Energy-based Design of Dissipative Bracing Systems for Seismic Retrofitting of RC Buildings

This study introduces an energy-based design approach for retrofitting existing reinforced concrete (RC) buildings through passive Energy Dissipative Bracing (EDB) systems. The proposed method is particularly suitable for low - to medium-rise buildings characterized by column-driven failure. It is grounded in the principle of optimizing strength distribution, facilitating a well-balanced damage distribution and energy dissipation throughout the structure to prevent concentration at any single storey. The efficacy of this method is assessed through non-linear dynamic analyses conducted on three reinforced concrete frames originally designed using outdated codes. Furthermore, a comparative analysis is carried out, comparing the results obtained from the proposed approach with those derived from two alternative procedures from the existing literature..