Abstract:
In order to explore the effects of energy dissipation braces on aseismic resilience of recycled aggregate concrete frame structures with weakly bonded ultra-high strength steel bars in columns, low cyclic loading tests of two frame structures with or without buckling restrained braces were conducted. The aseismic performance and damage repairability of frame structures were analyzed. The finite element models for resilient recycled aggregate concrete frame structures were established, and parameter analyses as well as seismic fragility analyses were conducted. The research results showed that: the bearing and deformation capacity of resilient recycled aggregate concrete frame structures were satisfactory, and the energy dissipation braces fully played the role as the first aseismic fortification line; the concrete cracking process and failure mechanisms of two frame structures were similar, ultimately resulting in the formation of plastic hinges at the beam ends; the residual drift of frame structures with energy dissipation braces and residual crack width of columns increased after the loading horizontal drift exceeded 1.0%, but the resilient limit requirement can still be met at the loading horizontal drift of 1.5%, the cumulative energy dissipation was increased by 143% when the horizontal drift was loaded to 2.0%, and the repairable limit requirement can still be met at the loading horizontal drift of 2.5%. The seismic fragility of frame structures with energy dissipation braces was significantly reduced.