Inelastic Behaviour of RC Members Incorporating High Deformability Concrete

This paper examines the inelastic behaviour of dissipative zones in structural members incorporating high deformability concrete materials in which mineral aggregates are partly replaced by rubber particles. An experimental study on three large-scale circular reinforced concrete column specimens, subjected to lateral cyclic displacements and co-existing axial loads, is described. The testing arrangement, specimen details, and main observations, are presented and discussed. The test results enable a direct assessment of the strength and ductility characteristics of the specimens. In particular, the study permits an evaluation of the comparative performance of structural members with and without rubber replacement, as well as the influence of external confinement. The results show that, in comparison with conventional reinforced concrete members, structural elements incorporating a significant proportion of aggregate replacement by rubber particles can offer a good balance between bending capacity and ductility, particularly for modest levels of co-existing axial loads. For column members required to sustain substantial gravity loads, favourable performance can be achieved in rubberised concrete members by means of strength enhancement through external confinement such as fibre reinforced sheets. Based on the experimental findings, the main material and response parameters are discussed and their influence on the overall structural behaviour are highlighted.