Optimizing seismic performance in RC short‐leg shear walls: Numerical simulations of concealed bracing configurations and materials

Abstract

A finite element model was established in this study based on a low cyclic reversed loading test conducted on three different concealed bracing materials. A multivariate analysis of the seismic performance factors of two walls configured with different concealed bracing materials was conducted. The results indicated that the envelope curve of shear wall was more symmetrical in two directions when the layout form of concealed bracing was X‐shaped strut. Additionally, the seismic performance of concealed bracing shear walls was found to gradually decline as the angle of the concealed bracing decreased. The seismic performance of both types of shear walls improved to a lesser extent as the concealed bracing reinforcement rate increased. Comparatively, the concealed bracing shear walls reinforced with shape memory alloy bars exhibited greater energy absorption capacity and superior seismic performance compared to conventional reinforcement concealed bracing shear walls.