Review of Mechanical Bar Couplers for Splicing Precast Concrete Members

One of the methods for connecting precast concrete members is the application of grouted sleeve couplers. The use of this type of connection is becoming more common over the years and in many cases provides for a time-effective, labor-friendly, and economic alternative to other connection types. However, their application has been limited to non- or low-seismic regions due to the reduction in the ductility capacity attributed to these connections. Recent studies have shown that they can be implemented in the moderate and high seismic zones providing that they are placed in the locations away from damage protected members or arranged to allow yielding of connected bars. This paper aims at reviewing the performance of grouted sleeve couplers under tensile and bending loads as well as gathering in one place recent approaches in improving their ductility behavior. The results of this study are expected to pave the way for researchers to apply this type of connection in seismic areas and motivate new ideas for improving their performance.

Keywords: Mechanical Bar Coupler; Structural Splice; Precast Concrete Members; Prefabricated Elements; Grouted Sleeve Coupler; Ductility; Headed Sleeve Splice; Seismic Application.