Numerical simulation and analysis for collapse responses of RC frame structures under earthquake

In this paper, a discrete element model for collapse simulation of RC frame structure is constructed by discretizing the structure into a few elements and spring groups. This model introduces special hysteretic models of connected springs for arbitrary loading path and also takes into account reasonable failure criteria for springs considering coupling effect of shear and axial force. Based on the discrete element model, a computer program is developed to simulate the whole process of RC frame structures from initial state to collapse under earthquakes. Particularly, the contact-impact problem between discrete elements has been treated with effective measures. Then, the program is employed to study the collapse mechanism of a real building in Wenchuan earthquake-hit area; the result of which shows that the simulation program developed based on the new model can realistically simulate the seismic collapse process of RC frame structures. © Higher Education Press and Springer-Verlag 2009.