Performance of eccentrically loaded ultra-high-strength concrete-filled Q770 steel tubular columns with varying slenderness ratios: Experimental and numerical investigations

This study conducts experimental and numerical investigations into the response of ultra-high-strength (UHS) concrete-filled ultra-high-strength steel tubular (UHSCFST) columns under eccentric loading, varying the slenderness ratio, to develop effective design guidelines for engineering applications. A series of eccentric compression tests were conducted on twelve UHSCFST columns with varying slenderness ratios to identify failure mechanisms and load-bearing characteristics. In the experimental program, critical influencing factors, including load eccentricity ratio, slenderness ratio, and UHS steel strength, were considered. Finite element models of eccentrically loaded UHSCFST columns were developed using ABAQUS and validated through a comparison of tested and simulated results to analyze load-sharing ratios and stress distribution for each column component. The findings indicated that UHSCFST column failure modes were characterized by compression-controlled and flexure-dominated damage under the combined effects of slenderness ratio and load eccentricity ratio. UHS concrete played a dominant role in bearing the eccentric load, and a judicious selection of UHS steel yield strength can improve column capacity and resistance. Additionally, these validated models were employed to conduct parametric studies that evaluated the effects of design and load parameters on the eccentric load capacity of UHSCFST columns. Design equations were developed based on tested and simulated results to predict the ultimate load capacity of UHSCFST column with varying slenderness ratios under eccentric loading conditions.