Reinforced concrete scaled columns under cyclic actions

In the area of reduced-scale model testing, increasing the size of model structures as a means of improving the model performance is often inhibited by the capacity limitation of the available seismic testing facilities. This was the case in a recent experimental programme conducted at NTUA in which several 1:5.5-scale model frames were tested on an earthquake simulator. In order to improve the model reliability, the following measures were taken: strictly obeying the geometric scaling in almost all aspects; using deformed bars as model reinforcement; and using stone-aggregate microconcrete for constructing the models, etc. To evaluate the effectiveness of these measures, a parallel column test programme was conducted in which duplicates of typical columns in the test model frames were prepared, along with those of large sizes following similitude laws. The column specimens were tested under reversals of lateral load. Besides the scale effects, general rules regarding the influences of transverse confinement and axial force on the ductility and strength of columns were also confirmed on the small-scale model columns.