Earthquake-induced collapse simulation of a super-tall mega-braced frame-core tube building

Research on earthquake-induced collapse simulation has a great practical significance for super-tall buildings. Although mega-braced frame-core tube buildings are one of the common high-rise structural systems in high seismic intensity regions, the failure mode and collapse mechanism of such a building under earthquake events are rarely studied. This paper thus aims to investigate the collapse behavior of a super-tall mega-braced frame-core tube building (H = 550 m) to be built in China in the high risk seismic zone with the maximum spectral acceleration of 0.9 g (g represents the gravity acceleration). A finite element (FE) model of this building is constructed based on the fiber-beam and multi-layer shell models. The dynamic characteristics of the building are analyzed and the earthquake-induced collapse simulation is performed. Finally, the failure mode and mechanism of earthquake-induced collapse are discussed in some detail. This study will serve as a reference for the collapse-resistance design of super-tall buildings of similar type.

Graphical abstractThe earthquake-induced collapse of a super-tall mega-braced frame-core tube building (H = 550 m) is simulated with proposed finite element model based on the fiber-beam and multi-layer shell models.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► A methodology for earthquake-induced collapse simulation of super-tall buildings. ► A FE model of super-tall building based on fiber-beam and multi-layer shell elements. ► The actual collapse regions may not coincide with the initial plastic zones. ► The main collapse mode of this super-tall building is of vertical “pancake” type.