Seismic performance of modular columns made of concrete filled FRP tubes

In this study the effectiveness of a modular column without post-tensioning is evaluated for earthquake resistance. The segments of the modular columns are made of concrete-filled fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) tubes (CFFT) for providing additional flexural hinge confinement by FRP tube. The CFFT segments are manufactured by match cast method, having insert holes for longitudinal steel bars embedded in reinforced concrete (RC) foundation to penetrate. No tensioning is applied for the connection of the segments by considering the difficulty to install anchorage devices. The segments are bonded to each other by epoxy. Quasi-static cyclic loading tests of scale-down circular columns were carried out. The experimental results of the modular CFFT columns were compared with those of CFFT cast-in-place columns and conventional RC columns. The results showed that the seismic performance of the modular CFFT columns is superior to that of their RC counterparts and comparable to that of their CFFT cast-in-place counterparts. The proposed modular system can be easily installed and will provide rapid construction.