Optimizing Retrofit Strategies for RC Frames through Combined Techniques

Abstract

Over the past twenty years, researchers have directed their efforts towards enhancing the earthquake resistance of
concrete frames through repair and retrofitting. Two main approaches have emerged for bolstering the seismic
resilience of previously intact structures prior to earthquake exposure. The first involves augmenting the existing
structure with additional components like steel bracing, while the second entails reinforcing specific structural
elements, such as employing steel cages. Seismic response analyses have been conducted on multi-story reinforced
concrete (RC) frames originally designed without seismic considerations. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of
retrofitting techniques by comparing the outcomes of employing steel braces, steel cages, and their combinations. The
seismic performance is evaluated according to the RPA 2003 seismic code for Algeria, following the latest guidelines.
Static nonlinear analysis was utilized to compare the seismic responses of existing non-ductile RC frames under various
retrofitting schemes.