Reinforced concrete(RC)columns are often subjected to off-central explosion due to the uncertainty of blast locations.However,few studies have focused on the dynamic response of RC columns under offcentral explosions....Reinforced concrete(RC)columns are often subjected to off-central explosion due to the uncertainty of blast locations.However,few studies have focused on the dynamic response of RC columns under offcentral explosions.A field blast experiment was conducted under close-in explosion with varying detonation offset distances(0 m,0.5 m,and 1 m),the overpressure load and dynamic responses of the full-scale RC columns were measured.Compared with the centrally detonated condition,a relative offset distance of 1.67 decreases the maximum and residual deflections of the RC column by 16.8%and 21.4%,respectively,while increasing the maximum and residual support rotations by 24.7%and 17.8%.Based on the experimental results,a theoretical model was proposed that considers the detonation location and charge mass,boundary conditions,axial compression ratio and material properties.The theoretical model exhibited good agreement with the experimental results,with prediction errors below 10%for both maximum and residual deflection.The effects of parameters were analyzed,and it indicated that an increase in offset distance results in decreased maximum and residual deflections but an increased support angle,thereby exacerbating damage.Higher axial load ratio,span-depth ratio,and longitudinal reinforcement ratio reduce both deflections and support angle.Additionally,a rapid method to predict the maximum and residual deflection of RC columns under off-central blast loading was also proposed based on the Generalized Regression Neural Network(GRNN).Eleven features which related to the RC column properties and the blast characteristics were used in the training process of GRNN,and accurate predictions were achieved with prediction errors within 20%.This study fills the gap in predicting the dynamic response of RC columns under off-central explosion,providing valuable references for blast-resistant design.展开更多
This study proposes a new post-tensioned precast bridge column(PT-PBC)with a socket connection.Compared to conventional PBCs connected by PT tendons,the combination of the PT tendons with the socket connection can avo...This study proposes a new post-tensioned precast bridge column(PT-PBC)with a socket connection.Compared to conventional PBCs connected by PT tendons,the combination of the PT tendons with the socket connection can avoid tensioning the PT tendons on site,which further accelerates construction speed while improving construction quality and safety.In addition,compared to conventional PBCs with a socket connection,a rocking interface can avoid the formation of a plastic hinge in a column,which greatly alleviates seismic damage to that area.One specimen for quasi-static testing is used to validate the feasibility of this connection type.Subsequently,finite element models(FEM)are established to systematically predict the responses of the proposed columns under lateral cyclic loading.The accuracy of the FEM is verified through quasistatic testing.Next,the influences of the key design parameters of the PT-PBC,including the area ratio and prestress level of the PT tendons,the area ratio of energy dissipation(ED)steel rebars,and the total axial compression ratio on the seismic performances of PT-PBC are systematically investigated.The use of shape memory alloy(SMA)rods as energy dissipation devices and their performances also are investigated.The results show that increasing the area ratio and prestress level of PT tendons has an overall positive impact on the self-centering capacity of the column.The prestress level of PT tendons should be kept between 35%and 55%,depending on different conditions.The total compression axial ratio of the columns should be maintained between 0.3 and 0.4.Both ED steel rebars and SMA rods can boost the column’s energy dissipation capacity,while SMA rods can reduce residual deformation due to their inherent mechanical properties.展开更多
Bolting steel angles at the bottom ends of columns provides a rapid and efficient method for repairing damaged structures,while also offering a viable approach to restore their potential bearing capacity.To validate t...Bolting steel angles at the bottom ends of columns provides a rapid and efficient method for repairing damaged structures,while also offering a viable approach to restore their potential bearing capacity.To validate the suitability of specific strengthening strategies,particularly the utilization of bolted steel angles,three reinforced concrete frame specimens were subjected to hysteresis testing.These specimens all featured RC columns strengthened with steel angle ends.Additionally,one control specimen without steel angle ends was included in the testing.The hysteresis effects of bolting steel angles were discussed in terms of typical failure mode,hysteresis and skeleton curves,stiffness degradation and energy dissipation.The experimental results revealed that the three specimens that had bolted steel angles exhibited ductile failure behavior.Through analysis of hysteresis and skeleton curves,it was observed that the frame demonstrated distinct plasticity,maintaining sufficient load-bearing capacity even after yielding and exhibiting superior displacement ductility performance.Considering equivalent viscous damping,the energy dissipation capacity of the RC frame increased linearly with drift and remained largely unaffected by structural damage.Therefore,bolting steel angles at specified cross-sections proved to be a viable technique for structural repair and restoration.展开更多
Karst collapse columns typically appear unpredictably and without a uniform spatial arrangement,posing challenges for mining operations and water inrush risk assessment.As major structural pathways for mine water inru...Karst collapse columns typically appear unpredictably and without a uniform spatial arrangement,posing challenges for mining operations and water inrush risk assessment.As major structural pathways for mine water inrush,they are responsible for some of the most frequent and severe water-related disasters in coal mining.Understanding the mechanisms of water inrush in these collapse columns is therefore essential for effective disaster prevention and control,making it a key research priority.Additionally,investigating the developmental characteristics of collapse columns is crucial for analyzing seepage instability mechanisms.In such a context,this paper provides a comprehensive review of four critical aspects:(1)The development characteristics and hydrogeological properties of collapse columns;(2)Fluid-solid coupling mechanisms under mining-induced stress;(3)Non-Darcy seepage behavior in fractured rock masses;(4)Flow regime transitions and mass variation effects.Key findings highlight the role of flow-solid coupling in governing the seepage mechanisms of fractured rock masses within karst collapse columns.By synthesizing numerous studies on flow pattern transitions,this paper outlines the complete seepage process-from groundwater movement within the aquifer to its migration through the collapse column and eventual inflow into mine roadways or working faces-along with the associated transformations in flow patterns.Furthermore,the seepage characteristics and water inrush behaviors influenced by particle migration are examined through both experimental and numerical simulation approaches.展开更多
