SEISMIC RESPONSE CONTROL OF REINFORCED CONCRETE (RC) BUILDINGS USING FLUID VISCOUS DAMPERS

Abstract

Effective seismic response control is crucial for protecting reinforced concrete (RC) buildings against the destructive forces of earthquakes. This research project focuses on investigating the efficiency of fluid viscous dampers (FVDs) in enhancing the seismic performance of RC buildings. This study is vital to meet the increased seismic demands making buildings vulnerable to major seismic events. The study also explores the implementation of dampers in the phenomenon of seismic pounding. The research methodology involved designing an RC building according to relevant design codes and guidelines, followed by conducting time history analysis using various earthquake records of varying intensities. The initial analysis served as a baseline, simulating the building's response without any seismic control measures. Subsequently, FVDs were strategically incorporated into the building's lateral force-resisting system, and the model was re-analyzed under the same earthquake excitations. Comparative analysis of the two scenarios revealed significant enhancements in the seismic performance of the building when FVDs were implemented. The inclusion of FVDs effectively dissipated seismic energy, resulting in reduced acceleration, base shear, displacement, and inter-story drift demands caused by seismic loads. The effectiveness of FVDs is also demonstrated through modelling a building case undergoing seismic pounding. These findings highlight the vital role of FVDs in mitigating structural damage and improving occupant safety during seismic events. This study contributes valuable insights to the field of earthquake engineering, particularly regarding the effectiveness of FVDs as seismic response control devices. The outcomes emphasize the importance of considering passive control systems like FVDs in the design and retrofitting of RC buildings, especially in regions prone to seismic activities.