applied

sciences
Article
Experimental Study and Numerical Simulation of a
Laminated Reinforced Concrete Shear Wall with a
Vertical Seam
Jianbao Li, Yan Wang, Zheng Lu * and Junzuo Li
Research Institute of Structural Engineering and Disaster Reduction, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China;
[email protected] (J.L.); [email protected] (Y.W.); [email protected] (J.L.)
* Correspondence: [email protected]; Tel.: +86-21-6598-6186

Academic Editor: Mohamed Al-Hussein

Received: 10 April 2017; Accepted: 13 June 2017; Published: 17 June 2017

Abstract: In this paper, 12 laminated reinforced concrete shear walls are designed for cyclic loading
tests. Seismic performance of laminated reinforced concrete shear walls with vertical seams are
evaluated by the failure mode, deformability, hysteresis curve, stiffness degradation, and energy
dissipation capacity. In addition, two different construction measures and construction techniques are
designed to study their influence on the wall behavior, which provides a reference for the construction
of laminated reinforced concrete shear walls. The numerical simulation of the specimen is carried
out with ABAQUS, which is in good agreement with the experimental results. These results provide
a technical basis for the design, application, and construction of the laminated reinforced concrete
shear wall structure.

Keywords: laminated reinforced concrete shear wall; precast shear wall; vertical seam; seismic
performance; numerical simulation

1. Introduction
With the development of society, structures are becoming higher and higher. Due to the safety and
comfort requirements, vibration control has been widely used in civil engineering [1–6]. The method
of vibration control is various, setting dampers on the structure [7–17] and adding shear link elements
for wall structures [18,19], for example. On the other hand, with urbanization, large-scale and efficient
construction is becoming more and more important in civil engineering. The fundamental way to
meet this requirement is industrialization, which is constructing buildings in the form of industrial
production. The assembly structure is a kind of structure system whose structural components are
prefabricated in the factory, and then assembled on-site. It is widely used by government and
real estate developers because of its advantages, e.g., small workload, less pollution, and high
quality of the components. It is a green, environmentally-friendly, and broadly-applicable form
of residential structures.
The assembly structures originated in Europe, and the construction technology of prefabricated
components has been quite mature and widely used in civil engineering in Europe and other
industrialized countries. However, compared with the cast-in-place concrete, the overall performance
of the assembly structure is often questionable due to the joint part of the old and new concrete,
resulting in poor seismic performances, which has become the weakness in terms of its promotion. In
order to meet the seismic requirements of high-rise buildings, there have been many studies on the
seismic performance of assembly structures.
In the 1950s and 1960s, France first proposed a prefabricated concrete slab structure, which is made
from a series of wall panels by fitting joints, and its seismic performance depends on the joint strength

Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 629; doi:10.3390/app7060629 www.mdpi.com/journal/applsci

Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 629 2 of 19

and its integrity. To prevent the occurrence of shear slip, the horizontal seam of the large plate structure
is generally designed to be strongly connected as infinitely rigid. The vertical joints play the role of the
shear wall beam to ensure the effective force transmission between the wall panels. Many researchers
have carried out experimental studies and numerical simulations of this structure [20–23]. It has been
found that the elastic deformation of the wall under a strong earthquake is dominated by rocking
deformation, and the horizontal seam between the shear wall and the foundation gradually forms a
continuous crack. The deformation caused by the earthquake concentrates mainly at the horizontal
seam between the large slab and the foundation, while the upper walls damage slightly. The seismic
energy is dissipated mainly through the seam at the bottom of the wall, resulting in a large tensile
deformation of the vertical reinforcement passing through the cross-section of the seam. Structural
measures (such as adding a damper or energy-consuming steel plate) at the seam can enhance the
seismic performance.
In order to improve seismic performance of the assembly structural system, the post-tensioned
prestressing technology is prevalent in North America, which stretches and anchors steel
stranded wires through the prefabricated wallboard and its horizontal seam. Such technology
controls deformations and damage of structures under strong earthquakes, resulting in resilient
structures [24–28]. The prefabricated component of this structure is “ductile connected”, that is, the
bending resistance of the connecting part is lower than that of the prefabricated component itself.
The structure shows rocking deformation under seismic action. The plastic deformation mainly
concentrates at the horizontal seam, while the upper wall damages slightly, which is easier to repair
after the earthquake. As the prestressed reinforcements are unbonded, they still maintain elasticity
after large deformation. Consequently, the recovery ability of structures is good, resulting in small
residual deformation after the earthquake. Besides, precast concrete columns with grouted splice
sleeve have also been proposed and tested, which have good seismic performance [29].
The original purpose of the German superimposed assembly system is to achieve building
energy efficiency. The prefabricated floor and the wallboard are semi-manufactured products made
in the factory, with longitudinal reinforcement and lattice reinforcement according to the structural
requirements. A styrene foam board with high compressive strength, low water absorption, and good
insulation is set outside or inside the wall. After the semi-manufactured products are transported to the
construction site and lifted in place, concrete is poured between the wallboards which act as templates.
Some necessary reinforcements will also be set at the joint. Such systems have the advantages of simple
production, low cost and excellent quality, hence, are widely used in Germany and have significant
energy saving effect. However, as Germany is not located in an earthquake-prone area, the seismic
design of such systems is not considered.
In order to better develop the superimposed technology, it has been improved for some related
seismic performance studies. For example, there is a sandwich concrete wall whose middle layer is
a polystyrene sheet, and is sprayed with thin concrete layers on its surface during construction [30].
Ricci et al. [31] found that the seismic performance of this structure was comparable to that of
cast-in-place concrete, and the stiffness and the strength of the building made of such material under
dynamic excitation appears quite superior with respect to those expected from the results of previous
pseudo-static cyclic tests conducted on simple specimens [32–35]. Another superimposed concrete
wall is made of prefabricated wall panels and cast-in-place components. Prefabricated wallboard is
made of two prefabricated panels and lattice reinforcements. After being installed in place, concrete is
poured in the middle of the two layers, bearing the vertical horizontal force together. Through the
test [36–40], it can be seen that the prefabricated part of this superimposed wall is well combined with
the cast-in-place part, and the energy dissipation capacity is similar to that of the whole cast-in-place
wall, which proves that the seismic performance is close to the traditional cast-in-place wall.
In the 1990s, superimposed technology was introduced to Japan, and it was widely used in floor
and maintenance wall systems. The finishing can be set on the outer surface of the prefabricated
wallboard at the factory. After installation at the construction site, it is used as the wall’s template
Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 629 3 of 19

