Shaking table testing of a multi-story Chinese traditional timber structure with seismic damage

Abstract

This study investigated the dynamic performance of a multi-story Chinese traditional timber structure with seismic damage through shaking table testing. A 1/4.5 scaled model of the Guangyue Tower that located in Northern China was fabricated. The model was first shaking table tested to produce seismic damage, and then second time subjected to earthquake excitations. Test results, including damage patterns, dynamic characteristics and responses of the intact and damaged models, were obtained. Shear force resistance and energy dissipation capacity of both models were also evaluated. The impact of the seismic damage on the model's seismic performance was indicated. The results showed that the intact model mainly happened with coordination failure of timber infill walls and frames. With the timber infill walls demolished, the damaged model was observed with significantly looseness and cracking in joints after experiencing strong earthquakes. Although the model had no remarkable residual lateral deformation, its fundamental frequency after damaged decreased 18.6 %. The seismic damage decreased the model acceleration response by 11.1 %, and increased the maximum interstory drift up to 47.8 %. As a result of the moderate acceleration response, the base shear force of the model reduced 20.2 %, but the energy dissipation increased 28.9 % owing to larger lateral deformation. The findings of this study could provide reference in the seismic protection and rehabilitation of multi-story traditional timber structures.