Experimental investigation of the progressive collapse of reinforced concrete structures: An overview

The progressive collapse of reinforced concrete (RC) structures is a structural failure caused by abnormal loads. It starts as a local failure, followed by a sequential reaction that may result in massive portion failure or even progressive collapse of the entire structure. The collapse of the Ronan Point Apartment in England in 1968 resulted in increased interest in structural integrity and resistance to progressive collapse. Given the large economic losses and extensive casualties, researchers began to conduct studies that would advance the understanding of the behavior of structures under column removal scenarios. This paper summarizes previous studies on the progressive collapse of RC structures and focuses on experimental studies on various types of structures, such as beam-column and beam-slab sub-assemblies, planar frame structures, and large-scale buildings. Numerous aspects, including (1) general overview; (2) progressive collapse resistance mechanisms; (3) review of previous experimental tests in terms of alternate load path approach, types of testing procedure, the effects of boundary conditions, additional reinforcing rebars, seismic detailing, structure retrofitting, infilled walls, contribution of RC slabs and transverse beams, demolished building, multi-hazard, new mitigation schemes for precast frames, and alteration of concrete mixture materials; and (4) discussions and concluding remarks, are presented in a summarized, comprehensive, up-to-date manner. This work helps researchers, professionals, and experts understand the behavior of different structural systems and new mitigation schemes that have been utilized in literature to develop progressive collapse resistance experimentally. Consequently, gaps and weaknesses points can be addressed in future studies.