An ACI Standard

Qualification of Precast
Concrete Diaphragm
Connections and
Reinforcement at Joints
for Earthquake Loading
00 (ACI 550.4-18) and
'
I Commentary

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(ACI 550.4R-18)
Reported by Joint ACI-ASCE Committee 550

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American Concrete Institute
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 First Printing
American Concrete Institute September 2018
Always advancing
ISBN: 978-1-64195-031-2

Qualification of Precast Concrete Diaphragm Connections and Reinforcement at

Joints for Earthquake Loading (ACI 550.4-18) and Commentary (ACI 550.4R-18)

Copyright by the American Concrete Institute, Farmington Hills, MI. All rights reserved. This material
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 ACI 550.4-18

Qualification of Precast Concrete Diaphragm

Connections and Reinforcement at Joints for
Earthquake Loading {ACI 550.4-18) and Commentary
{ACI 550.4R-18)

An ACI Standard

Reported by Joint ACI-ASCE Committee 550

Larbi M. Sennour*, Chair Lance Osborne, Secretary

Suzanne Aultman Alvin C. Ericson Kenneth A. Luttrell Mario E. Rodriguez*

Roger J. Becker* Mostafa Mohamed Gad Alia Vilas S. Mujumdar Joseph C. Sanders*
Te-Lin Chung Harry A. Gleich Clay J. Naito* James Schroder
Ned M. Cleland* Neil M. Hawkins*! Clifford R. Ohlwiler John F. Stanton
Manuel Conde F uentes Augusto H. Holmberg Victor F. Pizano-Thomen P. Jeffrey Wang
Thomas J. D' Arcy* L. S. Paul Johal Charles L. Pizzano Cloyd E. Warnes
William K. Doughty Jason J. Krohn* Jose I. Restrepo* Michael H. Weber
Semeh Ibrahim El Ashri Emily B. Lorenz Sami H. Rizkalla

*Diaphragm Subcommittee members who developed this standard

!Diaphragm Subcommittee Chair.

Special thanks to S. K. Ghosh and S. Nakaki for their contributions to this standard.

ACI 550.4 prescribes testing and evaluation requirements for
mechanical connections and reinforcement at joints intended for
use under the design provisions of ASCEISEI 7 and ACI 318 for
precast concrete diaphragms subject to earthquake loading. These
mechanical connections and reinforcement at joints transfer the
vertical and in-plane forces between the precast concrete members
that comprise the diaphragm, and between the diaphragm and
vertical elements of the seismic-force-resisting system of the struc­
ture. The response of precast concrete diaphragms under earth­
quake loading depends not only on the strength of the connections
and the reinforcement at joints, but also on their stiffness and
ACI Committee Reports, Guides, and Commentaries are
intended for guidance in planning, designing, executing, and
inspecting construction. This document is intended for the use
of individuals who are competent to evaluate the significance
and limitations of its content and recommendations and who
will accept responsibility for the application of the material it
contains. The American Concrete Institute disclaims any and
all responsibility for the stated principles. The Institute shall
not be liable for any loss or damage arising therefrom.
Reference to this document shall not be made in contract
documents. If items found in this document are desired by
the Architect/Engineer to be a part of the contract documents,
they shall be restated in mandatory language for incorporation
by the Architect/Engineer.
deformation capacities. The seismic forces specified in ASCEISEI
7 for the design of precast concrete diaphragms, including chords
and collectors, in structures assigned to Seismic Design Category
(SDC) C, D, E, or Fare tied to the shear overstrength provided by
the connections and the reinforcement at joints. This overstrength
depends, in turn, on the design methodology, elastic or ductile,
used for the diaphragm. ACI 550.4 prescribes the experimental
procedures needed to assess the stifn f ess, strength, and deforma­
tion capacity of mechanical connections and reinforcement at
joints for diaphragmflange-to-flange connections, including chord
connections, of double-tee (DT) beams for earthquake loadings
and evaluation procedures to categorize connection performance
for use with the design procedures specified for precast concrete
diaphragms in ASCEISEI 7 and ACI 550. ACJ 550.4 does not
prescribe experimental procedures for assessing the same informa­
tion for connections for hollow-core members used in the untapped
condition.
Keywords: connection category; diaphragm connections; precast concrete;
qualification criteria; seismic design; test method..
ACI 550.4-18 was adopted July 31, 2018, and published September 2018.
Copyright© 2018, American Concrete Institute.
All rights reserved including rights of reproduction and use in any form or by any
means, including the making of copies by any photo process, or by electronic or
mechanical device, printed, written, or oral, or recording for sound or visual reproduc­
tion or for use in any knowledge or retrieval system or device, unless permission in
writing is obtained from the copyright proprietors.
2 PC DIAPHRAGM CON NECTIONS AND REINFORCEMENT AT JOINTS FOR EARTHQUAKE LOADING (ACI 550.4-1 8)

CONTENTS 5.2-Shear force transfer connections, p. 11

5.3-Axial force transfer connections, p. 12
CHAPTER 1-GENERAL, p. 3 5.4-Recording test data, p. 13
1 . 1-Introduction, p. 3
1 .2-Scope, p. 4 CHAPTER 6-TEST REPORT, p. 1 4
1 .3-Structura1 drawings, p. 5 6.1-Test report, p. 1 4
1 .4-Units, p. 5
CHAPTER 7-INTERPRETATION OF TEST
CHAPTER 2-NOTATION AND DEFINITIONS, p. 6 RESULTS, p. 1 5
2.1-Notation, p. 6 7.1-General, p . 1 5
2.2-Definitions, p. 6 7.2-Backbone approximation t o measured response,
p. 16
CHAPTER 3-REFERENCED STANDARDS, p. 7 7.3-Performance database, p. 1 6
7.4---Classification o f deformability, p . 17
CHAPTER 4-TEST MODULES AND TEST SETUP,
p. 8 AS-COMMENTARY REFERENCES, p. 18
4.1-Test modules, p. 8 Authored references, p. 1 8
4.2-Test setup, p. 10

