Reliability Based Evaluation of Low-rise Reinforced Concrete Moment Frames Designed for Different Levels of Ductility

This study aims to assess reinforced concrete moment frames designed at varying ductility levels within a typical reinforced concrete structure, from a reliability perspective. The article explores the probabilistic methods for designing different ductility levels in the current Iranian Concrete Code, focusing on reliability. Specifically, a three-story concrete moment frame structure, designed to low, medium, and special ductility levels as per the Iranian code, is studied. The reliability analysis encompasses uncertainties in loading, dimensional parameters, and evaluating structural performance functions such as floor drift and acceleration. The study utilizes horizontal earthquake components specified by the FEMA P-695 standard to analyze earthquake record uncertainties. Furthermore, a comparison of the reliability index and probability of failure for each performance function is used to assess failure uniformity. The findings reveal a maximum probability of failure in collapse damage state of approximately 9%, 5%, and 2% for low, medium, and special ductility frames, respectively.