As a core power device in strategic industries such as new energy power generation and electric vehicles,the thermal reliability of IGBT modules directly determines the performance and lifetime of the whole system.A s...As a core power device in strategic industries such as new energy power generation and electric vehicles,the thermal reliability of IGBT modules directly determines the performance and lifetime of the whole system.A synergistic optimization structure of“inlet plate-channel spoiler columns”is proposed for the local hot spot problem during the operation of Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor(IGBT),combined with the inherent defect of uneven flow distribution of the traditional U-type liquid cooling plate in this paper.The influences of the shape,height(H),and spacing from the spoiler column(b)of the plate on the comprehensive heat dissipation performance of the liquid cooling plate are analyzed at different Reynolds numbers,A dual heat source strategy is introduced and the effect of the optimized structure is evaluated by the temperature inhomogeneity coefficient(Φ).The results show that the optimum effect is achieved when the shape of the plate is square,H=4.5 mm,b=2 mm,and u=0.05 m/s,at which the HTPE=1.09 and Φ are reduced by 40%.In contrast,the maximum temperatures of the IGBT and the FWD(Free Wheeling Diode)chips are reduced by 8.7 and 8.4 K,respectively,and ΔP rises by only 1.58 Pa while keeping ΔT not significantly increased.This optimized configuration achieves a significant reduction in the critical chip temperature and optimization of the flow field uniformity with almost no change in the system flow resistance.It breaks through the limitation of single structure optimization of the traditional liquid cooling plate and effectively solves the problem of uneven flow in the U-shaped cooling plate,which provides a new solution with important engineering value for the thermal management of IGBT modules.展开更多
Numerical analysis is carried out to study the sectional properties of the fiber-reinforced polymer(FRP)-confined reinforced concrete(RC)circular columns. The axial load ratio, the FRP confinement ratio and the lo...Numerical analysis is carried out to study the sectional properties of the fiber-reinforced polymer(FRP)-confined reinforced concrete(RC)circular columns. The axial load ratio, the FRP confinement ratio and the longitudinal reinforcement characteristic value are the three main parameters that can influence the neutral axis depth when concrete compression strain reaches an ultimate value. The formula for computing the central angle θ, corresponding to the compression zone, is established according to the data regression of the numerical analysis results. The numerical analysis results demonstrate that the concrete stress enhancement from transverse confinement and strain hardening of the longitudinal reinforcement can cause a much greater flexural strength than that defined by the design code. Based on the analytical studies and the test results of 36 large scale columns, the formula to calculate the flexural strength when columns fail under seismic loading is proposed, and the calculated results agree well with the test results. Finally, parametric studies are conducted on a typical column with different axial load ratios, longitudinal reinforcement characteristic value and FRP confinement ratios. Analysis of the results shows that the calculated flexural strength can be increased by 50% compared to that of unconfined columns defined by the code.展开更多
The behavior of reinforced concrete(RC)square columns strengthened with self-compacting concrete(SCC)-filled steel tubes under cyclic loading was experimentally investigated.Tests were carried out on eleven reinforced...The behavior of reinforced concrete(RC)square columns strengthened with self-compacting concrete(SCC)-filled steel tubes under cyclic loading was experimentally investigated.Tests were carried out on eleven reinforced columns and one unreinforced column.The parameters studied for the strengthened columns included axial compression ratio,reinforcement rate,defect rate,strength of SCC,and the section form of a reinforced steel tube.The results show that the steel tube SCC reinforcement method can effectively strengthen RC columns,exert the restraint effect of steel tube,and delay the development of internal concrete cracks.The method can also significantly improve the bearing capacity of RC columns.Regarding ductility,the improvement of the reinforced column is obvious,the deformation resistance of the specimen is enhanced,and the degradation of stiffness and strength is relatively slow,indicating that it has good seismic performance.展开更多
The operational state of distillation columns significantly impacts product quality and production efficiency.However,due to the complex operation and diverse influencing factors,ensuring the safety and efficient oper...The operational state of distillation columns significantly impacts product quality and production efficiency.However,due to the complex operation and diverse influencing factors,ensuring the safety and efficient operation of the distillation columns becomes paramount.This research combines passive acoustic monitoring with artificial intelligence techniques,proposed a technology based on residual network(ResNet),which involves the transformation of the acoustic signals emitted by three distillation columns under different operating states.The acoustic signals were initially in one-dimensional waveform format and then converted into two-dimensional Mel-Frequency Cepstral Coefficients spectrogram database using fast Fourier transform.Ultimately,this database was employed to train a ResNet for the purpose of identifying the operational states of the distillation columns.Through this approach,the operational states of distillation columns were monitored.Various faults,including flooding,entrainment,dry-tray,etc.,were diagnosed with an accuracy of 98.91%.Moreover,an intermediate transitional state between normal operation and fault was identified and accurately recognized by the proposed method.Under the transitional state,the acoustic signals achieved an accuracy of 97.85%on the ResNet,which enables early warnings before faults occur,enhancing the safety of chemical production processes.The approach presents a powerful tool for the monitoring and diagnosis of chemical equipment,particularly distillation columns,ensuring the safety and efficiency.展开更多
Geosynthetic-encased stone column(GESC)technology for strengthening soft clay offers significant advantages in terms of cost-effectiveness,environmental sustainability,and engineering applicability.It is widely applie...Geosynthetic-encased stone column(GESC)technology for strengthening soft clay offers significant advantages in terms of cost-effectiveness,environmental sustainability,and engineering applicability.It is widely applied in treating soft foundations for railways,bridges,and embankments.This study evaluates the cyclic response of the geosynthetic-encased steel slag column(GESSC)composite foundation employing three-dimensional nonlinear finite element analysis.A numerical study is conducted to assess the cyclic response of floating GESSC considering the influence of key design variables,including cyclic load amplitude,loading frequency,geosynthetic encasement stiffness,and length-to-diameter ratio.Results show that both cyclic load amplitude and frequency affect the cumulative settlement and excess pore pressure within the GESSC foundation.Within specified limits,increasing the encasement stiffness and column length can significantly improve the GESSC load-bearing characteristics.The parametric study suggests an optimal geosynthetic encasement stiffness for the field prototype columns within the range of 4480–5760 kN/m and a critical steel slag column length of 10 times the column diameter.展开更多
This study explores the combination of ultrasound technology with a detection algorithm to categorize flow regimes in bubble columns used for aeration in aquaculture.An ultrasonic velocity profiler is used to obtain t...This study explores the combination of ultrasound technology with a detection algorithm to categorize flow regimes in bubble columns used for aeration in aquaculture.An ultrasonic velocity profiler is used to obtain the standard deviation of the bubble velocity distributed throughout the column.The bubble velocity data for three known flow regimes were used to develop a probability density function(PDF)classification model.The experimental apparatus consisted of a circular tank equipped with a bubble generator and gas hold-up monitoring systems.The flow regimes of the experimental fluid were determined,and the classification was conducted via the PDF method.The results demonstrate that the classification accuracy is not lower than that of traditional machine learning methods.展开更多
