Probabilistic assessment for spectrally matched real ground motion records on distinct soil profiles by simulation of SDOF systems

Selection of appropriate ground motion records for dynamic analysis has uttermost importance since it significantly affects structural responses which are used for seismic performance assessment of buildings. This study focuses on probabilistic assessment of several record selection strategies that apply different level of constraints for spectrally matched real ground motion records. For this purpose, single degree of freedom (SDOF) systems with various lateral strength capacity ratios, vibration periods and hysteretic models were considered to cover broad type of structural systems and maximum displacement demands of SDOF systems were obtained by nonlinear dynamic analyses. Using the analysis results, central tendency of maximum displacement demands was evaluated. Confidence intervals of the demands were also estimated in probabilistic manner. In addition, non-exceedance probability curves of the displacement demands were constructed. Results indicate that using supplementary constraints about spectral matching, it is possible to control the variation of spectral accelerations and hence the variation of seismic displacement demands. In conclusion, displacement demands can be obtained for code- or probability-based design/performance assessment with appropriate selection approach considering desired variation which can be determined from either probabilistic or deterministic seismic hazard analysis.