on the outer side, with reinforcement placed on the inner side. The template is set on the other
side of the wall, and such a semi-prefabricated shear wall is completed after pouring the concrete.
The prefabricated wallboard works with the cast-in-place part through the reinforcement on the inner
side, which can reduce the amount of sand and gravel construction, speed up the construction, improve
the construction quality, and greatly reduce the amount of the template used. Japan’s tests, engineering
practices, and theoretical analyses have shown that the performance of such semi-prefabricated
laminated structures meet safety requirements and are in line with the relevant Japanese regulations.
In recent years, the laminated reinforced concrete shear wall structure has been introduced into
China. Although application of the wall structure has been in Japan for more than 20 years, most of it
is used as floor and maintenance walls of framed structures. The question of whether it can be used as
a load-bearing wall in high-rise shear wall structures is still lacking in adequate research and evidence.
In view of this situation, there is an urgent need for a series of targeted experimental research work on
the laminated shear wall structure to accumulate information, and gradually develop and improve the
corresponding design, construction guidelines, and application standards. Zhang et al. [41] studied
the laminated wall, and found that the failure mode and the hysteresis curve of the laminated wall
were similar to those of the cast-in-place wall. In the numerical simulation, it was found that when
the axial compression ratio was greater than a certain value, the interface incompatibility between the
prefabricated and the cast-in-place part would lead to brittle failure [42]. However, these studies are
of little concern to the walls with vertical seams, which widely exist in actual projects due to the size
limitations of prefabricated components; consequently, it has important research value. At the same
time, the corresponding structural measures and construction technology are also rarely reported.
In this paper, 12 laminated reinforced concrete shear walls are designed for cyclic loading tests.
Seismic performance of laminated reinforced concrete shear walls with vertical seams are evaluated
by the failure mode, deformability, hysteresis curve, stiffness degradation, and energy dissipation
capacity. In addition, two different construction measures and construction techniques are designed
to study their influence on the wall, which provides a reference for the construction of laminated
reinforced concrete shear wall behavior. The numerical simulation of the specimen is carried out with
ABAQUS (produced by DASSAULT SYSTEMS in Providence, RI, United States). These results provide
the technical basis for the design, application, and construction of the laminated reinforced concrete
shear wall structure.

2. Experimental Setup

2.1. Specimens Design

In this experiment, 12 full-scale concrete shear wall specimens are designed and tested. The seismic
performance of cast-in-place walls and prefabricated laminated walls are analyzed and compared.
The design of the test specimens is divided into two types, namely, the prefabricated whole laminated
shear wall (PCF-A) and the prefabricated laminated shear wall with a vertical seam (PCF-C),
abbreviated as the whole wall and the seam wall, respectively, in this paper. In the actual construction
of the prefabricated structures, an assembly seam is inevitable, because it is impossible to fabricate
components in the factory that are as large as the structure needs. Thus assembly seams exist
between the prefabricated components. Additionally, the connection treatment is difficult between
the reinforcements of prefabricated part and the cast-in-place part of the concrete, resulting in relative
weakness in the connection part, such as the place between prefabricated shear wall panels and
floor or beams, as well as the seam between shear wall panels, which needs to be strengthened.
The corresponding locations in the test are the connection part between the bottom/upper beam and
the specimen, as well as the vertical seam in PCF-C.
In order to study the influence of different structural measures, the specimens with vertical
seams are subdivided into two groups according to the position of the longitudinal reinforcement
of the concealed column, which are labeled as I and II. Part of the longitudinal reinforcement of
Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 629 4 of 19

specimens in class I are embedded in the prefabricated part, and the rest are placed in the cast-in-place
part, while longitudinal reinforcement of specimens in class II are all arranged in the cast-in-place
part. All laminated specimens are 1500 mm × 1800 mm in size, and the wall thickness is 250 mm
(prefabricated 70 mm, cast 180 mm). The concealed column is designed according to edge member
requirements in the Code for Design of Concrete Structures (GB50010-2002) [43]. The concealed column
is 250 mm × 400 mm in class I, and 180 mm × 400 mm in class II. The axial ratio of the specimen
is 0.11. The longitudinal reinforcement of the concealed column is symmetrical in its cross-section.
The column stirrup is made of the combination of “U” shaped hoop and “L” shaped closed stirrup,
with the stirrup hook of 10d (“d“ represents the diameter of the stirrup), and a bending angle of 135◦ .
The thickness of the concrete covering layer is 25 mm.
In the design and fabrication of these specimens, the connections mentioned above not only meet
the requirements about connection and anchorage of reinforcements in Chinese codes, but also learn
from the provisions of the Japanese regulations. The HRB400 Φ10 @ 150 strengthening reinforcement
are arranged at the seams (including the seam between the wall and the beam, as well as the vertical
seam in the wall) and mortar fills them.
To examine the different interface processing on the cooperation performance of the prefabricated
part and cast-in-place part, the inner surface of the prefabricated laminated wall panels receive napping
treatment in specimens whose tail number is 1 or 3 (such as PCFI-A1, PCFI-A3, PCFI-C1, PCFI-C3,
PCFII-C1, and PCFII-C3), while the rest are sprayed with a surface retarder. At the same time, for
the comparative study, two ordinary cast-in-place reinforced concrete shear wall specimens (SW)
are fabricated in two types (one is the whole cast-in-place wall, and the other has a vertical seam),
with thicknesses of 200 mm, to ensure that the effective thickness of the specimen is the same as the
laminated specimens. The parameters of all of the walls are shown in Table 1, and the design drawings
are shown in Figure 1.

Table 1. Parameters of all the walls.

Size of the Concealed

Type Number Thickness Interface Processing
Column
PCFI-A1 Napping treatment
PCFI-A2 250 250 × 400 Spray surface retarder
A(Whole wall)
PCFI-A3 Napping treatment
SWA 200 200 × 400 /
PCFI-C1 Napping treatment
PCFI-C2 250 250 × 400 Spray surface retarder
PCFI-C3 Napping treatment
C(Seam wall) SWC 200 200 × 400 /
PCFII-C1 Napping treatment
PCFII-C2 Spray surface retarder
250 180 × 400
PCFII-C3 Napping treatment
PCFII-C4 Spray surface retarder
Note: The specimen size is 1500 mm × 1800 mm; the concealed column longitudinal reinforcement is HRB335 6Φ14;
the stirrups and distributing reinforcements are HRB400 Φ8 @ 150; and the strengthening reinforcement is HRB400
Φ10 @ 150.
Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 629 5 of 19
Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 29 5 of 19

(a) (b)

(c) (d)

(e) (f)
Figure 1. Drawing of the laminated reinforced concrete shear wall: (a) frontal view of specimen
1. Drawing
FigurePCF-A of the laminated reinforced concrete shear wall: (a) frontal view of specimen PCF-A
(including type I and II); (b) frontal view of specimen PCF-C (including type I and II); (c)
(including type I and II); (b) frontal view of specimen PCF-C (including type I and II); (c) reinforcement
drawing of PCFI-A; (d) reinforcement drawing of PCFII-A; (e) reinforcement drawing of PCFI-C; and
(f) reinforcement drawing of PCFII-C. Note: PCF-A and PCF-C are specimen numbers whose details
are listed in Table 1.
 Figure  1.  Drawing  of  the  laminated  reinforced  concrete  shear  wall:  (a)  frontal  view  of  specimen 
PCF‐A  (including  type  I  and  II);  (b)  frontal  view  of  specimen  PCF‐C  (including  type  I  and  II);  (c) 
reinforcement drawing of PCFI‐A; (d) reinforcement drawing of PCFII‐A; (e) reinforcement drawing 
of  PCFI‐C;  and  (f)  reinforcement  drawing  of  PCFII‐C.  Note:  PCF‐A  and  PCF‐C  are  specimen 
numbers whose details are listed in Table 1. 
Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 629 6 of 19

