What are the current standards and codes for energy absorption and dissipation of structures?

1 Basic concepts

Energy absorption and dissipation of structures depend on several factors, such as the material properties, the structural configuration, the connection details, and the loading conditions. Generally, structures can absorb and dissipate energy through three main mechanisms: elastic deformation, plastic deformation, and damping. Elastic deformation is reversible and does not cause permanent changes in the structure. Plastic deformation is irreversible and causes permanent changes in the structure, such as yielding, buckling, or fracture. Damping is the dissipation of energy through friction, heat, or sound. Ideally, structures should be designed to absorb and dissipate energy through elastic deformation and damping, while avoiding or limiting plastic deformation.

2 Performance-based design

One of the current approaches to design structures for energy absorption and dissipation is performance-based design (PBD). PBD is a method that defines the desired performance objectives and acceptance criteria for a structure under different levels of loading, such as service, moderate, or severe. PBD allows for more flexibility and innovation in the design process, as well as more realistic and cost-effective solutions. PBD also requires the use of advanced analysis tools and methods, such as nonlinear dynamic analysis, to evaluate the structural response and demand.

3 Eurocode 8

Eurocode 8 (EC8) is the European standard for the design of structures for earthquake resistance. EC8 covers the general principles, the seismic actions, and the design rules for different types of structures, such as buildings, bridges, towers, or silos. EC8 adopts a PBD approach and defines four performance levels for structures: no damage, significant damage, near collapse, and collapse prevention. EC8 also provides guidance on how to design structures for energy absorption and dissipation, such as using ductile materials, providing adequate strength and stiffness, avoiding brittle failure modes, and applying capacity design principles.

5 ISO 3010

ISO 3010 is the international standard for the design of structures subjected to impulsive and impact loading. ISO 3010 covers the general principles, the loading characteristics, the material properties, the structural response, and the design criteria for different types of structures, such as blast-resistant buildings, protective barriers, or storage facilities. ISO 3010 adopts a PBD approach and defines three performance levels for structures: no damage, limited damage, and acceptable damage. ISO 3010 also provides guidance on how to design structures for energy absorption and dissipation, such as using energy-absorbing materials, providing adequate resistance and deformation capacity, avoiding dynamic amplification effects, and applying dynamic load factors.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?