Shaking table tests on 0.5-scale multistory models of plate-type modular steel and composite buildings with semi-rigid corner connections

To study the dynamic properties and seismic response of global plate-type modular steel and composite structures with semi-rigid corner connections, shaking table tests were conducted on three 0.5-scale multistory plate-type modular models. This paper presents the testing program and results, including the dynamic characteristics and earthquake performance. Under the excitation of seismic loads, the bolts connected to the corners were easily loosened, the gaps between the composite wall plates increased, and the concrete surface layer of doorways and windows was damaged and fell off. The test results showed that as the peak ground acceleration increased, the fundamental frequency decreased, the damping ratio increased, and the acceleration amplification factor decreased. The initial lateral stiffness of plate-type modular composite structures with wall panels was eight to nine times that of plate-type steel frame structures owing to the strong skin effect of the wall panels. The stiffness of complete composite structures decreased by approximately 50% under a nine-degree rare seismic intensity owing to the deterioration of the bolt rotation stiffness and damage to the wall panel. The maximum interstory drifts of the complete plate-type modular building under rare earthquakes were small, which meets the requirements of the seismic design code.