RC walls in Australia: seismic design and detailing to AS 1170.4 and AS 3600

Abstract

This paper reviews the current seismic design procedures for reinforced concrete buildings in Australia, with direct reference to the Australian earthquake loading code, AS 1170.4 and Australian concrete structures standard, AS 3600. The paper aims to clarify seismic design procedures to practising structural engineers and undergraduate students in Australia, whom have had little exposure to seismic design given the lower seismic nature of Australia. The paper begins with a brief history of seismic design in Australia, followed by an overview and discussion of the seismic performance objectives required by the National Construction Code (i.e. Building Code of Australia). Following, a comprehensive discussion of ductility factors for RC wall structures and associated detailed practices to comply with the ductility assumptions assumed when performing analysis procedures set out in AS 1170.4 is presented. The emphasis herein has been placed on issues with the detailing of RC wall structures, as these structures form the majority of low-, mid- and high-rise multi-storey buildings in Australia. Common detailing practices for RC walls that can significantly limit the seismic response are discussed and guidance for designers is presented. The paper is concluded by providing recommendations for the seismic design of RC wall structures in Australia.