Probabilistic Performance Analysis of Existing Buildings under Earthquake Loading

Abstract

A probabilistic methodology is proposed for the seismic performance analysis of existing buildings using global metrics to determine if the behavior conforms to a given limit state. The referred performance metrics are the mean annual frequency of the limit state, the corresponding expected loss associated to the repair of the building, and the corresponding number and type of mechanisms that occur. The consideration of these assessment parameters to control building performance widens the scope of the limit state definitions proposed in current codes. Therefore, current limit state descriptions were updated to establish adequate risk- and cost-related limit state definitions using the Eurocode 8 Part 3 proposals as a basis for discussion. The description of the proposed procedure is detailed and addresses its applicability for different limit states and its ability to include the uncertainty in the limit state capacities. An application involving the performance analysis of a reinforced concrete structure for several limit states is also presented and discussed.

Keywords:

• Seismic Performance Assessment
• Risk Analysis
• Loss Assessment
• Existing Buildings
• Reinforced Concrete

Notes

^‡ For events with a very small probability of occurrence, the numerical values of the mean annual frequency of occurrence and of the probability of occurrence in one year are very close.