72776 - Building In Seismic Areas M

Learning outcomes

By obtaining the training credits, the student knows the problems related to the design of structures in seismic areas, with particular reference to elements of seismology, linear and non-linear calculation methods, design criteria for reinforced concrete structures, masonry structures, structural foundations, and an introduction to seismic isolation.

Course contents

References to the basics of seismology

Causes of earthquakes. Hypocenter, magnitude, intensity, energy, and their correlations. Types and characteristics of seismic waves. Seismic wave speed, propagation laws. Measurement of seismic waves. Seismographs. Seismic zoning and microzonation.

References to the dynamics of structures

Simple oscillator. Free and forced oscillations with and without damping (harmonic, periodic, and generic forces). Duhamel integral. Simple oscillator with displacement imposed on the base. Response of a simple oscillator to an earthquake. Response spectrum (acceleration, velocity, displacement). Elastic structural systems with multiple degrees of freedom and concentrated masses. Free vibrations. Principal coordinates, decoupling of the equations of motion, modal analysis, numerical techniques. Response of a structural system to an earthquake. Participation coefficient. Criteria for determining the states of stress and deformation. Methods of numerical integration of the equations of motion. Observations on damping. Dynamics of continuous systems: free vibrations and response to an earthquake. Dynamic and seismic analysis of bending deformable cantilever beams and shear deformable cantilever beams. Analogies with buildings.

Seismic analysis of buildings with static criteria

Informing criteria and requirements of current codes. Planar structural systems: distribution of horizontal actions. Elements with similar deformability. Walls with holes: Rosman-Beck solution and simplified solution. Flexural and shear deformable elements. Associated walls and frames. Equivalent cantilever beam. Stiffening spatial systems: elements with similar deformability, general continuous solution, general discrete solution.

Dynamic analysis of spatial systems.

Seismic response of structures with nonlinear behavior.

Ductility of a section and a structural element for monotonic and cyclic actions. Plastic hinge. Simple oscillator with elastic-plastic behavior under seismic action. Nonlinear response spectra: definition of the design level. Structural behavior coefficient: definition and evaluation methods. Controlled ductility design. Systems with many degrees of freedom: general calculation procedures for seismic action. Italian and foreign codes (in particular Eurocode n. 8). Single degree of freedom structures: measurement of ductility. Systems with multiple degrees of freedom: measurement of ductility.

Structure design criteria by type and construction details.

Reinforced concrete structures: frames, walls, panel structures. Steel structures. Eccentric bracings. Prefabricated structures.

Masonry constructions

Models of the building behavior. Methods for determining the mechanical characteristics of masonry. Calculation criteria for a masonry element, a wall, and a complete building. Codes on masonry constructions. Frames with masonry infills.

Examples of design in seismic areas.

Examination of projects.

Restoration, improvement, and seismic adaptation of existing constructions.

Criteria for the seismic adaptation of the most common structural and construction typologies. Earthquake damage repair techniques.

Soil-structure interaction in seismic areas

General criteria for the study of the interaction. Shallow and deep foundations. The liquefaction of soil. Seismic actions against soil retaining walls.

Advanced techniques for seismic protection of constructions.

Criteria, techniques, and methods for the design of structures equipped with seismic isolation and dissipation systems.

Special structures in seismic areas.

Silos and tanks.

Development of a project for structures in seismic areas.

Teaching methods

The course of Building in seismic areas is taught with lectures carried out by the course holder using partly computerized supports (projection of slides) and partly with the use of the blackboard to better follow the training path.

The topics covered during the lessons are reported with demonstrations and examples in order to clarify the elements and concepts that underlie the design. The regulatory references for design are also reported with reference to both Italian and international standards such as the Eurocodes. Examples are given during the lessons to highlight the methods and the modalities for carrying out projects in seismic areas. The design of a simple structure is also required in order to be introduced to design practice after having assimilated the theoretical assumptions.

Assessment methods

The learning assessment methods consist of a final oral exam during which the topics covered during the lessons are discussed.

The periodic contacts established with the students in the development of their project are also part of the learning assessments; in these meetings, what they have done and their ability to evaluate and study the proposed project themes are assessed.

Teaching tools

Tutor for the development of the project

Office hours

See the website of Luca Landi

See the website of Pier Paolo Diotallevi