Shear Behavior and Design Method of Precast Shear Walls with Unconnected Vertical Distributed Bars

Abstract

Traditional precast shear walls rely on grout sleeves or lap splices, leading to complex construction, difficult quality inspection, and high cost. The precast shear wall with unconnected vertical distributed bars is an innovative system that discontinues web reinforcement connection, strengthens boundary elements, and transfers shear force through horizontal mortar joints. This system can significantly simplify construction and improve assembly efficiency. Based on existing tests, codes, and engineering applications, this paper systematically analyzes its shear mechanism, failure modes, key influencing factors, and calculation methods. Results show that with reasonable design, its shear performance is close to cast-in-place walls. Shear capacity is mainly governed by axial compression ratio, shear span ratio, and boundary stirrup ratio. Shear resistance is jointly provided by concrete, interface friction, and stirrups, while vertical distributed bars make no contribution. A simplified shear capacity formula is proposed, which agrees well with test data. This study provides a theoretical basis and design reference for engineering application and popularization of such walls.