This paper aims to evaluate the stochastic response of steel columns subjected to blast loads using the modified single degree of freedom(MSDOF)method,which assessed towards the conventional single degree of freedom(S...This paper aims to evaluate the stochastic response of steel columns subjected to blast loads using the modified single degree of freedom(MSDOF)method,which assessed towards the conventional single degree of freedom(SDOF)and the experimentally validated Finite Element(FE)methods(LSDYNA).For this purpose,special atten-tion is given to calculating the response of H-shaped steel columns under blast.The damage amount is determined based on the support rotation criterion,which is expressed as a function of their maximum lateral mid-span dis-placement.To account for uncertainties in input parameters and obtain the failure probability,the Monte Carlo simulation(MCS)method is employed,complemented by the Latin Hypercube Sampling(LHS)method to reduce the number of simulations.A parametric analysis is hence performed to examine the effect of several input pa-rameters(including both deterministic and probabilistic parameters)on the probability of column damage as a function of support rotation.First,the MSDOF method confirms its higher accuracy in estimating the probability of column damage due to blast,compared to the conventional SDOF.The collected results also show that un-certainties of several input parameters have significant effects on the column behavior.In particular,geometric parameters(including cross-sectional characteristics,boundary conditions and column length)have major effect on the corresponding column response,in the same way of input blast load parameters and material properties.展开更多
Precast concrete structures have gained popularity due to their advantages.However,the seismic performance of their connection joints remains an area of ongoing research and improvement.Grouted Sleeve Connection(GSC)o...Precast concrete structures have gained popularity due to their advantages.However,the seismic performance of their connection joints remains an area of ongoing research and improvement.Grouted Sleeve Connection(GSC)offers a solution for connecting reinforcements in precast components,but their vulnerability to internal defects,such as construction errors and material variability,can significantly impact performance.This article presents a finite element analysis(FEA)to evaluate the impact of internal grouting defects in GSC on the structural performance of precast reinforced concrete columns.Four finite elementmodels representing GSC with varying degrees of defects were used to investigate the effects on mechanical properties,including bearing capacity,stress-deformation behavior,and stiffness degradation.The study highlights the significant impact of internal grouting defects on the mechanical performance of GSC,with findings indicating a decrease in stiffness,increased plastic deformation,and reduced energy dissipation as the proportion of internal defects rises.The analysis reveals that the internal defects in GSC act as stress concentration points,leading to early crack formation and accelerated damage under cyclic loading.By improving construction quality and reducing the prevalence of grouting defects,the adverse effects on the performance of GSC can be mitigated.Compared to defect-free specimens,those with defects of 30%exhibited a 31.23%reduction in horizontal bearing capacity,highlighting the importance of minimizing defects in practical engineering applications.展开更多
Using experimental data from a number of pulsed disc and doughnut solvent extraction columns, a unified correla- tion for the prediction of dispersed phase holdup that considers the effects of mass transfer is present...Using experimental data from a number of pulsed disc and doughnut solvent extraction columns, a unified correla- tion for the prediction of dispersed phase holdup that considers the effects of mass transfer is presented. Pulsed disc and doughnut solvent extraction columns (PDDC) have been used for a range of important applications such as ura- nium extraction and nuclear fuel recycling. Although the dispersed phase holdup in a PDDC has been presented by some researchers, there is still the need to develop a robust correlation that can predict the experimental dispersed phase holdup over a range of operating conditions including the effects of mass transfer direction. In this study, dis- persed phase holdup data from different literature sources for a PDDC were used to refit constants for the correlation presented by Kumar and Hartland lind. Eng. Chem. Res.,27 (1988),131-138] which did not consider the effect of col- umn geometry. In order to incorporate the characteristic length of the PDDC (i.e. the plate spacing), the unified cor- relation for holdup proposed by Kumar and Hartland based on data from eight different types of columns [Ind. Eng. Chem. Res.,34 (1995) 3925-3940] was refitted to the PDDC data. New constants have been presented for each hold- up correlation for a PDDC based on regression analysis using published holdup data from PDDCs that cover a range of onerating conditions and nhwical nronerties and consider the direction of mass transfer.展开更多
An experimental study, in which six columns were loaded concentrically toinvestigate the behavior of reinforced normal strength and high strength circular columns underconcentric compression, is described. The concret...An experimental study, in which six columns were loaded concentrically toinvestigate the behavior of reinforced normal strength and high strength circular columns underconcentric compression, is described. The concrete strengths of the columns were 30 MPa and 60 MPa.The primary variables considered were the concrete strength and the amount of transversereinforcement. Test results indicate that smaller hoop spacing provides higher column capacity andgreater strength enhancement in a confined concrete core of columns. For the same lateralconfinement, high strength concrete columns develop lower strength enhancement than normal strengthconcrete columns. Both the strength enhancement ratio (f'_(cc) /f'_(co)) and the column capacityratio (P_(test)/P_o) were observed to show linear increase variations with rho_s f_(yt)/f'_c incircular columns.展开更多
The behavior of slender columns under the effect of eccentric loading has always taken the attention of researchers. When investigating the strengthening of reinforced concrete columns, mainly short and circular colum...The behavior of slender columns under the effect of eccentric loading has always taken the attention of researchers. When investigating the strengthening of reinforced concrete columns, mainly short and circular columns are the targeted elements. This is why the data about slender columns with rectangular sections is limited and infrequent specially when loaded eccentrically. This paper aims to increase the available experimental data in this specific area. The experimental program consisted of twenty seven specimens. The specimens were divided into three groups; one control group and two groups strengthened using two strengthening schemes. Scheme 1 implied the use of near surface mounted (NSM) longitudinal steel bars, while in scheme 2, NSM longitudinal steel bars partially wrapped with one ply of carbon fibers reinforced polymers (CFRP) sheets was used. The test specimen had an overall length of 2000 mm and a 100 x 200 mm rectangular cross section. In addition to the strengthening schemes, the test parameters included three ratios for the internal longitudinal steel bars "μ" 1%, 1.57% and 2.26%. The parameters were extended to cover three stirrups' volumetric ratio "ρv" 0.73%, 0.49% and 0.37%. The specimens were tested under the effect of eccentric loading with eccentricity-to-section height e/h equals 0.25. The research revealed that the strength gain in specimens strengthened with scheme 2 was higher than with scheme 1. Analytical modeling of the stress strain relation of the strengthened RC columns considering the effect of strengthening scheme, internal reinforcement ratio μ, and stirrups' volumetric ratio "ρv" was proposed. Verification was made using available experimental data. The proposed model showed a reasonable agreement with the experimental results.展开更多
