NEESR-SG: Experimental Determination of Performance of Drift-Sensitive Nonstructural Systems under Seismic Loading

San Jose State University Foundation, San Jose CA

Investigators

Abstract

Abstract: . This project addresses critical needs for the earthquake engineering community in providing quantified values for the force-displacement relationships of non-structural building components systems including facades, plumbing and stairways. The data obtained from the project will allow building engineers to model performance of these systems in both existing and future building designs. Improved computer modeling tools will also be produced in the use of existing commercial software to simulate the response of these systems to seismic excitation. The use of damage-sensor systems on experimental assemblies will be evaluated with the goal of advancing structural health monitoring. Included in the performance of non-structural components will be a case study of the deconstruction of the components for both re-use and recycling of materials. A repair cost analysis of a prototype nine-story steel frame building will be made to develop a relationship between damage cost of non-structural components and peak drift a building experiences during an earthquake. A cyberinfrastructure component will allow practicing design engineers to incorporate NEES Repository test data directly into their engineering calculations with a user-friendly interface. This new link to the repository will allow design professionals to use the latest in engineering research in the design of new buildings and the evaluation of existing ones. The work developed will be valuable knowledge beyond the world of earthquake engineering. Performance of non-structural elements is critical in many types of extreme loading. Early career professionals, women and underrepresented minorities will be engaged in many aspects of the research and information for K-12 education will be developed.