INFLUENCE OF MODELLING PARAMETERS ON THE FRAGILITY ASSESSMENT OF PRE-1970 ITALIAN RC STRUCTURES

Abstract eng:
This paper investigates the importance of numerical modelling decisions on the seismic assessment of reinforced concrete (RC) structures typical of construction practice in Italy prior to the introduction of seismic design codes in the 1970's. In particular, means of accounting for the formation of a shear hinge in the beam-columns, longitudinal reinforcement slippage due to the use of smooth bars with end-hooks, and the strength and stiffness degradation associated with the lapping of longitudinal reinforcement in beam and column member end zones are discussed. A numerical model is validated by developing existing models in the literature capable of representing such behaviour and comparing with results obtained from quasi-static cyclic testing of a three storey RC frame. A case study structure designed using design provisions employed in Italy prior to the 1970's is then analysed via a series of dynamic analyses using ground motions representative of seismic hazard in Italy. An assessment of the structures is conducted at different return periods to determine the median storey drift and peak floor accelerations, as these demand parameters are typically used for refined performance assessment studies. For the considered structure, a number of cases are considered, where various modelling parameters are included or excluded to highlight the influence of each of these on the overall response of the structure. From this study, the importance of different numerical modelling decisions on the seismic assessment of pre-1970s' RC construction in Italy is highlighted and recommendations are provided for the modelling of phenomena critical to the seismic performance assessment process.

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