In order to improve the load capacity, seismic performance and performance-cost ratio of the columns, the concrete at the base of reinforced concrete (RC) columns is substituted with engineered cementitious composit...In order to improve the load capacity, seismic performance and performance-cost ratio of the columns, the concrete at the base of reinforced concrete (RC) columns is substituted with engineered cementitious composites (ECC) to form ECC/RC composite columns. Based on the existing material properties, the mechanical behaviors of the ECC columns, ECC/RC composite columns and RC columns were numerically studied under combined vertical and horizontal loading with the software of ATENA. Then, the failure mechanism of ECC columns and ECC/RC composite columns were comprehensively studied and compared with that of the RC columns. Then, the effects of the height of the ECC, the axial compression ratio, and the transverse reinforcement ratio on the mechanical behaviors of the composite or the ECC column are studied. The calculation results show that the ultimate load capacity, ductility and crack resistance of the ECC or ECC/RC composite columns are superior to those of the RC columns. The ECC/RC composite column with a height of the ECC layer of 1.2h ( h is the height of the cross section) can achieve similar mechanical properties of a full ECC column. With high shear strength, ECC can undertake the shear force and significantly reduce the amount of stirrups, avoiding construction issues and promoting its engineering application.展开更多
Reinforced concrete(RC) columns are widely used as supporting structures for high-piled wharfs.The study of damage model of a RC column due to underwater explosion is a critical issue to assess the wharfs antiknock se...Reinforced concrete(RC) columns are widely used as supporting structures for high-piled wharfs.The study of damage model of a RC column due to underwater explosion is a critical issue to assess the wharfs antiknock security.In this study,the dynamic response and damage model of circular RC columns subjected to underwater explosions were investigated by means of scaled-down experiment models.Experiments were carried out in a 10.0 m diameter tank with the water depth of 2.25 m,under different explosive quantities(0.025 kg-1.6 kg),stand-off distances(0.0 m-7.0 m),and detonation depths(0.25 m-2.0 m).The shock wave load and dynamic response of experiment models were measured by configuring sensors of pressure,acceleration,strain,and displacement.Then,the load distribution characteristics,time history of test data,and damage models related to present conditions were obtained and discussed.Three damage models,including bending failure,bending-shear failure and punching failure,were identified.In addition,the experie nce model of shock wave loads on the surface of a RC column was proposed for engineering application.展开更多
In order to study the dynamic behavior of hybrid reinforced concrete columns, shaking table tests of three concrete columns with equal initial stiffness were conducted.The longitudinal reinforcements include an ordina...In order to study the dynamic behavior of hybrid reinforced concrete columns, shaking table tests of three concrete columns with equal initial stiffness were conducted.The longitudinal reinforcements include an ordinary steel bar,a steel-fiber reinforced polymer(FRP) composite bar(SFCB), and hybrid reinforcement(steel bar and FRP bar, CH). Test results show that the peak ground acceleration(PGA) responses of different columns are similar to each other. For an ordinary reinforced concrete(RC) column, the plastic strain of the steel bar develops rapidly after the PGA of the input ground motion reaches 100 cm / s^2, and the corresponding residual strain develops dramatically. For a SFCB column, even after the peak strain reaches 0. 015, the residual strain is below 5 × 10^- 4. For the hybrid column C-H,the residual strain of the FRP bar is similar to that of the SFCB column. In general, concrete columns with hybrid steel and FRP bar reinforcement can achieve smaller residual deformation, and the SFCB reinforced columns can be constructed in extreme environments, such as offshore bridges, due to good anti-corrosion performance.展开更多
The high-density gravitational collapse of granular columns is very similar to the movements of large collapsing columns in nature. Based on the development of dangerous columnar rock mass in fields, granular column c...The high-density gravitational collapse of granular columns is very similar to the movements of large collapsing columns in nature. Based on the development of dangerous columnar rock mass in fields, granular column collapse boundary condition in the physical experiments of this study is a new type of boundary conditions with a single free face and a three-dimensional deposit. Physical experiments have shown that the mobility of small particles during the collapse of granular columns was greater than that of large particles. For example, when particle size was increased from 5 to 15 mm, deposit runout was decreased by about 16.4%. When a column consisted of two particle types with different sizes, these particles could mix in the vicinity of layer interfaces and small particles might increase the mobility of large particles. In the process of collapse, potential and kinetic energy conversion rate is fluctuated. By increasing initial aspect ratio a, the ratio of the initial height of column to its length along flow direction,potential and kinetic energy conversion rate is decreased. For example, as a was increased from 0.5 to 4, the ratio of maximum kinetic energy obtained and total potential energy loss was decreased from47.6% to 7.4%. After movement stopped, an almost trapezoidal body remained in the column and a fanlike or fan-shaped accumulation was formed on the periphery of column. Using multiple exponential functions of the aspect ratio a, the planar morphology of the collapse deposit of granular columns could be quantitatively characterized. The movement of pillar dangerous rock masses with collapse failure mode could be evaluated using this granular column experimental results.展开更多
To improve the seismic performance of columns, engineered cementitious composite (ECC) is introduced to partially substitute concrete at the base of the columns to form ECC,/reinforced concrete ( RC) composite col...To improve the seismic performance of columns, engineered cementitious composite (ECC) is introduced to partially substitute concrete at the base of the columns to form ECC,/reinforced concrete ( RC) composite columns. The mechanical behaviors of the ECC/RC composite columns are numerically studied under low-cyclic loading with the finite element analysis softwareof MSC. MARC. It is found that the ECC/RC composite columns can significantly enhance the load capacity, the ductility ad energy dissipation of columns. Then, the effects of the height of the ECC, the axial compression ratio and the longitudinal reinforcement ratio on the seismic behaviors of the composite columns are parametrically studied. The results show that the ECC/RC composite column with a height of the ECC layer of 0. Sh(h is the height to the cross-section) can achieve similar seismic performance of a full ECC column. The peak load of the composite column increases significantly while the ductility decreases with the increase of the axial compression ratio. Increasing the longitudinal reinforcement ratio within a certain range can improve the ductility and energy dissipation capacity and almost has no effect on load capacity. The aalysis results ae instructive and valuable for reference in designing ECC structures.展开更多
