (15.2
mm) diameter]. The shear slip capacity provided by the compression angle-to-wall
connection can be determined as:
compapiccsa PV ,μ (3.22)
where, Papi,comp is the total initial force in the compression angle connection post-
tensioning strands. Note that the tension angles also help to prevent the beam from

90
slipping vertically at the beam-to-wall interfaces; however, they were conservatively
ignored in the shear slip design of the test specimens.
The total shear slip capacity then becomes:
bicompapiccns PPV ,μ (3.23)
Section 11.7.4.3 of ACI 318 (ACI 2005) permits a coefficient of friction, μcc,
equal to 1.4λ for concrete placed monolithically, 1.0λ for concrete placed against
hardened concrete with surfaces intentionally roughened, and 0.6λ for concrete placed
against hardened concrete not intentionally roughened, where λ = 1.0 for normal weight
concrete. For the design of the test specimens, a value of μcc = 0.6 was used.
3.2.2 Reaction Block
As shown in Figure 3.21, the length of the reaction block in the N-S direction is
60 in. (1.52 m); however, the reaction block does not have a uniform thickness. Adjacent
to the coupling beam, the reaction block is 7.5 in. (191 mm) thick, modeling the thickness
of the prototype wall pier at half-scale. This region of the reaction block is referred to as
the “wall test region.” The wall test region is 30 in. (762 mm) long and 48 in. (1219 mm)
high. The other regions of the reaction block are 58 in. (1.47 m) wide to provide lateral
stability to the block and to accommodate anchorage to the strong floor. A total of sixteen
1.0 in. (25 mm) diameter rods tie the reaction block to the strong floor. Eight of these
rods are used to apply vertical forces to the wall test region through a spreader beam (see
Figures 3.2 and 3.3), representing the wall pier axial forces. The total vertical force
applied on the wall test region ranges between 150 – 160 kips (667 – 712 kN).

91
Figure 3.21 shows the duct details for the reaction block. There are sixteen
vertical Dywidag Spiro 4.0 in. (102 mm) nominal diameter ducts used for the 1.0 in. (25
mm) diameter tie down rods connecting the reaction block to the strong floor. The ducts
are oversized so that the placement of the reaction block can be adjusted as needed. There
are a total of twelve 1.0 in. (25 mm) nominal diameter ducts running in the horizontal
(north-south) direction to attach the top and seat angles to the reaction block (Dywidag
grout tubes were used for these ducts). Note that only two post-tensioning strands are
used to attach each angle to the reaction block; the additional ducts allow for the reaction
block to accommodate test beams with different depths as described in Section 3.2.1.
The central post-tensioning duct in the reaction block uses a Dywidag 1 in. by 3
in. (25 mm by 76 mm) nominal duct that matches the central post-tensioning duct in the
beam, which then transitions to a 2.375 in. (60 mm) nominal diameter duct that connects
to an embedded Dywidag Multiplane Anchorage MA 7 - 0.6 in. anchor. As shown in
Figure 3.22, the anchorage system used for the beam post-tensioning strands consists of
an MA anchor, a trumpet for the transition from the anchor to the duct, and a reinforcing
spiral to accommodate the high stresses at the anchor location. The 7-strand MA anchor
allows the use of two, three, or four post-tensioning strands in each test beam.
Furthermore, these strands can be separated at the anchor location, permitting a load cell
to be placed at the end of each strand as described in Chapter 5 and shown in Figure 3.23.
To accommodate these load cells, individual barrel/wedge type anchors and an anchor
plate are used for the strands instead of the forged wedge plate and wedges that are part
of the standard MA anchor.

92
7.5"(114mm)
60"(1.52m)
58" (1.47m)
6.375"(162mm)
8.0"(203mm)
11.875"(302mm)
11.875"(302mm)
8.0"(203mm) 5.375"
(137mm)
8.0"(203mm)5.375"
(137mm)
15.625"(397mm)
15.625"(397mm)
8.0"(203mm)
6.375"(162mm)
66"
(1.67m)
25.25"
(641mm)
30" (762mm)60" (1.52m)
58" (1.47m)
7.5"
(114mm)
10.0"(25mm)
2.0" (51mm)
18"(457mm)
48"(1219mm)
3.5"(89mm)
58" (1.47m)
7.5"(114mm)
25.25" (641mm) 25.25" (641mm)
18"(457mm)
48"(1219mm)
60" (1.52m)
66"(1.67m)
24"
(610m
m)
42"
(1067m
m)
30" (762mm) 30" (762mm)
N
wall testregion
tie down duct
central post-tensioning duct
angle-to-wallconnection duct
N
top view
side viewnorth end view
N
wall testregion
embeddedMA anchorWE
66"(1.67m)
10.0"(25mm)
10.0"(25mm)
2.0" (51mm)
2.0" (51mm)
2.0" (51mm)
tie down duct
central post-tensioning duct
duct transitionregion
central post-tensioning duct
duct transitionregion
tie down ducttie down duct
angle-to-wallconnection duct
angle-to-wallconnection duct
central post-tensioning duct
angle-to-wallconnection duct
Figure 3.23: Reaction block duct details.

93
Figure 3.24: Dywidag Multiplane MA anchor components used with the beam post-tensioning strands.
anchorplate
barrel/wedgeanchor
post-tensioningstrand
wall face
MA anchor
reinforcingspiral
trumpet
load cell
Figure 3.25: Modified Dywidag Multiplane MA anchor details.

94
Figure 3.24 shows the reinforcement details of the reaction block. The reaction
block is designed to be reused for the entire experimental program and therefore must be
able to accommodate both the shallow test beams (Beams 1 – 3) and the deep test beam
(Beam 4). To resist similar levels of compressive stresses as those that develop at the
beam ends during gap opening, confining hoops are required in the beam-to-wall contact
regions of the reaction block. The location of the contact region changes with the
increased beam depth in Test 4. Furthermore, the size and placement of the confinement
hoops must accommodate the angle-to-wall connection ducts and the central post-
tensioning duct. The confinement details also must limit the amount of nonlinear concrete
strains in the test wall region since the reaction block is to be used for the entire
experimental program. To achieve this, a higher confined concrete strength (i.e., more
confinement) is used in the wall test region than in the coupling beam. Due to the high
confinement demands, three layers of hoops [2 layers of 6.125 in. by 2.625 in. (156 mm
by 67 mm) hoops and one layer of 6.125 in. by 3.125 in. (156 mm by 79 mm) hoops] are
used above and below the central post-tensioning duct. In each layer, five hoops are
placed at a spacing of 1.5 in. (38 mm). Behind these five hoops, five additional deeper
6.125 in. by 9.375 in. (156 mm by 238 mm) hoops are used at the same spacing of 1.5 in.
(38 mm).
Figure 3.25 shows the confining hoops used in the reaction block and Figure 3.26
shows the hoop cages placed above and below the central post-tensioning duct in the wall
test region. Similar to the hoops for the test beams, the hoops used in the reaction block
were manufactured in the Structural Systems Laboratory at the University of Notre Dame
and do not meet ACI 318 Section 7.2 (ACI 2005) minimum bend requirements in order to

95
minimize the amount of cover concrete in the half-scale specimens. Additional
reinforcement in the reaction block includes W4.0xW4.0 – 4x4 welded wire mesh (which
is not continuous over the confining hoop cages), vertical No. 6 bars, No. 4 corner bars,
and lifting anchors. This reinforcement does not affect the behavior or design of the wall
test region; and thus, is not discussed here. Photographs of the reaction block details prior
to the casting of the concrete are provided in Figures 3.27 and 3.28. More detailed
drawings, including all reinforcement in the reaction block, can be found in Appendix D.

96
60"(1.52m)
58" (1.47m)
6.125"(156mm)
3.4375"
3.125"
2.8125"
1.9375"1.9375"
2.8125"
3.125"
3.4375"
66
" (
1.6
7m
)
58" (1.47m)
7.5"(114mm)
25.25" (641mm) 25.25" (641mm)60" (1.52m)
24"
(610m
m)
42"
(1067m
m)
30" (762mm) 30" (762mm)
angle ducts not shown
angle ducts not shown
top view
north end view side view
66
" (
1.6
7m
)wall test region
6.125"(156mm)
10 @ 1.5"(38mm) spacing
N
N
WE
10 @ 1.5" (38mm) spacing
87mm
79mm
71mm
49mm49mm
71mm
79mm
87mm
48"
(1219m
m)
18"
(457m
m)
48"
(1219m
m)
18"
(457m
m)
Figure 3.26: Reaction block reinforcement details.

97
Figure 3.27: Reaction and load block reinforcement hoops.

98
Figure 3.28: Photograph of reaction and load block reinforcement cage.

99
Figure 3.29: Photograph of reaction block duct and reinforcement placement.

100
Figure 3.30: Photograph of wall test region duct and reinforcement details.

101
3.2.3 Load Block
Similar to the reaction block, the load block has a horizontal length of 60 in. (1.52
m) and a height of 36 in. (914 mm). The load block has a uniform thickness (width) of 35
in. (889 mm) along its length to allow for connections to the actuators and to prevent
damage to the block during testing (the load block was re-used in all of the tests in the
experimental program).
Figure 3.29 shows the duct details inside the load block. In the vertical direction,
there are eight Dywidag Spiro1.58 in. (41 mm) nominal diameter ducts and twenty-four
Dywidag Spiro 1.0 in. (25mm) nominal diameter ducts. Ten 1.0 in. (25 mm) diameter and
eight 0.5 in. (12 mm) diameter threaded rods run through these vertical ducts to secure
the load block to the two steel connection beams above. The threaded rods are bolted to
the load block at the bottom and to the bottom flanges of the connection beams at the top.
Two servo-controlled hydraulic actuators are bolted to the connection beams and are used
to displace the load block vertically through a quasi-static reversed cyclic displacement
history while preventing its rotations. Note that some of the vertical ducts in the load
block remain unused in this process.
The horizontal ducts in the load block are the same as the ducts in the reaction
block. There are a total of twelve 1.0 in. (25 mm) nominal diameter ducts to attach the
top and seat angles to the load block (Dywidag grout tubes are used for these ducts).
Similar to the reaction block, two post-tensioning strands are used to attach each angle to
the load block; the additional ducts allow for the load block to accommodate test beams
with different depths as described in Section 3.2.1. The central MA post-tensioning
anchor is embedded in the north end of the load block with the post-tensioning duct

102
transitioning from a 1 in. by 3 in. (25 mm by 76 mm) nominal duct at the south end to the
MA anchor at the north end (similar to the reaction block).
Figure 3.30 shows the reinforcement used in the load block, which is the same as
that described for the reaction block (see Figures 3.25 and 3.26 for photographs of the
No. 3 hoops and cages used in the load block). Figure 3.31 shows a photograph of the
duct and reinforcement details for the load block, with more complete details and
drawings provided in Appendix E. The load block was cast with the top side at the
bottom so that a smooth formed surface was achieved for attachment to the steel
connection beams in the final configuration.

103
6.125"(156mm)
35"(889mm)
35" (889mm)
9.375"(238mm)
13.5" (343mm)
6.125"(156mm)
60" (1524mm)
60" (1524mm)
36"(914mm)
36"(914mm)
EW
top view
N
N
side view
angle ducts not shown
10 @ 1.5" (38mm) spacing
angle and connection beam ducts not shown
10 @ 1.5" (38mm) spacing
3.4375"
3.125"
2.8125"
1.9375"1.9375"
2.8125"
3.125"
3.4375"
south end view
87mm
79mm
71mm
49mm49mm
71mm
79mm
87mm
Figure 3.31: Load block duct details.

104
6.125"(156mm)
35"(889mm)
35" (889mm)
9.375"(238mm)
13.5" (343mm)
6.125"(156mm)
60" (1524mm)
60" (1524mm)
36"(914mm)
36"(914mm)
EW
top view
N
N
side view
angle ducts not shown
10 @ 1.5" (38mm) spacing
angle and connection beam ducts not shown
10 @ 1.5" (38mm) spacing
3.4375"
3.125"
2.8125"
1.9375"1.9375"
2.8125"
3.125"
3.4375"
south end view
87mm
79mm
71mm
49mm49mm
71mm
79mm
87mm
Figure 3.32: Load block reinforcement details.

105
Figure 3.33: Photograph of load block duct and reinforcement details.
3.3 Testing Procedure
The procedure for each subassembly test requires a multi-day process. The first
day involves the initial and final alignment of the coupling beam, the load block, and the
reaction block; application of the vertical forces (representing the wall pier axial forces)
on the wall test region of the reaction block; tamping (packing) of the grout into the
beam-to-wall interfaces; and application of a small amount of central post-tensioning
force to close the gaps at the beam-wall-joints. The grout is then allowed to cure for 8
days. On the ninth day, full post-tensioning is applied to the system and the top and seat
angles are connected to the beam and to the load and reaction blocks. The load block and
the coupling beam are supported on screw jacks during this entire process to prevent

106
settling. On the tenth day (test day), the temporary jacks are removed, the self-weight of
the subassembly is counteracted using the hydraulic actuators, and finally, the structure is
tested by moving the load block vertically through a predetermined displacement history.
As described previously, the experimental program consists of eight floor level
subassembly tests using four precast coupling beam specimens, investigating the
following primary design parameters: (1) beam post-tensioning tendon area and initial
stress; (2) beam initial concrete stress; (3) angle strength; and (4) beam depth (beam
length-to-depth aspect ratio). Details on the variation of these design parameters, as well
as more information on the experimental program, are depicted in Table 3.2. A new beam
is used in the first test of each series of tests.
3.3.1 Wall Test Region Vertical Forces
Before the final alignment of the coupling beam with respect to the reaction and
load blocks, vertical forces are applied to the wall test region of the reaction block to
represent the effect of the wall pier axial forces on the coupling region. The forces are
applied using eight 1.0 in. (25 mm) rods that run through a spreader beam (see Figures
3.2 and 3.3) and connect the reaction block to the strong floor. The total target initial
vertical force applied on the wall test region ranges between 150 – 160 kips (667 – 712
kN). Following the application of the vertical force, any final adjustment/alignment of the
beam with respect to the reaction and load blocks is done.
A hydraulic torque wrench is used to tighten the eight vertical tie-down rods
incrementally. The outermost east and west rods are tightened first, followed by the inner
rods. To keep a uniform application of force on the wall test region, after the tightening

107
of each rod, the rod on the opposite side is tightened (e.g., north-east rod followed by
south-west rod). This procedure is continued until the desired initial forces are achieved
as monitored using strain gauges attached to the rods as described in Chapter 5. Note that
the forces in the tie-down rods vary as the subassembly is subjected to lateral
displacements during testing. As discussed in Chapters 6 and 7, the variations in the
vertical forces are generally small, with the total vertical force in the wall test region
remaining compressive throughout a test. The wall pier axial forces in a multi-story
coupled wall structure can undergo significant variations, including tension-compression
load cycles, during an earthquake. These large variations cannot be captured by the tie-
down rods applying vertical forces to the wall test region of the reaction block.

