Ricerc@Sapienza

The research investigates the benefits associated to the application of highperformance hybrid rocking connections for tall buildings. A comparison between conventional (cast-in-situ) monolithic system and a low-damage rocking dissipative system (PRESSS technology) has been carried out in terms of seismic performance and post-earthquake economic losses. The case study building consisted of an 18-storeys tower with a dual structural system designed for high seismic demand.

Non-structural components are typically not designed for seismic loads, nevertheless their response can significantly affect the building functionality after earthquakes, even for low-intensity events. The poor performance of non-structural elements can result in substantial economic losses and business interruption. Consequently, damage of these components has severe impact in the post-earthquake building recovery in addition to the potential risk to life safety.

The current seismic design inherently accepts high post-earthquake damages to both structural and non-structural components and very high post-earthquake economic losses are expected. Therefore, in the last decades research moved towards a damage-control concept to develop innovative systems for building elements with high seismic performance and low post-earthquake damage, thus resulting into reduced repair costs and business interruption.