Comparative Study Between Moment-Resisting Structure Using Performance-Based Method and Isolated Structure in School Building

It has become a consensus in most countries that higher seismic fortification goals should be applied for school buildings than that for residential buildings and typical apartments. Newly issued Chinese seismic regulations and specifications require that in the same seismic areas, the goal for school buildings is “normal use after moderate earthquakes”. To realize the goal for school buildings, both of two design schemes: moment-resisting frame using a performance-based seismic design method and isolated structure, can be adopted in theory. However, it is unknown about the efficiency and economy of the two methods in practice. This paper designed school buildings using performance-based seismic design method and vibration isolation design method. The response spectrum approach and nonlinear time history analysis using ETABS software were conducted. The seismic performance and construction cost were analyzed. The results show that both of the two design methods are effective ways to realize the high design goal. The seismic isolation technology is more effective and economical in high seismic hazard zones for school buildings. The isolation interface extends natural periods of the isolated structure, and reduces both the static and dynamic responses of the superstructure. Additionally, the excavation of the isolation interface can increase the whole construction cost slightly.