Experimental Study on Seismic Performance of Precast Grid Walls with Different Vertical Connection Forms

Reliable connection joints are crucial for ensuring the integrity and seismic capacity of prefabricated structures, and the rationality of their configuration plays a decisive role in structural load-bearing capacity, construction speed, construction quality, and widespread application. To investigate the influence of vertical connection forms on the seismic performance of prefabricated grid walls, two pieces of 1/2-scale specimens (mortar bed connections and dowel-bar anchored connections, respectively) were designed and subjected to pseudo-static testing. Comparative analyses were conducted on their failure modes, hysteretic behavior, ductility, stiffness degradation, energy dissipation capacity, and other seismic performance indicators. The results indicate that prefabricated grid walls enable energy release in segmented units through rational configuration, forming multiple seismic defense lines. The SW-6 specimen with dowel bar connections exhibited improved seismic performance compared to the SW-10 specimen with grout socket connections, albeit with more complex construction and higher technical requirements for personnel. It is recommended that grout socket connections be used in multi-story structures, while dowel bar anchor connections be employed in high-rise structures.