2.2. Sensor Placement 
2.2. Sensor Placement
The horizontal displacement of the upper, middle, and lower parts of the wall and the vertical 
The horizontal
displacement  displacement
on  both  sides  of  the of the upper,
specimen  are middle, andby 
measured  lower parts of the
displacement  wall and
meters.  theupper, 
In  the  vertical
displacement on both sides of the specimen are measured by displacement meters. In
middle,  and  lower  parts  of  the  wall,  the  displacement  meters  D1,  D2,  and  D3  are  arranged  the upper,
middle, and lower
horizontally  parts
in  the  of the wall,
direction  the actuator 
of  the  displacement meters D1,
to  measure  D2,
the  and D3 aredisplacement 
horizontal  arranged horizontally
of  the 
in the direction of the actuator to measure the horizontal displacement of the specimens. On the left
specimens. On the left and right sides of the wall, the displacement meters D6 and D7 are arranged 
and right sides
vertically  of the wall,
to  measure  the displacement
the  vertical  meters
displacement  D6 and
on  both  D7of 
sides  arethe 
arranged vertically
specimen.  In  the to measure
diagonal 
the vertical displacement on both sides of the specimen. In the diagonal direction of the wall, two
direction of the wall, two extensometers D4 and D5 are arranged to measure the shear deformation 
extensometers D4 and D5 are arranged to measure the shear deformation of the whole shearing wall.
of the whole shearing wall. The displacement meters are shown in Figure 2a,b. Resistance strain gauges 
are used to measure the key strain of the longitudinal reinforcement and distributing reinforcement, as 
The displacement meters are shown in Figure 2a,b. Resistance strain gauges are used to measure the
shown in Figure 2c–f. 
key strain of the longitudinal reinforcement and distributing reinforcement, as shown in Figure 2c–f.

(a)  (b)

(c)  (d)

Figure 2. Cont.
Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 629 7 of 19
Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 29    7 of 19 

(e)  (f)
Figure 2. Sensor placement: (a) displacement meters of PCF‐A; (b) displacement meters of PCF‐C; (c) 
Figure 2. Sensor placement: (a) displacement meters of PCF-A; (b) displacement meters of PCF-C;
strain  gauges  of  PCFI‐A;  (d)  strain  gauges  of  PCFII‐A;  (e)  strain  gauges  of  PCFI‐C;  and  (f)  strain 
(c) strain gauges of PCFI-A; (d) strain gauges of PCFII-A; (e) strain gauges of PCFI-C; and (f) strain
gauges of PCFII‐C. 
gauges of PCFII-C.

2.3. Specimen Fabrication 
2.3. Specimen Fabrication
The production of the test specimen is divided into two stages: stage one is the production of 
The production of the test specimen is divided into two stages: stage one is the production of the
the prefabricated concrete board (abbreviated as PC board), i.e., the prefabricated part of the wall. 
prefabricated
In  this  stage,  concrete boardis 
the  PC  board  (abbreviated
completed  as in PC
the board),
factory i.e.,
and  the prefabricated
transported  partTongji 
to  the  of theUniversity 
wall. In this
stage, the PC board is completed in the factory and transported to the Tongji University
Laboratory for the production of the cast‐in‐place part, which is the second stage (Figure 3a,b). All  Laboratory for
the production of the cast-in-place part, which is the second stage (Figure 3a,b). All steel strain gauges
steel strain gauges in the specimens are fixed before the concrete is poured and protected by epoxy 
in
resin.  specimens are fixed before the concrete is poured and protected by epoxy resin.
the
After the
After  the prefabricated
prefabricated part
part of
of the
the specimens
specimens  arrives atat 
arrives  thethe 
laboratory, thethe 
laboratory,  PC PC 
board is first
board  lifted
is  first 
in place, and then a connector between the bottom beam and the specimen is installed (Figure 3c),
lifted in place, and then a connector between the bottom beam and the specimen is installed (Figure 3c), 
followed by binding steel bars in the cast-in-place part. After the completion of the reinforcement
followed by binding steel bars in the cast‐in‐place part. After the completion of the reinforcement 
binding, the bottom beam is poured. When the design strength is reached, the connecting member
binding, the bottom beam is poured. When the design strength is reached, the connecting member is 
is fixed in the bottom beam to ensure that the PC part is perpendicular to the bottom beam. After
fixed in the bottom beam to ensure that the PC part is perpendicular to the bottom beam. After the entire 
the entire specimen is poured and maintained, the connector is removed to eliminate its effect on the
specimen is poured and maintained, the connector is removed to eliminate its effect on the test results. 
test results.
In order to acquire the actual material strength and physical properties of reinforcements and 
In order to acquire the actual material strength and physical properties of reinforcements and
concrete of the test specimens, three 450 mm‐long reinforcements, six 150 × 150 × 150 mm concrete 
concrete of the test specimens, three 450 mm-long reinforcements, six 150 × 150 × 150 mm concrete
cubes (for measuring the compressive strength of the concrete) and three 100 × 100 × 300 mm prism 
cubes (for measuring the compressive strength of the concrete) and three 100 × 100 × 300 mm prism
test  blocks (used to measure the axial compressive strength and modulus of elasticity of the concrete) 
test blocks (used to measure the axial compressive strength and modulus of elasticity of the concrete)
are reserved in the same batch of materials. The results of the material test are shown in Tables 2 and 3. 
are reserved in the same batch of materials. The results of the material test are shown in Tables 2 and 3.
Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 629 8 of 19
Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 29    8 of 19 

 
(a)  (b)

(c)
Figure  3. Fabrication of the laminated reinforced concrete wall: 
Figure 3. Fabrication of the laminated reinforced concrete wall: (a) fabrication of the prefabricated 
(a) fabrication of the prefabricated
part; (b) fabrication of the cast‐in‐place part; and (c) the connector between the bottom beam and the 
part; (b) fabrication of the cast-in-place part; and (c) the connector between the bottom beam and
specimen.   
the specimen.

Table 2. Material parameters of concrete. 
Table 2. Material parameters of concrete.
Specimen  fcu (MPa) fc (MPa) Ec (M/mm2)
Specimen fcu (MPa) fc (MPa) Ec (M/mm 2)
PCFI‐A & SWA 27.7  19.7  2.90 × 10 4 

PCFI-APCFI‐C & SWC
& SWA 27.7 30  19.7
19.5  4  × 104
2.90
2.98 × 10
4
PCFI-C & SWC
PCFII‐C  30 35.3  19.5
31  4  × 10
2.98
3.14 × 10
PCFII-C 35.3 31 3.14 × 10 4
Note: fcu is the standard value of the concrete cube compressive strength, fc is the standard value of 
Note: fcu is the standard value of the concrete cube compressive strength, fc is the standard value of the concrete
the concrete axial compressive strength, and E c is the elastic modulus. 
axial compressive strength, and E is the elastic modulus.
c

