ABSTRACT
ABSTRACT In the framework of the European project “FREEDAM”, an innovative joint solution, able to act as damper for seismic action, is proposed. The proposed joint can withstand high rotational demand associated to seismic events, without suffering of almost any damage. This is achieved by activating friction components at the joint level, which are acting as fuses, in case of seismic action, which are tailored to keep their mechanical properties constant. The University of Liège is in charge of investigating the structural robustness of buildings equipped with friction dampers and their response under impulsive loading. Consequently, double-sided beam-to-column connections were tested by means of a dropping mass. To track the deformation of some elements during the test, Digital Image Correlation (DIC) have been used. The outcome of the experimental campaign is the characterization of the joint behaviour under impulsive loading; some preliminary results of the experimental campaign are detailed hereinafter.