CHAPTER 5-TEST METHODS, p. 11

5.1-Testing agency, p. 1 1

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 PC DIAPHRAGM CON NECTIONS AND REINFORCEMENT AT JOINTS FOR EARTHQUAKE LOADING (ACI 550.4-1 8)
CODE
CHAPTER 1---G ENERAL
1.1--- l ntroduction
ACI 550.4 specifies the minimum experimental evidence
that shall be provided by tests on individual connections and
defines the minimum information required for the design of
double-tee (DT) precast concrete diaphragms satisfying the
lateral load performance requirements of Chapter 1 8 of ACI
318- 1 4.
Consistent with ACI 318 requirements for analysis, ACI
550.4 specifies that prior to the testing of individual connec­
tors, a design procedure shall have been developed for
precast concrete DT diaphragms having the generic form for
which acceptance is sought, and that design procedure used
to proportion the connections used in the testing required
by ACI 550.4. One such design procedure has evolved from
research and is specified in ACI 550-18. These procedures
supplement the provisions of Chapter 18 of ACI 3 1 8-14 and
do not supplant them. The procedure is applicable only to
the lateral load design of precast concrete DT diaphragms
using connection performance characteristics determined
using ACI 550.4.
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3
COMMENTARY
R1---G ENERAL
R1.1---l ntroduction
For structures assigned to high Seismic Design Catego­
ries (SDCs), Chapter 18 of ACI 3 1 8-14 permits the use of
structural systems that do not meet the prescriptive require­
ments of the chapter if certain experimental evidence and
analytical results are provided. Precast concrete double-tee
(DT) members are extensively used in the construction of
floor and roof diaphragms. Gravity load design requirements
for diaphragms of precast concrete construction are covered
by the general provisions of ACI 3 1 8. However, unless a
diaphragm of precast concrete construction is provided with
a topping that meets all the prescriptive requirements for
diaphragms in that chapter, the precast concrete diaphragm
cannot be designed directly using Chapter 18 of ACI 3 1 8 - 1 4.
In precast concrete DT diaphragms without a topping, struc­
tural integrity and force transfer within the diaphragm are
provided by the discrete web and chord connections or rein­
forcement that join the individual precast concrete members.
If a precast concrete DT diaphragm without a topping is to
provide a structural system with a lateral load performance
equal to or exceeding that of a comparable cast-in-place
diaphragm, accurate knowledge of the strength, stiffness,
and deformability of the individual connections used in the
diaphragm needs to be available.
Precast concrete floor diaphragms are extensively used
for parking structures and residential and commercial
buildings. Those diaphragms frequently consist of precast
concrete members connected to one another through discrete
embedded mechanical connectors or reinforcement at
joints. Industry practice has been to use those diaphragms
in an untopped condition in buildings assigned to SDC C
or lower SDCs and with topping in buildings assigned to
SDC D or higher SDCs. Where topped diaphragms with a
topping thickness of 3 in. or less are subjected to significant
earthquake loading, the topping is likely to crack along the
edges of the precast member. Once cracking occurs, unless
large amounts of reinforcement are continuous across the
member edges, the topped diaphragm behaves similarly
to a diaphragm composed of untopped precast concrete
members.
Where mechanical connections are used to join the precast
concrete members forming a diaphragm, the effects of all
vertical and in-plane shear forces acting between members
on these connections should be considered. Under earth­
quake loadings, the connections are subject to combina­
tions of in-plane shear and tensile or compressive forces, the
values of which depend on the magnitude of the earthquake
motions and the response of the structure to those motions.
Post-earthquake reconnaissance following the 1 994 North­
ridge earthquake (Iverson and Hawkins 1994) revealed that
precast concrete diaphragms with toppings having thickness
less than 3 in. or limited amounts of reinforcement were
susceptible to damage, and that the degree of susceptibility
increased as the aspect ratio for the diaphragm increased and
{c)C'i'J
4 PC DIAPHRAGM CON NECTIONS AND REINFORCEMENT AT JOINTS FOR EARTHQUAKE LOADING (ACI 550.4-1 8)
CODE
1.2-Scope
1.2.1 ACI 550.4defines the minimum testing requirements
and the acceptance criteria for different performance levels
for connections or reinforcement at joints where used to
connect precast concrete DT members subject to earthquake
loading. Extrapolation of qualification results for connec­
tions and reinforcement at joints obtained using ACI 550.4
is not permitted. Project details shall match details qualified
using ACI 550.4.
1.2.2 Test modules contammg discrete connections or
reinforcement at joints, tested in accordance with ACI
CaC11 American Concrete Institute Copyrighted Material-www.concrete.org
COMMENTARY
as the span length of the diaphragm between lateral-force­
resisting vertical elements increased. In Fig. R4.1a(a), the
span length of the diaphragm is the distance between the
structural walls. Those observations resulted in a compre­
hensive research study to develop better design models for
precast concrete diaphragms and comprehensive studies of
the strength and deformation capacity of diaphragm connec­
tions. In the improved design methodology (Fleischman
20 1 4) and the ASCE/SEI 7-16 provisions resulting from
that research, the choice of connection type is tied to the
tension deformation and shear overstrength needed in the
diaphragm to achieve the required design performance.
Where connections with limited deformation capacity are
used, the earthquake design forces need to be higher than for
ductile connections. The choice of the appropriate factors
that should be used in diaphragm design requires detailed
knowledge of the strength and deformation capacities of the
diaphragm connections for the differing combinations of
forces and deformations acting on the connections.
To ensure that requirements of the performance-based
diaphragm design methodology are satisfied, a consistent
experimental procedure is needed to define the strength
and deformation capacities of connections and reinforce­
ment at joints. ACI 550.4 defines a consensus experimental
approach for assessing the stiffness, strength, and deforma­
tion capacity of an embedded connector or reinforcement
at joints. ACI 550.4 also defines the procedures that should
be followed to categorize the deformation performance and
strength factors that can be associated with a given connec­
tion or reinforcement at joints where this reinforcement
resists seismic forces and where the reinforcement does not
conform to ASTM A6 1 5/A6 1 5M or ASTM A706/A706M or
deformed wires or welded wire reinforcement that do not
conform to ASTM A1064/A1064M.
Hollow-core (HC) members are frequently used for
diaphragms. However, the research completed to date is
inadequate to fully define a design methodology, such as
ACI 550 for DT members, for the use of HC diaphragms,
as now constructed, in untopped conditions in structures
assigned to SDC C, D, E, or F. However, if in the future, HC
members are manufactured using a method that permits the
embedment of discrete connectors, such diaphragms may
use this protocol for any SDC.
R1.2-Scope
For the connections described in ACI 550.4, the detailing
of the connectors or reinforcement at joints, any confining
reinforcement specified for the proper performance of the
connectors, and the manner in which the connection between
members is completed, should be the same as that specified
on structural drawings.
 PC DIAPHRAGM CON NECTIONS AND REINFORCEMENT AT JOINTS FOR EARTHQUAKE LOADING (ACI 550.4-1 8) 5

CODE COMMENTARY

550.4, establish dependable and predictable load-deforma­

tion responses for those connections or that reinforcement
at joints, and can be used to determine the relative deform­
ability category of the connection or reinforcement at joints
detailed in accordance with the classification criteria of
Chapter 7.

