Experimental study on seismic performance of steel artificial controllable plastic hinge (ACPH) with energy-absorption box (EAB)

In order to ensure reliable seismic performance, controllable plasticity and recoverable post-earthquake function of precast concrete (PC) frame beam-column joints, this study introduces an innovative artificial controllable plastic hinge (ACPH) incorporating friction side plates (FSPs) and energy-absorption boxes (EABs) for connection and energy dissipation. Five specimens were fabricated to evaluate the performance of the ACPH. Initially, design criteria were established, and the sliding bending moment (Mslide) of the FSPs was assessed under various surface treatments and bolt preloads. The proposed theoretical formula was validated through two low cycle reciprocating tests. Subsequently, quasi-static experiments were conducted on three specimens with different forms of EABs, examining hysteresis performance, strength, and stiffness degradation. The research findings reveal a clear two-stage yield mechanism in the specimens. The first stage involves rotational friction of the FSPs, while the second stage is characterized by the failure of the EABs. Plastic damage is predominantly localized in the EABs, and the incorporation of stiffeners between the dog bone-energy absorption plates (DB-EAPs) can improve their load-bearing capacity and stiffness.