基金financially supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grants No.12472399)。
文摘Reinforced concrete(RC)columns are often subjected to off-central explosion due to the uncertainty of blast locations.However,few studies have focused on the dynamic response of RC columns under offcentral explosions.A field blast experiment was conducted under close-in explosion with varying detonation offset distances(0 m,0.5 m,and 1 m),the overpressure load and dynamic responses of the full-scale RC columns were measured.Compared with the centrally detonated condition,a relative offset distance of 1.67 decreases the maximum and residual deflections of the RC column by 16.8%and 21.4%,respectively,while increasing the maximum and residual support rotations by 24.7%and 17.8%.Based on the experimental results,a theoretical model was proposed that considers the detonation location and charge mass,boundary conditions,axial compression ratio and material properties.The theoretical model exhibited good agreement with the experimental results,with prediction errors below 10%for both maximum and residual deflection.The effects of parameters were analyzed,and it indicated that an increase in offset distance results in decreased maximum and residual deflections but an increased support angle,thereby exacerbating damage.Higher axial load ratio,span-depth ratio,and longitudinal reinforcement ratio reduce both deflections and support angle.Additionally,a rapid method to predict the maximum and residual deflection of RC columns under off-central blast loading was also proposed based on the Generalized Regression Neural Network(GRNN).Eleven features which related to the RC column properties and the blast characteristics were used in the training process of GRNN,and accurate predictions were achieved with prediction errors within 20%.This study fills the gap in predicting the dynamic response of RC columns under off-central explosion,providing valuable references for blast-resistant design.
基金Natural Science Foundation of China under Grant No.52178449,the Beijing Natural Science Foundation under Grant No.8234060the Innovation Center of Beijing Association for Science and Technology。
文摘This study proposes a new post-tensioned precast bridge column(PT-PBC)with a socket connection.Compared to conventional PBCs connected by PT tendons,the combination of the PT tendons with the socket connection can avoid tensioning the PT tendons on site,which further accelerates construction speed while improving construction quality and safety.In addition,compared to conventional PBCs with a socket connection,a rocking interface can avoid the formation of a plastic hinge in a column,which greatly alleviates seismic damage to that area.One specimen for quasi-static testing is used to validate the feasibility of this connection type.Subsequently,finite element models(FEM)are established to systematically predict the responses of the proposed columns under lateral cyclic loading.The accuracy of the FEM is verified through quasistatic testing.Next,the influences of the key design parameters of the PT-PBC,including the area ratio and prestress level of the PT tendons,the area ratio of energy dissipation(ED)steel rebars,and the total axial compression ratio on the seismic performances of PT-PBC are systematically investigated.The use of shape memory alloy(SMA)rods as energy dissipation devices and their performances also are investigated.The results show that increasing the area ratio and prestress level of PT tendons has an overall positive impact on the self-centering capacity of the column.The prestress level of PT tendons should be kept between 35%and 55%,depending on different conditions.The total compression axial ratio of the columns should be maintained between 0.3 and 0.4.Both ED steel rebars and SMA rods can boost the column’s energy dissipation capacity,while SMA rods can reduce residual deformation due to their inherent mechanical properties.
基金National Key R&D Program of China under Grant No.2023YFC3805100Technologies R&D Project of China Construction First Group Corporation Limited under Grant No.PT-2022-09National Natural Science Foundation of China under Grant No.52178126。
文摘Bolting steel angles at the bottom ends of columns provides a rapid and efficient method for repairing damaged structures,while also offering a viable approach to restore their potential bearing capacity.To validate the suitability of specific strengthening strategies,particularly the utilization of bolted steel angles,three reinforced concrete frame specimens were subjected to hysteresis testing.These specimens all featured RC columns strengthened with steel angle ends.Additionally,one control specimen without steel angle ends was included in the testing.The hysteresis effects of bolting steel angles were discussed in terms of typical failure mode,hysteresis and skeleton curves,stiffness degradation and energy dissipation.The experimental results revealed that the three specimens that had bolted steel angles exhibited ductile failure behavior.Through analysis of hysteresis and skeleton curves,it was observed that the frame demonstrated distinct plasticity,maintaining sufficient load-bearing capacity even after yielding and exhibiting superior displacement ductility performance.Considering equivalent viscous damping,the energy dissipation capacity of the RC frame increased linearly with drift and remained largely unaffected by structural damage.Therefore,bolting steel angles at specified cross-sections proved to be a viable technique for structural repair and restoration.
基金supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Henan Province(242300421246,222300420007,232300421134)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(52004082,52174073,52274079,42402255)+4 种基金the Science and Technology Project of Henan Province(232102321098)Zhongyuan Science and Technology Innovation Leading Talent Program(244200510005)the Program for Science&Technology Innovation Talents in Universities of Henan Province(24HASTIT021)the Program for the Scientific and Technological Innovation Team in Universities of Henan Province(23IRTSTHN005)the National Postdoctoral Researchers Program Foundation of China(GZC20230709)。
文摘Karst collapse columns typically appear unpredictably and without a uniform spatial arrangement,posing challenges for mining operations and water inrush risk assessment.As major structural pathways for mine water inrush,they are responsible for some of the most frequent and severe water-related disasters in coal mining.Understanding the mechanisms of water inrush in these collapse columns is therefore essential for effective disaster prevention and control,making it a key research priority.Additionally,investigating the developmental characteristics of collapse columns is crucial for analyzing seepage instability mechanisms.In such a context,this paper provides a comprehensive review of four critical aspects:(1)The development characteristics and hydrogeological properties of collapse columns;(2)Fluid-solid coupling mechanisms under mining-induced stress;(3)Non-Darcy seepage behavior in fractured rock masses;(4)Flow regime transitions and mass variation effects.Key findings highlight the role of flow-solid coupling in governing the seepage mechanisms of fractured rock masses within karst collapse columns.By synthesizing numerous studies on flow pattern transitions,this paper outlines the complete seepage process-from groundwater movement within the aquifer to its migration through the collapse column and eventual inflow into mine roadways or working faces-along with the associated transformations in flow patterns.Furthermore,the seepage characteristics and water inrush behaviors influenced by particle migration are examined through both experimental and numerical simulation approaches.
