9710735 Stanton This project is concerned with the design of precast concrete structural systems for seismic regions. Three linked studies are by separate groups, covering the design, laboratory testing and analysis of a large scale precast concrete structure. This project addresses the design, the University of California at San Diego is conducting large-scale testing and Lehigh University plans to perform a program of analysis. The overall goals of the complete testing program are to: o provide design recommendations for precast concrete seismic framing systems, o demonstrate that seismic performance suitable for the most severe seismic regions can be provided by precast concrete framing systems, o use the complete superassemblage of precast elements to investigate features of behavior that are not induced in the statically determinate bean-column connection specimens that have been tested to date. The tasks in the study cover the design of the test structure, limited comparisons of measured and predicted behavior and drafting of the final design recommendations. The testing program will provide the final steps needed to equip engineers and code-writers with the information that they need to formalize suitable design rules and to permit this form of construction. Significant benefits will accrue. The primary ones are that excellent seismic performance will be demonstrated to be available from precast concrete and that design rules suitable for inclusion in a code will be developed. At a time when steel moment frames have, in their traditional form, been found wanting in seismic resistance, designers have few options in choosing a framing system. Development of a viable alternative has the potential for broadening the range of design alternatives, improving performance and reducing construction time and cost. ***
