Abstract:
Recently proposed changes to modeling and acceptance criteria in seismic regulations for both flexure and shear
dominated reinforced concrete structural walls suggest that a comprehensive examination is required for
improved limit state definitions and their corresponding values. This study utilizes a well calibrated modeling
tool to investigate the deformation measures defined in terms of plastic rotations and local concrete and steel
strains at the extreme fiber of rectangular structural walls. We compare requirements in ASCE/SEI 41, Eurocode
8 and the Turkish Seismic Code. This way, a critical evaluation of the requirements embedded in these
documents becomes possible. It is concluded that the performance limits must be refined by introducing
additional parameters. Significant recommendations are provided for Eurocode 8 and the Turkish Seismic Code.