Behaviour of Non and Partially Re-Centering Structures Under Repeated Ground Motions

Abstract eng:
The self-centering capacity of a structure after a seismic event is an important feature of a well-designed seismic-resistant building. For this reason, self-centering isolators and/or dampers systems have been widely used recently to ensure this behavior in structures built in earthquake-prone areas. Another main issue related to a good seismic design is the resilience of the building when subjected to a seismic sequence, which may cause a significant accumulation of damage and the loss of the structure. In this work, the effect of repeated ground motions on structures with different hysteretic behavior is studied using nonlinear Single Degree of Freedom (SDOF) systems. Extensive dynamic analyses were carried out for natural ground motion sequences, namely sequences of more than one natural seismic record. Systems with different dissipative hysteretic laws, linear and non-linear damping behavior were considered with the aim to emphasize the difference in cumulated damage and seismic response. In addition, the re-centering capability of the structures after a ground motion was analyzed since hysteresis behaviors with strong post-earthquake residual deformations may lead to downtime and an unacceptable condition for the building. Some simple design rules for buildings in seismic areas subjected to repeated earthquakes are finally given.

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