Application of the Discrete Elements Method for the simulation of a beam-column connection based on a self-centering system

At present, the beam-column connection system through a self-centering post-tensioned connection is currently an alternative to improve the seismic behavior in reinforced concrete buildings; by allowing its elements to have a linear behavior (no damage) in the face of displacements produced by seismic actions. This paper deals with the numerical modeling of the seismic behavior for a self-centering connection based on the Discrete Element Method (MED) is presented, with the aim of validating the hysterical response of the numerical model with an experimental test of the literature. The results demonstrated the horizontal distortions in the column, which are the product of the numerical simulation of the model subjected to a load that increases over time with 4 different stiffness coefficients. In addition, the hysteretic graph is presented as a result of the numerical simulation of the model, with an adequate stiffness coefficient and normal damping, subject to a cyclic load that is reversed as a function of time. The movement of the connection is controlled by the horizontal distortions of the column, achieving an approximate reproduction of the hysterical behavior expected in this type of connection. With the results shown, a simple bilinear hysteresis law is proposed, which allows its simplified use for its application in the modeling of reinforced concrete buildings with self-centering connections.