Seismic performance and expected economic losses of dual MRF RC buildings with buckling-restrained braces using FEMA P-58

Abstract

This research aims to evaluate the seismic performance of reinforced concrete buildings located on different types of soil in Mexico City, in terms of expected economic losses. The models are based on moment-resisting frames and are alternatively equipped with buckling-restrained braces. Nonlinear dynamic analyses are performed for different levels of seismic intensity with the objective of obtaining structural response parameters such as interstory drifts and floor accelerations. Finally, the seismic performance of the buildings is evaluated using the second generation of performance-based seismic design methodologies, which, through a probabilistic method and using parameters such as structural response, building characteristics, and seismic hazard, allows for obtaining results in terms of expected annual losses (EAL) and performing a cost-benefit analysis. This analysis demonstrated the benefits of using buckling-restrained braces, as they presented lower EAL and life-cycle costs compared to traditional models, mainly in the models located on soft soil, where the model equipped with buckling-restrained braces proved to be 20 % more cost-effective, while in contrast, the stiff soil condition was inefficient, resulting in a 12 % higher cost.