NUMERICAL ASSESSMENT OF MULTISTORY REINFORCED CONCRETE STRUCTURES WITH SOFT STORY

Abstract

The aim of this study is to make a numerical assessment and strengthening of multistory reinforced concrete structures with a soft-story subjected to seismic action. The numerical method used in this research is the Applied Element Method (AEM). The AEM is following a discrete crack approach in which partial/total collapse can be predicted. To validate the numerical tool, experimental work is carried out for two story frames with soft story. The experimental models include a bare frame model and a soft-story model then analytical model made with the same parameters and details. A numerical assessment and strengthening of 12 floors reinforced concrete structure with soft ground story is then carried out. Investigated strengthening methods rely on increasing the rigidity of the soft story through are adding concrete walls, masonry walls, or bracings. The minimum amount of those added structural elements is targeted. Also, new technique is used to prevent soft story collapse using walls with gaps and it is approved to be an economic way for this issue.