Correlation between seismic damage index and structural performance for Indian code-conforming RC frame buildings

The susceptibility of Reinforced Concrete (RC) buildings to earthquake-induced damage is a critical concern, primarily attributed to their inadequate seismic performance. The existing earthquake-resistant design code of India prescribes guidelines to minimize seismic damage but does not provide any means for evaluating the actual seismic performance and damage. To ascertain the seismic performance of the structures quantitatively, it is crucial to classify damage into measurable damage states. Damage Index (DI) acts as an important tool for this purpose. Among various procedures for computation of DI, the modified Park and Ang Damage Index appears to be highly accurate. However, the major drawback of this method is that it is lengthy and time-consuming. On the other hand, structural performances can be evaluated using various performance parameters such as interstory drift ratio (IDR), inelastic deformation, etc., as described in FEMA-356 and ASCE-41 17. The present study explores the correlation between seismic DI and structural performance in RC frame buildings designed according to IS code. Sixteen building models, incorporating diverse configurations, are examined using nonlinear static and time history analyses. A simplified equation is developed by regression analysis to predict DI based on IDR, offering a computationally efficient alternative. Validation tests are done to confirm the equation's accuracy. Furthermore, a unified damage scale integrating DI and seismic performance is also proposed for seismic damage evaluation of buildings designed by IS code.