ABSTRACT
Nonlinear dynamic response analyses of a series of R.C. buildings designed according to EC8 are performed, to systematically study the effect of designing for different Ductility Class, i.e. of trading strength for ductility. The nonlinear cyclic models and the damage measures used are verified first by comparing the predictions with the pseudodynamic test results of a full scale 4-storey frame structure. Nonlinear response results show no significant systematic effect of the design Ductility Class on the level and the distribution of damage and of hysteretic energy dissipation in the structure. The controlling factor of the response to motions between once and twice the design intensity is the softening of the structure due to the nonlinearity. This softening greatly reduces internal force demands but increases structural and interstorey displacements.
