Improving the Behavior Reinforced Concrete Frames Made of UHPC Using the Metallic Vertical Shear Link

This paper investigates the behavior reinforced concrete frames of the Ultra-High Performance Concert (UHPC) using the metallic vertical shear link. Accordingly, a metallic vertical eccentrically braced frame (VEBF) shear link with a shear mechanism is explored in the UHPC. Accordingly, improving the behavior of the RC frame with double VEBF is investigated. Although the VEBF system pertains suitable behavior and is easily replaced after, it is difficult to construct. Its replacement does not affect the building severability since no gravity load is applied to the system. The finite element models are applied to investigate the behavior of moment-resisting frame made of UHPC and conventional concrete strengthened with metal vertical shear link. The accuracy of the prosed results is compared with the reported experimental test. The numerical results indicated that adding the VEBF to the RC frame enhances the ultimate strength, stiffness, and energy absorption of the RC moment-resisting frame. Also, it prevents hinge formation over the main column.