Analysis of Progressive Collapse Resistance in Precast Concrete Frame with a Novel Connection Method

The configuration of beam–column joints in precast concrete (PC) building structures varies widely, and different connection methods significantly affect the progressive collapse resistance of the structure. This study investigates the progressive collapse resistance of an innovative beam–column connection node frame. Finite element models of four-story, two-span space frame structures made of reinforced concrete (RC) and PC were developed using ANSYS 14.0/LS-DYNA R5.x software, employing nonlinear dynamic and static analysis to examine structural collapse behavior under bottom middle or corner column damage. Numerical results indicate that following the failure of the middle or corner column due to explosion loading, the vertical displacement and collapse rate of the PC structure with the novel connection method are less than those of the RC structure during collapse progression. Furthermore, upon removal of the middle or corner column, the residual load-carrying capacity of the PC structure with the innovative connection increased by 7% and 3.7%, respectively, compared to the RC structure. This suggests that PC structures with this type of connection demonstrate superior performance in resisting progressive collapse, offering valuable insights for future engineering applications.

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