Inelastic analysis of RC beam-column subassemblages under various loading histories

The purpose of this study is to propose an analytical model for the simulation of the hysteretic behavior of RC (reinforced concrete) beam-column subassemblages under various loading histories. The discrete line element with inelastic rotational springs is adopted to model the different locations of the plastic hinging zone. The hysteresis model can be adopted for a dynamic two-dimensional inelastic analysis of RC frame structures. From the analysis of test results it is found that the stiffness deterioration caused by inelastic loading can be simulated with a function of basic pinching coefficients, ductility ratio and yield strength ratio of members. A new strength degradation coefficient is proposed to simulate the inelastic behavior of members as a function of the transverse steel spacing and section aspect ratio. The energy dissipation capacities calculated using the proposed model show a good agreement with test results within errors of 27%.