Nonlinear Structural Analysis for Seismic Design

While buildings are usually designed for seismic resistance using elastic analysis, most will experience significant inelastic deformations under large earthquakes. Modern performance-based design methods require ways to determine the realistic behavior of structures under such conditions. Enabled by advancements in computing technologies and available test data, nonlinear analyses provide the means for calculating structural response beyond the elastic range, including strength and stiffness deterioration associated with inelastic material behavior and large displacements. As such, nonlinear analysis can play an important role in the design of new and existing buildings.