Experimental and numerical studies on modular assembled steel plate shear wall with PEC columns

To enhance energy dissipation and mitigate local buckling in boundary columns of conventional steel plate shear walls (SPSWs), this study introduces a modular assembled SPSW with partially encased composite (PEC) columns (PEC-MSPSW). The structure features grid modules along the main diagonal, with PEC columns as boundary elements. Quasi-static cyclic loading tests on two 1/3-scale PEC-MSPSW specimens evaluated key seismic performance parameters, with finite element models validated against experimental data. Traditional SPSW models were developed for comparative analysis, highlighting the performance gains of PEC-MSPSWs. Results indicate that inelastic deformation primarily concentrated in the thin steel plates, forming distinct tension strips—T-shaped in corner plates and X-shaped in central plates. Stiffened angle connections enhanced local stiffness and overall structural integrity, while PEC columns effectively suppressed local buckling in boundary elements, providing robust lateral stiffness and stability. Compared to conventional systems, the energy dissipation capacity of PEC-MSPSW increased by up to 29.5 %, while its ductility improved by up to 14.9 %, further demonstrating its superior seismic performance. Although only one specimen per series was tested, introducing potential variability in certain results (e.g., the sequence of plate buckling), the overall findings remain reliable and offer useful insights into the seismic performance and practical advantages of PEC-MSPSWs. This study offers a modular solution to enhance seismic performance in earthquake-prone regions, providing adaptability, ease of construction, and a foundation for future research on post-earthquake recovery, thereby minimizing downtime and economic impact.