基金supported by Tianjin Science and Technology Planning Project(22YDTPJC0020).
文摘As a core power device in strategic industries such as new energy power generation and electric vehicles,the thermal reliability of IGBT modules directly determines the performance and lifetime of the whole system.A synergistic optimization structure of“inlet plate-channel spoiler columns”is proposed for the local hot spot problem during the operation of Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor(IGBT),combined with the inherent defect of uneven flow distribution of the traditional U-type liquid cooling plate in this paper.The influences of the shape,height(H),and spacing from the spoiler column(b)of the plate on the comprehensive heat dissipation performance of the liquid cooling plate are analyzed at different Reynolds numbers,A dual heat source strategy is introduced and the effect of the optimized structure is evaluated by the temperature inhomogeneity coefficient(Φ).The results show that the optimum effect is achieved when the shape of the plate is square,H=4.5 mm,b=2 mm,and u=0.05 m/s,at which the HTPE=1.09 and Φ are reduced by 40%.In contrast,the maximum temperatures of the IGBT and the FWD(Free Wheeling Diode)chips are reduced by 8.7 and 8.4 K,respectively,and ΔP rises by only 1.58 Pa while keeping ΔT not significantly increased.This optimized configuration achieves a significant reduction in the critical chip temperature and optimization of the flow field uniformity with almost no change in the system flow resistance.It breaks through the limitation of single structure optimization of the traditional liquid cooling plate and effectively solves the problem of uneven flow in the U-shaped cooling plate,which provides a new solution with important engineering value for the thermal management of IGBT modules.
基金The National Basic Research Program of China (973 Program)(No.2007CB714200)the National Natural Science Foundationof China (No.50608015,50908102)
文摘Numerical analysis is carried out to study the sectional properties of the fiber-reinforced polymer(FRP)-confined reinforced concrete(RC)circular columns. The axial load ratio, the FRP confinement ratio and the longitudinal reinforcement characteristic value are the three main parameters that can influence the neutral axis depth when concrete compression strain reaches an ultimate value. The formula for computing the central angle θ, corresponding to the compression zone, is established according to the data regression of the numerical analysis results. The numerical analysis results demonstrate that the concrete stress enhancement from transverse confinement and strain hardening of the longitudinal reinforcement can cause a much greater flexural strength than that defined by the design code. Based on the analytical studies and the test results of 36 large scale columns, the formula to calculate the flexural strength when columns fail under seismic loading is proposed, and the calculated results agree well with the test results. Finally, parametric studies are conducted on a typical column with different axial load ratios, longitudinal reinforcement characteristic value and FRP confinement ratios. Analysis of the results shows that the calculated flexural strength can be increased by 50% compared to that of unconfined columns defined by the code.
基金Natural Science Foundation of Sichuan Province under Grant Nos.2022NSFSC0319 and 2022NSFSC0095the Science and Technology Research Projects of Mianyang,China under Grant No.15S-02-3。
文摘The behavior of reinforced concrete(RC)square columns strengthened with self-compacting concrete(SCC)-filled steel tubes under cyclic loading was experimentally investigated.Tests were carried out on eleven reinforced columns and one unreinforced column.The parameters studied for the strengthened columns included axial compression ratio,reinforcement rate,defect rate,strength of SCC,and the section form of a reinforced steel tube.The results show that the steel tube SCC reinforcement method can effectively strengthen RC columns,exert the restraint effect of steel tube,and delay the development of internal concrete cracks.The method can also significantly improve the bearing capacity of RC columns.Regarding ductility,the improvement of the reinforced column is obvious,the deformation resistance of the specimen is enhanced,and the degradation of stiffness and strength is relatively slow,indicating that it has good seismic performance.
基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China(22308079)the Natural Science Foundation of Hebei Province,China(B2022202008,B2023202025)the Science and Technology Project of Hebei Education Department,China(BJK2022037).
文摘The operational state of distillation columns significantly impacts product quality and production efficiency.However,due to the complex operation and diverse influencing factors,ensuring the safety and efficient operation of the distillation columns becomes paramount.This research combines passive acoustic monitoring with artificial intelligence techniques,proposed a technology based on residual network(ResNet),which involves the transformation of the acoustic signals emitted by three distillation columns under different operating states.The acoustic signals were initially in one-dimensional waveform format and then converted into two-dimensional Mel-Frequency Cepstral Coefficients spectrogram database using fast Fourier transform.Ultimately,this database was employed to train a ResNet for the purpose of identifying the operational states of the distillation columns.Through this approach,the operational states of distillation columns were monitored.Various faults,including flooding,entrainment,dry-tray,etc.,were diagnosed with an accuracy of 98.91%.Moreover,an intermediate transitional state between normal operation and fault was identified and accurately recognized by the proposed method.Under the transitional state,the acoustic signals achieved an accuracy of 97.85%on the ResNet,which enables early warnings before faults occur,enhancing the safety of chemical production processes.The approach presents a powerful tool for the monitoring and diagnosis of chemical equipment,particularly distillation columns,ensuring the safety and efficiency.
基金support from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.52078427 and 51608461)is greatly acknowledged.
文摘Geosynthetic-encased stone column(GESC)technology for strengthening soft clay offers significant advantages in terms of cost-effectiveness,environmental sustainability,and engineering applicability.It is widely applied in treating soft foundations for railways,bridges,and embankments.This study evaluates the cyclic response of the geosynthetic-encased steel slag column(GESSC)composite foundation employing three-dimensional nonlinear finite element analysis.A numerical study is conducted to assess the cyclic response of floating GESSC considering the influence of key design variables,including cyclic load amplitude,loading frequency,geosynthetic encasement stiffness,and length-to-diameter ratio.Results show that both cyclic load amplitude and frequency affect the cumulative settlement and excess pore pressure within the GESSC foundation.Within specified limits,increasing the encasement stiffness and column length can significantly improve the GESSC load-bearing characteristics.The parametric study suggests an optimal geosynthetic encasement stiffness for the field prototype columns within the range of 4480–5760 kN/m and a critical steel slag column length of 10 times the column diameter.
