Probabilistic Evaluation of Effects of Column Moment Magnification Factor on Seismic Performance of Reinforced Concrete Frames

Enhancing column flexural capacity is the key measure in seismic capacity design to achieve strong column-weak beam failure mode and determinate the probabilistic relation between column moment magnification factor (CMMF). In the paper the effects of column moment magnification factor on seismic performance of reinforced concrete (RC) frames are evaluated to limit the occurrence probability of column-hinging failure modes within an acceptable tolerance. Monte Carlo simulation methodology is used to calculate the probability of drift demand exceeding drift capacity of two typical frame structures with consideration of major uncertainties. And fragility curves are constructed to obtain the relationship between CMMF and probability of structural damages and assess the seismic vulnerability of RC frame structures. Results show that the seismic performance of RC frame structures can be significantly enhanced by improving CMMF. The CMMF is required to be equal to or greater than 2.0 to achieve acceptable probability of exceedance of column-hinging failure mode.