Experimental research and seismic design of RC frame with segmental short columns

Inferior behavior of reinforced concrete short column had been proved by past earthquake lessons. Many measures had been suggested to improve its behavior, e.g., special detailing of reinforcements and the adoption of SRC, but in case of very short column (shear-span ratio<1.5), the above measures show ineffectiveness or complexity in construction. Segmental column is a "short column", whose section is splitted into four segments within the clear height of column, gypsum boards are used for separation. Experimental researches had been carried out, relating to column element, beam-column joint and frame model. The obvious effectiveness proves its applicability in seismic design of frame structures. Design recommendations have been suggested.