Table 3. Material parameters of reinforcement. 
Table 3. Material parameters of reinforcement.
Measured 
Reinforcement  Typef fy (MPa) fb fb (MPa)  Es (MPa) 
Reinforcement Measured Diameter Diameter Type y
E (MPa) εy (µε)
Column longitudinal reinforcement  (MPa) 382.5 
I  (MPa) 655  s 2913 
14 mm 
HRB335 
Column longitudinal I II 382.5 372.8 655 546.93  29131864 
14 mm
reinforcement HRB335 II I 372.8 357.5 546.93 480  18641788 
Strengthening reinforcement HRB400  10 mm  2.0 × 105 
Strengthening I II 357.5 380.24 480 604.5  2.0 × 10 5 17881901 
10 mm
reinforcement HRB400 II 380.24 370 604.5 647.5 
I  19012850 
Distributing reinforcement HRB400  8 mm 
Distributing I II 370 385.03  647.5 617.04  28501925 
8 mm
Note: fy is the measured yield strength of the reinforcement, f
reinforcement HRB400 II 385.03 617.04
b is the measured ultimate strength of  1925
the reinforcement, E
Note: fy is the measureds is the elastic modulus, and  ε   fis the yield strain. 
yield strength of the reinforcement, b is the measured ultimate strength of the reinforcement,
Es is the elastic modulus, and εy is the yield strain.
2.4. Test Loading Device and Loading Process 
2.4. Test Loading Device and Loading Process
The  wall  specimen  is  placed  in  the  reaction  frame.  The  horizontal  load  of  the  specimen  is 
Theby 
applied  wall specimen
the  SCHENCK  is placed in the reaction
electrohydraulic  frame.
servo  The horizontal
loader,  load of the
and  the  vertical  load specimen is applied
is  applied  by  the 
jacks  at  top  of  the  wall.  In  order  to  make  the  vertical  load  as  uniform  as  possible,  a  load at
by the SCHENCK electrohydraulic servo loader, and the vertical load is applied by the jacks top of
beam  is 
the wall. In
designed  at order to make
the  top,  the jack 
and  the  vertical load as uniform
is  connected  to  the as possible,
reaction  a load
frame  by beam is designed
some rollers  at the top,
to  reduce  the 
friction so that the top of the specimen can move freely in the horizontal direction. The test setup is 
shown in Figure 4a. 
Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 629 9 of 19

and the jack is connected

Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 29    to the reaction frame by some rollers to reduce the friction so that the top of
9 of 19 
the specimen can move freely in the horizontal direction. The test setup is shown in Figure 4a.
A displacement
A displacement control
control loading
loading method
method is is used
used in
in the
the test,
test, and
and the
the load
load process
process isis shown
shown in in 
Figure 4b. Before the test, a vertical load is applied to the design value of 1200 kN at the top of the 
Figure 4b. Before the test, a vertical load is applied to the design value of 1200 kN at the top of the wall
wall and is kept constant throughout the loading process. The loading process is divided into two 
and is kept constant throughout the loading process. The loading process is divided into two phases:
phases:  displacement 
displacement is  increased 
is increased by 1 mmby  for1 each
mm  stage
for  each  stage 
in the in  the 
elastic elastic 
phase, and phase, 
each and 
cycleeach  cycle  is 
is reloaded
reloaded for one cycle. After entering the yield stage, displacement is increased by 2 mm for each 
for one cycle. After entering the yield stage, displacement is increased by 2 mm for each stage and
stage and cycled three times. The test is stopped when the load drops to 85% of the maximum load 
cycled three times. The test is stopped when the load drops to 85% of the maximum load or when the
or when the specimen is destroyed. 
specimen is destroyed.

SCHENCK electrohydraulic servo loader

Jack

Reaction frame 
Test specimen

(a)  (b)
Figure  4.  Test  loading:  (a)  test  setup;  and  (b)  load  process.  Note:  N  is  recycling  times,  and  Δ  is 
Figure 4. Test loading: (a) test setup; and (b) load process. Note: N is recycling times, and ∆ is
displacement increment. 
displacement increment.

3. Experimental Results 
3. Experimental Results
3.1. Test Phenomena 
3.1. Test Phenomena
The test phenomenon generally shows that the specimens are at the elastic stage first, and then 
The test phenomenon generally shows that the specimens are at the elastic stage first, and then
microcracks appear at the corner. With the development of such cracks, the stiffness degrades, the 
microcracks appear at the corner. With the development of such cracks, the stiffness degrades, the
horizontal bearing capacity declines and, finally, the concrete at the corner crushes, leading to the 
horizontal bearing capacity declines and, finally, the concrete at the corner crushes, leading to the failure
failure  of  such  specimens  [41].  Table  4  lists  shear  bearing  capacity  calculated  according  to  the 
of such specimens [41]. Table 4 lists shear bearing capacity calculated according to the specification [43],
specification [43], the measured peak load, and the ductility coefficient of the specimen. The values 
the measured peak load, and the ductility coefficient of the specimen. The values in parentheses are
in  parentheses  are  calculated  using  the  measured  strength  of  concrete  and  reinforcement.  The 
calculated using the measured strength of concrete and reinforcement. The ductile coefficient is defined
ductile coefficient is defined as the ultimate displacement versus the yield displacement to measure 
as the ultimate displacement versus the yield displacement to measure the deformation capacity of
the deformation capacity of the wall. 
the wall.
Comparing  the  test  phenomena  of  laminated  test  specimens  PCFI‐A1–A3,  PCFI‐C1–C3,  and 
Comparing the test phenomena of laminated test specimens PCFI-A1–A3, PCFI-C1–C3, and the
the  corresponding  cast‐in‐place  test  specimens  SWA  and  SWC,  it  can  be  found  that  the  failure 
corresponding cast-in-place test specimens SWA and SWC, it can be found that the failure modes of
modes  of  the  laminated  specimen  and  the  cast‐in‐place  specimen  are  close  to  each  other.  In  the 
the laminated specimen and the cast-in-place specimen are close to each other. In the same group, the
same  group,  the  degree  of  damage  is  similar  with  the  loading  going  on,  and  the  final  bearing 
degree of damage is similar with the loading going on, and the final bearing capacity is almost the
capacity  is  almost  the  same,  hence,  it  can  be  concluded  that  the  performance  of  the  laminated 
same, hence, it can be concluded that the performance of the laminated member is close to that of the
member is close to that of the cast‐in‐place member. 
cast-in-place member.
Comparing  PCFI‐A  and  PCFI‐C,  it  can  be  seen  that  the  damage  of  the  seam  wall  is 
Comparing PCFI-A and PCFI-C, it can be seen that the damage of the seam wall is synchronized
synchronized with that of the whole wall, and the ultimate bearing capacity is close to it, indicating 
with that of the whole wall, and the ultimate bearing capacity is close to it, indicating that the seam can
that the seam can convey the load well and reach a similar effect as the whole wall given the good 
convey the load well and reach a similar effect as the whole wall given the good structural detailing of
structural detailing of the seam. 
the seam.
For the two different structural measures, it can be seen from the specimens PCFI‐C and PCFII‐C 
For the two different structural measures, it can be seen from the specimens PCFI-C and PCFII-C
that PCFII‐C is damaged later than PCFI‐C and the final bearing capacity is slightly higher, which 
that PCFII-C is damaged later than PCFI-C and the final bearing capacity is slightly higher, which may
may be due to the higher concrete strength of PCFII‐C. The different structural measures of scheme 
be due to the higher concrete strength of PCFII-C. The different structural measures of scheme I and
I and scheme II have little effect on the performance of the specimen. 
scheme II have little effect on the performance of the specimen.
Comparing the phenomena of specimens in the same group, it can be found that the damages 
of  the  prefabricated  part  and  the  cast  part  are  similar  and  synchronized  regardless  of  the 
construction technology, indicating that the two parts of the concrete work well together. 
Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 629 10 of 19

Comparing the phenomena of specimens in the same group, it can be found that the damages of
the prefabricated part and the cast part are similar and synchronized regardless of the construction
technology, indicating that the two parts of the concrete work well together.
In conclusion, the phenomenon and the data of the same group are close to each other and show
good stability. The ductility coefficient of the laminated members is slightly lower than that of the
cast-in-place walls, but the other properties are not very different from the cast-in-place walls.

