The application of Eurocode 8 Part1 around the world

Eurocode 8 (EC8) is a state-of-the-art third generation code for seismic design. It includes well established concepts such as energy dissipation and new concepts such as displacement-based method. EC8 provides the most comprehensive and up-to-date set of design rules currently available and is now the single seismic design code in Europe. It represents a significant step forward harmonising design and analysis of earthquake-resistant structures throughout Europe and potentially around the world.

With many countries establishing how to incorporate Eurocodes including EC8 and earthquake resistance into their National Design Standards, there is a need to enable civil and structural engineers to use EC8 Part1 that specifies general rules, performance requirements, details of the seismic hazard and action, analysis procedures and general concepts that are applicable not only for the seismic design of buildings but also for all other structures covered by the other parts of the code. EC8 Part1 also includes specific rules for the detailed design of concrete, steel, composite steel-concrete, timber, masonry and base isolated structures.

The aim of this research project will be to identify how EC8 Part1 can be used in carrying out the seismic analysis and design of buildings of typical occupancies in various materials supported by structural configurations that are primarily used in different seismic zones in the world, with particular emphasis in countries where EC8 Part1 is being adopted and, to develop detailed guidance that can be used by students, researchers, academics and practitioners worldwide.