Seismic Behaviour of Precast Reinforced Concrete Beam-Column Connections: A Literature Review

Precast construction is gaining importance during recent past. Most of the studies reported on precast beam-column joints are to select the appropriate connections to be adopted particularly for regions of low to moderate seismicity. This paper reports on a comprehensive review of literature on the investigations carried out to analyze and evaluate the behaviour of precast concrete structural systems assembled with typical connections or joints under simulated earthquake loading. The seismic performance of precast concrete structure very much depends on the ductility of the joints framed by precast beams and columns. It has been understood that (1) moment resistance beam-column connection and (2) ductile connectors seems to be the most widely used in the precast construction in seismic regions. Further, refinement and research could be carried out in order to optimize such connections to be recommended in low seismicity regions.