Table 4. Peak load and ductility coefficient.

Number Designed Peak Load (kN) Measured Peak Load (kN) Average Peak Load (kN) Ductility Coefficient
PCFI-A1 1003.2 3.46
PCFI-A2 774.8 1039 1046.6 3.16
PCFI-A3 (873.2) 1097.6 3.15
SWA 1053.1 1053.1 3.45
PCFI-C1 1104 3.63
PCFI-C2 777.2 1024.9 1054.5 3.59
PCFI-C3 (891.6) 1034.6 3.73
SWC 980.3 980.3 4.52
PCFII-C1 1174 3.43
PCFII-C2 777.2 1251 3.38
1150
PCFII-C3 (943.2) 950 3.3
PCFII-C4 1225 3.62

3.2. Horizontal Load-Displacement Hysteretic Curve and Skeleton Curve

Figure 5 shows the representative hysteretic curves in each group and the standardized skeleton
curves for each specimen. The reason for the standardizing skeleton curve is that there are many factors
affecting the hysteretic curves, including the axial compression ratio, the aspect ratio, the material
properties, etc. If we use the dimensionless coordinates, we can obtain a good regular relationship.
In the case of dimensionless analysis, taking into account that the shear wall has no obvious yield
point, the limit load point (Pm , ∆m ) is selected as the reference point.
It can be seen that the hysteretic curves and skeleton curves of the laminated wall and the
cast-in-place wall are relatively plump. Before the cracking, the hysteretic curve is basically straight,
the area surrounded by the hysteretic loop is approximately zero, and the wall is in the elastic working
state. With the increase of displacement, the horizontal load increases, and oblique cracks appear at the
lower part of the wall. The cracks can be basically closed when unloading, and the non-linear character
is not obvious. As the displacement continues to increase, the number of cracks gradually increases, and
the hysteretic loop area gradually expands, with residual deformation after unloading. The hysteretic
curve appears to have a good anti-S shape, and the specimen shows good energy dissipation capacity.
Compared with the cast-in-place components, the plump part of the hysteretic curve of the laminated
wall is similar, and some are even plumper than the cast-in-place components, indicating that the
factory can guarantee the quality of the prefabricated components very well. The discussion in the
literature [41] also demonstrates similar conclusions. By comparing the structural measures of type I
and type II, together with the hysteretic curve and skeleton curve, it can be concluded that the two
kinds of construction measures and the joint surface construction technology have little effect on the
seismic performance of specimens.
 after unloading. The hysteretic curve appears to have a good anti‐S shape, and the specimen shows 
good energy dissipation capacity. Compared with the cast‐in‐place components, the plump part of 
the  hysteretic  curve  of  the  laminated  wall  is  similar,  and  some  are  even  plumper  than  the 
cast‐in‐place components, indicating that the factory can guarantee the quality of the prefabricated 
components very well. The discussion in the literature [41] also demonstrates similar conclusions. 
By comparing the structural measures of type I and type II, together with the hysteretic curve and 
Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 629
skeleton  curve,  it  can  be  concluded  that  the  two  kinds  of  construction  measures  and  the  joint  11 of 19
surface construction technology have little effect on the seismic performance of specimens. 

Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 29    11 of 19 
(a)  (b)

(c)  (d)

(e)  (f)
1.5 PCFI-A1 1.5
PCFI-C1
1 PCFI-A2 1 PCFI-C2
PCFI-A3 PCFI-C3
0.5 0.5
SWA
P/Pm

SWC
P/Pm

0 0
-0.5 -0.5

-1 -1

-1.5 -1.5
-1.5 -0.5 0.5 1.5 -1.5 -0.5 0.5 1.5
m m
(g)  (h)
1.5

0.5
PCFII-C1
P/Pm

0 PCFII-C2
PCFII-C3
-0.5 PCFII-C4

-1

-1.5
-1.5 -1 -0.5 0 0.5 1 1.5
m
(i)

Figure 5. Hysteretic curves (a–f) and standardized skeleton curves (g–i).

Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 29    12 of 19 
Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 629 12 of 19
Figure 5. Hysteretic curves (a–f) and standardized skeleton curves (g–i). 

3.3. Energy Dissipation Capacity 
3.3. Energy Dissipation Capacity
Energy dissipation capacity is an important evaluation index of the seismic performance of a 
Energy dissipation capacity is an important evaluation index of the seismic performance of a
structure. In a destructive earthquake, if the energy cannot be absorbed, it will lead to local or overall 
structure. In a destructive earthquake, if the energy cannot be absorbed, it will lead to local or overall
structural damage. The energy dissipation capacity of the specimen is evaluated by the equivalent 
structural damage. The energy dissipation capacity of the specimen is evaluated by the equivalent
viscous damping coefficient h
viscous damping coefficient hee.. The equivalent viscous damping coefficient is the ratio of the energy 
The equivalent viscous damping coefficient is the ratio of the energy
stored in the specimen to the deformation energy of the specimen in the elastic phase. The formula is 
stored in the specimen to the deformation energy of the specimen in the elastic phase. The formula is
as follows: 
as follows:
1 area( ABC )
he = 1 area ( ABC ) , (1)
h e  2π area(OBD ),  (1)
2 π area ( OBD )
The calculation diagram is shown in Figure 6. The equivalent viscous coefficients of the specimens
The  calculation 
are shown in Table 5. Bydiagram  is  shown 
analyzing in the
the data, Figure  6.  The 
following equivalent 
conclusions canviscous  coefficients  of  the 
be drawn:
specimens are shown in Table 5. By analyzing the data, the following conclusions can be drawn: 
1. Whether it is the whole wall or a seam wall, the energy dissipation capacity of the laminated wall
1. Whether it is the whole wall or a seam wall, the energy dissipation capacity of the laminated 
is no worse than the cast-in-place wall, indicating that the laminated wall has as good a seismic
wall is no worse than the cast‐in‐place wall, indicating that the laminated wall has as good a 
performance as the cast-in-place wall.
seismic performance as the cast‐in‐place wall. 
2. The PCFI-C has a generally higher equivalent viscosity coefficient than PCFI-A, indicating that
2. The PCFI‐C has a generally higher equivalent viscosity coefficient than PCFI‐A, indicating that 
the energy dissipation of the seam wall is better than that of the whole wall. This may be due to
the energy dissipation of the seam wall is better than that of the whole wall. This may be due to 
the greater deformation caused by the seam; thus, more energy is dissipated. Such a seam effect
the greater deformation caused by the seam; thus, more energy is dissipated. Such a seam effect 
is also reported in the literature [44].
is also reported in the literature [44]. 
3.
3. Compared with PCFI, PCFII has a higher equivalent viscous coefficient, which may be due to the
Compared with PCFI, PCFII has a higher equivalent viscous coefficient, which may be due to 
fact that the
the  fact  that concrete strength
the  concrete  of PCFII
strength  of is largeris than
PCFII  PCFI
larger  by PCFI 
than  aboutby 
10%. The 10%. 
about  structural measures
The  structural 
have little effect on its energy consumption capacity.
measures have little effect on its energy consumption capacity. 

