Abstract:Based on the concept of seismic resilience, this study proposes a new middle column system, aiming to provide excellent seismic performance and self-centering capability for metro underground structures. Using ABAQUS software, the basic performance of the new columns, including their self-centering capability, horizontal deformation capacity, and shear bearing capacity, was simulated and analyzed. The effects of three parameter variations—initial prestress value, number of prestressing tendons, and column head size—on the performance of the new columns were further investigated. The results showed that compared to traditional consolidated columns, the new columns not only demonstrated good self-centering capability but also had significant advantages in horizontal deformation and damage characteristics. Appropriately reducing the initial prestress value was beneficial for improving the self-centering capability of the new columns. Decreasing the number of prestressing tendons and increasing the column head size both enhanced the self-centering capability under low axial compression ratios, while increasing the tendon quantity and reducing the column head size were favorable for improving the self-centering capability under high axial compression ratios. The effect of parameter variation on the horizontal deformation capacity was evident only when the axial compression ratio was less than 0.7. Under the condition of this axial compression ratio, smaller initial prestress values and a greater number of prestressing tendons resulted in enhanced deformation capacity of the new columns. The incorporation of a column head was beneficial for enhancing the deformation capacity of the new columns, but its size had no significant effect. The optimal combination was an initial prestress value of 500 MPa, a single row of prestressing tendons, and a column head radius of 0.2 m. Parameter variations had little effect on the shear bearing capacity of the new columns. The research findings can provide valuable references for the further research and design of resilient seismic systems for metro underground structures.