Superstructure Inertia Effects on Lateral Impact Response and Failure Prediction of Axially Loaded RC Columns

Xiaoyuan Song; Guang Li; Qianqian Zhai; Jingming Sun; Mengsi Yu; Min Li; Guangyuan Ni; Ben Chen

doi:10.46604/ijeti.2026.16507

Authors

Xiaoyuan Song School of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Linyi University, Linyi, China
Guang Li School of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Linyi University, Linyi, China
Qianqian Zhai School of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Linyi University, Linyi, China
Jingming Sun School of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Linyi University, Linyi, China/ College of Civil Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, China
Mengsi Yu Jinzhongzheng Project Management Co., Ltd, Linyi, China
Min Li Jinzhongzheng Project Management Co., Ltd, Linyi, China
Guangyuan Ni Jinzhongzheng Project Management Co., Ltd, Linyi, China
Ben Chen Jinzhongzheng Project Management Co., Ltd, Linyi, China

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.46604/ijeti.2026.16507

Keywords:

reinforced concrete column, lateral impact, superstructure inertia, axial loading model

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the influence of axial loading representation and superstructure inertia on the lateral impact response and failure prediction of axially loaded reinforced concrete (RC) columns. A validated LS-DYNA finite element model, calibrated against pendulum impact tests, is used to compare three axial loading schemes: lever loading, mass loading, and constant force loading for 15 column cases with different loading conditions and failure modes. The results show that the axial loading representation has limited influence on the initial impact-force peak but strongly affects the impact-force plateau, displacement response, residual deformation, and damage pattern. The mass loading model agrees well with the lever loading model, whereas the constant force model underestimates the impact-force plateau and overestimates peak and residual displacements. Relative to the mass loading model, the constant force model yields average ratios of 0.876, 1.107, and 1.177 for the impact-force plateau, peak displacement, and residual displacement, respectively.

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