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provides data from tests of reinforced concrete (RC) two-way slabs loaded statically to simulate concentric punching in a slab around an interior column due to gravity loads. The databank includes an archive of papers in PDF format documenting all the tests. Even though concentric punching failure is typically linked to gravity loading conditions, the experimental evidence stemming from these tests is fundamental for understanding the resistance of RC two-way slabs to punching shear due to lateral loads–let alone to vertical acceleration component–which is critical in building structures and parking garages located in regions of both low and high seismicity. The databank can also be used to verify and calibrate existing specialized code design provisions. The test data, from over 500 static tests dating back as far as 1938, were collected, compiled, and vetted by ACI Committee 445 under the guidance of BergerABAM Senior Project Manager Carlos E. Ospina (Punching Shear subcommittee chair); Gerd Birkle, Stantec Inc.; Widianto Widianto, ExxonMobil; Dan Kuchma and Neil Hawkins, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign; and an early collaboration from Jhon P. Smith, Seattle University. Test data collection began in 2006 and was completed in the summer of 2012 at which time the collected databank was released to the public. Access to the collected databank and PDF archive is free and only requires preregistration with NEES. In the collected punching shear test databank, the characteristics of test specimens and test results were compiled as faithfully as possible to what has been reported by researchers. A future effort, involving the participation from both ACI Committee 445 members, specialized researchers, and interested practitioners, will deal with the development of a “selected” databank with the goal of endorsing specific test results based on a series of data acceptance criteria. The development of this databank is expected to take a few years. Resources like this provide opportunities for collaboration and discovery to gain a greater understanding of how structures respond during an earthquake. In addition, these resources play a vital role in providing critical information for improving the seismic design and performance of civil and mechanical infrastructure systems to preserve essential resources during an earthquake.
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