Determination of optimal probabilistic seismic demand models for pile-supported wharves

Abstract

One of the basic components of the Performance-Based Earthquake Engineering (PBEE) framework of Pacific Earthquake Engineering Research (PEER) Center is the probabilistic seismic demand model (PSDM). PSDM is based upon a representative relation between ground motion intensity measures (IMs) and engineering demand parameters (EDPs). This research aims to develop an optimal PSDM for typical pile-supported wharf structures in western US ports by using probabilistic seismic demand analysis (PSDA). In this study, 4 bins with 20 non-near-field ground motions and 7 typical pile-supported wharf structures are used to determine an optimal PSDM by PSDA. The model geometry used in this study has a hybrid configuration incorporating many common field conditions. The optimal PSDM should be practical, sufficient, effective and efficient – all tested through several IM–EDP pairs derived by PSDA. The ground motion IMs used in this study include characteristics such as spectral quantities, duration, energy-related quantities and frequency content. Different EDPs are considered for local, intermediate and global response quantities. The considered optimal PSDM comprises a spectral IM, such as spectral acceleration and one of several EDPs. The EDPs of moment curvature ductility factor, displacement ductility factor and horizontal displacement of embankment and differential settlement between deck and behind land are considered for local, intermediate and global response quantities, respectively. Optimal PSDMs are used within PEER–PBEE framework, where they are coupled with both ground motion intensity and structural element fragility models to yield probabilities of exceeding structural performance levels under certain seismic hazard.