Advances in Computational Simulation of Gravity-Induced Disproportionate Collapse of RC Frame Buildings

Abstract

Current methods and practices for modeling and numerical simulation of disproportionate collapse of reinforced concrete (RC) frame buildings are reviewed. Modeling advances at the component, connection, and system levels for large-deformation analyses and the consideration of relevant failure modes are summarized. However, the review excludes advances in meso and micro-scale approaches for explicitly modeling material failure. The advances discussed in the paper focus primarily on the alternate path method, in which collapse resistance is assessed by the ability of systems to find alternate load paths following the sudden loss of a structural member. Experimental and field testing of components, frames, and complete building systems are examined within the context of facilitating model validation. Finally, some recent developments in robustness assessment of buildings against disproportionate collapse are presented. The paper concludes with a list of unresolved issues and needed developments to enable accurate simulation of disproportionate collapse of RC frame structures.