Abstract | A risk-consistent approach is proposed for the evaluation of behaviour factors that are compatible with Eurocode 8 using nonlinear static and dynamic analysis. The proposed process comprises seven discrete steps, involving hazard assessment and record selection at multiple sites, designing and modelling multiple archetype buildings and assessing their performance vis-à-vis target safety objectives. In all cases, uncertainty is incorporated and propagated to the final results whereby a flexible verification procedure is offered to account for the confidence of the investigator on the data available. The value added goes beyond the current state of art, offering a consistent risk basis for the seismic design of different systems that is compatible with current uniform hazard design spectra and future risk-targeted hazard maps.

Abstract | A risk-consistent approach is proposed for the evaluation of behaviour factors that are compatible with Eurocode 8 using nonlinear static and dynamic analysis. The proposed process comprises seven discrete steps, involving hazard assessment and record selection at multiple sites, designing and modelling multiple archetype buildings and assessing their performance vis-à-vis target safety objectives. In all cases, uncertainty is incorporated and propagated to the final results whereby a flexible verification procedure is offered to account for the confidence of the investigator on the data available. The value added goes beyond the current state of art, offering a consistent risk basis for the seismic design of different systems that is compatible with current uniform hazard design spectra and future risk-targeted hazard maps.

Abstract | A case study example is presented to support a methodology that evaluates the design behaviour-factor on a risk-basis, using the code-compatible performance targets for life safety and global collapse. The case study employs a 6-storey concentrically braced frame with a detailed physics-based representation of braces. Nonlinear static analysis is conducted to provide an estimate of overstrength and an approximation of the behaviour-factor. Incremental Dynamic Analysis is subsequently performed to obtain a refined representation of response throughout the desired range of seismic intensity. Besides the widely-adopted first-mode spectral acceleration, state-of-the-art intensity measures such as the so-called average spectral acceleration, are used to illustrate the severity of the ground motions considered. The dynamic analysis results for the considered modes of failure are conveniently summarised into fragility functions, which are further convoluted with the seismic hazard function in order to derive the associated mean annual frequency of exceedance. A comparison among the derived and the allowable mean annual frequencies determines the applicability of the behaviour factor for the structure examined, showing that EN1998-compatible factors may accurately be evaluated.