108
TABLE 3.2
SUBASSEMBLY TEST MATRIX
Test No.
Test Date
Coupling Beam Dimensions [in. (mm)]
1Angles
2lgv [in.
(mm)]
3la [in.
(mm)]
Beam PT Tendon
4Σabp [in2
(mm2)] bpu
bpi
f
f5
6fbci [ksi
(MPa)] c
bci
f
f
7
gt
gti
f
f
8
cf
v
max
9
Primary Test Parameter(s)
hb bb lb
1 10/17/06 14
(356) 7.5
(191) 45
(1143) L8x8x1/2 5 (127)
7.5 (191)
2 – 0.6” (15.2mm)
0.434 (280)
0.50 0.58 (4.0)
0.076 0.069 5.0 (0.42) 10patched beam
2 01/26/07 14
(356) 7.5
(191) 45
(1143) L8x8x1/2 5 (127)
7.5 (191)
4 – 0.6” (15.2mm)
0.868 (560)
0.36 0.82 (5.7)
0.114 0.089 6.5 (0.54)
beam PT tendon area and
initial stress; beam initial
concrete stress
3 02/19/07 14
(356) 7.5
(191) 45
(1143) L8x8x1/2 5 (127)
2 x 2.5 (64)
3 – 0.6” (15.2mm)
0.651 (420)
0.39 0.68 (4.7)
0.089 0.073 5.4 (0.45) 11angle strength
3A 03/15/07 14
(356) 7.5
(191) 45
(1143) L8x8x1/2 5 (127)
7.5 (191)
3 – 0.6” (15.2mm)
0.651 (420)
0.34 0.59 (4.1)
0.077 0.063 4.3 (0.45) 12angle strength
3B 04/04/07 14
(356) 7.5
(191) 45
(1143) L8x8x1/2 5 (127)
2 x 2.5 (64)
3 – 0.6” (15.2mm)
0.651 (420)
0.34 0.58 (4.0)
0.076 0.062 5.1 (0.36) 13angle strength
4 05/23/07 18
(457) 7.5
(191) 45
(1143) L8x8x1/2 5 (127)
2 x 2.5 (64)
3 – 0.6” (15.2mm)
0.651 (420)
0.43 0.58 (4.0)
0.087 0.075 5.4 (0.42) beam depth
4A 06/08/07 18
(457) 7.5
(191) 45
(1143) - - -
3 – 0.6” (15.2mm)
0.651 (420)
0.39 0.52 (3.6)
0.083 0.068 3.4 (0.45) no angles
4B 06/12/07 18
(457) 7.5
(191) 45
(1143) L8x8x1/2 5 (127)
7.5 (191)
4 – 0.6” (15.2mm)
0.868 (560)
0.41 0.73 (5.0)
0.116 0.094 7.6 (0.63) 14angle strength 1 U.S. shape. 2Angle vertical leg gage length measured from centroid of angle-to-wall connection strands to heel of angle. 3Angle length (in Tests 3, 3B, and 4, two short angles were used at each top and seat beam-to-wall connection location as described in Chapters 6 and 7). 4 Σabp=total area of coupling beam post-tensioning tendon. 5fbpi/ fbpu = average initial coupling beam post-tensioning strand stress; where, fbpu = 270 ksi (1862 MPa) is the design maximum strength of the post-tensioning steel. 6fbci = Pbi /Ac = initial coupling beam concrete nominal stress; where, Pbi = total initial force measured in coupling beam post-tensioning tendon; Ac = actual cross-sectional area of beam (with
central PT duct area taken out); 7f’c = test day strength of unconfined beam concrete. 8 fgti = Pbpi /Agt = initial grout nominal stress; where, Agt = actual cross-sectional area of beam-to-wall interface grout (with central PT duct area taken out); f’gt = test day strength of grout. 9vmax = Vmax/Agross (note: vmax/√f’c values in units of psi (MPa); where, Vmax = maximum measured beam shear strength; Agross = gross cross-sectional area of beam (central PT duct area not
taken out). 10First beam specimen was patched at south end as described in Chapter 6. 11Angle strength was reduced by using two 2.5 in. (64 mm) short angles. 12Angle strength was reduced by drilling holes in angle vertical leg as described in Chapter 7. 13Angle strength was reduced by using two 2.5 in. (64 mm) short angles along with angle-to-wall connection plates as described in Chapter 7. 14Angle strength was increased by using 7.5 in. (191 mm) long angles as described in Chapter 7.
108

109
3.3.2 Beam Post-Tensioning Force
The application of the beam post-tensioning force is done using a single-strand
(Figure 3.32) hydraulic post-tensioning jack (manufactured by Jacks & Accessories,
Inc®) at the north end of the load block. Single use barrel/wedge type anchors with three-
piece wedges and ring are used to anchor the post-tensioning strands at both the live end
(i.e., jacking end) and the dead end (Figure 3.33).
Following the curing of the grout at the beam-to-wall interfaces, a series of pulls
are applied to achieve the desired initial forces in the post-tensioning strands. First, each
strand is incrementally pulled [approximately to 2.0 – 4.0 kips (9.0 – 18 kN) of force] to
remove any slack in the strand. Then, the strands are incrementally pulled [frist,
approximately to 15 – 18 kips (67 – 80 kN) of force, and then, to 26 – 33 kips (116 – 147
kN) of force] until the desired initial force is reached. The incremental jacking procedure
helps apply uniform stresses to the beam and allow for better control of the strand force.
Each prestress increment is selected to ensure that the wedges seat in new location on the
strand allowing for an increase in the post-tensioning force. The force in each strand is
monitored using a load cell mounted between the barrel/wedge anchor and the bearing
plate [Figure 3.32(c)] at the reaction block end (i.e., dead end) as described in Chapter 5.
The post-tensioning jack has a hydraulic ram that attempts to evenly seat the anchor
wedges as part of the jacking process. To achieve the desired force, the strand is pulled to
a jacking force slightly higher than the desired initial force since considerable losses
occur during the seating of the anchor wedges (due to the relatively short length of the
post-tensioning strands).

110
(a) (b)
6.0" (152mm)
0.75"(19mm)
15" (381mm)
7.5" (191mm)
3.0" (76mm)
3.0"(76mm)
2.25"(57mm)
1.5"(38mm)
3.0"(76mm)
3.0"(76mm)
1.5"(38mm)
1.5"(38mm)
front view side view
(c)
Figure 3.34: Post-tensioning operation – (a) single-strand jack; (b) jack operation; (c) anchor bearing plate.

111
Figure 3.35: Single use barrel/wedge type anchors with three-piece wedges and ring.
3.3.3 Top and Seat Angle Connections
Following the stressing of the beam post-tensioning strands, each set of top and
seat angles are connected to the test beam using four 7/8 in. (22 mm) diameter threaded
rods passing through the vertical ducts cast inside each end of the beam (see Figures 3.11
and 3.12). First, the nuts on the threaded rods are hand-tightened to snug-tight condition.
Then, the bolts are tightened to slip critical condition following the “turn-of-nut
pretensioning method” as described in the LRFD Manual of Steel Construction (AISC
2001) using a hydraulic torque wrench. The number and size of the angle-to-beam
connection bolts is determined such that the slip-critical strength of the connection is
larger than the anticipated maximum strength of the angles in tension.
Once the angle-to-beam connections are secured, the angle vertical legs are
attached to the load and reaction blocks using two unbonded post-tensioning strands per

112
angle [ASTM A416 low-relaxation strands with 0.6 in. (15.2 mm) diameter]. Two-piece
wedges and barrels are used for the anchorage system for the angle-to-wall connections.
The stressing of the angle post-tensioning strands is done similar to the beam post-
tensioning strands using an incremental procedure (usually in a three-step jacking
procedure). A small amount of stress is first applied to remove any slack in each strand
[approximately to 2.0 – 4.0 kips (9.0 – 18 kN) of force]. Then, a series of pulls are made
[first, approximately to 15 – 18 kips (67 – 80 kN) of force, and then, to 26 – 33 kips (116
– 147 kN) of force] until the desired force of approximately 20 kips (89 kN) is reached in
each strand. The incremental prestressing procedure helps apply uniform stresses to the
wall test region of the reaction block and allow for better control of the strand force. Each
prestress increment is selected to ensure that the wedges seat in a new location on the
strand, allowing for an increase in the post-tensioning force.
The desired angle-to-wall connection force of 40 kips (178 kN) for the two
strands is determined based on the anticipated maximum strength of the angles in tension,
including prying effects. Four load cells (as described in Chapter 5) are used at the north
end of the angle-to-reaction-block connection strands to monitor the forces in the
connection strands. Note that even though the angle-to-wall connection strands are taken
to similar jacking forces as the beam post-tensioning strands, due to their short length,
they experience much higher anchor seating losses resulting in lower initial forces.

113
3.3.4 Test Day
Prior to each test, the forces in the actuators due to the self-weight of the
subassembly (i.e., the load block, steel connection beam and bolts, coupling beam
specimen, strands, angles, etc.) are measured. On the test day, these forces are applied to
the subassembly (by operating the actuators in load control) in the opposite direction to
counteract the effect of the structure self-weight on the coupling beam. These initial
forces applied to the structure are subtracted from the coupling beam shear force (since
the initial actuator forces are equal and opposite to the forces due to the structure self-
weight) to initialize the shear force measurement to zero.
Following this pre-test procedure and the application of the self-weight forces, a
pre-determined cyclic lateral displacement loading history is applied to the test beam.
The beam chord rotation, θb, which is used to specify the applied displacement history,
represents the relative transverse displacement between the beam ends. The nominal
displacement history for Test 1 is shown in Figure 3.33(a) and Table 3.3. The amplitude
of each set of three cycles is taken as 1.25 – 1.5 times the amplitude of the preceding set
of three cycles. After 0.25% beam chord rotation, each set of three fully reversed
displacement cycles is followed by one single smaller cycle to a displacement amplitude
equal to 30% of the preceding set of three cycles (with the exception of the last set). This
displacement history was determined based on the recommendations of ACI ITG 5.1
(ACI 2008).
A slightly different displacement loading history, still satisfying ACI ITG 5.1
recommendations, is used in the remaining tests (Tests 2 – 4B) [see Figure 3.33(b) and
Table 3.3]. Changes to the loading history include the following: (1) all small cycles with

114
amplitudes equal to 30% of the preceding set of three cycles are removed; and (2) the
increase in amplitude between each set of three cycles is modified from that used for the
displacement history in Test 1.
Note that the actual beam chord rotations, θb (i.e., relative vertical displacement
between the beam ends divided by the beam length) reached during testing are slightly
different than the nominal loading histories in Figure 3.34. The actual actuator
displacements and beam displacements measured during each test, as well as the
maximum beam rotations reached, are provided in Chapters 6 and 7.
The rate of displacement of the load block varied throughout the duration of each
test, ranging between 0.05 in. – 0.6 in. (1.2 mm – 15.2 mm) per minute as shown in Table
3.3. The small cycles used a slower displacement rate to help better control the two
actuators and observe the response of the structure. As the target displacement of the load
block increased, the displacement rate was also increased.
The data instrumentation used in the experimental program is described in
Chapter 5. During each test, a collection of linear displacement transducers, rotation
transducers, strain gauges, and loads cells are used to monitor the behavior of the
structure. To obtain a visual record of the progression of damage, digital photographs are
taken at the peaks and zeros of the first and third displacement cycles at each different
amplitude of the displacement loading history. In addition, concrete crack propagation is
marked on the test beam and recorded on paper at the peak positive and negative
displacements.

115
-10
0
10
bea
m c
hord
rot.
, θ
b (
%)
0 70cycle number
Note: After 0.25% rotation, eachset of three fully reversed cycles isfollowed by a single cycle to an amplitude equal to 30% of the preceding set of three cycles.
(a)
0
-10
10
bea
m c
hord
rot.
, θ
b (
%)
0 60cycle number
(b)
Figure 3.36: Nominal lateral displacement loading history – (a) Test 1; (b) Tests 2 – 4B.

116
TABLE 3.3
NOMINAL APPLIED DISPLACEMENT HISTORY
Test 1 Tests 2 – 4B
Beam Chord Rotation, θb
(%)
Number
of Cycles
Loading Rate [in./min
(mm/min)]
Beam Chord Rotation, θb
(%)
Number of Cycles
Loading Rate [in./min
(mm/min)]
0.044 3
0.05 (1.2)
0.044 3
0.05 (1.2)
0.067 3 0.067 3
0.10 3 0.10 3
0.125 3 0.125 3
0.175 3 0.175 3
0.25 3 0.25 3
0.10 (2.5) 0.075 1
0.35 3
0.10 (2.5)
0.35 3 0.105 1
0.50 3 0.50 3
0.20 (5.1) 0.15 1
0.75 3 0.75 3
0.225 1
1.0 3 1.0 3
0.30 (7.6) 0.30 1
1.5 3
0.30 (7.6)
1.5 3 0.45 1
2.0 3 2.25 3
0.40 (10.2) 0.60 1
3.0 3 3.33 3
0.90 1
4.0 3
0.60 (15.2)
5.0 3
0.50 (12.7) 1.20 1
5.0 3 6.4 3
1.50 1
6.4 3 8.0 3 0.60 (15.2)
1.92 1
8.0 3 Note: The actual maximum cycle rotations reached in each test are given in Chapters 6 and 7.

117
3.3.5 Summary of Test Procedure
This section provides a summary of the subassembly testing procedures used in
the experimental program for both the virgin and non-virgin subassembly tests.
3.3.5.1 Virgin Beam Test Procedure
Day 1
1. Spray the beam-to-wall connection interfaces of the reaction block and load block
with a bond breaker.
2. Epoxy wooden shims to each end of the beam to ensure uniform grout thickness
of 0.5 in. (13 mm) at the beam-to-wall interfaces.
3. Position the test beam in between the load and reaction blocks, ensuring that the
entire subassembly is lined up and the post-tensioning ducts are properly aligned.
4. Install (but do not stress) the beam and angle post-tensioning strands and anchors.
5. Zero the strain gauges in the reaction block.
6. Zero the load cells on the eight tie-down bars that apply vertical forces to the wall
test region of the reaction block.
7. Apply a total initial vertical force of approximately 150 – 160 kips (667 – 712
kN) to the wall test region.
8. Record the forces in the actuators due to the self-weight of the test subassembly.
9. Complete final adjustment/alignment of the beam with respect to the reaction and
load blocks and record the actuator positions.

118
10. Support the test beam and load block on temporary screw jacks (note that screw
jacks are used to minimize the settlement of the load block and beam until
testing).
11. Pack 0.5 in. (12.7 mm) thick grout between the beam ends and the reaction and
load block faces.
12. Zero the beam post-tensioning anchor load cells.
13. Zero the beam strain gauges.
14. Zero all horizontal (i.e., along the beam length) displacement transducers.
15. Apply a small amount of initial force [approximately 2.0 to 4.0 kips (9.0 – 18
kN)] to the beam post-tensioning strands to close the gaps between the beam and
the reaction and load blocks. Remove any excess grout “squeezed” out of the
beam-to-wall interfaces due to the application of this force.
16. Let the grout cure for 8 days, applying moisture to it during this time.
Day 9
17. Stress the beam post-tensioning strands to the desired initial force.
18. Tighten the angle-to-beam connection bolts to snug tight by hand, and then, using
a hydraulic torque wrench, to slip critical.
19. Zero the angle post-tensioning anchor load cells.
20. Stress the angle-to-wall connection stands to the desired initial force
[approximately 20 kips (89 kN)].

119
Test Day
21. Move the actuators to the “zero” (i.e., level) position of the subassembly recorded
in Step 9 of Day 1.
22. Remove the temporary screw jacks supporting the test beam and the load block.
23. Switch actuators to load control and apply the self weight forces from Step 8 of
Day 1. Record the new “zero” position of each actuator.
24. Zero the displacement transducers on the load block and reaction block, as well as
the vertical displacement transducers on the beam, rotation transducers on the
beam, and load cells in the actuators (instrumentation described in Chapter 5).
25. Switch the actuators to displacement control and apply the cyclic lateral
displacement history in Figure 3.33, while continuously recording all sensor data.
3.3.5.2 Non-Virgin Beam Test Procedure
After angles have been removed from previous test.
Day 1
1. Stress the beam post-tensioning strands to the desired initial force (i.e., add or
take away post-tensioning strands).
2. Tighten the angle-to-beam connection bolts to snug tight by hand, and then, using
a hydraulic torque wrench, to slip critical.
3. Zero the angle post-tensioning anchor load cells.
4. Stress the angle-to-wall connection stands to the desired initial force
[approximately 20 kips (89 kN)].

