This project is to study, experimentally on a shaking table, the effects of connection flexibility on the seismic response of semi- rigid steel frames and to explore the applicability and limitation of such frames in low and medium rise structures. It has been widely known that connection flexibility tends to elongate the natural period of a structure and thus might reduce the seismic response. To date, however, no such experimental information exists to enable us to understand the true dynamic response behavior of semi-rigid steel structures. The research will identify parameters to control and reduce seismic responses of semi-rigid frame structures.
