Evaluation of Seismic Performance of Reinforced Concrete Frames

Abstract

Experimental results from a series of earthquake simulations on a one‐quarter scale model of a moment‐resisting reinforced concrete frame are presented. Using the test results, some of the U.S. seismic design provisions are examined. It is observed that even though drift capacity was amply provided, the magnitude of drift was not adequately anticipated by the design process. Moreover, the structure was several times stronger than required by the code design forces. The contributions of floor slab, actual material strengths, and detailing requirements are identified as the significant sources of overstrength. The effect of these parameters on the overall performance is evaluated.