Morteza Madhkhan - Ph.D Associate professor, Department of civil engineering, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan,
Saeed Bahrami - Ph.D. candidate, Department of civil engineering, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan, Iran,
Nima Nazemi - Graduate research assistant, Department of civil engineering, University of Memphis, Memphis, Tennessee, USA

In this study, two proposed connections of beams to precast concrete columns were analyzed via application of nonlinear finite element analysis software ABAQUS 6.10. Connection responses associated with lateral resistance, lateral stiffness, ductility, and energy dissipation were compared to an equivalent monolithic connection. Achieved lateral resistance, lateral stiffness and ductility of the proposed connections was approximately 95%, 80% and 70% of the equivalent monolithic connection respectively. However, results achieved from laboratory studies could differ. According to calculation results, these connections are appropriate substitutions for completely resisting beam to column connections in precast concrete structures.

Finite Elements, Precast Concrete, Energy Dissipation, Lateral Stiffness, Ductility, Lateral Resistance