Analysis of Ground Motion Intensity Measures and Selection Techniques for Estimating Building Response

Abstract

The structural response of buildings to earthquake shaking is of critical importance for seismic design purposes. Research on the relationship between earthquake ground motion intensity, building response, and seismic risk is ongoing, but not yet fully conclusive. Often, probability demand models rely on one ground motion intensity measure (IM) to predict the engineering demand parameter (EDP). The engineering community has suggested several IMs to account for different ground motion characteristics, but there is no single optimal IM. For this study, we compile a comprehensive list of IMs and their characteristics to assist engineers in making an informed decision. We discuss the ground motion selection process used for dynamic analysis of structural systems. For illustration, we compute building responses of 2D frames with different natural period subjected to more than 3500 recorded earthquake ground motions. Using our analysis, we examine the effects of different structural characteristics and seismological parameters on EDP-IM relationships by applying multi-regression models and statistical inter-model comparisons. As such, our results support and augment previous studies and suggest further improvements on the relationship between EDP and IM in terms of efficiency and sufficiency. Finally, we provide guidance on future approaches to the selection of both optimal intensity measures and ground motions using newer techniques.

Empirical Fragility Analysis of Haitian Reinforced Concrete and Masonry Buildings

“…PGA was the intensity measure utilized for developing fragility curves. Buildings in the survey range from one to four stories, thus having their fundamental period approximately between 0.1 s and 0.4 s. For that range of short period structures, PGA correlates better with the demand than other intensity measure such as the PGV or the peak ground displacement (PGD) [47]. Figure 8 shows the PGA contours and the damages throughout Haiti's southern and eastern areas, as a result of the earthquake on 14 August 2021.…”

Special Issue on Geotechnical Engineering Hazards

“…Seismic hazards are a major concern in geotechnical engineering, and six papers in this issue focus on this topic. Paper [1] analyzes ground motion intensity measures and selection techniques for estimating building response. Paper [2] assesses the seismic liquefaction risk of a saturated-calcareous-sand site in a port project in Timor-Leste, while paper [3] examines active deformation patterns in the Northern Birjand Mountains of the Sistan Suture Zone in Iran.…”