Seismic Response of Adjacent Buildings with Similar or Different Dynamic Characteristics

Abstract

The seismic response of adjacent buildings in series, having similar or different dynamic characteristics, is studied using SDOF systems subjected to a base motion. The phase difference (due to travelling seismic waves) in the starting times of excitation of adjacent structures is taken into account, as well as the changes on response quantities due to pounding. A parametric study is carried out to investigate the influence of the main parameters of the problem. The analysis indicated an increased response of the end structures, as well as of the most rigid structures in the series. The critical problem of the required width of seismic joint to minimise the effect of pounding was studied and found to lie well below that recommended by some modern seismic codes.