 
Figure 6. The calculation diagram of equivalent viscous damping coefficient. 
Figure 6. The calculation diagram of equivalent viscous damping coefficient.

Table 5. Equivalent viscous damping coefficient. 
Table 5. Equivalent viscous damping coefficient.

Type  Number Equivalent Viscous Damping Coefficient  Average 

Type Number Equivalent Viscous Damping Coefficient Average
PCFI‐A1 0.089 
PCFI-A1
PCFI‐A2 0.089
0.082 
A (Whole wall)  PCFI-A2 0.082 0.080 
A (Whole wall) PCFI‐A3 0.074  0.080
PCFI-A3 0.074
SWA  0.075 
SWA 0.075
PCFI‐C1 0.075 
PCFI-C1
PCFI‐C2 0.075
0.088 
PCFI-C2 0.088 0.090 
PCFI‐C3 0.110  0.090
PCFI-C3 0.110
SWC 
SWC 0.086 
0.086
C (wall with vertical seam) 
C (wall with vertical seam) PCFII‐C1 0.118 
PCFII-C1 0.118
PCFII‐C2 0.125 
PCFII-C2 0.125 0.122 
PCFII‐C3 0.120  0.122
PCFII-C3 0.120
PCFII‐C4
PCFII-C4 0.125 
0.125
Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 629 13 of 19
Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 29    13 of 19 

3.4. Stiffness Degradation

3.4. Stiffness Degradation 
When the specimen is subjected to the load, the equivalent stiffness decreases as the number of
When the specimen is subjected to the load, the equivalent stiffness decreases as the number of 
cycles increases, which is called the stiffness degradation. Stiffness degradation is also an important
cycles increases, which is called the stiffness degradation. Stiffness degradation is also an important 
evaluation
evaluation  index
index  for
for  assessing the seismic 
assessing  the  seismic behavior 
behavior of 
of structures. 
structures. Figure 
Figure7 7shows 
showsthe 
thestiffness 
stiffness
degradation curves of the 12 specimens.
degradation curves of the 12 specimens. 

(a)  (b)

(c)
Figure 7. Stiffness degradation curves: (a) PCFI‐A; (b) PCFI‐C; and (c) PCFII‐C. 
Figure 7. Stiffness degradation curves: (a) PCFI-A; (b) PCFI-C; and (c) PCFII-C.
It  is  shown  that  at  the  initial  stage  of  the  test  load,  stiffness  degradation  is  more  obvious 
It is shown that at the initial stage of the test load, stiffness degradation is more obvious compared
compared with the later stage. The whole wall and the seam wall of type I are similar to that of the 
with the later stage. The whole wall and the seam wall of type I are similar to that of the cast-in-place
cast‐in‐place wall in trend and degree of stiffness degradation. For type II, the stiffness degradation 
wall in trend and degree of stiffness degradation. For type II, the stiffness degradation curves of PCF2
curves of PCF2 and PCF3 are gentler than those of PCF1 and PCF4, and the above differences are 
and PCF3 are gentler than those of PCF1 and PCF4, and the above differences are related to the local
related to the local cracking damage of the loading beam in the later stage. 
cracking damage of the loading beam in the later stage.
4. Numerical Simulation 
4. Numerical Simulation
4.1. Material Constitutive Model 
4.1. Material Constitutive Model
For  reinforcement,  the  model  shown  in  Figure  8  is  used  to  describe  the  stress‐strain 
reinforcement, the model shown in Figure 8 is used to describe
y  f y Es ,   h  10 y ,   u  100 y . 
For
relationship of the steel bars under monotonic load, in which  the stress-strain relationship
of the steel bars under monotonic load, in which ε y = f y /Es , ε h = 10ε y , ε u = 100ε y .
For concrete, the damaged plasticity concrete model is chosen, as it can better simulate the plastic
properties of concrete and the stiffness degradation under the action of cyclic loads. The Kent-Park
model is chosen to describe the compressive stress-strain relationship of concrete, and Kang-Lin model
Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 29    14 of 19 

Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 629 14 of 19

is used to describe the tensile curve, where ft is the tensile strength of concrete, and the ultimate tensile
strain of concrete  is 0.00093, shown in Figure 9.
Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 29  14 of 19 

 
Figure 8. Constitutive model of the reinforcement. 

For  concrete,  the  damaged  plasticity  concrete  model  is  chosen,  as  it  can  better  simulate  the 
plastic  properties  of  concrete  and  the  stiffness  degradation  under  the  action  of  cyclic  loads.  The 
 
Kent‐Park  model  is  chosen  to  describe  the  compressive  stress‐strain  relationship  of  concrete,  and 
Kang‐Lin model is used to describe the tensile curve, where f t is the tensile strength of concrete, and 
Figure 8. Constitutive model of the reinforcement. 
Figure 8. Constitutive model of the reinforcement.
the ultimate tensile strain of concrete is 0.00093, shown in Figure 9. 
For  concrete,  the  damaged  plasticity  concrete  model  is  chosen,  as  it  can  better  simulate  the 
plastic  properties  of  concrete  and  the  stiffness  degradation  under  the  action  of  cyclic  loads.  The 
Kent‐Park  model  is  chosen  to  describe  the  compressive  stress‐strain  relationship  of  concrete,  and 
Kang‐Lin model is used to describe the tensile curve, where ft is the tensile strength of concrete, and 
the ultimate tensile strain of concrete is 0.00093, shown in Figure 9. 

(a)  (b)
Figure  9.  Stress‐Strain  relationship  of  concrete  under  uniaxial  tension:  (a)  the  stress‐strain 
Figure 9. Stress-Strain relationship of concrete under uniaxial tension: (a) the stress-strain relationship;
relationship; and (b) the stress‐plastic strain relationship. 
and (b) the stress-plastic strain relationship.

4.2. Elements 
4.2. Elements (a)  (b)
The  concrete  uses  a  three‐dimensional  solid  element  with  an  eight‐node  reduced  integral 
The concrete
Figure  uses a three-dimensional
9.  Stress‐Strain  relationship  of  solid element
concrete  under with an eight-node
uniaxial  reduced
tension:  (a)  integral format
the  stress‐strain 
format (C3D8R), and the longitudinal reinforcement and the stirrup uses a three‐dimensional linear 
(C3D8R), and the longitudinal reinforcement and the stirrup
relationship; and (b) the stress‐plastic strain relationship.  uses a three-dimensional linear rod
rod element (T3D2). The bond spring unit is simulated by the Spring 2 unit, and the three‐direction 
element (T3D2). The bond spring unit is simulated by the Spring 2 unit, and the three-direction bond
bond relation is considered. 
relation is considered.
4.2. Elements 
4.3. Loading System 
The  concrete 
4.3. Loading System uses  a  three‐dimensional  solid  element  with  an  eight‐node  reduced  integral 
format (C3D8R), and the longitudinal reinforcement and the stirrup uses a three‐dimensional linear 
In  the  analysis,  the  bottom  of  the  shear  wall  is  fixed  and  the  X,  Y,  and  Z  directions  are 
In the analysis, the bottom of the shear wall is fixed and the X, Y, and Z directions are constrained.
rod element (T3D2). The bond spring unit is simulated by the Spring 2 unit, and the three‐direction 
constrained. A force load and a displacement load are applied at the top of the wall. The force load 
A force load and a displacement load are applied at the top of the wall. The force load is the uniform
bond relation is considered. 
is  the  uniform  vertical  load  whose  value  is  3.2  ×  106  N/m2.  The  displacement  load  is  a  lateral 
vertical load whose value is 3.2 × 106 N/m2 . The displacement load is a lateral displacement load in
displacement load in the X direction. 
the X direction.
4.3. Loading System 
4.4. Simulation Results 
In  the  analysis,  the  bottom  of  the  shear  wall  is  fixed  and  the  X,  Y,  and  Z  directions  are 
constrained. A force load and a displacement load are applied at the top of the wall. The force load 
4.4.1. Strain Distribution 
is  the  uniform  vertical  load  whose  value  is  3.2  ×  106  N/m2.  The  displacement  load  is  a  lateral 
displacement load in the X direction. 

