Numerical simulation of precast wall to wall connection under lateral monotonic loading

Abstract

The overall lateral stability of the structural system for residential buildings relies mainly on the precast concrete wall panels as a lateral resistance system. Hence, the connection between the wall panels plays a crucial role in providing structural integrity. On the other hand, the interaction effect of interfaces between the precast and post-cast concrete of the wall panel and the intermediate joint directly impacts the structural capacity and integrity of the connected parts and the overall structural system. Therefore, numerically remains challenging for many researchers to simulate the interaction of the interfaces between the concrete cast at different times. Thus, the researchers of this paper aimed to simulate the precast concrete wall-to-wall connection using Abaqus Software to investigate the impact of casting concrete at different times on the capacity of the joint and overall integrated wall panel under lateral monotonic loading. Based on the findings, the load displacement showed good composite action. However, the interaction effect of interfaces due to casting concrete at different times reduces the initial stiffness, expedites the yielding, and delays the hardening stage. On the other hand, as the displacement was applied at the top of the left panel, the load transfer mechanism between the wall panel caused stress concentration at the interfaces between the intermediate joint and the left wall panel.