120
Test Day
5. Move the actuators to the “zero” (i.e., level) position of the subassembly recorded
at end of virgin beam test.
6. Remove the temporary screw jacks supporting the test beam and the load block.
7. Switch actuators to load control and apply the self weight forces from Step 8 of
Day 1 from virgin beam test procedure. Record the new “zero” position of each
actuator.
8. Zero the displacement transducers on the load block and reaction block, as well as
the vertical displacement transducers on the beam, rotation transducers on the
beam, and load cells in the actuators (instrumentation described in Chapter 5).
9. Switch the actuators to displacement control and apply the cyclic lateral
displacement history in Figure 3.33, while continuously recording all sensor data.
3.4 Chapter Summary
This chapter provides an overview of the half-scale experimental program on the
lateral load behavior of floor-level unbonded post-tensioned precast concrete coupling
beam subassemblies. The experiment setup, subassembly test components, and testing
procedure are described in the chapter.

121
CHAPTER 4
DESIGN AND MATERIAL PROPERTIES
This chapter describes the design and measured properties of the materials used in
the subassembly experiments.
4.1 Design Material Properties
The design compressive strength for the unconfined concrete used in the beam
specimens and the reaction and load block fixtures is f’c = 6.0 ksi (41 MPa). Several
different concrete mixes were tested prior to the casting of the subassembly specimens to
ensure that the 28-day strength is as close to 6.0 ksi (41 MPa) as possible and minimize
overstrength.
The design compressive strength for the fiber-reinforced grout used at the beam-
to-wall joints is f’gt = 10 ksi (69 MPa). The grout is designed to have a strength and
stiffness slightly under the confined concrete used in the beam specimens and the
reaction and load block fixtures without compromising workability and ductility (see
Section 3.2.1.4). The slightly lower grout strength and stiffness are expected to force the
compression strains (deformations) to occur within the fiber-reinforced grout rather than
the beam or wall concrete.

122
The design yield strength and maximum strength of the post-tensioning strands is
fpy = 245 ksi (1689 MPa) and fpu = 270 ksi (1862 MPa), respectively. The post-tensioning
steel meets ASTM A416 low-relaxation strand requirements.
The design yield strength of the No. 3 hoop reinforcement used in the beam
specimens and the reaction and load block fixtures is fhy = 60 ksi (414 MPa). These bars
meet ASTM A615 Gr. 60 reinforcement requirements.
The design yield strength of the No. 6 looping reinforcement used in the beams is
fly = 75 ksi (517 MPa). These bars also meet ASTM A615 Gr. 60 reinforcement
requirements; however, they are selected to have a high yield strength based on the mill
certifications.
All other mild steel reinforcement used in the subassembly components has a
design yield strength of 60 ksi (414 MPa, ASTM A615 Gr. 60 reinforcement).
The design yield strength of the top and seat angle steel is fay = 36 ksi (248 MPa)
according to ASTM A709 Gr. 36.
4.2 Measured Material Properties
ASTM standards were followed to determine the actual properties of the
unconfined concrete, fiber-reinforced grout, post-tensioning steel, mild reinforcing steel,
and top and seat angle steel used in the subassembly test structure. The measured material
properties are described below.

123
4.2.1 Unconfined Concrete Strength
The compressive strengths of the unconfined concrete used in the two reaction
blocks, the load block, and the four beam specimens were obtained by conducting two or
three standard (ASTM C39/C 39M) 6.0 in. by 12 in. (152 mm by 305 mm) cylinder tests
using a 600 kip (2669 kN) SATEC® Model 600XWHVL universal testing machine.
Unbonded caps using rubber pads and retainer rings were used at both ends of the
cylinder specimens in accordance with ASTM C 1231/C 1231M (ASTM 2001). The
concrete cylinders were cast at the same time as the test specimens and fixtures, and were
kept under the same environmental conditions until testing.
The cylinder tests were conducted at 28-days for the reaction block, load block,
and beam concrete as well as on the day of subassembly testing (first test for beams
tested more than once) for the beam concrete. A loading rate of 20 pounds per second
(0.14 MPa per second) was used. Figure 4.1 shows three concrete cylinder specimens
after failure and Table 4.1 lists the results obtained from the cylinder tests. No strain
measurements were taken for the concrete cylinder specimens. The concrete mix design
can be found in Appendix A.
Figure 4.1: Concrete cylinder specimens.

124
TABLE 4.1
UNCONFINED CONCRETE STRENGTH
Sample No. Subassembly Component
Cast Date Subassembly
Test Date
f’c at Subassembly Test Day
[ksi (MPa)]
28-Day Test Date
f’c at 28-Days [ksi (MPa)]
1 Beam 1
Load Block Reaction Block 1
04/05/2006 10/18/2006
8.01 (55.2)
05/03/2006
6.08 (41.9) 2 7.99 (55.1) 6.11 (42.1) 3 6.71 (46.3) 6.61 (45.6)
Average 7.57 (52.2) 6.27 (43.2) 1
Beam 2 Reaction Block 2
12/15/2006 01/27/2007
7.98 (55.0)
01/12/2007
7.67 (52.9) 2 7.22 (49.8) 6.45 (44.5) 3 6.52 (44.9) 5.98 (41.2)
Average 7.24 (49.9) 6.70 (46.2) 1
Beam 3 12/15/2006 03/06/2007
8.21 (56.6)
01/12/2007 same batch as
Beam 2 2 7.84 (54.1) 3 6.83 (47.1)
Average 7.63 (52.6) 1
Beam 4 12/15/2006 05/24/2007
-
01/12/2007 same batch as
Beam 2 2 6.41 (44.2) 3 6.12 (42.2)
Average 6.27 (43.2) f’c = maximum (i.e., peak) strength of unconfined concrete.
4.2.2 Fiber-Reinforced Grout Properties
The fiber-reinforced grout used at the beam-to-wall interfaces is an integral part
of the test subassembly. A high-strength grout with adequate stiffness and ductility is
required, while maintaining its workability. To achieve this goal, several mixes were tried
prior to the selection of the final design mix. A number of mix parameters were
investigated including the water-to-cement ratio, amount of fibers, curing conditions, and
the use of epoxy grout.
A series of preliminary tests were done on trial mixes to determine the final grout
mix design properties for the coupling beam subassembly experiments. The compressive
strength of the grout was determined by testing 2.0 in. (50.8 mm) cube specimens using a

125
60 kip (267 kN) Instron Model 5590-67HVL hydraulic universal testing machine
(Figures 4.2 and 4.3). ASTM C 109/C 109M (ASTM 2001) requirements were followed
in preparing and testing the grout cubes. A relative machine displacement rate [0.04 in.
per minute (1.0 mm per minute)] corresponding to a loading rate of 0.20 to 0.40 kips per
second [900 to 1800 N per second] was used for testing. The cube specimens wear placed
directly against the bearing plates of the testing machine; and thus, the position
measurements from the testing machine were used to calculate the compressive strain of
the specimens. Specimen dimensions and weights were taken for each mix to ensure that
the densities of the different samples were approximately the same. Compressive strength
tests were then ran on each sample at 1, 3, 7, 10, 14, 21 and 28 days to determine the
curing time needed for the grout to reach the design strength of the mix. The grout was
then allowed to cure for this duration prior to testing in the experimental program. The
results from the preliminary tests are shown in Table 4.2. The ultimate strain of the grout
is assumed to be reached at a stress of 85% of the maximum stress (i.e., 0.85f’gt). The
initial stiffness (i.e., Young’s modulus) was calculated based on the slope from two
points within the linear-elastic portion of the measured stress-strain relationship. Note
that mixes 1 – 5 were not carried out to the full 28-day strength tests.
The workability of the grout was an important factor due to the need to pack the
grout into the 0.50 in. (13 mm) thick gap at the beam-to-wall interfaces of the
subassembly test setup. Each mix design was tested by forcing the grout through a 0.50
in. (13 mm) diameter funnel. Several different water-to-cement ratios were tested ranging
from 0.30 – 0.45, with different amounts of fibers. Based on the “funnel tests” and visual

126
inspection, it was determined that the minimum water-to-cement ratio to ensure adequate
workability was 0.375.
Several different amounts of fibers were tested for the grout mix. First, the largest
recommended amount of fibers (16.99 g/ft3) from Grace™ Microfibers was used. Then,
several different grout mixes were tried with factors of the recommended fiber amount
(e.g., 2 times, 4 times, 10 times, etc.). These mixes were investigated the workability,
strength, and ductility.
Other parameters, including the use of epoxy grout and curing conditions, were
also investigated. The epoxy grout was difficult to work with and therefore was not
practical for the subassembly test setup. It was also found that for best strength gain, the
grout should be kept moist during the curing process.
The preliminary testing on various trial grout mixes resulted in a fiber-reinforced
Type III cement grout (with Grace™ Microfibers) that achieved the desired strength,
stiffness, and ultimate strain requirements for the test structure (Mix 7 in Table 4.2). The
same mix was used in each subassembly test; however, during mixing, visual inspection
of the grout workability was ultimately used. The grout could neither be too wet or too
dry for proper placement at the beam-to-wall interfaces. The water-to-cement ratio
determined for the final mix design was never exceeded; however, the use of a smaller
water-to-cement ratio was possible for the grout in the subassembly experiments. The
final mix design for the fiber-reinforced grout can be found in Appendix A. Table 4.3
lists the measured properties for the actual grout samples from each of the four test
subassemblies and Figure 4.4 shows the stress-strain relationship for a grout sample from
each subassembly.

127
(a) (b)
Figure 4.2: Grout samples – (a) mortar mix; (b) epoxy grout.
Figure 4.3: Photographs from a grout test.

128
TABLE 4.2
PRELIMINARY GROUT MIX TESTS
Mix Parameter w/c
Ratio
Fibers (percent volume)
Workability
7-Day Properties 28-Day Properties
f’gt [ksi (MPa)]
εgtm
(%) εgtu
(%)
Initial Stiffness
[ksi (MPa)]
f’gt [ksi (MPa)]
εgtm
(%)
εgtu
(%)
Initial Stiffness
[ksi (MPa)]1 baseline 0.38 0.05 good 9.9 (68.1) 2.58 2.71 477 (3289) - - - - 2 w/c, fibers 0.35 0.07 difficult 8.9 ( 61.4) 2.63 3.24 406 (2799) - - - - 3 play sand 0.35 0.05 difficult 8.7 (60.0) 2.62 3.00 430 (2965) - - - -
4 non-shrink
grout 0.40 0.05 good 3.0 1.89 2.16 205 (1413) - - - -
5 cement paste
0.40 0.05 good 8.8 2.56 2.77 405 (2792) - - - -
6 Dayton Superior grout mix
- 0.07 okay 7.3 (50.4) 3.22 3.36 250 (1724) 8.0 (55.0) 2.62 2.89 344 (2372)
17 w/c, fibers 0.375 0.07 good 10.1 (69.3) 3.04 3.28 337 (2324) 9.1 (62.4) 2.62 2.74 396 (2730)8 fibers 0.375 0.13 okay 7.0 (48.3) 2.21 2.69 338 (2330) 7.7 (52.8) 2.34 2.74 362 (2496)
9 fibers/water cured
0.375 0.14 good 7.8 (53.8) 2.00 2.71 437 (3013) 7.1 (49.0) 2.50 2.78 323 (2227)
10 reduced
sand 0.375 0.13 good 9.1 (62.9) 1.67 1.96 581 (4006) 8.1 (55.6) 2.69 3.27 293 (2020)
11 epoxy grout
- - difficult 9.3 (64.1) 3.01 3.82 365 (2517) 8.9 (61) 3.22 4.95 329 (2268)
f’gt = maximum (i.e., peak) strength of grout. εgtm = strain at f’gt. εgtu = ultimate strain at 0.85f’gt. 1Grout mix used for subassembly experiments.

129
TABLE 4.3
PROPERTIES OF GROUT USED IN COUPLING
BEAM TEST SUBASSEMBLIES
Sample No.
Sub. Cast Date
Subassembly Test Day Properties 28-Day Properties
Subassembly Test Date
f’gt [ksi (MPa)]
εgtm (%)
εgtu (%)
Initial Stiffness
[ksi (MPa)]
28-Day Test Date
f’gt [ksi (MPa)]
εgtm (%)
εgtu (%)
Initial Stiffness
[ksi (MPa)]
1
1 10/05/2006 10/18/2006
8.72 (60.1) 2.54 2.80392
(2702)
11/02/2006
10.4 (71.7) 1.66 2.06634
(4371)
2 7.69 (53.0) 2.16 2.16370
(2551)9.97 (68.8) 1.91 2.19
569 (3923)
3 8.85 (61.0) 2.24 2.40426
(2937)9.66 (66.6) 2.14 2.34
444 (3061)
Average 8.42 (58.0) 2.31 2.45396
(2730)10.0 (69.0) 1.90 2.20
549 (3785)
1
2 01/17/2007 01/27/2007
9.81 (67.7) 1.90 2.10556
(3833)
02/14/2007
9.59 (66.1) 1.94 2.19633
(4364)
2 9.69 (66.8) 1.85 2.21530
(3654)10.1 (69.6) 1.84 2.19
726 (5006)
3 9.74 (66.8) 1.67 2.08626
(4316)9.25 (63.8) 1.93 2.39
576 (3971)
Average 9.75 (67.1) 1.81 2.13571
(3937)9.65 (66.5) 1.90 2.26
645 (4447)
1
3 02/07/2007 03/06/2007
9.84 (67.8) 1.76 2.13600
(4137)
03/07/2007
9.53 (65.7) 2.09 2.24428
(2951)
2 9.36 (64.5) 2.13 2.34427
(2944)10.0 (69.1) 2.16 2.40
498 (3434)
3 9.92 (68.4) 2.14 2.49487
(3358)9.55 (65.8) 2.00 2.14
509 (3509)
Average 9.71 (62.2) 2.01 2.32504
(3475)9.70 (66.9) 2.08 2.26
478 (3296)
1
4 05/08/2007 05/24/2007
9.39 (64.8) 1.52 2.03707
(4875)
06/05/2007
7.91 (54.5) 1.51 2.31620
(4275)
2 7.97 (55.0) 1.41 1.50577
(3978)9.18 (63.3) 1.75 2.24
533 (3675)
3 6.48 (44.7) 1.81 2.57454
(3130)9.28 (64.0) 1.64 2.23
654 (4509)
Average 7.95 (54.8) 1.58 2.02579
(3992)8.79 (60.6) 1.78 2.26
602 (4151)
f’gt = maximum (i.e., peak) strength of grout. εgtm = strain at f’gt. εgtu = ultimate strain at 0.85f’gt.

