Numerical Simulation Methodology for Prefabricated Shear Walls Considering Stochastic Defects in Grouting Materials

The most used connection form for reinforced steel bars is the grouting sleeve using cement-based grouting materials. Hence, the quality of the grouting sleeve connection determines whether the performance of a precast concrete structure is equivalent to that of a cast in situ concrete structure. However, several existing reasons, namely, insufficient grouting cement or poor construction controls and even stochastic bubble holes, lead to inevitable grouting defects. The behavior of precast concrete structures is affected dramatically. Considering the cost and efficiency of the analysis of precast concrete structures, the finite element method is still the most used method, but the simulation technology of structures considering stochastic defects in grouting materials is not sufficient. Herein, a simulation method considering stochastic defects in precast concrete structures is proposed, and the application of the method to grouting sleeves and shear wall structures is performed to verify its accuracy and feasibility. The construction of stochastic defects in grouting material is first realized through the Python scripter. Secondly, the mechanical parameters are obtained from the refined finite element analysis of grouting sleeves with material defects. Finally, based on the obtained mechanical properties of grouting sleeves, the behaviors of precast shear walls under blast loading are analyzed. The simulations of grouting sleeves under uniaxial tensile loading and precast concrete shear walls under blast loading both indicate that the proposed numerical method is feasible in solving the structural issues with stochastic defects in grouting materials.