Nonlinear Structural Response Variability Induced by Random Spectral Peak and Valley
Response spectra used for seismic response evaluation are generally characterized by smooth shapes derived from ground motion prediction equations as a function of earthquake magnitude and distance. However, recorded earthquake ground motions exhibit peak and valley variations in response spectra, and this study investigated the effects of these characteristics on the nonlinear response of structures. To define the peak and valley variations in the spectrum, a smooth reference spectrum is required. For this purpose, a reference spectrum based on the design spectrum shape was derived for each ground motion spectrum. The variability of the structural response was evaluated for smooth input response spectra and response spectra with peak and valley characteristics, while varying the natural period and ductile behavior of the structure. The results showed that the peak and valley characteristics amplify the variability of the nonlinear response of structures. In addition, this variability was found to differ depending on whether the analysis was performed using the static capacity spectrum method or nonlinear dynamic analysis. Based on the results, the effects of the spectral peak and valley on the nonlinear response were discussed according to the analysis method.