1.3-Structural drawings R1.3-Structural drawings

Structural drawings for the test modules shall show all
features of the members into which the connectors or rein­
forcement at joints are cast and all details of the connectors
or reinforcement at joints essential for accurate representa­
tion of the likely performance of the connectors, the rein­
forcement at joints, and the connection.
Essential details include:
a) The anchorage of the connector or reinforcement at
joints into the test panel
b) The procedures and materials by which the connection
between connectors, or reinforcement at joints, in adjacent
panels of the module shall be made
c) Confining reinforcement specified as necessary for the
proper performance of the connectors or reinforcement at
joints
d) Supplemental reinforcement that shall be included in
the test panels to ensure that the performance of the member
during the testing does not materially affect the measured
response of the connections or reinforcement at joints
Reinforcement details in the vicinity of the connectors
or reinforcement at joints and the means and procedures
by which the connection between the precast concrete
members is completed affect the performance of the connec­
tion. Details for connectors should be specified completely,
including specified tolerances, alignment requirements,
and any confining reinforcement requirements, and should
be fully documented on the structural drawings for the test
modules. Details for reinforcement at joints should include
reinforcement requirements, minimum and maximum yield
and strength values, and ultimate strain values. The material
specifications for the concrete should also be shown.

1.4-Units
The official version of this standard is in the English
language using inch-pound units published by the American
Concrete Institute.

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6 PC DIAPHRAGM CON NECTIONS AND REINFORCEMENT AT JOINTS FOR EARTHQUAKE LOADING (ACI 550.4-1 8)

CODE COMMENTARY

CHAPTER 2-NOTATION AND DEFINITIONS R2-NOTATION AND DEFINITIONS

2.1-Notation
Ke initial elastic stiffness from multi-segment
backbone qualification curve, kip/in.
P�, P1', P2 = forces corresponding to Points 1 , 1 ', and 2,
respectively
Tmax maximum tension force from tension force
transfer test, kip
Vmax maximum shear force measured in shear force
transfer test, kip
L'lsy yield displacement from shear force transfer
test, in.
L'lty yield displacement from tension force transfer
test, in.
ll�, L'l2, L'l3 = displacements corresponding to Points 1, 2,
and 3, respectively

2.2-Definitions R2.2-De finitions

ACI provides a comprehensive list of definitions through
an online resource, ACI Concrete Terminology. Definitions
provided herein complement that resource.
connection-region where two adjacent precast concrete connection-in precast concrete members, an assembly
members are joined mechanically, including the bars, weld of connectors or reinforcement at joints with linking parts,
metal, or mechanical device that joins the connectors or rein­ welds, and anchorage to concrete.
forcement embedded in the precast concrete members.
connector-fabricated part embedded in concrete for connector-a mechanical device, including any attached
anchorage and intended to complete a load path across a reinforcement, embedded in the precast concrete member
precast concrete joint. and used to connect adjacent precast concrete members.
maximum considered earthquake (MCER)-most
severe earthquake considered by ASCE/SEI 7-16 Standard;
procedures for determining MCER ground motion values are
provided in Section 11.4.3 of ASCE/SEI 7-16.

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 PC DIAPHRAGM CON NECTIONS AND REINFORCEMENT AT JOINTS FOR EARTHQUAKE LOADING (ACI 550.4-1 8) 7

CODE COMMENTARY

CHAPTER 3-REFERENCED STANDARDS

American Concrete Institute (ACI)

ACI 1 1 7- 1 0( 1 5)-Specifications for Tolerances for
Concrete Construction and Materials and Commentary
ACI 3 1 8-14--Building Code Requirements for Structural
Concrete and Commentary
ACI 550-18-Code Requirements for the Design of
Precast Concrete Diaphragms for Earthquake Motions and
Commentary
ACI lTG 7-09-Specification for Tolerances for Precast
Concrete

American Society ofCivil Engineers (ASCE)

ASCE/SEI 7-16-Minimum Design Loads for Buildings
and Other Structures

ASTM International
ASTM C3 9/C39M- 1 8-Standard Test Method for
Compressive Strength of Cylindrical Concrete Specimens