基金supported by the Center of Excellence on Instru-mentation Technology and Automation(CEITA),Department of Instru-mentation and Electronics Engineering,Faculty of Engineering,King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok,Thailand。
文摘This study explores the combination of ultrasound technology with a detection algorithm to categorize flow regimes in bubble columns used for aeration in aquaculture.An ultrasonic velocity profiler is used to obtain the standard deviation of the bubble velocity distributed throughout the column.The bubble velocity data for three known flow regimes were used to develop a probability density function(PDF)classification model.The experimental apparatus consisted of a circular tank equipped with a bubble generator and gas hold-up monitoring systems.The flow regimes of the experimental fluid were determined,and the classification was conducted via the PDF method.The results demonstrate that the classification accuracy is not lower than that of traditional machine learning methods.
文摘This paper aims to evaluate the stochastic response of steel columns subjected to blast loads using the modified single degree of freedom(MSDOF)method,which assessed towards the conventional single degree of freedom(SDOF)and the experimentally validated Finite Element(FE)methods(LSDYNA).For this purpose,special atten-tion is given to calculating the response of H-shaped steel columns under blast.The damage amount is determined based on the support rotation criterion,which is expressed as a function of their maximum lateral mid-span dis-placement.To account for uncertainties in input parameters and obtain the failure probability,the Monte Carlo simulation(MCS)method is employed,complemented by the Latin Hypercube Sampling(LHS)method to reduce the number of simulations.A parametric analysis is hence performed to examine the effect of several input pa-rameters(including both deterministic and probabilistic parameters)on the probability of column damage as a function of support rotation.First,the MSDOF method confirms its higher accuracy in estimating the probability of column damage due to blast,compared to the conventional SDOF.The collected results also show that un-certainties of several input parameters have significant effects on the column behavior.In particular,geometric parameters(including cross-sectional characteristics,boundary conditions and column length)have major effect on the corresponding column response,in the same way of input blast load parameters and material properties.
文摘Precast concrete structures have gained popularity due to their advantages.However,the seismic performance of their connection joints remains an area of ongoing research and improvement.Grouted Sleeve Connection(GSC)offers a solution for connecting reinforcements in precast components,but their vulnerability to internal defects,such as construction errors and material variability,can significantly impact performance.This article presents a finite element analysis(FEA)to evaluate the impact of internal grouting defects in GSC on the structural performance of precast reinforced concrete columns.Four finite elementmodels representing GSC with varying degrees of defects were used to investigate the effects on mechanical properties,including bearing capacity,stress-deformation behavior,and stiffness degradation.The study highlights the significant impact of internal grouting defects on the mechanical performance of GSC,with findings indicating a decrease in stiffness,increased plastic deformation,and reduced energy dissipation as the proportion of internal defects rises.The analysis reveals that the internal defects in GSC act as stress concentration points,leading to early crack formation and accelerated damage under cyclic loading.By improving construction quality and reducing the prevalence of grouting defects,the adverse effects on the performance of GSC can be mitigated.Compared to defect-free specimens,those with defects of 30%exhibited a 31.23%reduction in horizontal bearing capacity,highlighting the importance of minimizing defects in practical engineering applications.
文摘Using experimental data from a number of pulsed disc and doughnut solvent extraction columns, a unified correla- tion for the prediction of dispersed phase holdup that considers the effects of mass transfer is presented. Pulsed disc and doughnut solvent extraction columns (PDDC) have been used for a range of important applications such as ura- nium extraction and nuclear fuel recycling. Although the dispersed phase holdup in a PDDC has been presented by some researchers, there is still the need to develop a robust correlation that can predict the experimental dispersed phase holdup over a range of operating conditions including the effects of mass transfer direction. In this study, dis- persed phase holdup data from different literature sources for a PDDC were used to refit constants for the correlation presented by Kumar and Hartland lind. Eng. Chem. Res.,27 (1988),131-138] which did not consider the effect of col- umn geometry. In order to incorporate the characteristic length of the PDDC (i.e. the plate spacing), the unified cor- relation for holdup proposed by Kumar and Hartland based on data from eight different types of columns [Ind. Eng. Chem. Res.,34 (1995) 3925-3940] was refitted to the PDDC data. New constants have been presented for each hold- up correlation for a PDDC based on regression analysis using published holdup data from PDDCs that cover a range of onerating conditions and nhwical nronerties and consider the direction of mass transfer.
文摘An experimental study, in which six columns were loaded concentrically toinvestigate the behavior of reinforced normal strength and high strength circular columns underconcentric compression, is described. The concrete strengths of the columns were 30 MPa and 60 MPa.The primary variables considered were the concrete strength and the amount of transversereinforcement. Test results indicate that smaller hoop spacing provides higher column capacity andgreater strength enhancement in a confined concrete core of columns. For the same lateralconfinement, high strength concrete columns develop lower strength enhancement than normal strengthconcrete columns. Both the strength enhancement ratio (f'_(cc) /f'_(co)) and the column capacityratio (P_(test)/P_o) were observed to show linear increase variations with rho_s f_(yt)/f'_c incircular columns.
文摘The behavior of slender columns under the effect of eccentric loading has always taken the attention of researchers. When investigating the strengthening of reinforced concrete columns, mainly short and circular columns are the targeted elements. This is why the data about slender columns with rectangular sections is limited and infrequent specially when loaded eccentrically. This paper aims to increase the available experimental data in this specific area. The experimental program consisted of twenty seven specimens. The specimens were divided into three groups; one control group and two groups strengthened using two strengthening schemes. Scheme 1 implied the use of near surface mounted (NSM) longitudinal steel bars, while in scheme 2, NSM longitudinal steel bars partially wrapped with one ply of carbon fibers reinforced polymers (CFRP) sheets was used. The test specimen had an overall length of 2000 mm and a 100 x 200 mm rectangular cross section. In addition to the strengthening schemes, the test parameters included three ratios for the internal longitudinal steel bars "μ" 1%, 1.57% and 2.26%. The parameters were extended to cover three stirrups' volumetric ratio "ρv" 0.73%, 0.49% and 0.37%. The specimens were tested under the effect of eccentric loading with eccentricity-to-section height e/h equals 0.25. The research revealed that the strength gain in specimens strengthened with scheme 2 was higher than with scheme 1. Analytical modeling of the stress strain relation of the strengthened RC columns considering the effect of strengthening scheme, internal reinforcement ratio μ, and stirrups' volumetric ratio "ρv" was proposed. Verification was made using available experimental data. The proposed model showed a reasonable agreement with the experimental results.
