Quasi-Static Loading Strategy for Earthquake Simulation on Precast RC Shear Walls

The loading strategy presented hereinafter, was conceived to reproduce the seismic action, on precast reinforced concrete structural walls, in laboratory conditions. The experimental wall panels were constructed with original or cut-out, narrow or wide door openings, respectively without opening (i.e. solid wall),and will be strengthened with FRP composites in prior-to-damage or post-damage state. The large number of experimental variables caused difficulties regarding the applicable vertical and lateral loads. Furthermore, the different experimental elements were expected to have altering concrete quality, condition which could not be disregarded in order to obtain consistent results. According to the currently established test methods for quasi-static earthquake simulation, the vertical loads were assigned employing the normalized axial stress parameter and a displacement controlled cyclic lateral loading history was designated.