Performance-Based Seismic Evaluation of Reinforced Concrete Structures under Near-Fault and Long-Duration Earthquakes: Damage Control and Resilience Implications

Abstract

Performance-based seismic engineering (PBSE) has evolved to prioritize displacement control, damage limitation, and functional recovery over traditional force-based prescriptive approaches, particularly for reinforced concrete (RC) structures vulnerable to extreme ground motion characteristics. This study reviews the distinct hazards of near-fault ground motions (NFGMs), featuring velocity pulses, directivity effects, and fling-step permanent displacements, which impose impulsive, high-energy demands leading to early nonlinear response and potential collapse in RC moment-resisting frames (MRFs) and shear wall systems. In contrast, long-duration earthquakes (LDEs) from subduction zones cause cumulative cyclic fatigue, stiffness degradation, period elongation, and amplified damage under mainshock-aftershock sequences. Conventional code-based assessments (ASCE 41) often prove overly conservative or insufficient for these specialized demands, while probabilistic frameworks like FEMA P-58 better quantify consequences such as repair costs, downtime, and casualties. Advanced mitigation techniques, including seismic isolation, viscous dampers, buckling-restrained braces (BRBs), and rocking systems, offer enhanced drift control and re-centering capabilities, though challenges persist under pulse-like or prolonged shaking. The Park-Ang damage index effectively captures combined deformation and energy demands, with deformation dominating in NFGMs and energy in LDEs. Drawing on recent events and updated standards (ASCE 41-23), the paper emphasizes the shift toward "safe-to-fail" philosophies and resilience-based design targeting rapid recovery. Recommendations include mandatory incorporation of pulse-like records in hazard analysis, adoption of dual systems for superior performance, and integration of functional recovery metrics (REDi, Seismic Resilience Index) to achieve community-level resilience.