Seismic Behavior of External Socket Connections for Reinforced Concrete Columns.

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Bibliographic Details
Title:	Seismic Behavior of External Socket Connections for Reinforced Concrete Columns.
Authors:	Samayoa, Julio A.¹, Proestos, Giorgio T.², Kowalsky, Mervyn J.³
Source:	ACI Structural Journal. May2026, Vol. 123 Issue 3, p239-252. 14p.
Subjects:	Concrete columns, Joints (Engineering), Grout (Mortar), Seismic response, Material plasticity, Empirical research, Failure mode & effects analysis
Abstract:	This study uses six large-scale experimental tests to investigate the seismic behavior of external socket connections for reinforced concrete columns. The tests evaluated the effects of key design parameters, including socket height and grout strength, on the performance of these connections under reverse cyclic lateral loads. The results indicate that socket height significantly affects whether the plastic hinge forms in the column above the connection or inside the socket and influences the required strength of the structural components. Shorter socket heights required higher grout strengths and increased shear capacity to avoid undesirable failure modes. Three primary failure modes were observed: grout crushing, shear failure, and flexural failure above the socket. Regardless of socket height, all tests showed that external socket connections effectively protect adjoining structural members by limiting plastic strain demands. These findings provide valuable insights into optimizing the design and performance of external socket connections in seismic regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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Database:	Engineering Source

Description
Abstract:	This study uses six large-scale experimental tests to investigate the seismic behavior of external socket connections for reinforced concrete columns. The tests evaluated the effects of key design parameters, including socket height and grout strength, on the performance of these connections under reverse cyclic lateral loads. The results indicate that socket height significantly affects whether the plastic hinge forms in the column above the connection or inside the socket and influences the required strength of the structural components. Shorter socket heights required higher grout strengths and increased shear capacity to avoid undesirable failure modes. Three primary failure modes were observed: grout crushing, shear failure, and flexural failure above the socket. Regardless of socket height, all tests showed that external socket connections effectively protect adjoining structural members by limiting plastic strain demands. These findings provide valuable insights into optimizing the design and performance of external socket connections in seismic regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
ISSN:	08893241
DOI:	10.14359/51749376