Improving seismic performance of concrete-filled tube to base connections

This study is focused on experimentally investigating the relationship between design details and column base performance, such as strength and rigidity. Results from specimens tested under combined axial and lateral loads were used to define the effectiveness of the base connections. It was observed from test comparisons that the rigidities of the base connections increased when the embedded depths were increased. It was also found that the base connections possessed higher stiffness and energy dissipating capability when stiffeners were added to the base connections. Finally, an empirical expression for base rigidity estimation is proposed for design references. (c) 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.