Energy-based seismic performance of reinforced concrete frame structures

Abstract

The distribution of structural hysteretic energy is significant in energy-based seismic performance evaluations of reinforced concrete (RC) structures. This research involved the design of a six-storey RC frame and analysis of its dynamic time history for typical ground motions. Based on a comparison of the numerical results of the earthquake input energy and structural hysteretic energy under minor, moderate and major levels of earthquakes of grades 8 and 9, the allocation and distribution of structural hysteretic energy were studied. The results indicate that the ground motion characteristics have a small influence on the ratio of the maximum hysteretic energy to the maximum earthquake input energy, as well as on the distribution pattern of hysteretic energy along the height of the structure. Upper storeys dissipate less energy than lower ones and are little affected by ground motion severity when the plasticity of the structure is sufficiently developed. Beams dissipate most hysteretic energy in the structures, and energy consumption of the columns is almost zero except in the lower columns. Thus, larger plastic deformation is found to be concentrated in the lower storeys, with damage to the structure in the form of a strong column and weak beam.