Seismic-Response Assessment of Multiblock Tower Structures for Energy Storage: 1/25 Scale

This paper discusses the results of 1 : 25 scale shake table tests evaluating the seismic response of multiblock tower structures (MTSs) conceived as energy storage systems. The tests described here are a part of a comprehensive research campaign involving smaller physical models, computational model validation, and the theoretical background required to compare results across scales. The 6.46-m-high MTSs consisted of over 7,000 concrete blocks stacked vertically without any bonding agent, interacting only by friction and rocking. Three MTSs were tested under two different ground motions. Dynamic digital image correlation (DIC) and low-cost micro electrical mechanical system (MEMS) accelerometers were used for dynamic response measurements. Towers 1 and 3, subjected to repeated strong-intensity earthquake ground motions, collapsed during the third repetition due to the accumulation of residual displacements. Tower 2 was subjected to a single near-fault ground motion representing an extreme event and collapsed during the test. Different collapse mechanisms were identified in the test program. Data collected from individual blocks showed in-plane and out-of-phase block rotation and sliding, which contributed to the system's energy dissipation during the tests.