Material Property Uncertainties versus Joint Structural Detailing: Relative Effect on the Seismic Fragility of Reinforced Concrete Frames

This paper investigates the relative effect of material properties and structural details in joint panels on seismic fragility existing reinforced concrete (RC) frames. Five building classes with different (particularly panels) characteristics are defined according to past design codes, for a three-story six-story archetype geometry. Based nonlinear static or dynamic analysis procedures, results from study show that considered structures is negligible damage states involving an essentially elastic behavior. Conversely, it much higher life-safety near-collapse states, considerably than due materials. Therefore, diagnosis phase, emphasis should be given on-site investigations actual reinforcement content/layout rather invasive testing. The uncertainty related described here practically exterior, interior, panels. Cover removal one those joints may potentially eliminate this specific uncertainty. As practical action, situ testing RC frames involve cover at least exterior panel regardless required target “level knowledge” structure.