基金The National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.51278118)the Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province(No.BK2012756)the Key Project of Ministry of Education of China(No.113029A)
文摘In order to improve the load capacity, seismic performance and performance-cost ratio of the columns, the concrete at the base of reinforced concrete (RC) columns is substituted with engineered cementitious composites (ECC) to form ECC/RC composite columns. Based on the existing material properties, the mechanical behaviors of the ECC columns, ECC/RC composite columns and RC columns were numerically studied under combined vertical and horizontal loading with the software of ATENA. Then, the failure mechanism of ECC columns and ECC/RC composite columns were comprehensively studied and compared with that of the RC columns. Then, the effects of the height of the ECC, the axial compression ratio, and the transverse reinforcement ratio on the mechanical behaviors of the composite or the ECC column are studied. The calculation results show that the ultimate load capacity, ductility and crack resistance of the ECC or ECC/RC composite columns are superior to those of the RC columns. The ECC/RC composite column with a height of the ECC layer of 1.2h ( h is the height of the cross section) can achieve similar mechanical properties of a full ECC column. With high shear strength, ECC can undertake the shear force and significantly reduce the amount of stirrups, avoiding construction issues and promoting its engineering application.
基金funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.51578543)。
文摘Reinforced concrete(RC) columns are widely used as supporting structures for high-piled wharfs.The study of damage model of a RC column due to underwater explosion is a critical issue to assess the wharfs antiknock security.In this study,the dynamic response and damage model of circular RC columns subjected to underwater explosions were investigated by means of scaled-down experiment models.Experiments were carried out in a 10.0 m diameter tank with the water depth of 2.25 m,under different explosive quantities(0.025 kg-1.6 kg),stand-off distances(0.0 m-7.0 m),and detonation depths(0.25 m-2.0 m).The shock wave load and dynamic response of experiment models were measured by configuring sensors of pressure,acceleration,strain,and displacement.Then,the load distribution characteristics,time history of test data,and damage models related to present conditions were obtained and discussed.Three damage models,including bending failure,bending-shear failure and punching failure,were identified.In addition,the experie nce model of shock wave loads on the surface of a RC column was proposed for engineering application.
基金The National Key Technology R&D Program of China(No.2014BAK11B04)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.51528802,51408126)the Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province(No.BK20140631)
文摘In order to study the dynamic behavior of hybrid reinforced concrete columns, shaking table tests of three concrete columns with equal initial stiffness were conducted.The longitudinal reinforcements include an ordinary steel bar,a steel-fiber reinforced polymer(FRP) composite bar(SFCB), and hybrid reinforcement(steel bar and FRP bar, CH). Test results show that the peak ground acceleration(PGA) responses of different columns are similar to each other. For an ordinary reinforced concrete(RC) column, the plastic strain of the steel bar develops rapidly after the PGA of the input ground motion reaches 100 cm / s^2, and the corresponding residual strain develops dramatically. For a SFCB column, even after the peak strain reaches 0. 015, the residual strain is below 5 × 10^- 4. For the hybrid column C-H,the residual strain of the FRP bar is similar to that of the SFCB column. In general, concrete columns with hybrid steel and FRP bar reinforcement can achieve smaller residual deformation, and the SFCB reinforced columns can be constructed in extreme environments, such as offshore bridges, due to good anti-corrosion performance.
基金supported by National Key R&D Program of China (Nos 2018YFC1504803, 2018YFC1504806)Geological Hazard Prevention and Control Project for Follow-Up Work of the Three Gorges Project (Nos. 001212019CC60001,0001212018CC60008)
文摘The high-density gravitational collapse of granular columns is very similar to the movements of large collapsing columns in nature. Based on the development of dangerous columnar rock mass in fields, granular column collapse boundary condition in the physical experiments of this study is a new type of boundary conditions with a single free face and a three-dimensional deposit. Physical experiments have shown that the mobility of small particles during the collapse of granular columns was greater than that of large particles. For example, when particle size was increased from 5 to 15 mm, deposit runout was decreased by about 16.4%. When a column consisted of two particle types with different sizes, these particles could mix in the vicinity of layer interfaces and small particles might increase the mobility of large particles. In the process of collapse, potential and kinetic energy conversion rate is fluctuated. By increasing initial aspect ratio a, the ratio of the initial height of column to its length along flow direction,potential and kinetic energy conversion rate is decreased. For example, as a was increased from 0.5 to 4, the ratio of maximum kinetic energy obtained and total potential energy loss was decreased from47.6% to 7.4%. After movement stopped, an almost trapezoidal body remained in the column and a fanlike or fan-shaped accumulation was formed on the periphery of column. Using multiple exponential functions of the aspect ratio a, the planar morphology of the collapse deposit of granular columns could be quantitatively characterized. The movement of pillar dangerous rock masses with collapse failure mode could be evaluated using this granular column experimental results.
基金The National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.51278118)the Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province(No.BK2012756)+1 种基金the Key Project of Ministry of Education of China(No.113029A)the Third Five-Year Major Scientific and Technological Project of China Metallurgical Group Corporation
文摘To improve the seismic performance of columns, engineered cementitious composite (ECC) is introduced to partially substitute concrete at the base of the columns to form ECC,/reinforced concrete ( RC) composite columns. The mechanical behaviors of the ECC/RC composite columns are numerically studied under low-cyclic loading with the finite element analysis softwareof MSC. MARC. It is found that the ECC/RC composite columns can significantly enhance the load capacity, the ductility ad energy dissipation of columns. Then, the effects of the height of the ECC, the axial compression ratio and the longitudinal reinforcement ratio on the seismic behaviors of the composite columns are parametrically studied. The results show that the ECC/RC composite column with a height of the ECC layer of 0. Sh(h is the height to the cross-section) can achieve similar seismic performance of a full ECC column. The peak load of the composite column increases significantly while the ductility decreases with the increase of the axial compression ratio. Increasing the longitudinal reinforcement ratio within a certain range can improve the ductility and energy dissipation capacity and almost has no effect on load capacity. The aalysis results ae instructive and valuable for reference in designing ECC structures.