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Title: Technical Justification for Proposed Design Provisions for AAC Structures: Introduction and Shear Wall Tests

Author(s): R. E. Klingner, J. E. Tanner, J. L. Varela, M. Brightman, J. Argudo, and U. Cancino

Publication: Symposium Paper

Volume: 226

Issue:

Appears on pages(s): 45-66

Keywords: autoclaved aerated concrete; cellular concrete; design; earthquake

DOI: 10.14359/14391

Date: 3/1/2005

Abstract:
This paper summarizes the initial phases of the technical justification for proposed design provisions for AAC structures in the US. It is divided into two parts. The first part gives general background information, and presents an overall design strategy. Autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC), a lightweight cementitious material originally developed in Europe more than 70 years ago and now widely used around the world, has recently been introduced into the US construction market. AAC elements can contain conventional reinforcement in grouted cores, either alone or with factory-installed reinforcement. To facilitate the use of AAC in the US market, an integrated seismic-qualification program has been carried out, involving general seismic design provisions, specific element design provisions, and material specifications. The second part describes the design and testing of a suite of 14 AAC shear wall specimens, with aspect ratios from 0.6 to 3, under in-plane reversed cyclic loads at the University of Texas at Austin. The results of these tests have been used to develop predictive models and reliable design equations for AAC shear walls, the primary lateral force-resisting element of AAC structural systems.