Experimental study on concrete-filled L-shaped steel tubular columns and beam-columns

Concrete-filled L-shaped steel tube (CFLST) is an efficient structural form for corner columns in high-rise buildings, which avoids column protrusion. This paper presents an experimental and theoretical study on the structural behavior of CFLST columns and beam-columns. A total of nine full-scale specimens (i.e., three stub columns, two slender columns, and four slender beamcolumns) was tested under compressive loads and the specimen ends were free to rotate about a geometric axis. Plastic local buckling was observed for the stub columns and the confinement effect was not obvious. Flexural buckling occurred for the slender columns and beam-columns. With the increase in the applied load, the neutral axis shifted to the compressive side of the beam-column. Performance of current design codes, which apply for rectangular CFSTs, on predicting the ultimate capacities of CFLSTs was assessed. The prediction for section capacity was conservative and it was likely caused by the reduction in the design strength of concrete. The buckling curve in design codes for rectangular CFSTs was applicable for CFLST columns whereas the interaction relationship specified in design codes underestimates the ultimate capacities of CFLST beam-columns. Based on fiber element analysis, out-of-plane bending moment was found in the tested CFLST slender members and the values were quantified. A new interaction relationship was proposed for CFLST beam-columns, which exhibited good agreement with experimental and numerical results. Finally, design methods were recommended for CFLST columns and beam-columns.