4. EC8-Compliant Seismic Analysis and Design Examples

This chapter presents three numerical benchmark example problems considering three different structures to illustrate the implementation of various clauses of Eurocode 8 (EC8) for the seismic design of ordinary reinforced concrete (r/c) buildings. Pertinent numerical input data and selected output data are reported in tabular form to facilitate the use of these example problems as tutorials for commercial seismic structural analysis and design software packages according to EC8. In particular, the first example problem involves undertaking EC8-compliant seismic analysis and deformation-based verification checks using both the lateral force and the modal response spectrum methods for a 5-storey dual r/c building with a single in-plan symmetry and with fixed support conditions. The outcomes from each analysis method are juxtaposed and compared. Further, the second example problem considers a 5-storey dual torsionally sensitive r/c building with fixed support conditions to perform seismic analysis using the modal response spectrum method along with post-analysis deformation-based verification checks. Finally, the third example considers a 4-storey dual r/c building with an r/c core and one underground storey (basement) resting on compliant soil. Emphasis is placed on the modelling of the box-type foundation, including pad and strip footings, and of the supporting ground using linear translational and rotational springs. The modal response spectrum method of analysis is used for the EC8-compliant design of the structure. Complete detailing and design verification checks according to Eurocode 2 and Eurocode 8, including capacity design rules, are presented in detail for selected r/c structural members, namely, for two beams, one column and a wall.