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8 PC DIAPHRAGM CON NECTIONS AND REINFORCEMENT AT JOINTS FOR EARTHQUAKE LOADING (ACI 550.4-1 8)
CODE
CHAPTER 4-TEST MODULES AND TEST SETUP
4.1-Te s t modul e s
4.1.1
The performance of the connection shall be evalu­
ated using test modules that represent the connection and the
adjacent portions of the connected precast concrete proto­
type elements.
4.1.2 A minimum of three modules shall be tested for each
connector and each force transfer mechanism to be qualified.
4.1.3 Modules shall be sized to test the connection at full­
scale, except that reduced-scale tests are allowed if validated
with full-scale tests. Reduced-scale connectors shall be not
less than one-half full size. The number of reduced-scale
and full-scale tests for such validation shall each meet the
criteria specified in 4.1.2 and 7.1.5.
4.1.4
Test modules shall satisfy the following conditions:
1) For full-scale modules, the precast concrete members
shall have a thickness equal to the thickness of the double­
tee (DT) member into which the connectors or reinforce­
ment at joints are embedded
2) Connections made with connectors shall have a tribu­
tary length extending in the plane of the module at least 2 ft
from the center of the connection
3) Connections made with reinforcement at joints shall, in
the plane of the module, extend a distance of at least 2 ft from
each end of the connected region to the edge of the module
4) Precast concrete members shall include temperature
and shrinkage reinforcement as required by ACI 3 1 8-14 for
the flange of a DT member
4.1.5 The precast concrete members shall contain suffi­
cient reinforcement, additional to the connectors, to control
cracking that develops in the precast concrete members. Any
confining reinforcement required for the connector shall
replicate the confining reinforcement provided in the same
area in the prototype structure.
4.1.6 The strength and type of concrete (normal or light­
weight) used in the precast concrete members shall replicate
that used in the prototype structure. The concrete compres­
sive strength used in the tests shall be within 25 percent of
the specified concrete strength for the prototype structure.
4.1. 7 The tensile strength, elastic stiffness, and ultimate
tensile elongation of the materials used in the connectors
shall be similar to those of the same materials used in the
prototype structure. The specified tensile strength of the
connector materials used in tests shall be within 10 percent
of the specified tensile strength of the material used in the
prototype structure.
4.1.8 The connectors or reinforcement at joints shall be
installed in the test modules in the same manner, and to the
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COMMENTARY
R4-TEST MODULES AND TEST SETUP
R4.1-Te s t modul e s
An idealized precast concrete diaphragm and its connec­
tions are shown in Fig. R4.1 a. The diaphragm consists of
interconnected double-tee (DT) members spanning parallel
to seismic-force-resisting structural walls whose dimensions
are shown as thick solid lines in Fig. R4.1a(a). The exterior
ends of the DTs are supported on spandrel beams and the
interior ends are connected over an inverted tee beam that
spans between the structural walls. Collectors at the ends of
the structural walls help drag the diaphragm forces into the
structural walls. The gravity load supporting columns for the
spandrel beams and the inverted tee beam are not shown.
There are two typical diaphragm connections" the chord
connection and the web connection. Chord connections (Fig.
R4.1a(b) and R4. 1 a(c)) transmit primarily axial tensile and
compressive forces and are, therefore, subjected to displace­
ments transverse to the longitudinal joints of the DT. Web
connections (Fig. R4.1a(b )) transmit primarily shear forces
and are subject to displacements both transverse and parallel
to the edge of the DT flange. The test modules should be
able to replicate the geometric and mechanical properties of
the precast concrete flanges in the vicinity of the connec­
tions and any reinforcement in those flanges in the vicinity
of the connections. The connectors embedded in the flanges
should be aligned within the test module in the same manner
and to the same tolerances as those specified for a prototype
diaphragm using those connections.
As is the case for anchors, connector behavior is
controlled by the tensile strength of the material and not its
yield strength. Because limits are set on the allowable varia­
tion in the ultimate tensile strength of connector materials,
no limits are set on the allowable variation in their ultimate
elongations. The variation in the ultimate elongation for
steel samples with the same specified ultimate strength can
be relatively large.
The tolerances required by 26.6.2 of ACI 3 1 8-14 are
considered the minimum acceptable standard for reinforce­
ment and connectors in precast concrete. Industry standard
and erection tolerances are provided in ACI ITG 7-09. Inter­
facing tolerances for precast concrete with cast-in-place
concrete are provided in ACI 117- 1 0. The tolerances speci­
fied in 4. 1.8 are more stringent than customarily used for
precast concrete diaphragms in structures assigned to SDC A
and B. However, precast concrete diaphragms for structures
assigned to SDC B, and designed in accordance with ACI
550, need to satisfy 4. 1 .8.
There are three additional connections needed to complete
the force transfers for earthquake motions parallel to the
structural walls. Those connections are the diaphragm-to­
wall connection, the diaphragm-to-collector connection, and
the DT connection to the interior inverted tee beam. Results
from the testing of the chord and web connections of Fig.
R4.1a(b) are adequate to define the response of those three
additional connections, provided connectors of the same size
 PC DIAPHRAGM CON NECTIONS AND REINFORCEMENT AT JOINTS FOR EARTHQUAKE LOADING (ACI 550.4-1 8) 9

CODE COMMENTARY

same tolerances and alignments, as those specified for the
prototype structure. Connections shall be completed to posi­
tion tolerances not exceeding ±1/2 in. Other tolerances shall
meet the values specified in 26.6.2, 26.9, and 26.10 of ACI
318- 1 4 or more restrictive values used by the supplier of the
DT members. For reduced-scale connector tests, tolerances
and alignments shall be scaled proportionately.
4.1.9 The connection between the precast concrete
members making up the test module shall be made in accor­
dance with the same procedures as those specified for the
prototype structure by the supplier of the connectors.
as those tested in accordance with ACI 550.4 are used for
those connections.
In structures assigned to SDC C, D, E, or F connections
between DT members should not also transfer horizontal
shear to the spandrels. Such transfer is permissible for
diaphragms in structures assigned to SDC A and B.
ACI 550.4 requires the testing of at least three modules
for every chord or web connection to be qualified. Further,
as required by 7.1 .5, multiple tests of the same connection
subject to the same loading history are needed so that statis­
tical effects can be evaluated or may be desirable so that the
effects of connector alignment, connector placement toler­
ances, and connection completion methods can be exam­
ined. ACI 550.4 requires testing of all connections under
tension for classification purposes in accordance with 7.4.
Connections that are used to resist shear forces are required
to be tested in shear.
A plan view of one-half of the test module used in the
connection qualification testing reported by Naito et a!.
(2009), Naito and Ren (2013), and Cao and Naito (2009) is
shown in Fig. R4. 1 b. These test modules satisfy the intent of
the requirements for test modules in ACI 550.4.
Where reduced-scale tests are made, bar sizes and spac­
ings not scaled proportionately may be used. However, results
must be validated by full scale tests as required by 4.1.3.

(a) Inverted Tee Beam

Diaphnlgm Connection Detail

Spandrel--._
_ /'
I ' '
I
I I
t\
' '

I I
I I

I
t: I
I

�: I

·�
�! 1/ I

Chord..J Web Connection_} Collccto

Fig. R4.1a-Typical double-tee diaphragm system with chord and web connections.

