Review of Approaches for Analysing Secondary Structures in Earthquakes and Evaluation of Floor Response Spectrum Approach

Abstract

Secondary structures are the members that are not part of the primary load-bearing components in a structural system. Although not intended to bear loads, secondary structures could be subjected to earthquake loading that may lead to failures. Damage to secondary structures could pose significant threats to life safety, prevent buildings from functioning and result in major economic loss. During past decades, a considerable amount of research efforts has been dedicated to develop rational approaches for seismic analysis of secondary structures. This paper aimed to assess these developments to today's knowledge as a reference for more accurate design. The review began with a brief description of the response characteristics of secondary structure under seismic loading, especially focusing on the factors that influence the responses. An appraisal of current numerical and experimental analysis methods of secondary structure is presented. Results from experimental work are used to validate the reliability of floor response spectrum and current design provision. Finally, an outlook of future possible research direction for more realistic design of secondary structures is given.