Abstract
This paper examines the fundamental uniaxial monotonic and cyclic response of reinforcement bars connected with threaded mechanical couplers. Based on a survey of available splicing forms, two types of threaded couplers with different geometric configurations, namely ‘parallel threaded couplers’ and ‘parallel threaded sleeve couplers’ are selected for detailed assessment. An experimental study consisting of twenty-four bare (in-air) and embedded (in-concrete) specimens incorporating threaded couplers and non-spliced counterparts, is described. The results enable direct assessment of strength as well as complete deformation characteristics, including the post-cracking and post-yield response, for both monotonic and cyclic conditions. After describing the material properties and specimen details, the main observations are reported based on detailed measurements of crack kinematics including crack width and spacing through a digital image correlation system. Complementary numerical studies, undertaken using nonlinear finite element procedures which are validated against the tests, enabled supplementary parametric investigations accounting for wider ranges of coupler geometries. The findings show that existing guidelines may be used for assessing the crack width and spacing, by accounting for the characteristic bond behaviour at the rebar and coupler regions. The complete deformational response may be obtained by using a suggested stiffness reduction factor that depends on the coupler geometry. Several ‘in-air’ performance parameters may also be used as a basis for the selection and implementation of couplers in applications requiring ductile member behaviour.