Plan

Front Elevation

Fig. R4.lb-Plan view of one-half of typical test module

(Naito et al. 2009; Naito an d Ren 2013; Cao and Naito 2009).
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10 P C DIAPHRAGM CON NECTIONS A N D REINFORCEMENT AT JOINTS F O R EARTHQUAKE LOADING (ACI 550.4-1 8)
CODE
4.2- Te s t s e tup
4.2.1
For each connection test, a setup with multidi­
rectional control shall be used. Shown in Fig. 4.2.1 is an
example of an acceptable setup. The multidirectional control
shall permit simultaneous control of the deformations asso­
ciated with in-plane shear, tensile, and compressive forces
across the joint, and in-plane bending about the connec­
tion. In tension tests, the shear actuator is permitted to be
disconnected, provided no eccentricities are observed during
preliminary testing.
4.2.2 The relative deformations across the joint between
adjacent locations on the precast concrete members of the
module shall be measured directly. A minimum of two trans­
ducers, one on each side of the connection, shall be used
to measure the opening and closing of the joint. Relative
shearing deformations between the panels shall be measured
at the center of the connection. Transducers shall be attached
to the modules far enough away from the connection that
damage does not occur during test at the attachment points.
4.2.3 The forces in the actuators of the multidirectional
control system shall be measured and used to determine the
forces acting at the connection.
N
1-
0
� Movable support
0 0 0 0
Fixed support
Fig. 4.2.1-Multidirectional displacement-controlled test fixture.
American Concrete Institute Copyrighted Material-www.concrete.org
COMMENTARY
R4.2- Te s t s e tup
The test setup with multidirectional displacement control
used in the qualification testing reported by Naito et a!.
(2009), Naito and Ren (20 1 3), and Cao and Naito (2009)
is shown in Fig. 4.2. 1 . Their setups satisfied the intent of
the requirements for the test setup in ACI 550.4. The setup
shown in Fig. 4.2.1 has three independently controlled
actuators. The actuators 1 and 2 control displacements
transverse to the joint between the two modules. The third
actuator controls shearing displacements along the joint. The
test module is connected to restraint beams at either end in
such a way that slip between the beams and module is mini­
mized. One restraint beam was fixed to the laboratory floor
and the other rested on a low-friction moveable support. The
module was tested in the horizontal position with centrally
located vertical supports taking some of its weight, as shown
in Section A-A of Fig. 4.2.1 . Eccentricity of loading exists if
the transducers positioned across the joint on either side of
the connection record differences in elongation.
A layout of displacement transducers adequate to measure
the required relative displacements is shown in Fig. 4.2.1.
Monitor 1 measured the relative slip along the connection
between the panels, and the average of the readings from
monitors 2 and 3 measured the displacement of the connec­
tion in the axial (transverse) direction.
Fixed support
Low friction Panel supports
sheeting Section A-A
 PC DIAPHRAGM CON NECTIONS AND REINFORCEMENT AT JOINTS FOR EARTHQUAKE LOADING (ACI 550.4-1 8)
CODE
CHAPTER 5-TEST METHODS
5.1-Te s ting agency
Testing shall be carried out by a testing agency that is
independent of the supplier or manufacturer of the connec­
tors or reinforcement at joints used in the connection. The
work shall be performed under the supervision of a licensed
design professional experienced in earthquake-resistant
design and precast concrete design and construction.
5.2-Shear force trans fer connections
5.2.1 The connection of the test module shall be subjected
to a predefined sequence of a fully reverse cyclic loading
imposing increasing shear displacements up to failure.
Cycles shall be to predetermined maximum shear slips as
defined in 5.2.3 through 5.2.6. The axial separation across
the joint shall be preset to 0.10 in. and held constant at that
value while the cyclic shear displacements are imposed or
the separation shall be allowed to increase with shear cycling
to a maximum value 0.10 in. before being held constant at
that value. For shear cycling to displacements greater than
that at which the 0. 1 0 in. value is reached, the axial separa­
tion across the joint shall be held constant at 0.10 in. by use
of the tension- and compression-control actuators.
5.2.2 Testing shall be at quasi-static rates of0.05 in./s or less.
5.2.3 Three preliminary cycles to 0.01 in. shall be imposed
to evaluate the adequacy and accuracy of the actuator
controls, displacement measurement system, and data acqui­
sition system.
5.2.4 An effective yield displacement �sy for the connec­
tion shall be estimated through monotonic load testing to
failure of a test module with a connection duplicating the
connection under investigation. To establish �sy from a
monotonic testing result, Vmax shall be taken as the maximum
shear force measured in that test, and the stiffness based on
the shear displacement measured at 0.75 v;,ax shall be used
to determine �sy·
5.2.5 Three cycles each shall be applied at shear displace­
ments of 0.25, 0.50, 0.75, 1 .00, and 2.00 times �sy,
respectively.
5.2.6 Three-cycle sets shall continue to be applied until
the connection fails or the shear strength drops to 0.15 v;,ax
or less. For sets at amplitudes greater than �sy, the maximum
shear displacement for each set shall be increased in incre­
ments that are twice �sy·
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11
COMMENTARY
R5-TEST METHODS
R5.2-Shear force trans fe r connections
The specified displacement-controlled loading protocol for
shear force transfer is shown in Fig. R5.2. The inset in Fig.
R5.2 illustrates how the values of �sy and v;,ax are defined.
Most test fixtures used prior to the year 2000 examined the
in-plane shear strength performance ofthe connector using force
control. This approach is unable to capture post-peak behavior
and deformation capacity. Further, subsequent research (Naito
et al. 2006) has shown that the level of axial restraint acting
at a connection significantly affects the shear capacity. Testing
with a preset value of axial separation as specified in 5.2.1
is needed to capture realistic values of shear strength when
loading associated with MCER acts on a diaphragm.
The need for a 0.10 in. value for the axial separation
has been confirmed in shear friction-type tests by multiple
researchers. The value is relatively insensitive to the scale of
the test. When the separation is less than 0. 1 0 in., a compres­
sive force develops normal to the joint and the shear capacity
increases with increasing shear displacements. However, for
separations of 0.1 0 in. or more, there is a range of separa­
tions where the shear strength is relatively insensitive to the
separation because there is no buildup in compressive force
with increasing shear displacements.
Analytical studies of the response of precast concrete
diaphragms to earthquake loadings have shown that connec­
tion axial and shear displacement histories are dependent on
the location of the connection within the diaphragm. Near­
midspan diaphragms are subj ected to high flexural demands
and, therefore, connections on the tension side experi­
ence high axial deformations. Connections located where
diaphragms frame into the vertical elements of the seismic­
force-resisting system are subjected to high shear demands
with limited axial openings. Connections located midway
between those two regions are subjected to axial and shear
demands, both of which can be significant. However, the
diaphragm design methodology for which the connection
performance is defined by ACI 550.4 requires that suffi­
cient shear connectors be provided along any diaphragm
joint such that the shear force acting on each connection is
less than v;,ax during a maximum considered event. For this
condition, connection performance is adequately reproduced
when the procedures of 5.2 are followed.
The response of large diaphragm systems to earthquake
motions is relatively slow. At the strain rates expected in
practice shear strengths are similar to those for the quasi­
static testing rate required by 5.2.2.
12 P C DIAPHRAGM CON NECTIONS AND REINFORCEMENT AT JOINTS FOR EARTHQUAKE LOADING (ACI 550.4-1 8)

CODE COMMENTARY

Shear Displacement
8.0� Force
Vmsx r- J Monotonic :n:&pODSe
- --
,/-�
0
0.7SVmsx - i
M
6.0/ioy ....
.,

--
...
...
_,_

4.0/ioy 11"'
Displacement \i!l-"
- --
# -- -- -
-
.lj
-c� -- .a 1
Jli
t
-

- -� - -
.
_
_

2.0.A,y -
�--- - - -
3@0.01" �-------- �'1 -
0
vvv. �v1\v1\vAvAvv
!o.--�-::: A A A 1\ A
@.2SA.y
@O.SA•J@.7
S.&q
@l.OA.y
@2.0Aoy
• •
. .. @4.0A ry
Applied Shear • • Temion Displacement
Displacement . .. . Compcmsation to
tlii"i. � �
proyide
constant paDeliSpiQilg
@6.0AIY
f�
Note, Aoy= Yield Deformation From Monotonic Teat
0 10 20 cyc c #

Fig. R5.2-Displacement-controlled loading protocol for shear force transfer.

