Reliability-based seismic retrofitting design methodology for non-ductile reinforced concrete frame structures

Abstract

This study presents a comprehensive, reliability-based seismic retrofitting design methodology specifically tailored for non-ductile reinforced concrete frame structures. By leveraging the Performance-Based Earthquake Engineering (PBEE) framework, traditionally used for the seismic safety assessment of existing structures (e.g., buildings, bridges) and the seismic evaluation & design of new ones, this research extends its innovative application to the seismic retrofitting of older, non-code-compliant structures. The proposed methodology introduces a cost-effective approach that balances seismic performance, quantified by the Mean Return Period (MRP) of limit state exceedances, against retrofit costs.