ABSTRACT
A detailed linear analysis was carried out of a finite element model of the experimental structure, to ascertain main characteristics of its dynamic response and to determine ground motions to be applied in the tests. In this stage of the research, comparison of measured and computed response was made only for a linear behavior, considering that it would provide a good estimation of the seismic response and the dynamic characteristics for moderate ground motions (Meli & Peña 2005). In further stages of the research, non linear models will be studied, aiming at reproducing measured response for higher intensity levels (Lourenco 2002).
