On the Applicability of Conventional Seismic Design Methodologies to Hybrid RC-Steel Systems

This paper addresses the application of conventional (force-based) seismic design methodologies to hybrid RC-steel systems. The q-factor-based EC8-3 assessment procedure is first reviewed. A case-study follows, analyzing and discussing difficulties a practitioner will face when assessing efficiency steel-brace retrofitting system designed within framework EC8-1. Afterward, performance obtained retrofitted structure evaluated using nonlinear analysis. results are discussed in light requirements, conclusions drawn about adequacy force-based (FBD) methodology (and associated q-factors) for such situations. study shows that process does not ensure adequate behavior structures. It thus calls development an effective performance-based explicitly considers interaction between two structural systems (RC steel braces), namely influence braces’ resistance on deformation capacity RC members.