Pullout tests on the connection to an existing foundation of a steel warehouse rebuilt after the 2012 Emilia (Italy) earthquakes

Abstract The tests described in this paper were aimed at evaluating the tensile capacity of anchorages connecting an automated pallet warehouse with existing RC foundation. is a new steel structure erected place previous collapsed due to Emilia earthquake, but whose foundation remained undamaged. investigated fastening consists 10 post-installed, bonded threaded rods diameter ( d ) and embedment depth h ef 20 500 mm, respectively. Neither anchor arrangement nor > was covered by current standards for design. To reproduce in-situ actual conditions fastening, unconfined test configuration used. maximum loads achieved more than 3 times greater seismic demand fastening. highlighted crucial role played reinforcing which present Concrete-related failure mechanisms, such as combined pullout concrete cone mechanism typical anchors, not activated. observed crack patterns rather suggest onset flexural slab. This feature confirmed analytical calculations showing that, tests, top reinforcement likely be yielded. In six preliminary tension on single rod achieved, associated limited cracking surface proximity anchor.