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strain, εgt (%)
stre
ss, f g
t
[ksi
(M
Pa)]
0 0.04
10(69) Subassembly 1
Sample 1
maximum stress(εgtm , f gt )
Subassembly 2Sample 1
Subassembly 3Sample 1
Subassembly 4Sample 1
ultimate strain (εgtu , 0.85f gt )
Figure 4.4: Stress-strain relationships for subassembly grout samples.
4.2.3 Post-tensioning Strand Properties
The monotonic tensile stress-strain relationship of the post-tensioning strands was
measured by testing four specimens in a 600 kip (2669 kN) SATEC® Model 600XWHVL
hydraulic universal testing machine following ASTM 370 requirements. Figure 4.5 shows
the strand test set-up and Figure 4.6 shows a photograph from a strand test. The strains in
the strand specimens were measured using an MTS Model 634.25E-24 extensometer with
a 2.0 in. (50.8 mm) gauge length. Note that the International Code Council – Evaluation
Service (ICC-ES 2007) and the Post-Tensioning Institute (PTI 2003) require a minimum
extensometer gauge length of 36 in. (914.4 mm) for testing post-tensioning strand;
however, recent research (Walsh and Kurama 2009) has shown that the strain

131
measurements from 2.0 in. (50.8 mm) and 36 in. (914.4 mm) extensometers are nearly
identical. Thus, the strand strains presented in this dissertation are expected to be
accurate.
Precision SureLOCK® single strand steel wedge/barrel type post-tensioning
anchors (the same as the anchors that were used in the subassembly experiments) were
used to pull the strands until failure to provide anchor conditions similar to those in the
coupled wall subassembly experiments. Note that the seating of the anchor wedges in the
strand tests was not done using a post-tensioning jack, possibly resulting in slightly
different wedge seating conditions at the live end as compared with the subassembly
tests. The strand specimens were approximately 60 in. (1.5 m) long between the anchors
and were carefully positioned between the loading heads of the testing machine to
minimize end eccentricities. Thus, the end eccentricity that occurs in the subassembly
strands during the lateral displacements of the structure was not captured in the strand
material tests. Failure of all strand specimens occurred due to the fracturing of a post-
tensioning wire (one wire out of a total of seven wires) inside an anchor (see Figure 4.7).
The ultimate strain, εbpu of the post-tensioning strand is reached when the strand wire
fracture occurs at the maximum strength, fbpu. Note that since the wire fracture occurs in a
brittle manner, the maximum stress, fbpu corresponds to the fracture strain with no visible
necking in the fracture zone. Furthermore, the measured fracture strain, εbpu provides a
good representation of the overall strand strain even though the fracture occurs outside
the extensometer gauge length.
Three strand samples were tested using a loading rate of 0.375 in. per minute
(0.015 mm per minute) and one strand was tested at a slower rate of 0.05 in. per minute

132
(0.002 mm per minute), similar to the loading rate of the strands in the subassembly tests.
The results from the strand tests are shown in Figure 4.8 and tabulated in Table 4.4. The
limit of proportionality point (at fbpl, εbpl) was determined by monitoring the change in the
strand stiffness as shown in Figure 4.9. As can be seen in Figure 4.8, the limit of
proportionality is reached significantly before the “yielding” of the post-tensioning
strand.

133
Figure 4.5: Post-tensioning strand test set-up.

134
Figure 4.6: Photograph of post-tensioning strand test.
Figure 4.7: Photograph of post-tensioning strand wire fracture inside anchor.

135
specimens 1-3specimen 4
PT strand
strain, εbp
stre
ss,
f bp
[ksi
(M
Pa
)]
0.036
300(2100)
0
limit of proportionality (εbpl , fbpl )
strand wire fracture(εbpu , fbpu )
Figure 4.8: Stress-strain relationships for post-tensioning strand specimens.
TABLE 4.4
POST-TENSIONING STRAND MATERIAL PROPERTIES
Specimen No.
fbpl [ksi (MPa)]
εbpl (%)
fbpu [ksi (MPa)]
εbpu (%)
Rate of Loading [in/min (mm/min)]
1 167 (1150) 0.581 261 (1802) 3.21 0.375 (0.015) 2 173 (1191) 0.604 261 (1801) 3.20 0.375 (0.015) 3 167 (1148) 0.576 256 (1764) 2.47 0.375 (0.015) 4 159 (1094) 0.567 262 (1805) 3.27 0.05 (0.002)
Average 166 (1146) 0.582 260 (1793) 3.04 - fbpl = limit of proportionality of post-tensioning strand. εbpl = fbpl divided by measured Young’s modulus. fbpu = ultimate/maximum strength of post-tensioning strand. εbpu = ultimate strain of post-tensioning strand.

136
limit of proportionality, fbpl
increasing stress
dec
easi
ng
sti
ffn
ess
Figure 4.9: Limit of proportionality determination.
4.2.4 Mild Reinforcing Steel Properties
Three material samples each for the No. 6 and No. 3 reinforcing bars used in the
subassembly specimens were tested monotonically in tension using an Instron Model
5590-67HVL hydraulic universal testing machine with a 60 kip (267 kN) capacity. The
strains were measured using an Instron Model 2630-114 extensometer with a 2.0 in. (50.8
mm) gauge length. The failure of all specimens occurred within this gauge length. The
No. 6 specimens were approximately 12 in. (305 mm) long, while the No. 3 specimens
were approximately 8.0 in. (203 mm). Figure 4.10 shows photographs from a No. 3 bar
test. The measured monotonic tensile stress-strain relationships for the three No. 3 and
three No. 6 bar specimens are shown in Figures 4.11 and 4.12 respectively.
Tables 4.5 and 4.6 summarize the material properties from each of the rebar
specimens. The samples all show a distinct yield point. The yield strength was
determined as the lower yield point on the measured stress-strain relationship. The yield

137
strain was determined by dividing the yield strength with the measured Young’s
modulus, which was calculated based on the slope from two points on the linear-elastic
portion of the measured stress-strain relationship. The ○, , and markers in Figures
4.11 and 4.12 correspond to the yield stress, maximum (i.e., peak) stress, and ultimate
strain values, respectively, in Tables 4.5 and 4.6. The ultimate strain values are assumed
to occur at a stress of 85% of the maximum stress (i.e., 0.85fhm and 0.85flm for the No. 3
and No. 6 rebar, respectively).
Figure 4.10: Photographs from a No. 3 reinforcing bar test.

138
No. 3 bar
yield stress (εhy , fhy )
ultimate strain (εhu , fhu )
maximum stress(εhm , fhm
)
strain, εh
stre
ss,
f h[k
si
(MP
a)]
0.16
120(800)
0
Figure 4.11: Stress-strain relationships for No. 3 bar specimens.
strain, εl
stre
ss,
f l[k
si
(MP
a)]
0.18
120(800)
0
yield stress (εly , fly )
ultimate strain (εlu , flu )
maximum stress(εlm , f
lm )
No. 6 bar
Figure 4.12: Stress-strain relationships for No. 6 bar specimens.

139
TABLE 4.5
No. 3 REINFORCING BAR MATERIAL PROPERTIES
Specimen No.
fhy
[ksi (MPa)]hy (%)
fhm [ksi (MPa)]
hm (%)
fhu [ksi (MPa)]
hu
(%)
1 70.1 (483)
0.260 110
(759) 10.3
93.6 (646)
13.8
2 68.0 (469)
0.209 107
(737) 9.18
90.8 (626)
11.3
3 67.7 (466)
0.257 108 (738)
10.1 90.9 (627)
14.2
Average 68.6 (473)
0.242 108 (745)
9.86 91.8 (633)
13.1
fhy = lower yield strength. hy = fhy divided by measured Young’s modulus. fhm = maximum (i.e., peak) strength. hm = strain at fhm. fhu = 0.85fhm. hu = ultimate strain at 0.85fhm.
TABLE 4.6
No. 6 REINFORCING BAR MATERIAL PROPERTIES
Specimen
No. fly
[ksi (MPa)]ly
(%) flm
[ksi (MPa)]lm (%)
flu [ksi (MPa)]
lu
(%)
1 79.9 (551)
0.283 103
(707) 10.2
87.1 (601)
15.6
2 80.0 (551)
0.282 103
(707) 10.3
87.2 (601)
17.2
3 79.7 (550)
0.283 102
(706) 10.4
87.0 (600)
16.2
Average 79.9 (551)
0.283 103
(706) 10.3
87.1 (601)
16.3
fly = lower yield strength. ly = fly divided by measured Young’s modulus. flm = maximum (i.e., peak) strength. lm = strain at flm. flu = 0.85flm. lu = ultimate strain at 0.85flm.

140
4.2.5 Angle Steel Properties
Four material samples for the top and seat angle steel were saw-cut from the angle
legs in the direction perpendicular to the angle length. The samples were then machined
into 0.25 in. (6.40 mm) round specimens using the same proportions from standard
ASTM .505 specimens. The samples were smaller than standard ASTM .505 specimens
because of the limited thickness of the angle steel. A 2.0 in. (50.8 mm) gauge length was
used, the same as ASTM .505 requirements.
Photographs from an angle steel material test can be seen in Figure 4.13 and the
measured stress-strain relationships from the four specimens can be seen in Figure 4.14.
The specimens were tested in an Instron Model 5590-67HVL hydraulic universal testing
machine with a 60 kip (267 kN) capacity. The strains were measured using an Instron
Model 2630-114 extensometer with a 2.0 in. (50.8 mm) gauge length. The failure of all
specimens occurred within this gauge length.
Figure 4.13: Photographs from an angle steel material test.

141
The material properties of the angle steel specimens are listed in Table 4.7.
Similar to the mild steel reinforcing bars, the samples show a distinct yield point and the
yield strength was determined as the lower yield point on the measured stress-strain
relationship. The yield strain was determined by dividing the yield strength with the
measured Young’s modulus, which was calculated based on the slope from two points on
the linear-elastic portion of the measured stress-strain relationship. The ○, , and
markers in Figure 4.14 correspond to the yield strength, maximum (peak) strength, and
ultimate strain values, respectively, in Table 4.7. The ultimate strain values are assumed
to occur at a stress of 85% of the maximum stress (i.e., 0.85fam).
strain, εa
stre
ss,
f a[k
si
(MP
a)]
-0.05 0.30
80(550)
0
yield stress (εay , fay )
ultimate strain (εau , fau )
maximum stress(εam , fam
)
Figure 4.14: Stress-strain relationships for angle steel material specimens.

142
TABLE 4.7
ANGLE STEEL MATERIAL PROPERTIES
Specimen No.
fay
[ksi (MPa)]ay (%)
fam [ksi (MPa)]
am (%)
fau [ksi (MPa)]
au
(%)
1 51.7 (356)
0.175 75.7 (522)
13.7 56.0 (386)
19.7
2 50.7
(349) 0.171
74.9 (516)
16.9 56.2 (388)
23.6
3 51.1 (353)
0.173 75.7 (522)
17.5 56.6 (390)
25.7
4 50.1 (345)
0.169 74.6 (514)
15.2 55.6 (383)
20.4
Average 50.9 (351)
0.172 75.2 (518)
15.9 56.1 (387)
22.3
fay = lower yield strength. ay = fay divided by measured Young’s modulus. fam = maximum (i.e., peak) strength. am = strain at fam. fau = 0.85fam. au = ultimate strain at 0.85fam.
4.3 Chapter Summary
This chapter describes the design and actual properties of the materials used in the
subassembly test setup. Details of the material testing procedures, equipment, and
measured properties are presented. Table 4.8 summarizes the average material properties
from the experimental program.

143
TABLE 4.8
MATERIAL PROPERTIES SUMMARY
Material Test Series
1 2 3 4
Beam Concrete
f’c at 28-Days [ksi (MPa)]
6.27 (43.2)
6.70 (46.1)
f’c at Test Day [ksi (MPa)]
7.57 (52.2)
7.24 (49.9)
7.63 (52.6)
6.27 (43.2)
Reaction Block Concrete
f’c at 28-Days [ksi (MPa)]
6.27 (43.2)
6.70 (46.2)
Load Block Concrete
f’c at 28-Days [ksi (MPa)]
6.27 (43.2)
Grout
f’gt at 28-Days [ksi (MPa)]
10.0 (69.0)
9.65 (66.5)
9.70 (66.9)
8.79 (60.6)
εgtm (%) 1.90 1.90 2.08 1.78 εgtu (%) 2.20 2.26 2.26 2.26
Initial Stiffness [ksi (MPa)]
549 (3785)
645 (4447)
478 (3296)
602 (4151)
f’gt at Test Day [ksi (MPa)]
8.42 (58.0)
9.75 (67.1)
9.71 (62.2)
7.95 (54.8)
εgtm (%) 2.31 1.81 2.01 1.58 εgtu (%) 2.45 2.13 2.32 2.02
Initial Stiffness [ksi (MPa)]
396 (2730)
571 (3937)
504 (3475)
579 (3992)
Post-Tensioning Strand
fbpl [ksi (MPa)] 166 (1146) bpl (%) 0.582
fbpu [ksi (MPa)] 260 (1793) bpu (%) 3.04
No. 3 Reinforcing Bar
fhy [ksi (MPa)] 68.6 (473) hy (%) 0.242
fhm [ksi (MPa)] 108 (745) hm (%) 9.87
fhu [ksi (MPa)] 91.8 (633) hu (%) 13.1
No. 6 Reinforcing Bar
fly [ksi (MPa)] 79.9 (551) ly (%) 0.283
flm [ksi (MPa)] 103 (706) lm (%) 10.3
flu [ksi (MPa)] 87.1 (601) lu (%) 16.3
Angle Steel
fay [ksi (MPa)] 50.9 (351) ay (%) 0.172
fam [ksi (MPa)] 75.2 (518) am (%) 15.9
fau [ksi (MPa)] 56.1 (387) au (%) 22.3
All values are average values for samples ran for each material. f’c = maximum (i.e., peak) strength of unconfined concrete. f’gt = maximum (i.e., peak) strength of grout; εgtm = strain at f’gt; εgtu = ultimate strain at 0.85f’gt. fbpl = limit of proportionality of post-tensioning strand. εbpl = fbpl divided by measured Young’s modulus. fbpu = ultimate/maximum strength of post-tensioning strand. εbpu = ultimate strain of post-tensioning strand. fhy = lower yield strength; hy = fhy divided by measured Young’s modulus. fhm = maximum (i.e., peak) strength; hm = strain at fhm. fhu = 0.85fhm; hu = ultimate strain at 0.85fhm. fly = lower yield strength; ly = fly divided by measured Young’s modulus. flm = maximum (i.e., peak) strength; lm = strain at flm. flu = 0.85flm; lu = ultimate strain at 0.85flm. fay = lower yield strength; ay = fay divided by measured Young’s modulus. fam = maximum (i.e., peak) strength; am = strain at fam. fau = 0.85fam; au = ultimate strain at 0.85fam.

144
CHAPTER 5
DATA INSTRUMENTATION AND SPECIMEN RESPONSE PARAMETERS
This chapter describes the data instrumentation and response parameters for the
precast coupling beam floor level subassembly experiments.
5.1 Data Instrumentation
Up to 92 channels of data were collected during testing including: (1) load cells to
measure the forces in the hydraulic actuators, beam post-tensioning strands, angle-to-wall
connection post-tensioning strands, and the vertical forces (representing the wall pier
axial forces) applied to the wall test region of the reaction block; (2) displacement
transducers to measure the in-plane displacements of the actuators, load block, reaction
block, and coupling beam; the local horizontal deformations of the concrete in the beam-
to-wall contact region of the reaction block; and the gap opening displa cements at the
beam-to-reaction-block interface; (3) rotation transducers to measure the rotations of the
coupling beam near the midspan and near the reaction block (i.e., south) end; and (4)
strain gauges to measure the strains in the mild steel reinforcement and the confined
concrete in the beam and the reaction block. For each test, all sensors, instrumentation,
and data acquisition were initialized such that any data recorded was due to the

145
application of the post-tensioning forces and lateral loads. The data acquisition hardware
consisted of a National Instruments SCXI-1001 chassis daisy-chained to a SCXI-1000
chassis and the data was collected using LabView Version 7.0 at a sampling rate of once
every 3 seconds. During testing, important data and response parameters (e.g., beam
chord rotation, beam shear force, post-tensioning forces, etc.) were processed in real-time
and observed throughout the duration of the test.
5.1.1 Instrumentation Overview
The sensors used for testing, some of which are shown in Figure 5.1, include the
following:
Figure 5.1: Photograph of beam-to-reaction-block interface and instrumentation for Test 1.

146
Load cells:
(1) Two load cells (LC1 and LC2) to measure the forces in the servo-
controlled hydraulic actuators used to vertically displace the load block.
(2) Four load cells (LC3 – LC6) manufactured in the Structural Systems
Laboratory at the University of Notre Dame to measure the forces in the
angle-to-reaction-block connection post-tensioning strands.
(3) Eight load cells (LC7 – LC14) to measure the vertical forces (representing
the wall pier axial forces) in the 8 bars used to “tie-down” the wall test
region of the reaction block to the strong floor.
(4) Up to four load cells (LC15 – LC18) manufactured in the Structural
Systems Laboratory at the University of Notre Dame to measure the forces
in the beam post-tensioning strands.
Linear displacement transducers:
(1) Two linear displacement transducers (DT1 and DT2) to measure the axial
displacements of the servo-controlled hydraulic actuators used to
vertically displace the load block.
(2) Three linear displacement transducers (DT3 – DT5) to measure the
vertical and horizontal displacements of the load block in the plane of the
test subassembly.
(3) Three linear displacement transducers (DT6 – DT8) to measure the
vertical and horizontal displacements of the reaction block in the plane of
the test subassembly.

