Cost Evaluation of Seismic Load Resistant Structures Based on the Ductility Classes in Eurocode 8

Abstract: Most people do not associate Scandinavia with seismic activity and earthquakes; however, there is in fact seismic activity in the region. Although in comparison with southern Europe the return periods of earthquakes with large magnitudes are quite long, itis critical to consider earthquake impact when designing structures. Earthquake impact is difficult to predict, but building standards provide guidance to safely designstructures based on statistical and empirical data specific to regional conditions andcircumstances. Crucial for the final impact and response of a structure is not only theground acceleration, but also the ground type, which can amplify seismic vibrationsand ultimately cause unfortunate damage to the structural elements. Since 2010 Eurocode 8, the European standards for seismic design has been in effectfor building structures in Norway. The main difference with the application of thestandards in Norway compared to Southern Europe is the choice between elastic andductile design in some cases. Presumably, the same design regulations are applicablefor design of structures in Sweden, because parts of Sweden share similar conditionsas in Norway. This master thesis examines the results of selecting between elastic andductile design based on an arbitrary finite element model, and ultimately, presentsthe differences in cost efficiency in both quantitative and qualitative measures. In the arbitrary structure that is analyzed, the lateral bearing system contains a concrete wall shaft. In order to evaluate profitability, the cost development of reinforcement in the walls, is analyzed based on ground acceleration and ductility class. Thestudy ultimately implies a breaking point when structures in ductility class mediumare more cost efficient than structures in ductility class low and vice versa, with thecondition that the governing lateral force is the seismic vibration and that the normalized axial force is less than 15%