Learning objectives
The aim of this course is to present the fundamental tools for evaluating the response of a structure submitted to dynamic loads and to provide the scientific and technical knowledge for the design of structures for earthquake resistance.
Prerequisites
It is useful the theoretical knowledge of the calculation of internal actions in frame buildings subjected to static and dynamic actions with calculation methods, either manual or numeric (it is believed that this knowledge can be gained in Module A of the same course).
Course unit content
1 Code prescriptions.
2 Preliminary concepts of seismology. 2.1 – Seismology applied to civili engineering. 2.2 – Seismic zones.
3 Seismic action. 3.1 – Response spectrum. 3.2 – Combination of the seismic action with other actions.
4 Characteristics of earthquake resistant buildings. 4.1 – Basic principles. 4.2 – Criteria for structural regularity.
5 Structural analisys. 5.1 - Modelling. 5.3 –Methods of linear and non linear analysis of structures.
6 Design of reinforced concrete buildings. 6.1 – Design concepts. 6.2 - Materials. 6.3 –Structural types. 6.4 –Design criteria. 6.5 –Design and detailing of primary and secondary seismic elements.
7 Design of precast concrete structures. 7.1 - Structural types. 7.2 –Connections of precast elements.
8 Design of steel structures. 8.1 – Design concepts. 8.2 – Materials. 8.3 - Structural types.
9. Design of masonry structures. 9.1 – Materials. 9.2 – Structural types. 9.3 – Structural analysis.
9.4 –Rules for “simple masonry buildings”.
10 Structural modelling for finite element analysis of structures.
Full programme
• Preliminary concepts of civil engineering seismology and methods of measurement of seismic motion;
• Spectral response analysis: example of static and dynamic analysis for 2D frames;
• Ductility, criteria for structural regularity and behaviour factors;
• Capacity design approach;
• Combination of the seismic action with other actions, limit state verifications;
• Design and detailing of reinforced concrete frames;
• Modelling of reinforced concrete frames through finite element codes;
• Design and detailing of reinforced concrete wall systems;
• Design and verification of foundations and diaphragms;
• Existing reinforced concrete buildings: push-over analysis (theory and applications);
• Design and detailing of steel moment resisting frames;
• Design and detailing of steel frames with bracings;
• Seismic behaviour of masonry structures;
• Design and detailing of masonry buildings: theory and applications;
• Out-of-plane failure mechanisms in masonry buildings: theory and applications;
• Specific issues for existing and historical masonry buildings;
• Characterization of soil mechanics and verifications of foundations and soil;
• Design and detailing of reinforced concrete precast buildings;
• Retrofitting techniques for existing precast buildings;
• Current codes and calculation reports in compliance with national and regional norms;
Bibliography
T.PAULAY, M.J.N. PRIESTLEY, "Seismic Design of Reinforced Concrete and Masonry Buildings", John Wiley & Sons, INC.
CASTELLANI A. e FACCIOLI, E. “Costruzioni in Zona Sismica”, HOEPLI Ed, 2004
CHOPRA, A.K., “Dynamics of Structures”, Prentice-Hall International Series in Civil Engineering and Engineering Mechanics.
GHERSI, A. e LENZA P., Edifici antisismici in cemento armato, DARIO FLACCOVIO EDITORE, 2010.
Teaching methods
Theory supported by exercises.
Assessment methods and criteria
The students have to design a building made of reinforced concrete, steel or masonry. The examination consists into the design discussion and into an oral examination where the knowledge of the course topics will be checked.
Other information
It is strongly recommended to attend lessons.