147
(4) Two linear displacement transducers (DT9 – DT10) to measure the
vertical displacements of the coupling beam in the plane of the test
subassembly.
(5) Three linear displacement transducers (DT11 – DT13) to measure the gap
opening displacements at the beam-to-reaction-block interface.
(6) Two linear displacement transducers (DT14 – DT15) to measure the local
horizontal deformations in the beam-to-wall contact region of the reaction
block.
Rotation transducers:
(1) Two rotation transducers (RT1 and RT2) to measure the rotations of
the coupling beam near the reaction block (i.e., south) end and near the
midspan.
Electrical resistance strain gauges:
(1) Up to 38 strain gauges to measure the strains in the mild steel
reinforcement and the hoop-reinforced concrete in the coupling beam.
(2) Thirteen strain gauges to measure the strains in the mild steel
reinforcement and the hoop-reinforced concrete in the beam-to-wall
contact region of the reaction block.
The data instrumentation used in the experimental program is summarized in
Tables 5.1 – 5.8. Figures 5.2 – 5.6 show the general placement of the load cells,
displacement transducers, rotation transducers, and reaction block and coupling beam
strain gauges, respectively. More detailed information on the instrumentation and on the

148
test subassembly response parameters calculated from the measured data is provided in
the remainder of this chapter.
Note that as mentioned in Chapters 3 and 4, two reaction blocks were cast for the
subassembly testing program. The same steel formwork was used for both reaction
blocks with the same reinforcement and concrete design parameters. The same number of
strain gauges were embedded in both reaction blocks; however, the strain gauge wires
coming out of the second reaction block were all severed during the removal of the
formwork. Thus, no strain gauge measurements could be made for the second reaction
block (Tests 2 – 4B) as discussed in more detail in Chapter 6.
TABLE 5.1
SUMMARY OF LOAD CELLS
Transducer No.
Measurement Description Sign
Convention Transducer Location
LC1 FLC1 actuator forces
compression positive
internal to actuator LC2 FLC2
LC3 FLC3 angle-to-reaction block connection
forces
between single strand anchor barrel and bearing plate
LC4 FLC4
LC5 FLC5
LC6 FLC6
LC7 FLC7
wall test region vertical forces
on individual vertical tie down bars at north end of reaction block
LC8 FLC8
LC9 FLC9
LC10 FLC10
LC11 FLC11
LC12 FLC12
LC13 FLC13
LC14 FLC14
LC15 FLC15
beam post-tensioning forces
between single strand anchor barrel and bearing plate
LC16 FLC16
LC17 FLC17
LC18 FLC18

149
TABLE 5.2
SUMMARY OF DISPLACEMENT AND ROTATION TRANSDUCERS
Transducer No.
Measurement Description Sign
Convention Transducer Location
DT1 ΔDT1 actuator displacements
extension positive
internal to actuator DT2 ΔDT2 externally attached to actuator
DT3 ΔDT3 load block horizontal
displacement
between insert in load block and fixed reference point
DT4 ΔDT4 load block vertical
displacement at north end
DT5 ΔDT5 load block vertical
displacement at south end
DT6 ΔDT6 reaction block
horizontal displacement
between insert in reaction block and fixed reference point
DT7 ΔDT7
reaction block vertical
displacement at north end
DT8 ΔDT8
reaction block vertical
displacement at south end
DT9 ΔDT9 beam vertical
displacement at south end between insert in beam and fixed
reference point DT10 ΔDT10
beam vertical displacement at
north end
DT11 ΔDT11 gap opening near
beam top between insert near beam end and reaction plate near beam-to-wall
interface of wall test region DT12 ΔDT12
gap opening at beam centerline
DT13 ΔDT13 gap opening near
beam bottom
DT14 ΔDT14 wall test region
contact deformation at top between insert in wall test region and
reaction plate near beam-to-wall interface of wall test region
DT15 ΔDT15 wall test region
contact deformation at bottom
RT1 θRT1 beam rotation at
south end clockwise positive
near south end of beam
RT2 θRT2 beam rotation near
midspan near midspan of beam

150
TABLE 5.3
SUMMARY OF BEAM LOOPING REINFORCEMENT
LONGITUDINAL LEG STRAIN GAUGES
Transducer No.
Measurement Description Sign
Convention Transducer Location
6(1)T-E ε6(1)T-E
beam No. 6 looping reinforcement longitudinal
(horizontal) leg strains
tension positive
on top leg, east reinforcement, 5.75” (146mm) from south end of beam
6(2)T-E ε6(2)T-E on top leg, east reinforcement, 11.5”
(292mm) from south end of beam
6(3)T-E ε6(3)T-E on top leg, east reinforcement, 17” (432mm) from south end of beam
6(1)T-W ε6(1)T-W on top leg, west reinforcement, 5.75”
(146mm) from south end of beam
6(2)T-W ε6(2)T-W on top leg, west reinforcement, 11.5”
(292mm) from south end of beam
6(3)T-W ε6(3)T-W on top leg, west reinforcement, 17” (432mm) from south end of beam
6(1)B-E ε6(1)B-E on bottom leg, east reinforcement, 5.75” (146mm) from south end of
beam
6(2)B-E ε6(2)B-E on bottom leg, east reinforcement, 11.5” (292mm) from south end of
beam
6(3)B-E ε6(3)B-E on bottom leg, east reinforcement, 17”
(432mm) from south end of beam
6(1)B-W ε6(1)B-W on bottom leg, west reinforcement, 5.75” (146mm) from south end of
beam
6(2)B-W ε6(2)B-W on bottom leg, west reinforcement, 11.5” (292mm) from south end of
beam
6(3)B-W ε6(3)B-W on bottom leg, west reinforcement, 17”
(432mm) from south end of beam
6MT-E ε6MT-E on top leg, east reinforcement,
midspan of beam
6MB-E ε6MB-E on bottom leg, east reinforcement,
midspan of beam
6MT-W ε6MT-W on top leg, west reinforcement,
midspan of beam
6MB-W ε6MB-W on bottom leg, west reinforcement,
midspan of beam

151
TABLE 5.4
SUMMARY OF BEAM TRANSVERSE REINFORCEMENT
STRAIN GAUGES
Transducer No.
Measurement Description Sign
Convention Transducer Location
6SE(I)-E ε6SE(I)-E
beam No. 6 looping reinforcement
transverse (vertical) leg strains
tension positive
on vertical leg, east reinforcement, midheight of leg (internal), south end
of beam
6SE(E)-E ε6SE(E)-E on vertical leg, east reinforcement,
midheight of leg (external), south end of beam
6SE(I)-W ε6SE(I)-W
on vertical leg, west reinforcement, midheight of leg (internal), south end
of beam
6SE(E)-W ε6SE(E)-W on vertical leg, west reinforcement,
midheight of leg (external), south end of beam
MH-E εMH-E beam midspan No. 3 transverse hoop
strains
on transverse hoop at beam midspan, midheight of east
vertical leg
MH-W εMH-W on transverse hoop at beam midspan,
midheight of west vertical leg
TABLE 5.5
SUMMARY OF BEAM END CONFINEMENT HOOP STRAIN GAUGES
Transducer No.
Measurement Description Sign
Convention Transducer Location
1HB-E ε1HB-E
beam end No. 3 confinement hoop
strains
tension positive
on 1st bottom hoop from south end, midheight of east vertical leg
2HB-E ε2HB-E on 2nd bottom hoop from south end,
midheight of east vertical leg
3HB-E ε3HB-E on 3rd bottom hoop from south end,
midheight of east vertical leg
4HB-E ε4HB-E on 4th bottom hoop from south end,
midheight of east vertical leg
1HB-W ε1HB-W on 1st bottom hoop from south end,
midheight of west vertical leg
2HB-W ε2HB-W on 2nd bottom hoop from south end,
midheight of west vertical leg
3HB-W ε3HB-W on 3rd bottom hoop from south end,
midheight of west vertical leg
4HB-W ε4HB-W on 4th bottom hoop from south end,
midheight of west vertical leg

152
TABLE 5.6
SUMMARY OF BEAM CONFINED CONCRETE STRAIN GAUGES
Transducer No.
Measurement Description Sign
Convention Transducer Location
3THT-(1) ε3THT-(1)
beam confined concrete strains
tension positive
on No. 3 support bar, top of top confining hoops, approximately 0.25”
(6mm) from south end of beam
3THT-(2) ε3THT-(2) on No. 3 support bar, top of top
confining hoops, approximately 3” (76mm) from south end of beam
3THB-(1) ε3THB-(1) on No. 3 support bar, bottom of top
confining hoops, approximately 0.25” (6mm) from south end of beam
3THB-(2) ε3THB-(2) on No. 3 support bar, bottom of top confining hoops, approximately 3”
(76mm) from south end of beam
3BHT-(1) ε3BHT-(1) on No. 3 support bar, top of bottom
confining hoops, approximately 0.25” (6mm) from south end of beam
3BHT-(2) ε3BHT-(2) on No. 3 support bar, top of bottom confining hoops, approximately 3”
(76mm) from south end of beam
3BHB-(1) ε3BHB-(1)
on No. 3 support bar, bottom of bottom confining hoops,
approximately 0.25” (6mm) from south end of beam
3BHB-(2) ε3BHB-(2)
on No. 3 support bar, bottom of bottom confining hoops,
approximately 3” (76mm) from south end of beam

153
TABLE 5.7
SUMMARY OF REACTION BLOCK STRAIN GAUGES
Transducer No.
Measurement Description Sign
Convention Transducer Location
1THM ε1THM
reaction block No. 3 confinement hoop
strains
tension positive
on 1st (from north face) top hoop below central PT duct, midlength of
bottom horizontal leg
1MHM ε1MHM on 1st (from north face) middle hoop below central PT duct, midlength of
bottom horizontal leg
1BHE ε1BHE on 1st (from north face) bottom hoop below central PT duct, midheight of
east vertical leg
CBM1E εCBM1E
reaction block confined concrete
strains
on No. 3 corner bar, middle hoops below central PT duct, east side, 1.5”
(38mm) from north face
CBM3E εCBM3E on No. 3 corner bar, middle hoops below central PT duct, east side, 6”
(152mm) from north face
CBM1W εCBM1W on No. 3 corner bar, middle hoops
below central PT duct, west side, 1.5” (38mm) from north face
CBM3W εCBM3W on No. 3 corner bar, middle hoops
below central PT duct, west side, 6” (152mm) from north face
CBB1E εCBB1E on No. 3 corner bar, bottom hoops
below central PT duct, east side, 1.5” (38mm) from north face
CBB2E εCBB2E on No. 3 corner bar, bottom hoops
below central PT duct, east side, 3.75” (95mm) from north face
CBB3E εCBB3E on No. 3 corner bar, bottom hoops below central PT duct, east side, 6”
(152mm) from north face
CBB1W εCBB1W on No. 3 corner bar, bottom hoops
below central PT duct, west side, 1.5” (38mm) from north face
CBB2W εCBB2W on No. 3 corner bar, bottom hoops below central PT duct, west side,
3.75” (95mm) from north face
CBB3W εCBB3W on No. 3 corner bar, bottom hoops
below central PT duct, west side, 6” (152mm) from north face

154
TABLE 5.8
TRANSDUCER DETAILS
Transducer Type
Transducer No.
Manufacturer Model No. Serial No. Capacity Sensitivity Nonlinearity
Load Cell
LC1
Interface 1240AF – 200K
107431
±200 kips (±979 kN)
4.1634 mV/V (tension)
-0.047%
-4.1679 mV/V (comp.)
-0.040%
LC2 107340
4.1379 mV/V (tension)
-0.018%
-4.1363 mV/V (comp.)
-0.037%
LC3 University of Notre Dame
---
- 50 kips (comp.)
see Table 5.9 --- LC4 - LC5 - LC6 - LC7
Micro-Measurements®
CEA-06-250UN-120
-
--- Gauge Factor =
2.085 ---
LC8 - LC9 - LC10 - LC11 - LC12 - LC13 - LC14 - LC15
University of Notre Dame
---
- 50 kips (comp.)
see Table 5.9 --- LC16 - LC17 - LC18 -
Displacement Transducer
DT1 Balluff BTL-5-B11-
M0508-K-S32 ±10 in.
DT2
Houston ScientificTM
1850 Series Position
Transducer
15090-001 +30 in. 32.15 mV/V/in. -0.031% DT3 613539 +10 in. 92.29 mV/V/in. 0.057% DT4 13601-008
+80 in.
12.13 mV/V/in. -0.054% DT5 13601-004 12.13 mV/V/in. -0.047% DT6 13601-006 12.16 mV/V/in. 0.034% DT7 13601-007 12.14 mV/V/in. -0.037% DT8 13601-001 12.05 mV/V/in. 0.031% DT9 613540 +10 in. 92.30 mV/V/in. 0.066% DT10 14103-001 +20 in. 48.90 mV/V/in. -0.030% DT11
Sensotec Model VL7A
LVDT
L3329300 ±2.00 in.
2.1204 VRMS/in. 0.110% DT12 L3112700 2.1384 VRMS/in. 0.120% DT13 L3112400 2.1324 VRMS/in. 0.080% DT14
Sensotec Model VL7A
LVDT L3740700
±1.00 in. 2.4528 VRMS/in. 0.040%
DT15 L3739700 2.4552 VRMS/in. 0.120%
Rotation Transducer
RT1 Schaevitz®
Accustar™ Electronic
Inclinometer ---
± π/3 radians (±60 degrees)
π/3 mV/radian (60 mV/degree)
± π/30 radian (±0.1
degree) RT2
Strain Gauge all strain gauges
Micro-Measurements®
CEA-06-250UN-120
--- --- Gauge Factor =
2.085 ---

155
LC1 LC2
actuators
reaction block
load block
beam PT strandsLC15-LC18
LC7-LC14
LC3-4
LC5-6
strong floor
N
wall test region
spreaderbeam
Figure 5.2: Load cell placement.

156
actuators
reaction block
load block
beam PT strands
DT1 DT2
DT5 DT4
DT3
DT7
DT6
DT8 DT9 DT10
65" (1651mm)
see detailbelow
DT3-5 placed in center plane of load block.
DT6-8 placed in center plane of reaction block.
DT9-10 placed 1.7" (43 mm) from beam ends at centerline of west side surface.
regionDT12
DT14
DT13DT15
5.0" (127mm)
DT11
beam
6.0" (152mm)
0.7
5"
(19m
m)
0.7
5"
(19m
m)
wall test
fiber-reinforced grout
CL
N
6.0" (152mm)
Figure 5.3: Displacement transducer placement.

157
actuators
reaction block
load block
beam PT strands
RT2RT1
N
beammidspan
Figure 5.4: Rotation transducer placement.
1MHM
1BHE
1THM
1MHM
1BHE
1THM
CBB1E, CBB1WCBB2E, CBB2WCBB3E, CBB3W
wall test region
#3 hoop
#3 bar
1.0" (25mm) nominalangle-to-wallconnection duct
NWE
beamcenterline
post-tensioningduct
CBM1ECBM3ECBM1WCBM3W
Figure 5.5: Strain gauge placement – reaction block.

