In the last years with the fast progress in data processing and computer technology a new concepts for numerical modeling of R/C structures under seismic excitations have been developed. With achievements of modem computer technology it is possible to simulate the nonlinear behaviour of R/C elements under seismic loading using very complex material models and effective numerical algorithms.

The main purpose of this paper is to present a computer aided methodology for numerical analysis of R/C frames subjected to strong ground motions. Most modem codes concerning seismic resistant design allow the dissipation of input energy of earthquakes through inelastic deformation in critical regions. The study of the nonlinear structural behaviour from an analytical and an experimental standpoint becomes very important. Experimental dynamic analysis however is very expensive and presents practical problems. In fact the numerical analysis of structural response can provide very useful information on seismic design actions and on design criteria which ensure the overall satisfactory behaviour of structural elements during strong earthquakes. In this paper the inelastic response of reinforced concrete plane frames is studied from an analytical point of view. Two main different problems are discussed, namely the modeling of elements and the development of efficient numerical techniques in nonlinear dynamic analysis.

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