Effect of adding a CLT storey on the seismic vulnerability of an existing reinforced concrete 10 storeys building

Abstract

This article presents results found when performing both a lateral forces analysis and a spectral modal analysis on a 10 storeys reinforced concrete building situated in a seismic zone that was upgraded by adding a light CLT storey. The objective of the study is to quantify the effect of such upgrade on the seismic vulnerability of the structure. To achieve that, the fundamental frequencies and periods of the existing and modified building were compared in addition to the distribution of forces in the different floors, the shear, normal force and moment at the base of the structure. Furthermore, lateral displacements of the different floors were quantified in order to assess the impact that a light floor addition could have on earthquake induced pounding between adjacent buildings.