Study on Mechanical Properties of Prefabricated Lattice Beam Joint

The slope protection structure of the prefabricated lattice beam is one of the most widely used and studied systems in slope structure, with the connection between the lattice beam joint and the longitudinal and transverse beams being critical for structural performance and stability in engineering applications. Because the prefabricated structure is weak in its structural integrity, it is necessary to study the influence of prefabricated lattice beam joints and the longitudinal and transverse beams on the overall mechanical properties of the structure. In this paper, one ordinary cast-in-place concrete beam and six prefabricated beams with different joint-connection modes are designed, and the influence of different connection modes on the bending capacity of the beams is accordingly explored. Moreover, the flexural capacity, bending stiffness change, ductility, and energy absorption capacity of the beams are analyzed through three-point bending test. The test results show that the connection mode at the joints could significantly affect the overall mechanical properties of the structure. By embedding holes in steel sleeves, filling cement mortar in the middle, and using steel plates with a thickness of 16 mm for anchoring treatment joints of end plates, the specimen beams are thus obtained with the same flexural capacity, ductility, and energy absorption capacity as ordinary cast-in-place concrete beams. This study provides valuable insights into optimizing connection methods for prefabricated beams, which can lead to improved structural performance and wider adoption of prefabricated structures in the construction industry.