A computational tool for evaluation of seismic performance of reinforced concrete buildings

A special-purpose computational tool is developed to evaluate the inelastic seismic response of reinforced concrete buildings. A macromodel approach is used to analyze a discretized building composed of parallel frame-wall systems interconnected by transverse elements. The macro-behavioral models include the essential hysteretic characteristics of reinforced concrete sections and also account for the effects of distributed plasticity. All developments are incorporated into a computer code, IDARC. The program performs a series of tasks to enable a complete evaluation of the structural system: (a) monotonic analysis to establish the collapse mechanism and base shear capacity of the structure; (b) quasi-static cyclic analysis under force or deformation control; (c) transient dynamic analysis under horizontal and vertical seismic excitations; (d) reduction of the response quantities to damage indices so that a physical interpretation of the response is possible. The program is built around two graphical interfaces: one for preprocessing of structural and loading data; and the other for visualization of structural damage following the seismic analysis. The program can serve as an invaluable tool in estimating the seismic performance of existing reinforced concrete buildings and for designing new structures within acceptable levels of damage.