158
MH-EMH-W
6MT-E6MT-W
6MB-E6MB-W
6(1)T-E6(1)T-W
6(2)T-E6(2)T-W
6(1)B-E6(1)B-W
6(2)B-E6(2)B-W
6(3)B-E6(3)B-W
6(3)T-E6(3)T-W
3BHT-(1)3BHT-(2)
3BHB-(1)3BHB-(2)
3THT-(1)3THT-(2)
3THB-(1)3THB-(2)
6SE(I)-E6SE(E)-E6SE(I)-W6SE(E)-W
1HB-W2HB-W3HB-W4HB-W
1HB-E2HB-E3HB-E4HB-E
CL
#6 bar
#3 bar
N#3 hoop
#6 loopingreinforcement
Figure 5.6: Strain gauge placement – coupling beam.
5.1.2 Post-Tensioning Strand Load Cells
As described in Chapter 3, the beam post-tensioning tendon in each test is
comprised of two, three, or four 7-wire 0.6 in. (15.2 mm) diameter strands. Up to four
load cells (LC15 – LC18, see Tables 5.1 and 5.8) are used to measure the forces in these
strands. A single-use Precision SURELOCK® steel barrel anchor with three-piece wedges
and ring is used at the dead (south) and live (north, jacking) end of each strand. As shown
in Figure 5.7, a 1.5 in. (38 mm) thick bearing plate is placed for the anchor barrels to
react against at both ends. The force in each post-tensioning strand is measured using a
load cell between the barrel anchor and the bearing plate at the dead (south) end.
Similarly, four load cells (LC3 – LC6, see Tables 5.1 and 5.8) are used to measure
the forces in the angle-to-reaction-block connection post-tensioning strands. On each
strand, a single-use Precision SURELOCK® steel barrel anchor with two-piece wedges

159
and ring is used at the dead end and the live end. At the live (south) end, a 1 in. (25 mm)
thick plate is placed for the anchor barrel to react against. At the dead end, the anchor
barrel bears directly on the vertical leg of the connection angle. Each load cell is placed at
the dead end of the strand between the anchor and the vertical angle leg as shown in
Figure 5.8.
Figure 5.7: Photograph of load cells on beam post-tensioning strands.
Figure 5.8: Photograph of load cells on angle-to-reaction-block connection post-tensioning strands.

160
These eight load cells were manufactured and calibrated at the University of
Notre Dame. Each load cell was manufactured by placing four Micro-Measurements®
(type CEA-06-250UN-120) strain gauges on a single-use Precision SURELOCK® post-
tensioning anchor barrel in a full bridge configuration (Figure 5.9). As shown in Figure
5.10, the load cell barrel was placed in the opposite orientation as the post-tensioning
anchor barrel to ensure better contact between the two barrels. Prior to the placement of
the strain gauges, each load cell barrel was first loaded in compression several times to a
force significantly larger than the expected force during coupling beam subassembly
testing to allow for any permanent deformations (nonlinear effects) that might occur in
the barrel. The strain gauges were then installed in a circular arrangement at the mid-
height of the barrel at a 90 degree spacing on the outside. After the load cells were wired
in a full bridge configuration, they were covered with a protective pad and sealed to help
prevent damage to the strain gauges or wiring.
Figure 5.9: Photograph of post-tensioning strand load cells.

161
Four strain gauges, 2 vertical and 2 horizontal, placed radially(90 degrees) around outside surfaceof barrel. Full bridge configurationwiring used.
load cellbarrel
PT strand
1.83"(46mm)
1.76" (45mm)
anchor bearing plate
1.83" (46mm)1.83" (46mm)
barrel/wedge anchor
load cellbarrel
top view
side view
configuration
Figure 5.10: Placement of post-tensioning strand load cells.
Calibration of the load cells was performed in pairs as shown in Figure 5.11 using
a 600 kip (2669 kN) SATEC® Model 600XWHVL hydraulic universal testing machine.
Each load cell was placed on a post-tensioning strand between a steel barrel/wedge
anchor and an anchor bearing plate. The load cell barrel was placed in the opposite
orientation as the anchor barrel as shown in Figure 5.10, thus, simulating the conditions
the load cell would experience during a coupling beam subassembly test. The post-
tensioning strand was then loaded in tension putting the load cells in compression.
Voltage measurements from the load cells were taken at various increments up to
approximately 45 kips (200 kN). The load cells were then unloaded, rotated 90 degrees,
and the test was repeated. This was repeated at least 4 times for each load cell and the
data was averaged to get the calibration equation for the load cell. Note that unlike the

162
subassembly experiments, the seating of the anchor wedges during the load cell
calibrations was done using the displacements of the universal testing machine heads and
not using a post-tensioning jack. Furthermore, each calibration test was conducted under
concentric axial loading, whereas in the subassembly tests, the ends of the tendon
displace in the transverse direction as well as axially due to the lateral displacements of
the structure.
Figure 5.12 shows the force versus voltage calibration data for the eight post-
tensioning strand load cells, with the regression calibration equations given in Table 5.9.
The calibration equations use the output voltage, Vout, from the data acquisition system to
give the load cell force in kips. The coefficient of determination, R2 indicates how closely
the regression line conforms to the calibration data, and ranges between 0 and 1, with 1
representing a perfect fit between the data and the regression line. The load cells with the
highest R2 value were used on the strands comprising the beam post-tensioning tendon
(i.e., LC15 – LC18). The other load cells were used on the strands that connect the angles
to the reaction block (i.e., LC3 – LC6).
Figure 5.13 shows the force versus voltage calibration data for Load Cells UND2
and UND3 during loading and unloading. The unloading voltage measurements were
taken to ensure that the calibration regression equations (which were determined from the
loading data) are valid upon unloading as well. It can be seen from Figure 5.13 that the
loading and unloading data points for each load cell are similar.

163
Figure 5.11: Post-tensioning strand load cell calibration setup.

164
forc
e [k
ips
(kN
)]
40 voltage (mV)
50(222)
Load Cell UND1
forc
e [k
ips
(kN
)]
30 voltage (mV)
50(222)
Load Cell UND2
forc
e [k
ips
(kN
)]
3.50 voltage (mV)
50(222)
Load Cell UND3
forc
e [k
ips
(kN
)]
50 voltage (mV)
50(222)
Load Cell UND4
forc
e [k
ips
(kN
)]
5.50 voltage (mV)
50(222)
Load Cell UND5
forc
e [k
ips
(kN
)]
30 voltage (mV)
50(222)
Load Cell UND6
forc
e [k
ips
(kN
)]
30 voltage (mV)
50(222)
Load Cell UND7
forc
e [k
ips
(kN
)]
30 voltage (mV)
50(222)
Load Cell UND8
Figure 5.12: Calibration data for the post-tensioning strand load cells.

165
TABLE 5.9
LOAD CELL CALIBRATIONS
Load Cell Calibration Regression Equation (kips) R2
UND1 13105 Vout 0.97 UND2 -2736905 Vout
2 + 24080 Vout 0.98 UND3 15669 Vout 0.97 UND4 172039Vout
2 + 10025 Vout 0.99 UND5 236090 Vout
2 + 8004 Vout 0.99 UND6 -3859378 Vout
2 + 27980 Vout 0.98 UND7 -2389914 Vout
2 + 24469 Vout 0.99 UND8 2579758171 Vout
3 – 1345851 Vout2 + 37304 Vout 0.98
voltage (mV)
forc
e [k
ips
(kN
)]
0 3
50(222)
UND2 loadingUND2 unloadingUND3 loadingUND3 unloading
Figure 5.13: Loading and unloading calibration data for Load Cells UND2 and UND3.

166
5.1.3 Wall Test Region Vertical Force Load Cells
Eight load cells (LC7 – LC14, see Tables 5.1 and 5.8) are used to measure the
vertical force on the wall test region of the reaction block. Each load cell consists of a
single electrical resistance strain gauge attached to one of the eight vertical bars used to
anchor the wall test region of the reaction block to the strong floor. The force in each bar
is determined from the corresponding strain measurement as:
barbarLCiLCi AEF ε (5.1)
where, εLCi = strain measurement in Bar i; Ebar = Young’s modulus for the bar steel [taken
as 29,000 ksi (200 GPa)]; and Abar = cross-sectional area of the bar [equal to 0.60 in.2
(388 mm2)].
5.1.4 Load Block Global Displacement Transducers
Three string pot linear displacement transducers (DT3 – DT5, see Tables 5.2 and
5.8) are used to measure the in-plane vertical and horizontal displacements of the load
block. Figure 5.3 shows the general placement of these displacement transducers.
Vertical displacements ∆DT4 and ∆DT5 (measured by DT4 and DT5) correspond to the
vertical displacements of the hydraulic actuators (i.e., displacements ∆DT1 and ∆DT2 as
measured by displacement transducers DT1 and DT2). The horizontal displacement ∆DT3
(measured using DT3) represents the movement of the load block in the north-south
direction.
The body of each string pot is attached to a fixed reference location and the string
end is attached to a Dayton-Superior® F-42 3/8”-16 loop ferrule insert embedded into the
load block as shown in Figure 5.14. Each ferrule insert is placed within the center plane

167
of the load block in the north-south direction. A lead wire is used with each transducer to
maximize the gain in the data acquisition system, and thus, minimize the measurement
noise. The use of a lead wire also allows the body of the string pot to be placed
significantly away from the corresponding ferrule insert, and thus, reduce the angular
movement of the string as the structure is displaced.

168
Dayton Superior F-42 loop
Ferrule Insert (3/8"-16)
WE
17.5" (445mm) 17.5" (445mm)
36"
(914mm)
35" (889mm)
CL
34"
(864mm)
1" (25mm)
1" (25mm)
North End
ΔDT4
17.5" (445mm) 17.5" (445mm)
36"
(914mm)
35" (889mm)
CL
35"
(889mm)
1" (25mm)
South End
ΔDT5
ΔDT3
(displacement in
N-S direction)
Figure 5.14: Load block ferrule insert locations.

169
5.1.5 Reaction Block Global Displacement Transducers
Three string pot linear displacement transducers (DT6 – DT8, see Tables 5.2 and
5.8) are used to measure the in-plane vertical and horizontal displacements of the reaction
block. Figure 5.3 shows the general placement of the displacement transducers. The
objective of these measurements is to ensure that the displacements of the reaction block
remain small throughout the duration of each test.
Similar to the load block string pots, the body of each reaction block string pot is
attached to a fixed reference location, and the string end is attached to a Dayton-
Superior® F-42 3/8”-16 loop ferrule insert embedded into the reaction block as shown in
Figure 5.15. Each ferrule insert is placed within the center plane of the reaction block in
the north-south direction. A lead wire is used with each transducer to maximize the gain
in the data acquisition system, and thus, minimize the measurement noise.

170
66"
(1676mm)
58" (1473mm)
CL
17"
(432mm)
29"
(737mm)
1" (25mm)
CL
66"
(1676mm)
58" (1473mm)
CL29"
(737mm)
19"
(483mm)
ΔDT7
ΔDT8
South End
North End
ΔDT6
Dayton Superior F-42 loop
Ferrule Insert (3/8"-16)
(displacement in
N-S direction)
WE
Figure 5.15: Reaction block ferrule insert locations.

171
5.1.6 Beam Global Displacement Transducers
Two string pot linear displacement transducers (DT9 and DT10, see Tables 5.2
and 5.8) are used to measure the vertical displacements of the beam specimens. Figure
5.3 shows the general placement of these string pots. The displacements ∆DT9 and ∆DT10
are used to determine the beam chord rotation during each subassembly test.
Similar to the reaction block and load block string pots, the body of each beam
string pot is attached to a fixed reference location, and the string end is attached to a
Dayton-Superior® F-43 3/8”-16 plain ferrule insert embedded into the beam as shown in
Figure 5.16. Each ferrule insert is placed at the midheight of the beam on the west face. A
lead wire is used with each transducer to maximize the gain in the data acquisition
system, and thus, minimize the measurement noise. The use of a lead wire also allows for
the body of the string pot to be placed significantly away from the corresponding ferrule
insert, and thus, reduce the angular movement of the string as the structure is displaced.

172
Dayton Superior F-43 plain Ferrule Insert (3/8"-16)
CL
45"
14"
7"
7"
1.69"1.69"
ΔDT9 ΔDT10
CL
45"
18"
9"
9"
1.69"1.69"
ΔDT9 ΔDT10
NTest Beams 1-3
Test Beam 4
Figure 5.16: Beam vertical displacement ferrule insert locations.
5.1.7 Gap Opening Displacement Transducers
Three Linear Variable Displacement Transducers [LVDTs] (DT11 - DT13, see
Tables 5.2 and 5.8) are used to measure the gap opening displacements at the beam-to-
reaction-block interface. Figures 5.3 and 5.17 show the placement of these LVDTs. The
bodies of the LVDTs are attached to Dayton-Superior® F-43 3/8”-16 plain ferrule inserts
embedded into the beam specimen on the west face and the rod ends react against plates

173
mounted to Dayton-Superior® F-43 3/8”-16 plain ferrule inserts embedded into the wall
test region of the reaction block on the west face (see Figure 5.18).
CL
45" (1143mm)
14"(356mm)
7"(178mm)
6.25"(159mm)
5" (127mm)
Dayton Superior F-43 plain Ferrule Insert (3/8"-16)
CL
45" (1143mm)
18"(457mm)
9"(229mm)
9"(229mm)
8.25"(210mm)
8.25"(210mm)
5" (127mm)
ΔDT11
ΔDT12
ΔDT13
ΔDT11
ΔDT12
ΔDT13
N
Test Beams 1-3
Test Beam 4
6.25"(159mm)
7"(178mm)
Figure 5.17: Beam gap opening ferrule insert locations.

174
5.1.8 Wall Test Region Local Displacement Transducers
Two LVDTs (DT14 and DT15, see Tables 5.2 and 5.8) are used in the wall test
region to measure the local axial compression deformations in the contact regions of the
reaction block. Figures 5.3 and 5.18 show the placement of these transducers, the bodies
of which are attached to Dayton-Superior® F-43 3/8”-16 plain ferrule inserts placed into
the wall test region on the west face. The rod ends of the LVDTs react against plates (the
same plates used for transducers DT11 – DT13 measuring the gap opening displacements
at the beam-to-reaction-block interface) mounted to another set of Dayton-Superior® F-43
3/8”-16 plain ferrule inserts embedded into the reaction block as shown in Figure 5.18.
The placement of DT14 and DT15 on the reaction block lines up with the placement of
DT11 and DT13 on the beam specimen, respectively.

175
66"
(1676mm)
1" (25mm)
N
ΔDT14
60" (1524mm)
CLbeam
6.25"
(159mm)
6.25"
(159mm)
6.3125"
(160mm)
17.75"
(451mm)
17.75"
(451mm)
18"
(457mm)
ΔDT15
(a)
66"
(1676mm)
60" (1524mm)
CLbeam
18"
(457mm)
1" (25mm)
8.25"
(210mm)
8.25"
(210mm)
6.3125"
(160mm)
15.75"
(400mm)
15.75"
(400mm)
18"
(457mm)
ΔDT15
ΔDT14
Dayton Superior F-43 plain
Ferrule Insert (3/8"-16)
(b)
Figure 5.18: Reaction block wall test region ferrule insert locations – (a) inserts for Beams 1-3; (b) inserts for Beam 4.

176
5.1.9 Beam Rotation Transducers
Two rotation transducers (RT1 and RT2, see Tables 5.2 and 5.8) are used to
measure the rotations of the beam specimens. Figures 5.4 and 5.19 show the placement of
these transducers. The bodies of the transducers are attached to acrylic (plexi-glass)
plates, which are then attached to the west side of the beam using Dayton-Superior® F-43
3/8”-16 plain ferrule inserts or LOCTITE® Power Grab epoxy. Note that the rotation
transducer at the beam midspan is placed 0.25 in. (6 mm) off the midspan location to
accommodate the lateral brace plates on the beam.
CL
45" (1143mm)
14"(356mm)
7"
(178mm)
7"
(178mm)
1.69"(43mm)
CL
45" (1143mm)
18"(457mm)
9"
(229mm)
9"
(229mm)
N
CL
CL0.25"
(6mm)
θRT1 θRT2
0.25"(6mm)
θRT1 θRT2
1.69"(43mm)
Test Beams 1-3
Test Beam 4
Dayton Superior F-43 plain
Ferrule Insert (3/8"-16)
Figure 5.19: Beam rotation ferrule insert locations.

