Seismic retrofitting of steel and concrete structures using low-yield strength shear panels

Abstract

The paper addresses the problem of seismic retrofitting of existing concrete structures through an innovative methodology based on low yield strength metal shear panels. These panels are introduced in specific places of existing RC frames enhancing both the strength and the stiffness of the base structure. However, the most important improvement concerns the energy dissipation capacity of the retrofitted structure. The paper presents the design methodology which takes place within the performance based design framework and details for the practical application of the intervention strategy. Nonlinear finite element models are used in order to verify the reliability of the results obtained from simpler models used in everyday engineering practice. © 2005 Taylor & Francis Group.