4.4. Simulation Results 

4.4.1. Strain Distribution 
Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 629 15 of 19

4.4. Simulation Results

4.4.1. Strain Distribution

Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 29    15 of 19 
The strain distribution of the specimen under the action of vertical and lateral loads and the
corresponding test
The  strain  situation are
distribution  of  shown in Figure
the  specimen  10. the 
under  It can be seen
action  from the
of  vertical  strain
and  cloud
lateral  diagram
loads  that
and  the 
thecorresponding test situation are shown in Figure 10. It can be seen from the strain cloud diagram 
stress of the whole laminated shear wall is concentrated at the bottom of the wall. During the
that the stress of the whole laminated shear wall is concentrated at the bottom of the wall. During 
loading process, the strain on the tension side is large and gradually extends to the upper part.
Thethe loading process, the strain on the tension side is large and gradually extends to the upper part. 
strain distribution of the wall is consistent with that of the traditional cast-in-place shear wall.
TheThe strain distribution of the wall is consistent with that of the traditional cast‐in‐place shear wall. 
strain on the tension and compression side of the laminated shear wall with a vertical seam is
The strain on the tension and compression side of the laminated shear wall with a vertical seam is 
similar to that of the whole laminated shear wall. However, there is a sudden strain change in the
similar to that of the whole laminated shear wall. However, there is a sudden strain change in the 
vertical seam, and the strain will suddenly become smaller after going through the seam, approaching
the tensionseam, 
vertical  side. and  the  strain  will  suddenly  become  smaller  after  going  through  the  seam, 
approaching the tension side. 
In the above analysis, the calculation results of the cast-in-place and laminated shear wall are
In the above analysis, the calculation results of the cast‐in‐place and laminated shear wall are 
similar to those of the actual test failure mode. In the experiment, the specimens are loaded repeatedly,
similar  to  those  of  the  actual  test  failure  mode.  In  the  experiment,  the  specimens  are  loaded 
while the numerical analysis is one-way loading. Consequently, destruction of the actual test is
repeatedly,  while  the  numerical  analysis  is  one‐way  loading.  Consequently,  destruction  of  the 
basically a symmetrical distribution. The test results and simulation results are almost the same if we
actual test is basically a symmetrical distribution. The test results and simulation results are almost 
only consider loading in one direction.
the same if we only consider loading in one direction. 

 
(a)  (b)

 
(c)  (d)

Figure 10. Cont.

Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 629 16 of 19
Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 29    16 of 19 

Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 29    16 of 19 

 
(e)  (f)
 
Figure 10. Strain distribution and crack profile: (a) the strain distribution of the cast‐in‐place wall; (b) 
(e) 
Figure 10. Strain distribution and crack profile: (a) the strain distribution(f) of the cast-in-place wall;
the crack profile of the cast‐in‐place wall; (c) the strain distribution of the whole wall; (d) the crack 
(b) the crack profile of the cast-in-place wall; (c) the strain distribution of the whole wall; (d) the crack
Figure 10. Strain distribution and crack profile: (a) the strain distribution of the cast‐in‐place wall; (b) 
profile of the whole wall; (e) the strain distribution of the seam wall; and (f) the crack profile of the 
profile of the whole wall; (e) the strain distribution of the seam wall; and (f) the crack profile of the
the crack profile of the cast‐in‐place wall; (c) the strain distribution of the whole wall; (d) the crack 
seam wall. 
seam wall.
profile of the whole wall; (e) the strain distribution of the seam wall; and (f) the crack profile of the 
seam wall. 
4.4.2. Displacement‐Base Shear Curve 
4.4.2. Displacement-Base Shear Curve
The  PCFAs  and  PCFCs  displacement‐base  shear  curves  obtained  by  ABAQUS  analysis  are 
4.4.2. Displacement‐Base Shear Curve 
The PCFAs
shown  and PCFCs
in  Figure  displacement-base
11.  PCFI‐A  shear curves
represents  specimen  obtained
PCFI‐A1,  by ABAQUS
PCFI‐A2,  analysis are
and  PCFI‐A3;  shown
PCFII‐C 
The  PCFAs  and  PCFCs  displacement‐base  shear  curves  obtained  by  ABAQUS  analysis  are 
in Figure 11. PCFI-A represents specimen PCFI-A1, PCFI-A2, and PCFI-A3;
represents  specimen  PCFII‐C1–PCFII‐C4;  SWA  represents  the  whole  cast‐in‐place  specimen;  SWC  PCFII-C represents
shown  in  Figure  11.  PCFI‐A  represents  specimen  PCFI‐A1,  PCFI‐A2,  and  PCFI‐A3;  PCFII‐C 
specimen PCFII-C1–PCFII-C4;
represents  the  cast‐in‐place  SWA represents
specimen  a the wholeseam; 
with  represents 
vertical  cast-in-place
PCFAC  specimen;
and  PCFCC  SWC represents
represent 
represents  specimen  PCFII‐C1–PCFII‐C4;  SWA  the  whole  cast‐in‐place  specimen;  SWC  the 
the cast-in-place
represents  the  cast‐in‐place  specimen  with  a  vertical  seam;  PCFAC  and  PCFCC  represent  the whole
calculated  specimen
whole  with
laminated  a vertical
shear  seam;
wall  and  PCFAC
seam  and
wall.  PCFCC
It  is  represent
shown  that the
the calculated
calculated  PCF 
displacement‐base shear curve is in good agreement with that obtained by the experiment, and is 
laminated shear wall and seam wall. It is shown that the calculated PCF displacement-base
calculated  whole  laminated  shear  wall  and  seam  wall.  It  is  shown  that  the  calculated  PCF  shear curve
similar  to  that  of  the  traditional  cast‐in‐place  shear  wall  specimen,  indicating 
is indisplacement‐base shear curve is in good agreement with that obtained by the experiment, and is 
good agreement with that obtained by the experiment, and is similar to thatthat  the  traditional
of the laminated 
shear wall has similar lateral resistance with the cast‐in‐place specimen. 
cast-in-place
similar  to shear wall
that  of  the specimen,
traditional indicating thatshear 
cast‐in‐place  the laminated shearindicating 
wall  specimen,  wall has similar
that  the lateral resistance
laminated 
withshear wall has similar lateral resistance with the cast‐in‐place specimen. 
the cast-in-place specimen.