5.3-Axial force trans fer connections
5.3.1
The connection of the test module shall be subjected
to a predefined sequence of reverse loading imposing
increasing axial tensile/compressive displacements up to
failure. Cycles shall be applied to predetermined maximum
tensile displacements as defined in 5.3.3 through 5.3.6.
Due to the high compressive stiffness of connections, the
compression portion of each cycle shall be force-limited. In
each compression half-cycle, the compressive deformation
shall be increased until the compressive force equals half
the maximum force achieved in the prior tension half-cycle.
The shear deformation shall be maintained near zero during
application of axial deformations.
5.3.2 Testing shall be at quasi-static rates of 0.05 in./s or
less.
5.3.3 Three preliminary cycles to 0.01 in. shall be imposed
to evaluate the adequacy and accuracy of the actuator
controls, displacement measurement system, and data acqui­
sition system.
R5.3-Axial force trans fer connections
The specified displacement-controlled loading protocol
for axial force transfer is shown in Fig. R5.3. The inset
in Fig. R5.3 illustrates how the values of t.ty and T,nax are
defined.
During axial displacements, the shear displacement
should be maintained at zero. When the connection fails
under tension in an asymmetric manner, maintaining the
shear displacement at zero may result in a buildup of shear
force in the shear actuator. If shear displacements are not
maintained at zero, and an asymmetric failure initiates, the
connector can develop a lower tensile strength than if shear
displacements are restrained.
The continuance of loading until the tensile strength drops
to 0. 15T,nax or less is needed to fully define the form of the
response curve and the classification of the connection as
force-controlled or displacement-controlled in accordance
with Fig. 7.1.2. The continuance is particularly important
when toppings are provided because it is the combined
contribution of topping and connection that determines the
connection classification.

5.3.4 An effective monotonic yield displacement t.1y for

the connection shall be determined through monotonic
load testing to failure of a test module with a connection
duplicating the connection under investigation. This mono­
tonic test shall be additional to the minimum of three cyclic
tests required for connection qualification. To establish t.ty
from the monotonic testing result, T,nax shall be taken as the
maximum tensile force measured in that test, and the stiff-

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 PC DIAPHRAGM CON NECTIONS AND REINFORCEMENT AT JOINTS FOR EARTHQUAKE LOADING (ACI 550.4-1 8) 13

CODE COMMENTARY

ness based on the tensile displacement measured at 0.75Tmax

shall be used to determine L'lty.

5.3.5 Three cycles each shall be applied to maximum

tensile displacements of 0.25, 0.50, 0.75, and 1.00 times L'l�y,
respectively.

5.3.6 Three-cycle sets shall continue to be applied until

the connection fails or the tensile strength drops to 0.15 T,nax
or less. For three-cycle sets to amplitudes greater than L'l�y,
the maximum tensile displacement shall be increased in
increments of 0.60 in.

TeDSIOD n· 1acement
JISPJ
l.OAt,-+2.4" @
�-�-/ //
..
l.Mtt+-1.8
...
0

1.0�+1.8" �
�?ft-
1.0�+1.2"
.@.5�--
/,/
��/
@
l.Mty+0.6'
@
1.04ty+1.2'
1j
@l.M� ��� � ·;1
: j�
1.0Aty+0.6" @.25.6� /
1 .0 4ty 3@0.0l: : ��·�-��t},/\ (\(\I
,�
/-
A
0 v• v v• vo vo V' V' v• VO VO VO VO V' V'

Dciimn in COIIIJftlllion lllllil filrcc cqua1J prcccdiDg half cyck tallioD. farce

Fon:e
Monotonic fCIPOllliC

m
Tmax
Tezuion ODly r-- -'-

V1
0.75Tmax

T-��··· I

Note. .6ty= Yield Deformation From Monotonic Test

4ty
Displacement

CompressionForce 10 to Cjrclc #
Fig. R5. 3- Tension/compression force transfer displacement-controlled loading protocol.

5.4-Recording te s t data R5.4-Recording te s t data

Data shall be recorded during each test such that an accu­ Data additional to that specified may be useful for
rate quantitative, as opposed to qualitative, interpretation confirming design assumptions and for better understanding
can be made of the performance of the connection and the the test result. Such data include rotations of the connec­
test module. For any test, under shear force transfer or axial tion, and strains in the connectors, and on the surface of the
force transfer, a continuous record shall be made of the forces concrete in the vicinity of the connectors.
acting on the connection and the displacements recorded by
the three transducers measuring shear slip and axial defor­
mations. Photographs and videos shall be taken throughout
testing to show the condition of the connection and the test
module at the completion of testing for each sequence of
three cycles where the shear or axial displacement equals or
exceeds 0.75L'lsy or 0.75L'l�y, respectively.

American Concrete Institute Copyrighted Material-www.concrete.org

14 P C DIAPHRAGM CON NECTIONS A N D REINFORCEMENT AT JOINTS F O R EARTHQUAKE LOADING (ACI 550.4-1 8)

CODE COMMENTARY

CHAPTER 6-TEST REPORT R6-TEST REPORT

6.1-Te s t report R6.1-Te s t report

The test report shall be comprehensive enough that an
independent post-test evaluation can be made of the perfor­
mance of the test connection and test module. As a minimum,
the test report shall contain the following information:
6.1.1 A description of the method used to determine the
initial yield strength of the connection and the displacements
L'lsy or L'lty.
The test report should be comprehensive, self-contained,
and sufficient for a qualified expert to be satisfied that the
test modules and connections have been constructed, the
connection completed, and test conducted in accordance
with the criteria specified in ACI 550.4, and that connections
have been properly classified and qualified.

6.1.2 Details of the test module design and construction

and the methods used to complete the connection. Details
shall include engineering drawings and specifications.

6.1.3 Basic information on the proprietary precast concrete

diaphragm connector including product description provided
by supplier. Product description shall include all product
specifications, dimensions and tolerances, specified material
properties used for design, and actual material properties for
the test module. For concrete, the material properties shall
be measured in accordance with ASTM C39/C39M and shall
be obtained by testing, immediately prior to or immediately
after, the testing of the connection. Material properties of the
connector, slug, and weld metal shall be reported based on
material testing or mill certification.

6.1.4 Description of the test setup, including drawings and

photographs of the setup.

6.1.5 Description of instrumentation, locations, and

purpose.

6.1.6 Description and graphical presentation of applied

displacement sequences.

