Resilient and sustainable steel frame with innovative post-tensioned connections and rate-dependent passive dampers for multi-hazard resistant design

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This project will investigate a steel moment-resisting frame with innovative post-tensioned beam-column connections and rate-dependent (elastomeric or fluid) passive dampers for multi-hazard resistant design. The overall research objectives are: a) decrease in the construction cost, rapid assembly on-site, simple deconstruction, adaptability, and potential for reuse of structural members; b) enhanced progressive collapse resistance and reparability against a sudden loss of column simulating bomb blast or heavy vehicle collision (terrorist attacks); and c) easy inspection/repair allowing almost immediate return to service after a strong (design) earthquake as well as increased life safety under a very strong (maximum credible) earthquake. The project will develop fundamental knowledge, design details, and design methods for the proposed steel frame by conducting integrated design, analysis and experimental research. In particular, the project will: a) develop design details and criteria for an innovative post-tensioned connection; b) experimentally evaluate the behaviour of the post-tensioned connection with large-scale monotonic and cyclic tests simulating a loss of column scenario and seismic loading, respectively; c) evaluate the seismic performance and the progressive collapse resistance of the proposed steel frame; d) develop a practical seismic design procedure for the proposed steel frame in the context of the European seismic design standard-Eurocode 8; and e) compare the costs and sustainability aspects of constructing the proposed steel frame and a conventional steel moment-resisting frame.The project will go beyond the state-of-the-art in the field of minimal-damage structural systems; significantly improve the UK's competitiveness in structural engineering; meet important national priorities related to sustainability and resilience; and align with EPSRC's global, economic and societal challenge themes.