(a)  
(a) (b) (b)
Figure 11. Displacement‐base shear curve: (a) the whole laminated shear wall; and (b) the laminated 
Figure 11. Displacement‐base shear curve: (a) the whole laminated shear wall; and (b) the laminated 
Figure 11. Displacement-base shear curve: (a) the whole laminated shear wall; and (b) the laminated
shear wall with a vertical seam. 
shear wall with a vertical seam. 
shear wall with a vertical seam.
Figure 12 shows the average experimental results and the calculated results of specimens in the 
Figure 12 shows the average experimental results and the calculated results of specimens in the 
two 
two  groups. 
groups. 
Figure 12 showsPCFA 
PCFA  the and 
and  PCFC 
PCFC 
average represent 
represent 
experimental the the  average 
average 
results and result 
result 
the of  whole 
of  whole 
calculated wall wall 
results of and 
and  seam seam  wall, 
wall, in
specimens the
respectively. 
respectively.  It 
It  can 
can  be 
be  seen 
seen  that 
that  the 
the  test 
test  and 
and  calculation 
calculation  results 
results  are  are  basically 
basically 
two groups. PCFA and PCFC represent the average result of whole wall and seam wall, respectively. consistent 
consistent  in  in 
the  the 
distribution of the curve. The seam wall has higher lateral resistance compared with the whole wall. 
distribution of the curve. The seam wall has higher lateral resistance compared with the whole wall. 
It can be seen that the test and calculation results are basically consistent in the distribution of the
curve. The seam wall has higher lateral resistance compared with the whole wall. As the vertical seam
Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 629 17 of 19
Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 29    17 of 19 

canthe 
As  consume part
vertical  of the
seam  can energy andpart 
consume  increase the
of  the  ductility
energy  and ofincrease 
the wall,the 
it can delay of 
ductility  thethe 
destruction of
wall,  it  can 
the specimen and increase the lateral bearing capacity.
delay the destruction of the specimen and increase the lateral bearing capacity. 

 
Figure 12. Average experimental results and the calculated results of specimens in the two groups. 
Figure 12. Average experimental results and the calculated results of specimens in the two groups.

5. Conclusions 
5. Conclusions
Through 
Through thethe experimental
experimental  study 
study andand  numerical 
numerical simulation 
simulation of  laminated 
of laminated reinforced 
reinforced concrete 
concrete shear
shear walls, the following conclusions can be drawn: 
walls, the following conclusions can be drawn:
1. The failure mode, the hysteretic curve and the skeleton curve, the stiffness degradation law, the 
1. The failure mode, the hysteretic curve and the skeleton curve, the stiffness degradation law, the
energy dissipation capacity and the bearing capacity of the laminated shear wall are similar to 
energy dissipation capacity and the bearing capacity of the laminated shear wall are similar to that
that  of  the  cast‐in‐place  shear  wall,  indicating  that  laminated  walls  have  good  seismic 
of the cast-in-place shear wall, indicating that laminated walls have good seismic performance.
performance. 
2. The seam can effectively transfer the load when it is well-constructed, and whose performance is
2. The seam can effectively transfer the load when it is well‐constructed, and whose performance 
similar to the whole wall. At the same time, due to the greater deformation caused by the seam,
is  similar  to  the  whole  wall.  At  the  same  time,  due  to  the  greater deformation caused  by  the 
the wall’s energy dissipation capacity is slightly better than the whole wall.
seam, the wallʹs energy dissipation capacity is slightly better than the whole wall. 
3.
3. Whether the napping treatment or sprayed surface retarder is applied on the surface between
Whether the napping treatment or sprayed surface retarder is applied on the surface between 
the prefabricated 
the  prefabricated part
part and
and the
the cast-in-place
cast‐in‐place part, thethe 
part,  oldold 
andand 
newnew 
concrete can connect
concrete  with with 
can  connect  each
other well, and work together with integrity.
each other well, and work together with integrity. 
4.
4. The two structural constructions of the concealed column and the shear wall have little effect
The two structural constructions of the concealed column and the shear wall have little effect on 
on the
the  seismic
seismic  performance
performance  of  of
the the shear
shear  wall;hence, 
wall;  hence,the 
theappropriate 
appropriatemethod 
methodcan can be 
be selected
selected 
according to the actual construction
according to the actual construction needs.  needs.
5.
5. The finite
The  finite element simulation
element  simulation of the
of  laminated reinforced
the  laminated  concrete
reinforced  shear wall
concrete  is inwall 
shear  goodis 
agreement
in  good 
with the experimental results. The stress cloud is consistent with the final failure phenomena
agreement  with  the  experimental  results.  The  stress  cloud  is  consistent  with  the  final  failure 
in the experiments. The simulated displacement-the base shear curve is consistent with the
phenomena in the experiments. The simulated displacement‐the base shear curve is consistent 
experimental results.
with the experimental results. 
In summary,
In  summary, the laminated
the  laminated concrete shearshear 
concrete  wall with
wall a with 
vertical
a  seam is similar
vertical  seam  to
is the cast-in-place
similar  to  the 
shear wall, and
cast‐in‐place  haswall, 
shear  goodand 
seismic performance.
has  good  Using good Using 
seismic  performance.  construction technology and
good  construction  proper
technology 
construction
and  measures, the
proper  construction  vertical the 
measures,  seam can effectively
vertical  seam  can transmit seismic
effectively  forces.
transmit  Forforces. 
seismic  economic
For 
consideration,
economic  it is recommended
consideration,  that nappingthat 
it is  recommended  treatment
napping and structural
treatment  construction
and  structural in class II can be
construction  in 
chosen in actual construction, which will, relatively, reduce workload and cost.
class II can be chosen in actual construction, which will, relatively, reduce workload and cost. 

Financial support 
Acknowledgments: Financial 
Acknowledgments:  support from 
from the 
the National 
National Key 
Key Research 
Research and 
and Development 
Development Program 
Program of 
of China 
China
(2016YFC0701101) is highly appreciated. This work is also supported by the Fundamental Research Funds for the
(2016YFC0701101) is highly appreciated. This work is also supported by the Fundamental Research Funds for 
Central Government Supported Universities. The supports from Shanghai Science and Technology Committee,
the 
and Central 
ShanghaiGovernment  Supported 
Vanke Real Estate Universities. 
Co. Ltd. The  supports  from  Shanghai  Science  and  Technology 
are also appreciated.
Committee, and Shanghai Vanke Real Estate Co. Ltd. are also appreciated. 
Author Contributions: Jianbao Li conceived the experiments and wrote the paper; Yan Wang performed the
experiments
Author  and analyzed
Contributions:  the data; Zheng Lu proposed the method, conceived and designed the experiments,
Jianbao Li conceived the experiments and wrote the paper; Yan Wang performed the 
and revised the paper; and Junzuo Li helped to analyze the experimental data and revised the paper.
experiments and analyzed the data; Zheng Lu proposed the method, conceived and designed the experiments, 
and revised the paper; and Junzuo Li helped to analyze the experimental data and revised the paper. 
Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 629 18 of 19

Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest.

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