Seismic resilience comparison of CFST frame and HSS frame structures: An assessment based on economic and carbon emission indicators

This study presents a comparative seismic resilience assessment of concrete-filled steel tubular (CFST) frame structures and hollow structural steel (HSS) frame structures, focusing on economic and environmental aspects. Two comparable 9-story frame structures are designed: one with CFST columns and H-beams, the other with HSS columns and H-beams. The seismic resilience assessment is performed, incorporating hazard, structural, damage, and consequence analyses. In the structural analysis, the seismic performance of different structural systems is evaluated by employing the state-of-the-art numerical models. In consequence analysis, in addition to considering economic indicator, carbon emissions are also estimated using repair cost ratios and localized carbon emission factors in China. The findings reveal that under frequent and basis ground motions, CFST and HSS frames exhibit similar structural response, while CFST frames demonstrate lower collapse probabilities in rare and vary rare earthquake scenarios due to the concrete-filled tubes' ability to suppress buckling. Despite this, CFST columns may have less ductility than HSS columns, potentially leading to greater post-earthquake consequences. The life cycle seismic consequences evaluations indicate that CFST frame has less economic loss but higher carbon emissions. Overall, the CFST frame presents advantages in both economic and environmental aspects when initial costs and life cycle seismic consequences are combined. This study offers insights into the benefits and limitations of both the CFST column and HSS column in frame structures from the economic and environmental perspectives, offering a basis for sustainable and resilient structural design.