Seismic Response of Reinforced Concrete Frame Buildings with Different Dissertation

Seismic Response of Reinforced Concrete Frame Buildings with Different Ductility Classes Using EC8 and EC2 - Dissertation Example The paper tells that over the years gradually there have been greater advancements in the various concrete structures and measures that can be applied for the construction of buildings. In the present times, thus, the strength theory is significantly considered in building constructions. Load factors have been found to be necessary for the determination of the concrete structures used for the construction purposes. The strength theory focuses on the ultimate strength design that makes use of inelastic strains thus distributing the stress of loads uniformly. The concept of reinforced concrete was first initiated in Japan during the 1950s. However in the initial times, the use of the RC buildings was not considered as significant, a situation that has modified in the present times. Considering natural calamities like the earthquake, it is essential that the constructed buildings are based on such materials that are capable of resisting such calamities. Ductility or robustness of the co ncrete structures plays a significant role in this regard. However obtaining the necessary concrete structures might require the application of advanced technologies that at times may be difficult for developing countries to achieve. Reinforced concrete materials are easily available as well as they are economical in nature. Its characteristic stiffness provides efficient support to the constructed buildings in situations of earthquakes. Damages, to a great extent, can be reduced through such measures. (Dowrick, 2009, p.367). Structural Eurocodes represent the technical rules needed to be followed while selection and construction of buildings. There are a number of such Eurocodes of which Eurocode 2 is associated with the design of the concrete structures and Eurocode 8 is associated with the provisions of design for earthquake resistance of structures (Beckett & Alexandrou, 1997, p.2). These Eurocodes are essential for the determination of the ductility of the concrete structures t hus enabling the buildings to be tolerant to earthquakes, which is a primary concern of the current study. Thus a general overview on the RC constructions reflect that it is necessary to involve such concrete structures in building constructions for the safety and protection of the buildings from earthquakes that also depend on the ductility of the structure. 1.2. Aim & Objectives: The primary aim of the current study is to learn about the seismic response of reinforced concrete frame buildings with different ductility classes using EC8 and EC2, these being the two of several forms of Eurocodes involved in construction of buildings. In order to conduct the above mentioned study, the following objectives have been set such that a detailed analysis and understanding may be achieved. The objectives are: To learn about the behavior of RC structures under a seismic load To conduct a seismic analysis of the RC structures using methods like the Equivalent Static Method, and Response Spectr um Method To enhance the analysis involving case studies on 4-storey- 3-bay RC buildings with different levels of ductility To conduct a design check on the structural elements of the constructed buildings To make some recommendations while concluding after the study and analysis 1.3. Methodology: The study involves a qualitative research based on secondary sources. Qualitative research techniques do not involve any numerical figures for the study but focuses on a detailed understanding of the concerned topic based on experiences and opinions of different individuals (Creswell, 2003, p.18). Secondary sources are referred to the sources that are not novel but are derived from studies conducted earlier by different authors or experimenters (Hamilton, 2005, p.4). The present study has focuses on secondary sour