Examination of code performance limits for shear walls

Abstract

Recently proposed changes to modeling and acceptance criteria in seismic regulations for both flexure and shear dominated reinforced concrete structural walls suggest that a comprehensive examination is required for improved limit state definitions and their corresponding values. This study utilizes a well calibrated modeling tool to investigate the deformation measures defined in terms of plastic rotations and local concrete and steel strains at the extreme fiber of rectangular structural walls. We compare requirements in ASCE/SEI 41, Eurocode 8 and the Turkish Seismic Code. This way, a critical evaluation of the requirements embedded in these documents becomes possible. It is concluded that the performance limits must be refined by introducing additional parameters. Significant recommendations are provided for Eurocode 8 and the Turkish Seismic Code.