Experimental test on precast concrete reinforcement connector technology based on strong lapping concept

Nowadays, the grouted splice sleeve and grouting‐anchoring overlap‐joint of steel bars are widely used as a connection method between precast concrete elements. However, the further development of these connection methods in the engineering is limited because of the high construction cost and complex construction technology in China. Hence, a precast concrete reinforcement connector, that is, double‐pipe connector (D‐P connector) based on strong lapping concept, was proposed, and the feasibility of the D‐P connector was validated by tensile tests, and the failure pattern and mechanical properties of the specimens were observed. Then, the wall panel specimens that connectors were surrounded by concrete were tested to prove the constraint effect of surrounding concrete on the connecting members. Finally, the influences of the parameters, including grout strength, grout height, and connector length, on the failure pattern and mechanical properties of the specimens were investigated. The results show that the influence of the parameters on the performance of the specimens is insignificant, demonstrating that the infill material was mainly used to fix the relative positions of the bar and the D‐P connector. To save cost effectively, high‐strength grout could be replaced by common cement slurry, and the length of D‐P connector could be properly reduced.