6.1. 7 Description of observed performance, including

photographic and any video documentation, of the test
connection and test module at key displacement and strength
values.

6.1.8 Graphical presentation of the shear force-shear

displacement relationship for the test connection for shear
force transfer tests and graphical representation of the axial
force-axial displacement relationship for the axial force
transfer tests.

6.1.9 Classification of the deformability of the connection

and the reason for that classification in conformity with the
procedures described in Chapter 7 .

6.1.10 Test date, report date, and names of testing agency,

report author(s), supervising licensed design professional,
supplier of connection materials, and test sponsor.

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 PC DIAPHRAGM CON NECTIONS AND REINFORCEMENT AT JOINTS FOR EARTHQUAKE LOADING (ACI 550.4-1 8) 15

CODE COMMENTARY

CHAPTER 7-INTERPRETATION OF TEST RESULTS R7-INTERPRETATION OF TEST RESULTS

7. 1-G eneral R7. 1-G eneral

7.1.1
Results of cyclic testing shall be interpreted in
accordance with the procedures specified in 7.1 and 7.2.
All connections shall be classified as primary components
because they are required to resist the seismic forces acting
on the diaphragm and accommodate its deformations.
7.1.2 Connection responses shall be classified as defor­
mation-controlled or force-controlled in accordance with the
four idealized component force-versus-deformation curves
shown in Fig. 7. 1 .2. Curves of Types 1 and 2 are representa­
tive of ductile behavior and are classified as deformation­
controlled if displacement L'l2 � 2L'l1 • Curves of Type 2 (Alter­
nate) with L'l2 :S 2L'l1 and curves ofType 3 are force-controlled.
7.1.3 Force-controlled connections shall be permitted to
be used only in structures assigned to SDC A, B, or C.
7.1.4 The idealized force versus deformation curve shall
be based on a backbone approximation of the measured
response determined as defined in 7.2.
The methodology of 7.1 parallels that specified in Chapter
7 of ASCE/SEI 41-13. Seismic-force-resisting elements are
classified as primary or secondary. The backbone curve for
component response is constructed using the force-displace­
ment results recorded at peak displacements and the curve is
classified as one of three types. However, ASCE/SEI 41 is a
Standard for the seismic rehabilitation of existing construc­
tion. ACI 550.4 is for new construction and the responses
of connections for precast concrete diaphragms differ some­
what from the idealizations in ASCE/SEI 41. Therefore, a
fourth curve-Type 2 (Alternate)-is introduced. The four
resulting curves are shown in Fig. 7.1.2. Some connections,
including most connections with toppings, exhibit peak
strengths, corresponding to Point 2 in the Type 1 curve of
Fig. 7.1 .2, and have limited ductility (L'l3 � 2L'l1 � L'l2). In that
case, it is appropriate, as shown for the Type 2 curve (Alter­
nate), to define Point 3 in the Type 1 curve as the tensile
strength and project the slope of the curve prior to Point
3 back to the original loading curve to define the effective
yield strength and deformation.

7.1.5 Evaluation of test results shall be made on the basis

of the average of three or more tests on nominally identical
specimens. More than three tests shall be required if the devi­
ation of strength or deformation capacity for any single test
varies from the average value from all three tests by more
than 15 percent. More than three tests shall be required if the
deviation of the initial stiffness Ke for any single test varies
from the average by more than 25 percent. If the deviations
exceed the respective 15 or 25 percent limits, additional tests
shall be performed until the deviation of any value from
the average value does not exceed the respective 1 5 or 25
percent limit or a minimum of six tests has been performed.
No test result shall be eliminated from the average unless a
rationale for its exclusion is given.

Force Force Force Force

2
� - - - - - - � --
,
�- - - - - - - - - �
\
2
1
P, ------� � _1I �' - - - - - - - - t
P.
:� 1 \ If Ll2 < 2Li1
:I 1 \ and L13 > 2LI1
I 1 ': 1 1 \ use s ol id curve
F: \' (points 1' - 2')
2a
3,2'

0
.1, Ll3 Ll2 Ll, .1, Ll2 .1,
Displacement Displacement Displacement Displacement
Type 1 curve Type 2 curve (Alternate) Type 2 curve Type 3 curve

Fig. 7.1.2-Idealized component force versus deformation responses. Type 1 and 2 responses are deformation-controlled; Type
2(Alternate) and 3 are force-controlled.
American Concrete Institute Copyrighted Material-www.concrete.org
16 P C DIAPHRAGM CON NECTIONS AND REINFORCEMENT AT JOINTS FOR EARTHQUAKE LOADING (ACI 550.4-1 8)

CODE COMMENTARY

7. 2-B ackb one approximation to me asured R7. 2-Backbone approximation to meas ured
re spons e re s pons e
7.2.1 An envelope to the measured cyclic force-deforma­
tion response shall be constructed using the peak displace­
ments resulting from the first cycle of each increment of
loading or deformation.

7.2.2 The cyclic envelope derived in accordance with R7.2.2 The idealization of the response of a Type 1
7.2.1 shall be simplified into an idealized backbone curve connection is shown in Fig. 7.2.2. In that figure, Point 2
of four or fewer segments, as shown in Fig. 7.2.2. The back­ represents the peak envelope load. Point 'a' is the point on
bone curve shall be used to derive the five quantities speci­ the backbone curve where the strength first equals 15 percent
fied in 7.3. of peak load. The initial elastic stiffness Ke is calculated as
the slope of the secant of the force-displacement relationship
from origin to Point 'a'. Point 'b' is the point on the enve­
Force
- - Experimental lope curve at a displacement �b· The displacement �b is at
f!? - - ------- ------::-..--�-
2 "'___
•

-- ---- · _
envelope the intersection of a horizontal line from the peak envelope
I .._
•

! \ - Backbone
load and the initial elastic stiffness line through 15 percent
of the peak load. Point 1 represents the occurrence of the
11 j ! i "' 2a
effective yield, which is determined by drawing a line from
1s %�8 : --� :[]���� � �� � :� � �c=�� � � � �- �- - - - - - - - - !�----,
2
__

:Kel I I I
. Point '2' to 'b' and extending it to intersect the initial elastic
stiffness line through 15 percent of the peak load. Point ' 3 ' is
Ll� L1 1 'Lib Ll2 L12a Ll� Displacement the point where the strength has decreased to 15 percent of
the peak load. Point '2a' is the point where the deformation
Fig. 7. 2.2-Backbone qualification curve. is 50 percent of the summation of deformations at Point '2'
and ' 3 '.

