This study investigates the strain development in reinforcing bars within the plastic hinge regions of beams and columns, with the main objective of modifying the current acceptance criteria for mechanical bar splices to accommodate high-strength reinforcement. The investigation utilizes numerical analysis based on moment-curvature and deformation analysis of typical beam and column sections in a special moment frame. The results indicate that the use of higher grade reinforcement, such as Grade 550 or 690, results in lower strain demands in the plastic hinge regions compared to Grade 420 reinforcement. To validate the modified seismic loading protocol, over 100 samples of mechanical coupling systems were tested in Taiwan. The test results demonstrate that the majority of these systems can successfully complete the modified seismic loading protocol and are suitable for use in critical plastic hinge regions of special moment frames. However, caution is advised for slender mortar-grouted coupling sleeves, as they were unable to fulfill the seismic loading protocols. These sleeves may be conditionally used in plastic hinge regions of precast columns, provided they meet specific conditions and demonstrate seismic performance through structural testing. The findings of this study offer valuable insight into the design and application of mechanical splices in high-strength reinforcement scenarios.
Keywords: acceptance test; couplers; displacement ductility; grouted splice sleeve; mechanical bar splices; seismic performance.