Title:
Seismic Behavior of Shear-Dominated Reinforced Concrete Columns at Low Temperatures
Author(s):
Luis A. Montejo, Mervyn J. Kowalsky, and Tasnim Hassan
Publication:
Structural Journal
Volume:
106
Issue:
4
Appears on pages(s):
445-454
Keywords:
column; ductility; seismic; strength; temperature.
DOI:
10.14359/56610
Date:
7/1/2009
Abstract:
The most important consideration for structures in seismically active cold regions is the danger of brittle failure due to a combination of extreme cyclic load reversals and very low temperatures. To identify the effect of low temperatures on the seismic behavior of shear-dominated columns, two pairs of reinforced concrete squat columns were tested under cyclic load reversals while subjected to freezing (-36 °C [-33 °F]) and room temperatures (22 °C [72 °F]). It was found that cold specimens exhibited an increase in the shear strength and elastic stiffness. Existing models for assessment and design of shear strength were evaluated based on the experimental results obtained. It is concluded that current models are conservative for low temperature conditions even if the appropriate low temperature material properties are used.