Impact of seismic design criteria on progressive collapse investigation

Abstract

Structural excitation due to seismic forces is different from that associated with progressive collapse. This is due primarily to the difference in direction and mode of application of these two different forces. Nonetheless, there is evidence suggesting that a structure designed and reinforced to resist significant seismic forces is likely to perform well if instead of a seismic event, it is progressive collapse that excites the structural response. Therefore, progressive collapse design specifications should benefit from the extensive research on seismic design. If seismic research knowledge is adopted, many modelling parameters such as designation of component action as force-controlled and/or deformation-controlled and estimation of element capacity need not be different if structural response is caused by progressive collapse or by seismic response. Furthermore, analysis methods, characterization of material response, and acceptance criteria for structural elements, employed seismic analysis can also be adapted for use in progressive collapse investigations. The purpose of this paper is to explore how seismic design research and provisions are affecting the way in which progressive collapse design standards are emerging.

Keywords: Ductility, Life Safety, Progressive Collapse, Seismic, Structural Analysis