Short RC columns under bilateral load histories

In contrast with the work reported on the shear behavior of reinforced concrete elements subjected to unidirectional loading, the behavior of reinforced concrete members subjected to multiaxial loadings has received little attention. This paper describes an experimental study of the behavior of short columns subjected to different cyclic lateral loading (deformation) histories. The influence of loading history on the deterioration of shear strength and stiffness was examined. A total of 18 specimens was tested—10 without axial load and 8 with various axial load histories. The geometry of the specimens was not changed. The results indicate the effect of sequence and magnitude of lateral deformation and axial load on the shear response of short columns.