177
5.1.10 Beam Looping Reinforcement Longitudinal Leg Strain Gauges
Up to sixteen strain gauges (see Tables 5.3 and 5.8) are used to measure the
strains in the longitudinal (i.e., horizontal) legs of the two No. 6 looping mild steel
reinforcing bars in each beam specimen as shown in Figure 5.20. Figure 5.21 shows the
design placement of these strain gauges (note that the actual gauge locations may have
shifted during construction and/or casting) and Figure 5.22 gives the gauge designation
system. The strain gauges are concentrated near the angle-to-beam connection at the
reaction block (i.e., south) end of the beam, which is a critical design location as
discussed in Chapter 3. The strain measurements are used to determine if the design of
the longitudinal mild steel reinforcement is adequate to transfer the tension angle forces
into the beam.
Figure 5.20: Photograph of beam strain gauges.

178
6MT-E6MT-W
6MB-E6MB-W
6(1)T-E6(1)T-W
6(2)T-E6(2)T-W
6(1)B-E6(1)B-W
6(2)B-E6(2)B-W
6(3)B-E6(3)B-W
6(3)T-E6(3)T-W
CL5.5"
(140mm)5.75"
(146mm)5.5"
(140mm)5.75"
(146mm)
CL
6MT-E6MT-W
6(2)T-E 6(3)T-E6(3)T-W
6MB-E6MB-W
6(1)B-E6(1)B-W
6(2)B-E6(2)B-W
6(3)B-E6(3)B-W
6(1)T-E6(1)T-W
5.5"(140mm)
5.75"(146mm)
5.5"(140mm)
5.75"(146mm)
Test Beam 4
Test Beams 1 - 3 N
#6 loopingreinforcement
#6 loopingreinforcement
Note: Strain gauge locations shown
are design locations. Materials may
have shifted during construction
and/or casting.
1.22"(31mm)
1.22"(31mm)
1.22"(31mm)
1.22"(31mm)
Figure 5.21: Beam looping reinforcement longitudinal leg strain gauge locations.

179
Strain Gauge Designation System:
Longitudinal Reinforcement
6 (1) T - E
No. 6 bar
5.75" (146 mm) from south end of beam
top leg
east reinforcement
1: 5.75" (146 mm) from south end of beam
2: 11.5" (292 mm) from south end of beam
3: 17" (432 mm) from south end of beam
M: midspan of beam
T: top leg
B: bottom leg
E: east reinforcement
W: west reinforcement
Figure 5.22: Strain gauge designation system – longitudinal reinforcement.
5.1.11 Beam Transverse Reinforcement Strain Gauges
Up to six strain gauges (see Tables 5.4 and 5.8) are placed on the transverse mild
steel bars to verify the design of the transverse reinforcement in each beam. Figure 5.23
shows the design placement of these strain gauges (note that the actual gauge locations
may have shifted during construction and/or casting) and Figure 5.24 gives the gauge
designation system. Strain gauges are placed on the vertical legs of the No. 6 looping bars
at the south end, where finite element analysis results indicate high transverse stresses
will develop. Additional strain gauges are placed on the vertical legs of the No. 3 hoops
at the midspan of the beam. As discussed in Chapter 3, only a nominal amount of
transverse reinforcement is used away from the beam ends, and the strain measurements
taken at the midspan are used to verify the analytical models as well as the amount of this
transverse reinforcement.

180
CL
#6 loopingreinforcement
CLTest Beam 4
Test Beams 1 - 2
N
MH-EMH-W
6SE(I)-E6SE(E)-E6SE(I)-W6SE(E)-W
MH-W6SE(I)-E6SE(I)-W
CLTest Beam 3
MH-EMH-W6SE(I)-E
6SE(I)-W
9.0"(229mm)
9.0"(229mm)
CL
7.0"(178mm)
7.0"(178mm)
CL
7.0"(178mm)
7.0"(178mm)
CL
#6 loopingreinforcement
#6 loopingreinforcement
#3 hoop
#3 hoop
#3 hoop
Note: Strain gauge locations shown
are design locations. Materials may
have shifted during construction
and/or casting.
1.125"(29mm)
1.125"(29mm)
1.125"(29mm)
Figure 5.23: Beam transverse reinforcement strain gauge locations.

181
Strain Gauge Designation System:
Transverse Reinforcement
6 SE (I) - E
No. 6 bar
south endinternal
east reinforcement
I: internal
E: external
E: east reinforcement
W: west reinforcement
MH - E
midspan hoop
east vertical leg
E: east vertical leg
W: west vertical leg
Figure 5.24: Strain gauge designation system – transverse reinforcement.
5.1.12 Beam End Confinement Hoop Strain Gauges
Up to eight strain gauges (see Tables 5.5 and 5.8) are used to measure the strains
in the No. 3 confinement hoops at the reaction block (i.e., south) end of each beam
specimen. The strain gauges are attached to the east and west legs of the bottom hoops as
shown in Figures 5.20 and 5.25. Figure 5.26 shows the design placement of these strain

182
gauges (note that the actual gauge locations may have shifted during construction and/or
casting) and Figure 5.27 gives the gauge designation system.
Figure 5.25: Photograph of strain gauged confinement hoop.

183
1HB-W2HB-W3HB-W4HB-W
1HB-E2HB-E3HB-E4HB-E
#3 hoop
#6 bar
#3 bar
N
2.85"(72mm)
CL
4.15"(105mm)
7.0"(178mm)
Test Beams 1 - 2
1HB-W2HB-W3HB-W4HB-W
1HB-E3HB-E
#3 hoop
#6 bar
#3 bar
2.85"(72mm)
CL
4.15"(105mm)
7.0"(178mm)
Test Beam 3
2.85"(72mm)
CL
6.15"(156mm)
9.0"(229mm)
1HB-W2HB-W3HB-W4HB-W
1HB-E3HB-E
Test Beam 4
#3 hoop
12 3 4
12 3 4
12 3 4
0.19" (5mm
)
2.50" (64mm
)
1.5" (38mm
)
2.25" (57mm
)
0.19" (5mm
)
2.50" (64mm
)
1.5" (38mm
)
2.25" (57mm
)
0.19" (5mm
)
2.50" (64mm
)
1.5" (38mm
)
2.25" (57mm
)
Note: Strain gauge locations shown
are design locations. Materials may
have shifted during construction
and/or casting.
Figure 5.26: Beam end confinement hoop strain gauge locations.

184
Strain Gauge Designation System:
Beam End Confinement Hoops
1 HB - E
1st bottom hoop fromsouth end of beam
bottom hoop
east vertical leg
E: east vertical leg
W: west vertical leg
1: 1st bottom hoop from south end of beam
2: 2nd bottom hoop from south end of beam
3: 3rd bottom hoop from south end of beam
4: 4th bottom hoop from south end of beam
Figure 5.27: Strain gauge designation system – beam end confinement hoops.
5.1.13 Beam Confined Concrete Strain Gauges
Up to eight strain gauges (see Tables 5.6 and 5.8) are used to measure the axial
strains inside the confined concrete at the reaction block (i.e., south) end of each beam
specimen. As shown in Figures 5.20 and 5.28, these strain gauges are attached to 8.0 in.
(203 mm) long deformed No. 3 mild steel support bars tied to the No. 3 confinement
hoops in the beam. Figure 5.29 gives the designation system for the beam confined
concrete strain gauges.

185
3BHT-(1)3BHT-(2)
3BHB-(1)3BHB-(2)
3THT-(1)3THT-(2)
3THB-(1)3THB-(2)
#3 support bar
#6 loopingreinforcement
2.75"(70mm)
0.25"(6mm)
Note: Strain gauge locations shown
are design locations. Materials may
have shifted during construction
and/or casting.
3BHB-(1)3BHB-(2)
2.75"(70mm)
0.25"(6mm)
3BHB-(1)3BHB-(2)
#3 support bar
#6 loopingreinforcement
Test Beam 3
Test Beam 1
3BHB-(1)3BHB-(2)
3THT-(1)3THT-(2)
#3 support bar
2.75"(70mm)
0.25"(6mm)
#6 loopingreinforcement
Test Beam 2
Test Beam 4
#3 support bar
#6 loopingreinforcement
N
2.75"(70mm)
0.25"(6mm)
1 2 1 2
1 2
1 2
1.0"(25mm)
4.0" (102mm)
1.0"(25mm)
1.0"(25mm)
1.0"(25mm)
Figure 5.28: Beam confined concrete strain gauge locations.

186
Strain Gauge Designation System:
Beam Confined Concrete
3 T HT - (1)
No. 3 bar
top of confining hoop top hoop
HT: top hoop
HB: bottom hoop
1: 0.25" (6 mm) from south end of beam
2: 3.0" (76 mm) from south end of beam
0.25" (6 mm) from south end of beam
T: top of confining hoop
B: bottom of confining hoop
Figure 5.29: Strain gauge designation system – beam confined concrete.
5.1.14 Reaction Block Confinement Hoop Strain Gauges
Three strain gauges (see Tables 5.7 and 5.8) are attached to the No. 3 confinement
hoops in the wall test region of the reaction block specimens. The strain gauges are
attached to the first No. 3 hoop (closest to the beam end surface of the reaction block) for
each row of hoops in the bottom reinforcing cage below the main post-tensioning duct.
Figure 5.30 shows the design placement of these strain gauges (note that the actual gauge
locations may have shifted during construction and/or casting) and Figure 5.31 gives the
gauge designation system. Due to the small size of the two top hoops of the bottom cage,
the strain gauges had to be placed on the horizontal legs of the hoops. The slightly larger
size of the bottom hoop allowed for the strain gauge to be placed on the west vertical leg.

187
2.81"(71mm) 1MHM
wall test region
1BHE
1THM
#3 hoop
#3 bar
1.0" (25mm) nominalangle-to-wallconnection duct
1MHM
1BHE
1THM
NWE
Note: Strain gauge locations shown are design locations. Materials mayhave shifted during construction and/or casting.
4.56"(116mm)
beamcenterline
2.03"(52mm)
post-tensioningduct
Figure 5.30: Reaction block confinement hoop strain gauge locations.

188
Strain Gauge Designation System:
Reaction Block
CB M 1 E
corner bar
middle hoops below central PT duct
1.5" (38 mm) from north face
1: 1.5" (38 mm) from north face
2: 3.75" (95 mm) from north face
3: 6.0" (152 mm) from north face
E: east side
W: west side
east side
M: middle hoops below central PT duct
B: bottom hoops below central PT duct
1 TH M
1st hoop from north face
top hoopmidlength ofhorizontal leg
M: midlength of horizontal leg
E: midheight of east vertical leg
T: top hoop below central PT duct
M: middle hoop below central PT duct
B: bottom hoop below central PT duct
Figure 5.31: Strain gauge designation system – reaction block.

189
5.1.15 Reaction Block Confined Concrete Strain Gauges
Ten strain gauges (see Tables 5.7 and 5.8) are embedded into the wall test region
of the reaction block specimens inside the middle and bottom confinement hoops of the
bottom reinforcing cage below the main post-tensioning duct. These strain gauges are
used to measure the axial strains in the wall test region confined concrete. As shown in
Figure 5.32, the strain gauges are attached to 15 in. (381 mm) long deformed No. 3 mild
steel corner bars tied to the No. 3 confinement hoops. Figure 5.31 gives the designation
system for the reaction block confined concrete strain gauges.
CBB1E, CBB1WCBB2E, CBB2WCBB3E, CBB3W
2.25"(57mm)
2.25"(57mm)
1.5"(38mm)
wall test region
#3 hoop
#3 bar
1.0" (25mm) nominalangle-to-wallconnection duct
NWE
Note: Strain gauge locations shown are design locations. Materials mayhave shifted during construction and/or casting.
beamcenterline
post-tensioningduct
123
13
CBM1ECBM3ECBM1WCBM3W
3.25"(83mm)
5.34"(136mm)
Figure 5.32: Reaction block confined concrete strain gauge locations.

190
5.2 Subassembly Response Parameters
This section describes the determination of the test subassembly response
parameters from the data measurements described above. Figures 5.33 and 5.34 show the
test subassembly displaced in the positive (i.e., load block moved downward) and
negative (i.e., load block moved upward) directions. The following parameters shown in
Figures 5.28 and 5.29 are defined as: θb = beam chord rotation; ∆gn = gap opening at the
north end of the beam; ∆gs = gap opening at the south end of the beam; Faxis1 = force in
actuator axis 1; Faxis2 = force in actuator axis 2; ∆axis1 = displacement of actuator axis 1;
and ∆axis2 = displacement of actuator axis 2.
The subassembly response parameters described below are: (1) coupling beam
shear force; (2) coupling beam end moment; (3) coupling beam post-tensioning force; (4)
vertical force on wall test region; (5) angle-to-wall connection post-tensioning force; (6)
reaction block displacements; (7) load block displacements; (8) beam vertical
displacements; (9) beam chord rotation; and (10) gap opening and contact depth at beam-
to-wall interface. Note that in data manipulations, rotations (e.g., θb, θb,lb, θRT1, etc.) are in
radians.

191
lRB = 60" (1.52m) lb,tg ~ 46" (1.17m)
COUPLING BEAM
strong floor
anchor plate
axis 1 axis 2
steel loading frame
40 " (1.0m)
steel connection beam
wall testregion
spreader beam
REACTION BLOCK
N
LOAD BLOCK
lLB = 60" (1.52m)
loading and bracingframes not shown(see Figures 3.4 and 3.5)
actuators
+Faxis1
+Δaxis1
+ θb
Δgn
Δgs
X
Y-Faxis2
−Δaxis2
grout
angle
Figure 5.33: Subassembly displaced in positive direction.

192
lRB = 60" (1.52m) lb,tg ~ 46" (1.17m)
COUPLING BEAM
strong floor
anchor plate
axis 1 axis 2
steel loading frame
40 " (1.0m)
steel connection beamwall testregion
spreader beam
REACTION BLOCK
N
LOAD BLOCK
lLB = 60" (1.52m)
loading and bracingframes not shown(see Figures 3.4 and 3.5)
actuators
-Faxis1
−Δaxis1
- θb
Δgn
Δgs
X
Y
+Faxis2
+Δaxis2
grout
angle
Figure 5.34: Subassembly displaced in negative direction.
5.2.1 Coupling Beam Shear Force
The coupling beam shear force, Vb is equal to the sum of the vertical components
of the forces in the two hydraulic actuators, Faxis1 and Faxis2, where Faxis1 = FLC1 and Faxis2
= FLC2 as depicted Figures 5.33 and 5.34. Thus,

193
2211,2,1 θcosθcos axisLCaxisLCyaxisyaxisb FFFFV (5.2)
where,
yaxisaxis
xaxisaxis l ,11
,111 tanθ (5.3)
yaxisaxis
xaxisaxis l ,22
,212 tanθ (5.4)
where, laxis1 = laxis2 = length of the actuators between the top pin and the bottom pin at the
beginning of each test. It is assumed that cos(θaxis1) = cos(θaxis2) ≈ 1.0 for the small
horizontal displacements of the load block during testing. Thus, the beam shear force can
be determined directly from the measured actuator forces as:
21 LCLCb FFV (5.5)
Note that as discussed in Chapter 3, prior to each test, the forces in the actuators
due to the self-weight of the subassembly (i.e., the load block, steel connection beam and
bolts, coupling beam specimen, strands, angles, etc.) are measured. Before the application
of the lateral displacement history, these forces are applied to the subassembly (by
operating the actuators in load control) in the opposite direction to counteract the effect of
the structure self-weight on the coupling beam. These initial forces applied to the
structure are subtracted from the coupling beam shear force (since the initial actuator
forces are equal and opposite to the forces due to the structure self-weight) to initialize
the shear force measurement to zero.

