Flexibility based global element model for seismic analysis of RC frame structures

Abstract

The present paper briefly describes an element model, developed within the flexibility formulation context, for the analysis of reinforced concrete frame structures by recourse to oneto-one discretizations of each beam and column whose progressive stiffness modifications are taken into account. The flexibility formulation is particularly suitable for such a purpose and, together with a moment-curvature global section model and the adequate control of certain moving sections, it has allowed the development of a global element model, robust, efficient, economic and able to trace the evolution of the element state at each load step. The model application is also presented, reporting the seismic response simulation of a four storey full scale building experimentally tested by recourse to the pseudo-dynamic method, and some discussion is included concerning the model ability to describe distinct stages of the structural behaviour.