7. 3-Performance databas e R7. 3-Performance datab as e

7.3.1
For tension tests and deformation-controlled connec­ R7.3.1 Ren and Naito (20 1 3) provides a compilation of
tions, five quantities shall be determined from the backbone available results as of 2012 for connector performance quali­
response of Fig. 7.2.2. fied in accordance with this standard.
1 ) The tensile strength equal to force P2
2) The tension deformation capacity equal to displacement �2
3) The effective yield strength equal to force P1
4) The effective yield deformation equal to displacement �,
5) The initial elastic stiffness Ke equal to 0. 15P2 divided
by the corresponding displacement derived from the back­
bone response.

7.3.2 For tension tests and force-controlled connections,

three quantities shall be determined from the backbone
response.
1 ) The tensile strength equal to force P1 for a Type 3 curve
(Fig. 7. 1 .2) and force P1' for a Type 2 (Alternate) curve that
is force-controlled
2) The tension deformation capacity equal to displace­
ments at the forces specified in Item 1
3) The initial elastic stiffness Ke

7.3.3 Shear connections are force-controlled, and two

quantities shall be determined from the backbone response.
1 ) The shear strength equal to the force at Point 1 in Fig.
7.2.2 where �, is less than 0.25 in.; or the shear strength
calculated as Ke multiplied by 0.25 in. where �, is greater
than 0.25 in.
2) The initial elastic stiffness Ke

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 PC DIAPHRAGM CON NECTIONS AND REINFORCEMENT AT JOINTS FOR EARTHQUAKE LOADING (ACI 550.4-1 8)
CODE
7. 4-Ci as sification of de formability
7.4.1 Based on the values of the tension deformation
capacity £o.2 defined in 7.3, the connection shall be classified
as a low-, moderate-, or high-deformability element.
7.4.2 Low-deformability elements (LDE) shall be connec­
tions with tension deformation capacity less than 0.30 in.
7.4.3 Moderate-deformability elements (MDE) shall be
connections with tension deformation capacities greater than
or equal to 0.30 in., but less than 0.60 in.
7.4.4 High-deformability elements (HDE) shall be
connections with tension deformation capacities greater than
or equal to 0.60 in.
American Concrete Institute Copyrighted Material-www.concrete.org
17
COMMENTARY
R7. 4-Ci as sification of de formability
There are no connections in a diaphragm that transfer
only shear or only axial forces, and therefore all connections
must be evaluated using both shear and axial displacements.
The flange-to-flange connections in the web of a diaphragm
are loaded in both shear and tension. Where used in large
diaphragms in structures assigned to SDC C, D, E, or F, such
connections may be loaded to displacements greater than
yield in the MCER. Even though the design procedure of
ACI 550 limits the total factored shear force over the depth
of the web of the diaphragm at any location to less than the
sum of the nominal shear strengths for the connections at
the same location, one or more of those connections may
be loaded beyond yield. For safe designs, web connections
must be ductile even though their purpose is to provide
shear strength. Therefore, diaphragm connections are classi­
fied for design purposes according to their measured tension
deformation capacities.
18 P C DIAPHRAGM CON NECTIONS AND REINFORCEMENT AT JOINTS FOR EARTHQUAKE LOADING (ACI 550.4-1 8)

CODE COMMENTARY

AS-COMMENTARY REFERENCES
ACI committee documents and documents published by
other organizations are listed first by document number, full
title, and year of publication followed by authored docu­
ments listed alphabetically.

American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)

ASCE/SEI 4 1 -13-Seismic Rehabilitation and Retrofit of
Existing Buildings

ASTM International
ASTM A6 1 5/A6 1 5M-16-Standard Specification for
Deformed and Plain Carbon-Steel Bars for Concrete
Reinforcement
ASTM A706/A706M-16-Standard Specification for
Deformed and Plain Low-Alloy Steel Bars for Concrete
Reinforcement
ASTM A 1 064/A 1 064M-17-Standard Specification for
Carbon-Steel Wire and Welded Wire Reinforcement, Plain
and Deformed, for Concrete

Authored reference s
Cao, L., and Naito, C., 2009, "Precast Concrete Double­
Tee Floor Connectors Part 2: Shear Behavior," PC!
Journal, V. 54, No. 2, Spring, pp. 97-11 5. doi: 10.15554/
pcij.030 1 2009.97.11 5
Fleischman, R. B., 20 1 4, Seismic Design Methodology
Document for Precast Concrete Diaphragms, Project Deliv­
erable for RGA 08-07, Vancouver, WA, Feb., 545 pp.
Iverson, J. K., and Hawkins, N. M., 1 994, "Performance
of Precast Prestressed Concrete Building Structures During
Northridge Earthquake," PC! Journal, V. 39, No. 2, Mar./
Apr., pp. 3 8-55. doi: 10.1 5554/pcij.03011994.38.55
Naito, C., and Ren, R., 20 1 3 , "An Evaluation Method
for Precast Concrete Diaphragm Connectors Based on
Structural Testing," PC! Journal, V. 58, No. 2, Spring, pp.
106- 118. doi: 10.1 5554/pcij.030 1 2013.106.11 8
Naito, C.; Cao, L.; and Peter, W., 2009, "Precast Concrete
Double Tee Connections, Part 1 : Tension Behavior," PC!
Journal, V. 54, No. 1 , Winter, pp. 49-66. doi: 10.15554/
pcij.O 10 1 2009.49.66
Naito, C.; Peter, W.; and Cao, L., 2006, "Development of
a Seismic Design Methodology for Precast Diaphragms­
PHASE I SUMMARY REPORT," ATLSS Report No. 06-03,
PCI/NSF Project, Advanced Technology for Large Struc­
tural Systems (ATLS S), ATLSS Center, Lehigh University,
Bethlehem, PA, Jan.
Ren, R., and Naito, C. J., 2013, "Precast Concrete
Diaphragm Connector Performance Database," Journal of
Structural Engineering, V. 1 3 9, No. 1, Jan., pp. 15-27. doi:
10.106 1 /(ASCE)ST.1943-541X.0000598

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 ®
•

OCI
 ®
•

OCI
 American Concrete Institute
Always advancing

As ACI begins its second century of advancing concrete knowledge, its original chartered purpose
remains "to provide a comradeship in finding the best ways to do concrete work of all kinds and in
spreading knowledge." In keeping with this purpose, ACI supports the following activities:

Technical committees that produce consensus reports, guides, specifications, and codes.

Spring and fall conventions to facilitate the work of its committees.

Educational seminars that disseminate reliable information on concrete.

Certification programs for personnel employed within the concrete industry.

Student programs such as scholarships, internships, and competitions.

Sponsoring and co-sponsoring international conferences and symposia.

Formal coordination with several international concrete related societies.

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