Strength and ductility of concrete encased composite columns

The experimental program dealt with 8 columns with the same cross-section, rallied in two groups of four columns each according to their length (2 m, noted columns S5 to S8 and 3m noted as columns S1 to S4, first of the series being the monotonic loaded one). The testing procedure was the one recommended by ECCS for characterizing the behaviour of steel elements with respect to seismic action (ECCS-TWG 1.3, 1986). The elements are noted HSC (High Strength Composite columns).