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This thesis investigates the performance of cold formed steel framed domestic structures subjected to earthquake loads. These structures generally include one and two storey houses, comprising steel wall framing, exterior veneer cladding and internal lining. The dynamic, non-linear performance of such structures during earthquakes is simplified to static linear behaviour for design purposes using the structural response modification factor, Rµ. This factor is defined as the product of the structural ductility reduction factor, Rµ, and the over-strength of the system, Ω. This thesis develops a rigorous technique for the determination of Rµ and the application of this technique is demonstrated for a proprietary framing system. This is achieved using novel non-linear, transient dynamic finite element models of these structures subjected to earthquake loads. The model parameters are estimated from unique experiments conducted on representative structures using a shaking table. It is shown that the framing system considered is non-ductile (ie Rµ≈1). This result directly contradicts the assumed ductile behaviour of these framing systems as specified in the Australian earthquake loading standard, AS 1170.4. The significance of this is that current design practices are unconservative and therefore underestimate the earthquake loads on these structures.

Current codes of practice for the design of tall concrete chimneys provide conservative aseismic design guidelines in high seismic regions. A lack of experimental data related to the cyclic behaviour of chimney structures to severe earthquake excitation has resulted in the assumption that such structures are brittle and must be designed in the elastic range. This design approach results in expensive structures and is not consistent with the design philosophy commonly adopted for general structure which permits some inelastic response at the ultimate limit state event. A research program funded by the CICIND organisation has been undertaken to investigate the inelastic cyclic behaviour of tall reinforce concrete chimneys using both experimental and analytical techniques to determine whether the behaviour is brittle or ductile. The research has been divided into three parts; (a) overview of earthquake ground motions, review of the earthquake response of structures and review of chimney design code provisions, (b) detailed description of experimental research examining the cyclic behaviour of chimney sections and (c) development of an aseismic design and analysis procedure for reinforced concrete chimneys including code recommendations. (For complete synopsis open document)

Thesis (M.S.)--University of Missouri-Columbia, 2007. / The entire dissertation/thesis text is included in the research.pdf file; the official abstract appears in the short.pdf file (which also appears in the research.pdf); a non-technical general description, or public abstract, appears in the public.pdf file. Title from title screen of research.pdf file (viewed on April 1, 2008) Includes bibliographical references.

Thesis (M.S.)--University of Nevada, Reno, 2006. / "December, 2006." Includes bibliographical references (leaves 88-91). Online version available on the World Wide Web. Library also has microfilm. Ann Arbor, Mich. : ProQuest Information and Learning Company, [2006]. 1 microfilm reel ; 35 mm.