Axial load behaviour of thin walled composite columns

This paper describes an experimental and analytical investigation on the behaviour of thin walled composite (TWC) filled columns under axial compression. Details of the experimental investigation including description of the test columns, testing arrangement, failure modes, strain characteristics, load-deformation responses and effects of various geometric and material parameters are presented. It also introduces the use and effect of lightweight Volcanic Pumice Concrete in TWC columns as compared to normal concrete. Analytical models for the design of such columns under axial loading conditions have been developed taking into consideration the effect of confined concrete. The performance of design equations is validated through experimental results. The proposed design models are found to produce better results compared with available design procedures and code based formulations.