194
5.2.2 Coupling Beam End Moment
The coupling beam end moment, Mb is calculated from the beam shear force, Vb
and the length of the beam including the thickness of the grout, lb,tg as:
22
,21, tgbLCLCtgbbb
lFFlVM
(5.6)
where, lb,tg = lb + 2tg; and tg = thickness of the grout at each end.
5.2.3 Coupling Beam Post-Tensioning Force
The total coupling beam post-tensioning force, Pb, is calculated by summing the
measured forces in the individual post-tensioning strands. Thus, for a specimen with four
beam post-tensioning strands,
18171615 LCLCLCLCb FFFFP (5.7)
5.2.4 Vertical Force on Wall Test Region
The total vertical force, Fwt (representing the wall pier axial forces) on the wall
test region of the reaction block is determined by summing the forces in the eight tie-
down bars as:
1413121110987 LCLCLCLCLCLCLCLCwt FFFFFFFFF (5.8)

195
5.2.5 Angle Post-Tensioning Forces
The post-tensioning forces Pap,top and Pap,seat used to connect the top angles and
seat angles, respectively, to the reaction block, are determined from load cells LC3 – LC6
as:
43, LCLCtopap FFP (5.9)
and
65, LCLCseatap FFP (5.10)
5.2.6 Reaction Block Displacements
Assuming that the reaction block behaves as a rigid body, the measurements from
displacement transducers DT6 – DT8 can be used to calculate the horizontal and vertical
displacements and the rotation at the centroid of the block (see Figure 5.35). Note that the
non-uniform shape of the reaction block needs to be considered in the calculation of the
block centroid.

196
N
lRB = 60" (1524mm)
xRB
yRB
ΔRB,y
ΔRB,xθRB
66"(1676mm)
hRB =
ΔDT8 ΔDT7
ΔDT6
reaction blockcentroid
1" (25mm)
yDT6
Figure 5.35: Reaction block displacements.
Using the measurements from displacement transducers DT7 and DT8, the
rotation, θRB at the centroid of the reaction block can be calculated as:
RB
DTDTRB l
87θ
(5.11)
The horizontal displacement at the centroid of the reaction block, ∆RB,x can be
calculated as:
RBDTRB
DTDTDTRBDTRBDTxRB yy
lyy
6
87666, θ (5.12)

197
Finally, the vertical displacement at the centroid of the reaction block, ∆RB,y can
be determined as:
RBRB
DTDTDTRBRBDTyRB x
lx
87
88, θ (5.13)
or
RBRBRB
DTDTDTRBRBRBDTyRB xl
lxl
87
77, θ (5.14)
As will be shown later in Chapter 6, the displacements of the reaction block were
negligible during the experiments.
5.2.7 Load Block Displacements
Assuming that the load block behaves as a rigid body, the displacement
measurements from DT3 – DT5 can be used to determine the horizontal and vertical
displacements and the rotation of the block centroid. Figure 5.37 shows an exaggerated
displaced shape of the load block. As the test subassembly is displaced and gaps open at
the beam ends, the load block is pushed in the horizontal (north) direction. Furthermore,
even though the two actuators are displaced vertically by the same amount, the load block
may undergo a small amount of rotation. The adjustments that need to be made on the
displacement measurements from DT3, DT4, and DT5 (due to the angular movement of
the string pot strings as the structure is displaced) and the resulting displacements at the
centroid of the load block are described below.

198
ΔLB,y
ΔLB,xθLB
lLB
hLB
N
ΔDT4ΔDT5
ΔDT3
1.0" (25mm)
load blockcentroid
yDT3
hLB /2
lLB /2
Figure 5.36: Load block displacements.
DT3
DT5
DT4
i,DT3
f,DT3
i,DT4
f,DT4
i,DT5
f,DT5
LB,y
LB,xLB
lLB
hLB
N
DT3,y
DT4,x
DT5,x
Figure 5.37: Idealized exaggerated displaced shape of load block.

199
The following parameters, some of which are shown in Figures 5.36 and 5.37, are
used in the formulation: lLB = length of the load block; hLB = height of the load block; yDT3
= vertical location of the ferrule insert to which displacement transducer DT3 is attached;
∆DT3, ∆DT4, and ∆DT5 = original, unadjusted measurements from displacement transducers
DT3, DT4, and DT5, respectively; δi,DT3, δi,DT4, and δi,DT5 = initial extended lengths of
DT3, DT4, and DT5, respectively, from the string pot body to the ferrule insert location
(i.e., including the lead wires); δf,DT3, δf,DT4, and δf,DT5 = final extended lengths of DT3,
DT4, and DT5, respectively (including the initial extended lengths so that δf,DT3 = δi,DT3 -
∆DT3, δf,DT4 = δi,DT4 - ∆DT4, and δf,DT5 = δi,DT5 + ∆DT5); and αDT3, αDT4, and αDT5 = angles that
the strings of DT3, DT4 and DT5, respectively, undergo during the displacement of the
block. The procedure to determine the horizontal displacement, vertical displacement,
and rotation (∆LB,x, ∆LB,y, and θLB, respectively) at the centroid of the load block is as
follows.
1. Use the measurements from DT4 and DT5 to calculate the rotation, θLB at the
centroid of the load block as:
LB
DTDTLB l
54θ
(5.15)
2. Determine the horizontal displacement, ∆LB,x at the centroid of the load block
as:
22θ 3
54333,
LBDT
LB
DTDTDT
LBDTLBDTxLB
hy
l
hy
(5.16)
3. Determine the vertical displacement, ∆LB,y at the centroid of the load block as:

200
22
2θ 5455, LB
DTDTDTLBLBDTyLB ll
(5.17)
or
22
2θ 5444, LB
DTDTDTLBLBDTyLB ll
(5.18)
4. Use the displacements at the load block centroid to determine the horizontal
measurements of DT4 and DT5 as:
2/θ,,4 LBLBxLBxDT h (5.19)
2/θ,,5 LBLBxLBxDT h (5.20)
5. Determine the angular movement that the strings of DT4 and DT5 undergo as:
4,
,414 δ
sinαDTf
xDTDT (5.21)
5,
,515 δ
sinαDTf
xDTDT (5.22)
6. Determine the adjusted vertical measurements for DT4 and DT5 as:
4,4,4,4 δ-δαcos DTiDTfDTyDT (5.23)
5,5,5,5 δ-δαcos DTiDTfDTyDT (5.24)
7. Use the displacements of the load block centroid to determine the vertical
displacement of DT3 as:
(5.25)
8. Determine the angular movement that the string of DT3 undergoes as:
3,
,313 sinα
DTf
yDTDT
(5.26)
2θ,,3 LBLByLByDT l

201
9. Determine the adjusted horizontal measurement for DT3 as:
3,3,3,3 δ-δαcos DTiDTfDTxDT (5.27)
10. Use the adjusted measurements for DT3, DT4, and DT5 in Steps 1 – 3 and
iterate the entire procedure until the additional adjustments needed are
sufficiently small (i.e., until the displacements converge).
5.2.8 Beam Vertical Displacements
The vertical displacements of the beam can be calculated using the displacement
measurements from DT9 and DT10. Figure 5.38 shows an idealized exaggerated
displaced configuration of the beam. Similar to the load block displacements, adjustments
may be needed on the measurements from DT9 and DT10 due to the angular movement
of the string pot strings as the structure is displaced.

202
θb
αDT9
CL
hb/2
undisplaced position of ferrule insert
displaced position of ferrule insert
αDT10
δi,DT10
δf,DT10
hb/2
δi,DT9
δf,DT9
A
C
B
A
C
B
lA-DT10 dDT10
D
FE
G
FE
θb
dDT9
lA-DT9
lDT10-DT9
N
Figure 5.38: Idealized exaggerated displaced shape of test beam.
The following parameters, some of which are shown in Figure 5.38, are defined
as: hb = height of the beam; θb = chord rotation of the beam; ∆DT9 and ∆DT10 = original,
unadjusted measurements from displacement transducers DT9 and DT10, respectively; lA-
DT9 and lA-DT10 = distances between point A and the ferrule insert to which DT9 and
DT10, respectively, are attached; lDT10-DT9 = horizontal distance between the ferrule

203
inserts for DT9 and DT10 in the undisplaced configuration; δi,DT9 and δi,DT10 = initial
extended lengths of DT9 and DT10, respectively, from the string pot body to the ferrule
insert location (i.e., including the lead wires); δf,DT9 and δf,DT10 = final extended lengths of
DT9 and DT10, respectively (including the initial extended lengths so that δf,DT9 = δi,DT9 +
∆DT9 and δf,DT10 = δi,DT10 + ∆DT10); and αDT9 and αDT10 = angles that the strings of DT9 and
DT10, respectively, undergo during the displacement of the beam. It is assumed that any
shifting in the positions of the ferrule inserts due to the nonlinear deformations of the
beam concrete are negligible in the formulations below.
The procedure to determine the vertical displacements at the south and north ends
of the beam, ∆bs,y and ∆bn,y, respectively, is as follows.
1. Use the measurements from DT9 and DT10 to determine the rotation, θb, of
the beam as:
910
109θDTDT
DTDTb l
(5.28)
Note that θb is positive in the clockwise direction (opposite the direction
shown in Figure 5.38).
2. Use triangles AEF and ABC to determine dDT9 and dDT10, respectively, as:
99 θ DTAbDT ld (5.29)
1010 θ DTAbDT ld (5.30)
3. Use triangles EFG and BCD and the law of cosines to determine αDT9 and
αDT10, respectively, as:
9,9,
29
29,
29,1
9 δδ2
δδcosα
DTiDTf
DTDTiDTfDT
d (5.31)

204
10,10,
210
210,
210,1
10 δδ2
δδcosα
DTiDTf
DTDTiDTfDT
d (5.32)
4. Determine the adjusted vertical measurements for DT9 and DT10 as:
9,9,9,9 δδαcos DTiDTfDTyDT (5.33)
10,10,10,10 δδαcos DTiDTfDTyDT (5.34)
5. Use the adjusted measurements for DT9 and DT10 in Step 1 and iterate the
entire procedure until the additional adjustments needed are sufficiently small
(i.e., until the displacements converge).
Note that in Figure 5.38, the beam is assumed to rotate as a rigid body about its
corner at point A, ignoring the deformations in the beam and/or reaction block concrete.
This results in a larger estimation of the adjustments needed in the measurements from
DT9 and DT10. In Chapter 6, it is shown that the angles αDT9 and αDT10 (based on the
above procedure) remain very small during testing. As a result, the vertical (i.e., y-
direction) displacements of the test beam are taken as the original (i.e., unadjusted)
measurements ΔDT9 and ΔDT10 from displacement transducers DT9 and DT10,
respectively.
5.2.9 Beam Chord Rotation
The beam chord rotation, θb, is defined as the relative vertical displacement
between the beam ends divided by the beam length. As demonstrated in Chapter 6 and
described in the previous section, the vertical displacements of the beam are taken as the
original (i.e., unadjusted) measurements from displacement transducers DT9 and DT10.
Thus,

205
910
109θDTDT
DTDTb l
(5.35)
Note that in some of the tests, measurements from DT9 and/or DT10 could not be
obtained (e.g., due to the spalling of the ferrule inserts). Under these conditions, the beam
chord rotation is approximated using the vertical displacement at the centroid of the load
block as (see Chapters 6 and 7):
b
yLBb,lbb l
,θθ
(5.36)
In Equation 5.36, it is assumed that the displacements of the reaction block are negligible.
5.2.10 Gap Opening and Contact Depth at Beam-to-Wall Interface
Three LVDTs (DT11 – DT13) are used to measure the gap opening displacements
at the beam-to-reaction-block interface at the south end of the beam. In addition, rotation
transducer RT1 is used to measure the rotation at the beam centerline approximately 1 in.
(25 mm) away from the beam south end. As depicted in Figures 5.34 and 5.39, as the test
beam is displaced in the negative direction (i.e., counterclockwise), a gap opens at the
bottom of the beam at the south end and at the top of the beam at the north end. The gap
opening and contact corners of the beam are reversed as the beam displacements are
reversed.

206
CL
xDT11
CL
yDT11
αg
ct' yDT12
yDT13yDT12-ct
ct
yDT13
yDT12
yDT11
DT11
DT13
DT12
N
xDT12
xDT13
grout
Δgb
Figure 5.39: Gap opening and contact depth.
The following parameters are defined in Figure 5.39 as: xDT11, xDT12, and xDT13 =
horizontal locations of the ferrule inserts to which displacement transducers DT11, DT12,
and DT13, respectively, are attached; yDT11, yDT12, and yDT13 = vertical locations of the
ferrule inserts to which DT11, DT12, and DT13 are attached (measured from the
compression fiber of the beam); c = neutral axis depth in the vertical direction; and c’ =
neutral axis depth perpendicular to the beam axis. It is assumed that any shifting in the
position of the ferrule inserts due to the nonlinear deformations of the beam concrete are
negligible in the formulations below.
As shown in Figure 5.39, the LVDTs rotate with the beam as a gap opens. The
rotation of the LVDTs is assumed to be equal to the gap opening rotation at the beam
end, which can be calculated as:
1213
1213αDTDT
DTDTg yy
(5.37)

207
Then, the adjusted horizontal measurements for DT11, DT12, and DT13 can be
calculated as:
11,11 αcos DTgxDT (5.38)
12,12 αcos DTgxDT (5.39)
13,13 αcos DTgxDT (5.40)
It will be shown in Chapter 6 that the angular adjustments for DT11, DT12, and
DT13 are small; and thus, the LVDT measurements in the x-direction are taken as the
original measurements from these transducers. Referring to Figure 5.39, there are several
different methods that can be implemented to determine the gap opening displacements
of the beam as follows: (1) linear interpolation from the centerline and outer LVDT data;
(2) from RT1 and outer LVDT data; (3) from RT1 and centerline LVDT data; (4) from θb
and centerline LVDT data; and (5) from θb and outer LVDT data. The corresponding
equations to determine the gap opening displacements Δgb and Δgt at the bottom and top,
respectively, of the beam are listed below.
Method (1):
121213
121312 DTb
DTDT
DTDTDTgb yh
yy
(5.41)
121211
121112 DTb
DTDT
DTDTDTgt yh
yy
(5.42)
Method (2):
13113 θ DTbRTDTgb yh (5.43)
11111 θ DTbRTDTgt yh (5.44)

208
Method (3):
12112 θ DTbRTDTgb yh (5.45)
12112 θ DTbRTDTgt yh (5.46)
Method (4):
1212 θ DTbbDTgb yh (5.47)
1212 θ DTbbDTgt yh (5.48)
Method (5):
1313 θ DTbbDTgb yh (5.49)
1111 θ DTbbDTgt yh (5.50)
Note that Equations 5.41, 5.42, 5.45, 5.46, 5.47, and 5.48 are valid only when
ΔDT12 is positive (i.e., gap extends beyond the level of DT12).
Similarly one of the following four methods can be used to calculate the contact
depth, c at the beam end. The small differences between c and c’ (see Figure 5.39) are
ignored in this formulation.
Method (1):
1213
12131212
DTDT
DTDTDTDTt
yyyc (5.51)
1211
12111212
DTDT
DTDTDTDTb
yyyc (5.52)
Method (2):
1
1313 θRT
DTDTt yc
(5.53)

209
1
1111 θRT
DTDTb yc
(5.54)
Method (3):
1
1212 θRT
DTDTt yc
(5.55)
1
1212 θRT
DTDTb yc
(5.56)
Method (4):
b
DTDTt yc
θ12
12
(5.57)
b
DTDTb yc
θ12
12
(5.58)
Method (5):
b
DTDTt yc
θ13
13
(5.59)
b
DTDTb yc
θ11
11
(5.60)
Note that Equations 5.51, 5.52, 5.55, 5.56, 5.57, and 5.58 are valid only when
ΔDT12 is positive (i.e., gap extends beyond the level of DT12).

210
5.3 Chapter Summary
This chapter describes the data instrumentation for the subassembly experiments,
including the description of the force, displacement, rotation, and strain transducers.
Additionally, the specimen response parameters determined from the subassembly
experiments are presented.