Investigating the behaviour factor and seismic response of structural wall systems in low- to medium-rise buildings when soil-structure interaction is considered

Practicing engineers typically follow linear methods for seismic design and assessment, confining their approach to the requirements of SANS 10160-4 (SANS 2017). This generally leads a conservative design, leaving little space apply additional tools refinement. Soil-structure interaction has beneficial effects most building structures under action. However, incorporating soil-structure in analysis influences fundamental period, damping ductility, will therefore influence behaviour factor prescribed by codes. The is necessary (force-based methods) predict nonlinear structure. investigation assessed current reinforced concrete walls low- medium-rise buildings, as 2017), when incorporated analysis. buildings were initially designed detailed using methods, with factor, then tested that do not require use factor.